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Posts from the ‘Writing Life’ Category

Nov 4

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Find writing success with a buddy

Everyone should have a writing buddy. My blogging partner Carol Despeaux and I have been writing together since we met at a writing conference three years ago and realized we were both working on memoirs.

Over the past several years, we’ve critiqued each other’s work, brainstormed story ideas, and given each other pep talks (“Go Speedwriter Go”).  We’ve shared writing craft ideas, teaching resources, and favorite books.

We feel that with each other’s support, we can progress faster with our writing goals. Because Carol knows my “story,” she can offer insights and point out meaning that I might not see because I’m too close to it. She can spot areas that aren’t clear or could benefit from elaboration. And I do the same for her.

When I need a laugh, she sends me a funny photo of her cats Simba, Precious, and Teddy Bear. And when she needs to smile, I send her the latest photo of Mr. Cat. Read more

Nov 3

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Eight Quick Tips for National Novel Writing Month

This is the third November I’ve signed up for National Novel Writing Month but the first year I’ve actually tried to reach the goal of writing a new novel (of at least 50,000 words) in a month.

It was a last minute decision based on two things: the right timing (I’m actually ready to start my next manuscript and quit dawdling over my previous one) and the right inspiration. I returned from the Surrey International Writer’s Conference pumped and ready to rock and roll (or is that sit and spin a story?).

So, you have an idea. You may or may not have an outline you’re working from. I have a partial outline—some on the computer and some in my head. I know my main characters pretty well although I haven’t met most of my minor characters yet. I know my overall theme. I know the direction I want to go. The rest? I have no clue. I’m a combination panster (as in flying by the seat of) and plotter.

My eight tips to make your November easier: Read more

Nov 2

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The MacGuvyer version of the commonplace writers’ notebook

I’m going all MacGuyver on you today to tell you about a writer’s tool that you may want when you’re in a situation where you can’t carry a handbag or have limited pocket space. Or maybe you’re floating down the Amazon River or on a camp out with no electricity for charging small electronics.

It’s the Hipster PDA (Parietal Disgorgement Aid). I learned about it from the 43 Folders website and have made Hipster PDAs for students in my writing classes.

Advantages of the Hipster PDA:

  1. No battery required.
  2. Slim size makes it great for when you’re traveling light.
  3. Easy and inexpensive to make. Read more

Oct 27

Discover the benefits of failure and the magic of imagination

Has fear of failure ever stopped you from pursuing your creative passion?
Find out how rock bottom became the solid foundation on which J.K. Rowling built her life. Rowling spoke at Harvard University’s commencement in 2008.

Oct 18

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The simple & profound power of words

Words are more powerful than we realize. They convey thoughts, ideas, motivations, and hopes. Words deliver us into our future. I’ve always loved words whether they’re spoken, written, sung, or signed. Naturally, I  like to share them. (Of course! That’s why I’m writing this).

A few years ago, I bought I new laminator for my office. You know how it is with new toys. I went a little crazy. I laminated everything I could get my hands on. I even made handmade bookmarks with some of my favorite sayings. I decorated them with various stickers, laminated them, and mailed or handed them out to friends or business acquaintances.

Recently, I received an email from a woman I hadn’t come into contact with for at least five or six years. Evidently, she’d been the recipient of one of my bookmarks: Read more

Oct 17

A blast from the writing past

If you’re new to One Wild Word, you may have missed some of our earlier posts. Dip into some posts from the past and shake up your writing mind.

Write lyrically by reading poetry

Learn more about how poetry can be your bubble bath for a productive writing session. Read more

Oct 14

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Reach your goals quicker with a writing partner

I met my writing partner, Carly, at a conference. We clicked immediately and discovered that we only lived forty minutes apart. As we worked on our writing, we called each other for support and met every few months to write. When Carly moved to another state, we continued meeting via instant messages and on the phone. And we started a blog.

The benefits of having a writing partner are numerous. Writing can be a lonely business.  Even if you’re married or in a relationship, nobody really understands a writer like another writer. Not only can a writing partner provide moral support and camaraderie on your journey, you can spur each other on to reach your goals. Read more

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