The Write Twist

More Gifts for Writers

2011-12-23T09:05:00.001-05:00

A writer's "office" tends to be a cramped corner in the home. The right gifts can brighten and expand that space. Start by watching your writer at work. Is the chair a rickety yard sale relic? What about adequate lighting? Any room for files or file boxes near the desk? These are all gifts waiting to be given.

Start at the big box stores (Ikea, Target, Home Depot) to look for modular units that fit into the available space. These stores also have inexpensive shelves to add to side of desk for reference book storage. Even if there is no room for new furniture or wall unit, look for portable files. Staples and Office Depot have small files on wheels that roll up to the desk for accessibility then easily roll back into a closet when the writer is finished for the day. Any of the store mentioned as well as a lamp specialty store have many lighting options. My favorite is the OttLite; full spectrum and cool (not hot but still cool in its own way). Look at JoAnn's Fabrics and similar stores for a floor standing OttLite or desk top.

Any creature comfort that a writer can use in the prime writing space will be appreciated. The gift will also say that you value this writer's work enough to support it with something to enhance efficiency. That message alone is a great gift.

Gifts for Writers

2011-12-20T19:22:00.000-05:00

The stocking is empty. . . what to get for your favorite writer? Inspiration, of course. How do you package inspiration? Start with a place, a mood and a feeling.

What place does your writer most often talk about visiting? Hawaii, Paris or Alaska?
If you can't afford the plane ticket for a long weekend get away, then package the place under the tree. Look for items that represent the place.
Paris is an easy start. In a basket gather fresh French macaroons, pastries, a black beret, stripe tee shirt, French perfume or scented candle, tiny replica of the Eiffel Tower, CD of French folk music and a Paris street scene poster. A truly dedicated gift giver will search online or in vintage bookstores for a book in your writer's favorite genre that is autographed by the author.
Now you get the idea - - - surround your writer with an inspiration gift basket and who knows what fabulous fictional ideas will be generated.

Zombies: writers gone wild

2011-10-14T15:33:00.000-04:00

Fall brings out the zombie writers wacky tales of the inconsiderate undead. Dedicated zombie writers vehemently argue whether or not zombies eat, drink and make merry (the latter isn't likely considering their gruesome demeanor). I confess to baiting the argument to enjoy the mindless debate (which of course makes sense for zombies).

Character analysis is important for any genre. The personality and actions of a character must either be consistent or the story may spin on the inconsistency. Nonetheless, a writer must intimately know these characters to create believable presentations.

At this season, I cannot resist posing these questions to zombie writers:

Do zombies have IQ preferences or is it any old brain in a storm?
Why can't zombies stay out of the middle of the street? Traffic at rush hour is bad enough.
Do zombies have thumbs or are these snack food between brains?
Where do zombies rank in the monster pecking order?
Why can't zombies be gracious enough to stay dead and leave us to the common terrors of taxes, pollution, war and pestilence?

Zombie writers actually have answer for these questions, however, be prepared for a battle of opinions. Perhaps that's the way to get rid of zombies, ask them odd questions about brains like what is the pi of brain?

P.S. I am a huge fan of the Scott Kennemore's Zen of Zombie: Better Living Thru the Undead. He makes fun of zombies with style, which will clearly make him a marked man when the invasion occurs.

Exercise Writing Muscles

2011-07-13T08:30:00.001-04:00

Daily exercise - it's necessary to keep our bodies strong. Exercising writing muscle is the same. Get your "write brain" moving regularly to strengthen your writing. I'm coming back to this blog after weeks of pain and distraction. The pain is an arm and shoulder injury from a falling cabinet. I find it tough to concentrate or be productive while in pain. For all those creative types who continue to produce after cutting off an ear or other personally maiming actions in the name of art, good for you; that's not me. My brain-on-pain is not my best creative brain.

What I have done for these weeks other than teaching is to increase reading. Think of it as a passive exercise, reading other excellent work until it's time to write again. Also like exercise, blogging is a regularly scheduled life event. Getting in the flow is easier than erratic production.

So get your writing muscle moving! Grab a pen, paper, computer or iPhone and start writing. Aim for longer than a tweet but less than War and Peace, at least for this week.

