#writer's flow

[writersflow]

Keep The Words Flowing

After reading and viewing dozens of posts about which words to cut while revising fiction, I am making a master list. This does not mean all of these words will or should be completely eradicated from all fiction. Rather, they should be used sparingly, and when they best work in context. Obviously more vibrant verbiage remains recommended, but sometimes, simple is best.

FILTERING WORDS: Separate reader from the MC’s mind or senses: 

saw

looked

heard

felt

touch/ed

knew

think/thought

smelled

tasted

believe

noticed

reminded

watched

decided

wondered

seemed

realized

decide

remembered

hoped/hoping

gave

CONDITIONAL WORDS: Filter POV by adding condition/judgement to it.

only

almost

somehow

something

actually

even

now

could

mostly

had

also

CLOGGING WORDS: Basically aren’t needed. Use in small amounts.

Really

Actually

Just

So

A lot

A bit

Always

Never

Very

That

Then

Got

Often

Like

Literally

Virtually

Completely

Suddenly

Entirely

Back (honestly can’t believe how many times I delete this word)

VAGUE WORDS

There

Stuff

Some

Thing

MISLEADING PHRASES

In order to,

For some reason,

As if

One of

[writersflow]

DOs & DON’Ts of Querying

DOs:

ONE (1) page, single-spaced, separate paragraphs; Standard font, 12 pt.

Use the CORRECT SPELLING for an Agent/Editor name. (Check again.)

This is a business letter. Be respectful, not too casual. 

Personalize the query. WHY are you querying this particular person?

Introductory paragraph should include the metadata and pitch line.

METADATA = Title, category, genre, word count

Pitch should introduce the Main Character, including their main goal.

Also a good place for Comp Titles if you have them.

2nd (& sometimes 3rd) paragraph will expand pitch in a few sentences.

Show main characters’ goals & stakes.

Show the conflict and complications. 

Be descriptive, use specific words to relay how this story is different.

End with your biographical information that relates to writing.

Also include Own Voices info or experience that relates to this mss.

Get your letter EDITED or at least critiqued by a writing partner.

DON’Ts

Do not send your first draft. (Of the book or the query letter)

DO NOT reveal the ending--but leave them wondering...

Avoid rhetorical questions, generalities & vague statements.

Avoid subplots and minor characters. 

Try not to use too many proper nouns, especially if they’re fictional.

Don’t write using your character’s voice. You are the one querying.

Bragging or exaggerating about yourself is frowned upon.

Ditto with insulting agents/editors/other writers/publishing in general.

Don’t be negative about yourself either! You’re pitching yourself too!

Don’t say if it’s your first book. TMI 

No comparisons of yourself to famous authors. Good or bad.

Do not call an agency, editor, or publisher to follow up. Just don’t.

DO NOT RESPOND TO REJECTIONS. LET IT GO!

ALSO>>> Do Not Let Those Rejections Stop You. 

[writersflow]

I feel as if all artists must cultivate the stamina to survive those periods of extended silences of more than a year and a half in which nothing is written. I believe that those periods are absolutely necessary. At the end of each, I have emerged changed in ways I think I would not have been otherwise.

Pulitzer winning poet Louise Gluck

[writersflow]

[daughterofwands]

Freaks & Geeks - New Age Rappers 

[gazingstar291]

INSPIRED!!!

Yes! My writing flow is back! I'm almost done completing my 2nd story in my notebook. This story has had me tied for some time now. This wouldn't have been possible if it wasn't for my best friend. Thank You so much! By the rate I'm going I should be able to update my stories faster on fanfiction.net. :)

[writersflow]

HAPPY GRAMMAR DAY (From the blog archives)

[writersflow]

Is creativity something people are just born with? For many of us, creative thinking isn't purely intuitive—it's also plain hard work. As writer Iris Shoor explains, coming up with fresh ideas isn't always a natural gift—it's a skill that can be learned. A few days ago I was telling...