My Writing Journey Continues
Working on the sequel to Northern Escape, River Retreat. Having so much fun with it. I am in my happy place!
Google & Thesaurus.com
Two tabs were always open on my computer as I wrote. I set one to Thesaurus.com, and the other was ready to Google whatever I needed to know more about. Like, that thing you use to bolt a door; it's called a thumbturn if you were wondering.
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.
Topic is Key
The key to writing well is to choose a topic, story, or theme that you are interested in. If the subject matter is dull to you, writing will feel like work.
Improving as a Writer
As I gear up to get serious about my second book, I am putting some pressure on myself to improve as a writer. I want my story to be better than the last. But whenever I approach it from a more formal, structured place, it does not feel right. I think it is because I just want to write and enjoy the experience. I don’t want to worry about literary devices and using the proper writing terminology—I just want to be creative and have fun with it!
I'm sure others feel the same way.
Growing as a Writer
My favourite thing when I write is when I come up with a twist that leaves my mouth hanging open. I also love when a quirky little thought comes to mind that ties two parts of the story together and makes it more complex. So. Much. Fun.
I love these moments.
And if I spent my time worrying about grammar and story structure or character arcs at that moment, it would not be as fun. It may even stunt my creativity, making it hard to move forward.
However, I know that if I want to grow as a writer, I need to learn, practice and stretch my writing skills.
Inspiration
Have you ever had a nightmare where you woke up with your heart pounding, your breath quick and shallow, and you felt mentally or physically sick about what you just dreamt?
Writing a Story You Love
Our purpose, or goal, is to write a story set somewhere we would like to spend more time, with characters we love, doing things we wish we could do!!