Blog for Bucks

2011-04-11T08:15:00.000-04:00

Want to practice blogging and earn money? No HTML required, Squidoo was my intro to blogging. This popular site lets "lensmakers" keep the bucks or write for a charity. Online Teaching Jobs was my first blog, created as a learning tool during the 30 Day Challenge several years ago. To my surprise, this lens developed a following while I made money simply for sharing my love of online teaching.

While my online presence has grown to Facebook, Twitter and this delightful Blogspot format, I find that my first and second Squidoo lens continue to draw traffic.

Squidoo is free and simple to use for an internet novice. Start your lens today and send me your lens name. I'll make sure to send you some "squid love" (that means favorite).

Pet Words

2011-04-03T21:22:00.000-04:00

What are your "pet words"? You know, let's think outside the box since it's not rocket science. Whatever, I could care less; like you know, my bad. Get the point?

Pet words may be over-used in the current culture or long over-due from term paper days such as; nonetheless, extremely, totally, very much more, etc. Problematic is a frequent flyer as is awesome, interesting and really.Give your work to another reader who will find the pet words easier than you do (after all, they are your pets). Another way is to word search the document. When a bevy of the same words jump out in yellow highlight, those are your pet words.

The cure for pet words is a thesaurus. I prefer the old school paper book to scan around and cross reference. Even an online version is better than nothing. Take this opportunity to find new names for your pet words. Your writing will sparkle and as a side benefit, your vocabulary increases.

Writing from Down Under

2011-03-29T22:59:00.000-04:00

Alas, I am not in Australia. I've spent most of today peeking out from down under my blanket. Being sick is the worst way to stifle creativity, but I had to finish an academic paper. That's when habits of organization save the day. Clinging to my outline and my file of research, I muddled forward, slowly.

Writing while sick is generally counter productive. When facing down a deadline, you need to rely on practiced techniques to get the job done. Those may not be your most stunning words, but they can be adequate. Don't count on your ability to self-edit when it's all you can do to write. Get help from another competent writer who can do the overview edit for you. My writer-friend complimented some profound ideas in my paper. Maybe next week when I feel normal I'll re-read it and be amazed. For now, I'm thankful it's done and I can crawl back under the covers.

iPhone for Writers

2011-03-24T14:11:00.000-04:00

My first iPhone is as exhilarating as getting my first car. Beyond the coolness factor are amazing apps that are useful in writing and coaching. This phone replaces several old standbys useful for blogging and other writing. I can record sudden inspirations on my iPhone "Voice Memos". It even has a classic old microphone and VU meter, reminiscent of my years in radio news.

Also amazing is the ability to instantly post on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn from my iPhone eliminating another random note in my calendar that may be forgotten.

The iPhone camera is surprisingly excellent. I can take photos on the spot to add to my blog or social networking sites. This camera also takes video, which I discovered by accident.

There are apps with basic dictionary, thesaurus and other reference books. Looking for free wifi for laptop or netbook? I can easily find those locations anywhere in the US with WiFi Get Lite app. I used this app to find free wifi near a hotel in Indianapolis where I'm participating in a confernece. Why pay $12.95 daily hotel wifi rates, when a short walk gets free internet. If I'm lucky, it's only a few blocks to Starbucks where I get free internet plus my favorite latte. Finding free internet sites for the traveling writer is a money saver.

Since acquiring this long awaited electronic wonder phone, I am iHappy.

Critics can be wrong

2011-03-18T13:35:00.000-04:00

Critics said the iPad was destined to fail. Who wanted a tablet instead of a computer? Answer: 3 million buyers in the first quarter it was sold. Apple's iPad radically changed the perceptions of mobile computing. Critics and end users don't always think alike.

The moral of this story for writers is that the critics, contest judges, agents and acquisition editors are not always right about your work. While these professional voices are valuable and need to be considered, look for the end-user (audience) for your product and deliver what they want.

If you can't break into traditional publishing, so what. Look at other options to reach your audience. E-Books, e-Publishing and blogs are the quick way to find and engage your audience. If you have a narrow target audience, even better, because it's easier to identify places they frequent online.

Remember when vampire and zombie stories were relegated to the bottom shelves for the quirky few. Now they are trendy and reach a wide audience who previously cared nothing about the underworld or it's inhabitants. Yes, the critics can be wrong, but the paying market never is.

