Literary Devices
Did your eyes just glaze over at the words literary devices?
Mine did too; I get it. But this definition piqued my interest.
"Literary devices are ways of taking writing beyond its straightforward, literal meaning." writers.com
When I read that, I think, interesting . . . Writing beyond the most literal meaning is what deepens a story, what makes it interesting.
How Did it Go??
Have you had a chance to take some time and get a little writing done? Did you try your hand at memoir, travel, or food writing?
Which was the most fun?
Would you like to do more?
Can you see yourself as a writer or even an author someday?
If you said "Yes," that is SO EXCITING!! Stick with me—I'll show you how to do it.
If you said, "Oh no, I couldn't," I want you to think about this . . .
I think you can. I know you can because I did.
Food Writing
Writing about food is a good exercise to explore all your senses and use fun words like aromatic, buttery, or delectable.
Go out for a special lunch or dinner and truly pay attention to all aspects of your meal, from the menu to the tablecloth, and of course the meal itself. Order a special drink and consider the flavours on your tongue. Be poetic.
Travel Writing
Remember when we used to travel? Hopefully, we will be able to resume our exploration of the world beyond our front door again soon. If you don’t have a vacation planned, think back to the one you enjoyed most. I am amazed how just closing my eyes and taking the time to remember a special hotel or resort will bring back all sorts of details about it.
Write. Write everything you can remember about the trip, good and bad. What a treat to spend some time reliving it and telling the story of what happened on the trip. Was it a joy, an escape, or a nightmare? I’m sure your readers will be able to relate to some of your experiences and at the very least learn more about a part of the world they may never have a chance to go to. Share what you know with others!
Memoir
Have you ever considered writing a memoir? We often think of a memoir as something profound with the main criteria being that it is written about someone famous. However, a memoir can be written about anyone's life. Everyone has had unique experiences that others might find interesting.
Forms of Creative Nonfiction
Forms of Creative Nonfiction
"Forms within this genre include memoir, diary, travel writing, food writing, . . . " en.m.wikipedia.org
Let's explore each over the coming weeks, starting with the diary.
Creative Nonfiction
Wikipedia says creative nonfiction is "a genre of writing that uses literary styles and techniques to create factually accurate narratives." en.m.wikipedia.org
It can be used to expand or stretch your writing muscle.
For example, by taking the time to describe the coffee shop you are working at in detail, you will be creating a fully fleshed-out scene.
By studying a unique character in that coffee shop (hopefully without them knowing) you can develop an interesting side character.
By practicing in this way, you will pull together important elements of your overall story. That is the nature of creative nonfiction.
Insights From the Proofread
I am constantly learning as I hone this craft of writing. I’ve always thought my spelling and grammar were pretty good but I’ve noticed a few things that my editor/proofreader must have just rolled her eyes at.
