If you’ve spent any time in academia or the literary world, you know there are some people who are dead set on drawing lines around what’s considered “real” writing. There are plenty of professors and professionals who dismiss commercial novels, celebrity memoirs, and/or fanfiction. This leads some to wonder, if those subgenres “don’t count”, is…
Writing and revising a manuscript is a huge accomplishment. However, it’s just the beginning when it comes to the process of publishing your book. There are many ways for books to come into the world. Which is best for you will depend on your goals, budget, and several other factors. Understanding the steps it takes…
If you have a desire to become an author, you’ve probably wondered whether you should get an MFA in creative writing. After all, a lot of the professional writing advice you can find online encourages you to learn as much as you can about the craft and the business behind it. However, especially in the…
While most writers would probably love to be able to focus solely on their creative pursuits, the reality is that no one’s paying you to spend three years writing your novel. Very few can keep the lights on by their pens alone, especially when first starting out. For most, a full-time job is a must….
Anyone seeking to craft stories, essays, or full-length manuscripts dreads writer’s block. This infamous hurdle can leave you staring at a blank page instead of seeing your work in print. Not only will this likely result in hours of frustration, but it could also lower your confidence. If this sounds familiar, it’s probably time for…
Sure, emails can be annoying. Filling up your inbox every day with dozens of promotions and marketing content isn’t ideal. However, you may want to reconsider when it comes to writing newsletters. Newsletters often contain valuable resources that can help you improve your craft, find publication opportunities, and even pin down your next read. Being…
New year’s resolutions tend to get a bad rap. Most people focus on what they didn’t achieve, and it’s pretty rare to hear anyone talk about actually accomplishing what they set out to do on January first. However, setting goals for the coming months is still a popular tradition, including for practiced and aspiring writers….
When December rolls around and the hunt for holiday gifts begins, it can be difficult to come up with unique presents your friends and family members will appreciate. If you’re seeking ideas for what to get the writer or book-lover in your life, you’ve come to the right place. Below you’ll find ten holiday gifts…
There are almost as many tools of the writing trade as there are writers. Journals, typewriters, loose sheets of paper, index cards, outlines, story boards, Microsoft Word, smart phones, desktops, coffee shop napkins, Google Docs, laptops, Pinterest boards – you get the idea. Despite this great variety in personal preference, I believe Scrivener is an…
It’s easy to understand why some people avoid routine. Choosing to do the same tasks at the same time day after day might remove some of the spontaneity that keeps life interesting. Most aren’t too keen on self-imposed boredom. However, creating routines for yourself can drastically improve your life. While going with the flow might…