Value of a Lazy Day

2011-02-03T11:30:00.000-05:00

Write everyday! That's the writer's imperative however it can stifle creativity. Stepping away from the keyboard, turning off the phone and relaxing can be the best creativity boost for your writing. A lazy day can lead to your next high productivity writing binge.

As a fan of Sean's Psychotactics blog, I recommend his article on "The Importance of Idleness". I find this "brain break" particularly valuable after completing a major writing project. Schedule a Lazy Day (or Lazy Afternoon if that's all the time you can spare) on your calendar. Do nothing work-related: picnic in the park, go on bike ride, lounge at the beach or spend the day doing a craft. The idea is to rest your Write Brain and let those other brain cells take over for a while. You will relax and return to your writing refreshed.

What do you want your readers to do?

2011-01-27T09:30:00.000-05:00

Answer that question before starting to write, otherwise the end result may be another "crossing-the-desert" story that exhausts rather than inspires readers. Don't take this wrong; rich details are wonderful. Agonizing, obsessions are not. Vintage rocket fin caddy with faded red paint is enough. Don't park there to reveal every dent, bump, traffic ticket and back seat make-out session that makes the car special to you. Faced with TMI (too much information) that fails to enhance the story, and I'm done. So are many readers.

If you want me to read on, entice me. One of the best compliments I have heard for my novel, Taylor Kendall:Evil Inc, came from a psychotherapist colleague who said; "I was tired and planned to stop at the end of the next chapter, but there was another hook that kept me reading. By 4am, I finished the book; exhausted yet satisfied." That's what I wanted to do, get the reader so involved in the story, the characters and the suspense that continuing to read was the only option.

Signing for book buyers!

When writing a business article, do you want the reader to buy, subscribe or attend an event? Does your web copy grab attention and cause the reader to hit the "sign up now" button? Will your poem touch heartfelt memories so that the reader recommends your work to fellow poetry lovers? It's like the old saying, "begin with the end in mind." That's good advice for writers. Know what you want your reader to do and you are more likely to communicate that as well as motivate the reader to act.

Writing Endorsements -Show Not Tell

2011-01-25T08:08:00.009-05:00

Effective endorsements show benefits. Telling is like shaking your fingers in someones face to get agreement. Showing with examples, metaphors or testimonies is more persuasive and action-oriented. In the recent Florida governor's race, a candidate's mother went on the air to tell us why her son was so wonderful and therefore deserved our vote. As my Mama would say, "consider the source". To begin with the source (his mother) is prejudiced. Secondly, the source is telling me as a voter to choose her son. Like most Baby Boomers, I don't like being told what to do without more information to persuade me.

No matter how much expertise you have, when you write an endorsement, your words have to fan the flames of reader interest not be a flame-thrower aimed at the reader. Look at the endorsement sample in my previous blog for the birthday party book. There are specific ideas for a variety of ages, checklists and party activities. Mentioning these SHOWS what this book has to offer rather than Telling a reader that the book is "great".
Think about an eBook or information product that you would endorse. Write a paragraph then highlight the words that "show" v. words that "tell". Re-write to make it more about "showing" and notice the difference.,

Boost Name Recognition with Endorsements

2011-01-23T14:37:00.000-05:00

New writers, or those changing genres, can build up credibility by writing endorsements. A quick way to do this is to endorse eBooks and other internet information products. Your name in that eBook is search-engine discoverable. That's another mention for a small project.

Years ago when I was breaking in to online ghostwriting, I did several endorsements and reviews. Here's a sample from an eBook titled, Planning a Perfect Birthday Party:

"Before you get wrapped up in what you like, pay attention to the golden rule of birthday parties: it's not about you. Planning A Perfect Birthday Party emphasizes that whether toddler, tween or teen, let your child choose the colors, theme and activities. There's also practical guidance on the numbers of guests and length of the party for each age group.

Planning a Perfect Birthday Party is about organization, checklists, activities, tips, but most of all it's about making memories."

As endorser, your role is to read the material, relate it to your life experience or professional expertise and present highlights that show why this is worth reading. Get that - - - show, don't tell. More on that in the next blog on writing endorsements.

Oxymoron Alert: Workplace

2011-01-14T08:08:00.001-05:00

Ever felt like your company's claim to empower workers, encourage creative thinking and develop new ideas was more promise than practice? Then you understand the meaning of

Artificial Autonomy

Writing to the Trends

2011-01-10T09:13:00.000-05:00

Consumer and social trends influence what people want to read. Whether business writer or fiction writer, you need to know these trends. My top source is Trendwatching. The free monthly trend report is a source of endless article and ebook ideas. Fiction writers also need this information to add authenticity to the setting in a given time.

Among the "11 Crucial Trends for 2011" is Online Status Symbols. That's what you are reading. A blog is an online status symbol that establishes a cyber-presence, defines the interests of the blogger and presents creative work.

Another 2011 trend is Social-Lites and Twinsumers which reflects how we share ideas online, recommend colleagues or products and follow the sub-culture of popular brands (like Amazon, Levis or Starbucks). Of course both of those trends involve ample tweeting, Facebook time and blogging!

Business writers may want more intense information which comes with the paid Premium service. For most writers, the monthly Trendwatching email briefing is robust and a fantastic free resource.

Oxymoron Alert: Spiritual Variety

2011-01-08T14:12:00.000-05:00

While I plan to protect my source, this is worth sharing:

Minimally Orthodox

Hard to follow that with any commentary. If you think this is funny, the context was even better!

Oxymoron Alert: Food Variety

2011-01-08T11:07:00.002-05:00

Heard a home cook's interview describing a delicious recipe for "12 ounce Pound Cake".
Do the math, people.
A pound is 16 ounces, so this is actually a 75% Cake.
No wonder children have such difficulty with fractions and conversions when adults speak in oxymorons.

Writers on Clutter Overload -2

2011-01-06T08:30:00.001-05:00

Clutter Overload 1: Paper remains the major cluttering item in any office. Papers, file folders, spreadsheets, memos, manuals and anything that can be printed is printed. Then it has to be filed somewhere but in the meantime, for a long time, it lands in a pile. Before long, every available surface is topped with paper piles. Paper consumes a huge amount of time and energy. How many e-mails are printed out "just in case" instead of saved electronically for reference?

Clutter Overload 2: Second to paper are knick knacks, photos, collections or last year's grab bag gift. Scattered around the desk and stuck on bulletin boards, these dust magnets function like sand traps on a golf course, they slow down your game. Even photos or desk toys are a distraction in the work day which can connect to a pleasant memory or provide a way to waste time.

Clutter Overload 3 The third most often complained about clutter in an office is wires. An endless stream of cables runs from computers, monitors, printers and phones. The electronic gadgets that keep the office going need their umbilical cord connection to power.

When you think of McCartney's album title, Memory Almost Full, is your work space so full of clutter that you can't remember a project deadline, a fax confirmation to send or an assignment to send to a client? Clutter in the work space becomes mental clutter as your concentration is repeatedly interrupted searching among the piles or trying to remember what needs to be done next. There was a reason your elementary teacher told you to take everything off your desk and work on just one paper at a time. That's still the best way to complete jobs without missing something important.

As Sir Paul said, "I think that we all need to delete stuff every so often." That's the truth. After all, when the memory runs out, the oldest items are lost to make room for the new. So help out the process. Sort without mercy in 15 minute time blocks at least twice a day until the pile is reduced. Do this twice a week and you'll control clutter instead of allowing clutter to control you.

Writers on Clutter Overload -1

2011-01-04T08:05:00.015-05:00

Paul McCartney's cell phone flashed the message, "Memory Almost Full" and that became the inspiration for his album. Writers can relate as we attempt to work efficiently in cluttered offices and live productively in cluttered homes. It's no exaggeration to say that clutter, a nice word for "stuff", takes over without a struggle.

A 2010 Office Depot survey found that 32% of workers from cubicle to corner office admit that clutter severely impacts their productivity. 82% of those surveyed admitted that de-cluttering would make a big difference in their job performance but most don't do anything about it. The "Everyday Minimalist" gives these stunning realities

80% of home clutter is due to disorganization rather than lack of storage space
The average American gets over 49,000 pieces of mail in a life; more than a third is junk mail
Americans spend about 9 million hours each day searching for lost items. And you thought lost keys were no big deal!

Clutter isn't just about visual pollution; the emotional impact of clutter can literally drain the energy right out of the best writers. Spending a few minutes here and there searching for missing files, a phone number or reference book doesn't seem like much until it adds up to hours of wasted time each week. Behind those mocking signs like, "A Clean Desk is the Sign of a Sick Mind", are people who are trapped by their junk. Do they feel like laughing? No, writers overrun with clutter are more likely to describe their feelings as anxious, embarrassed, angry or depressed.

As much as writers protest that they need all that information "at fingertip reach", most are drowning in clutter. How many more words per day could be written if even half the clutter-interruptions were managed? Which is more satisfying: rummaging around piles for plot notes or actually writing the story?

More on the Big 3 Clutter Sources in part 2

Find Your Sweet Spot

2010-12-31T14:44:00.001-05:00

Golfers desperately seek the "sweet spot" to hit the ball for maximum accuracy. Writer's also have a "sweet spot" that takes their work to a higher, more profitable level. Here's how to find it by giving the Write Twist to golf instructions.

Mr Checkers & Cielo

Golfers mark the "sweet spot" on their drivers as the best place to hit the ball. For writer's that means creating a thesis statement as the "sweet spot" that best describes the focus of the written project. When your words hit that mark and expand on that theme, then the entire work delivers what it is intended to deliver. Miss the "sweet spot" and the words wander like a poorly hit golf ball meandering down the fairway.

Your "sweet spot" may also be the place where you write. Where are you inspired? Library - bookstore cafe - beach - busy downtown park. Your inspirational place may change depending on the type of writing you are doing at the moment. For Mr Checkers and Cielo, our rescued parakeets, their "sweet spot" is definitely playing in the window of my office as I write.

5 Rules for Writing the Right Way

2010-12-28T14:14:00.000-05:00

As my Mother said, "if you bother to do anything, do it right." For a writer, the right way is the only way. So what's not "right" in writing, let me count the ways:

1. Subject-Verb agreement: From student papers to newspapers, too many subjects and verbs have never been properly introduced much less agree. This language pollution is sadly becoming accepted.

2. Allowing spell checker to run the show: Spell check is a technician, not a writer. It does not know the difference between "there" and "their". Enough words in English present confusion for the Write Mind, so imagine how poor Spell Check is spinning when faced with "pare", "pair" or "pear". A writer is heading for a dangerous misunderstanding by hitting "ok" at any Spell Check hint without considering how that spelling might change the meaning of the sentence.

3. OUTLINE - OUTLINE- OUTLINE. An outline is to writing what location is to real estate. Free form is fine for starving poets but won't earn a paycheck for freelance commercial writers or university instructors. Banish memories of the 6th grade English teacher who made outlining seem like a punishment. She (or he) was right to insist on mastering this craft. Start with an outline and follow it.

4. Essential Grammar rule: when in doubt, check it out. Whether comma-impaired or semi-colon challenged, look in a basic grammar book. The grammar check function on some word processing programs is limited at best. If all else fails, re-write the troublesome sentence (or divide it) in a way that does an end- run around your grammar pitfall.

5. Have a point and get there promptly. If rule # 3 is followed, this becomes easier. However, stop at the end of any writing project (or at least each section of a longer work) and attempt to give a "news headline" report of what was written. When you can't summarize your own work (and you know what you are writing), do not expect a reader to get it either.

These 5 beginning steps can lead any writer, even a novice, in the right way to write anything, in any genre, for any purpose.

Par's Not So Excellent Adventure

2010-12-22T08:08:00.002-05:00

Special story from a guest blogger. A dozen years later this still tugs at our hearts.

December 15, Friday afternoon, I heard Dad’s car come into the garage. Robin and Kelly are home from school! I was excited to see them, so excited that I slipped through an opening in Mom’s office door and flew toward them. At least that’s what I wanted to do. Then this gust of wind caught me and I was soaring over the neighbor’s house.

Mom was running after me, calling my name. I’m coming back, Mom. I’m just checking out those birds I hear from the window. There they are, they want me to fly with them. They flew so high and so fast that I could barely keep up. Next thing I knew, I was up a big tree too tired to peep. I heard Mom crying loud. It’s ok, Mom, I’ll be back in a few minutes. But it didn’t work that way. Mom, Dad, Robin and Kelly looked up, but they didn’t see me way high in the oak tree two streets over. They all left crying then it got very dark.

The birds I thought wanted to hang with me left me. The wind that felt fun to glide on started to slap me in the face. I held on tight to a branch. I got cold and hungry and scared. I’ve never been out at night before. This isn’t any fun. I hope I can find my way home.

The next morning I flew around. Other birds went to the ground and bathed in puddles of water. I hate having my feet dirty. When I shower, Mom sprays me with mist then puts me under the blow dryer so I stay warm. I’m hungry and thirsty. The wind is still blowing but maybe I can find home if I keep trying.

About noon on Saturday, I landed in a 20 foot pine tree, two houses from home. I heard Mom and Kelly outside. I peeped as loud as I could. They heard me! Mom and Kelly came over to talk me down. Finally I tried to fly to Mom. A wind gust pushed me into a glass window and I dropped to the ground. Mom was climbing behind the bush to get me but I heard other noises and I got scared. I flew up and caught another wind. Mom, Kelly and Robin followed me across the street to the big tree. I was even higher, maybe 35 feet this time. Another wind got me and I couldn’t turn. I landed in a tree on the next street. Mom, Kelly and Robin called my name. I was so exhausted, I couldn’t answer. They left crying again.

I waited for more wind and got closer. Night was coming again. Oh, I hate night out in a tree. Then I heard Mom call my name. Yes! She hears me. She and Kelly ran into the yard and then I heard our next door neighbors come out. I must be close to home. I hear their birds inside their Florida room. This time Mom says I’m not as high, but it’s high to me. The wind is getting stronger and I’m so tired. Dad brought a ladder and Robin brought my food. Mom climbed up, but she couldn’t reach me. I’m hanging on a tiny branch so hard that my feet ache. Leaves are blowing in my face. Then Jim got his 20-foot ladder. I heard Dad say that this was the last chance to get me before nightfall and a cold front was approaching. They leaned the ladder against the tree and Kelly climbed up. I was so happy to see a familiar face. Kelly talked to me and held out the food. Every time I tried to climb over toward her, the bad wind howled and I was afraid to let go. Dad held the ladder tight. Mom and Robin prayed hard. Finally Kelly reached out and grabbed me tight. She held me to her chest and climbed down the ladder with one hand. We all ran into the house to safety.

When Kelly opened her hands, I saw my Mom. She took me in her warm hands and kissed me and held me until my heart stopped crashing in my chest. Suddenly it was warm inside. I drank water and ate and ate. Star, our parrot, shouted happily when she saw me. Mostly, I held onto Mom. Before I went to bed in my house, my family prayed to thank God for the miracle of bringing me home. I heard my family talk about God, and now I know Him too. I don’t even know what a sparrow looks like, but I know He watched me. My Mom’s friend, Phyllis, heard my story and said it was already recorded in the Bible, Deuteronomy 7:19 “You saw with your own eyes the great trials, the miraculous signs and wonders, the mighty hand and outstretched arm, with which the Lord your God brought you out.”

I’m so happy to be home with Mom, Dad, Kelly and Robin. They are right. I’m not in touch with my inner-birdness and I do much better inside as a princess than outside lost, cold and hungry. Thank you, God, for watching over me. Love, Par Erwin

Use of Color for Writer's Site - Purple

2010-12-20T08:15:00.002-05:00

Purple heralds "royal", the color of kings and a symbol of authority. Today deep purple is strongly linked with luxury, so use it selectively to attract a discriminating viewer. Purple also has a spiritual, ethereal side. Life coaches, image builders and wealth-generation projects can use purple with silver or blue accents to create a "sky is the limit" impression.

Lighter shades of purple are more attractive to women, particularly adolescent girls (think Hannah Montana crowd in purple and pink). Males respond more to the deeper, royal shades of purple.

In nature, purple is not a dominant color. It's usually associated with violets or eggplant. Take a cue from violets and paid purple with medium green for a eco-friendly image.

Be careful with the tone quality of purple. Darker tones can appear blue or black on web sites. Test your colors as they will appear to viewers of your site.

Use of Color for Writer's Site - Blue

2010-12-18T08:30:00.000-05:00

From true blue to singing the blues, blue hits a variety of emotional notes with readers. Career coaches affirm to value of wearing blue to communicate "trustworthy" and "confident". Aqua blue calls to mind tropical ocean scene or clear summer sky. Royal blue is, well, royal and commanding. Notice that future princess Kate Middleton wore a royal blue dress for media interviews of the engagement. That was no accident.

Blue is well received by men and women as a calming color. In using blue for your writer's site, be careful about the color saturation. Pale blue is hard to read against a light background and looks faded against a dark background. Rich or saturated blue is good for headlines or feature items, but too much for large block of copy. Blue-green tones are best as a feature color. If you want to pair green and blue, make certain that the blues are “true blue” without green undertones for adequate color separation.

Use of Color for Writer's Site - Green

2010-12-16T07:30:00.000-05:00

Green has a new image as organic, natural and eco-friendly. Renewed interest in the environment gives green a fresh appeal. Green is synonymous with nature and harmony in apple or spring green shades. Go darker shade of green to represent money and greed. Evergreen or darker holiday wreath green shows stamina. Which shade of green reflects your writing projects?

If you write on finance, business, venture capital, investments or small business development, draw in your viewer with rich (no pun intended) green. Rather than the stock drawing of dollar bills, use green bold highlighted words in the call to action or "contact me" button to get more information.

For unisex appeal, green is the easiest color to perceive by male and female viewers. Green has a long association with fertility, freshness and vitality - - a his and hers color choice.

Use of Color for Writer's Site - Red

2010-12-14T08:15:00.007-05:00

Every color in the rainbow holds a general and a personal meaning. Vivid color descriptions evoke a reader's emotions so consider the overall impressions that color brings to your writer's web site. Red makes you look in a brash, don't mess with me, way. Too much red and your eye wanders searching for the most important words. When you use red print as a call to action on your site, make it the headline, not the full paragraph. If you overuse red, the effect goes from excitement and passion to irritation and frustration. It's too much like mark-ups on a failing history paper.

Red has an edgy side. Graphics with red can be imposing or demanding. Red can also be perceived as confident, not a color for the timid. You can draw in the eye with gradients of red, ending in an almost pink-red if you want to lead the viewer to a youthful impression. Beware of too much emphasis. A little red goes far in making an impact, so use it discretely. For action, passion, impulsiveness or tenderness, go Red.

Writing Advice from the Trenches Part 3

2010-12-10T07:45:00.002-05:00

“The most valuable of all talents is that of never using two words when one will do.” Thomas Jefferson There’s a guy who practiced what he preached. Think about the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson, the principal author, succinctly summarized our unalienable rights as “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” then went on to paint word pictures of King George’s disreputable actions in such concise sentences as, “He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns and destroyed the lives of our people.” Attention new writers: find an encyclopedia and read the entire Declaration of Independence. Look closely at Jefferson’s precision, eloquence and passion. Just as young musicians play louder rather than better, inexperienced writers write more words with less purpose. Words are powerful. Use their power like laser beams instead of shot gun blasts.

And finally, from Richard Bach. . . “a professional writer is an amateur who didn’t quit.” Enough said, write on!

Writing Advice from the Trenches Part 2

2010-12-08T08:30:00.001-05:00

“I write to teach myself what I already know”. Duane Alan Hahn Faster than a speeding search engine, more powerful than a Ph.D. . . .look up on the screen, it’s an idea, it’s a feeling, it’s real life.” That’s right. When it comes to digging deep into the wellspring of life experiences from which good writing emerges, it is all about you. The things you hear, see, feel, touch, smell and taste offer magnificent material for writing anything from personal essays to poetry and short stories to novels. Research yourself. For a month, make a list of memories that come to mind or stories that you enjoy telling family and friends. Choose two or three that are particularly vivid. What is in those memories that represents “teachable moments” for you and a potential reader? Draw the reader into your world, demonstrate the lesson, then gently return the reader to the present.

“I love being a writer. What I can’t stand is the paperwork”. Peter De Vries

Successful writers are also good business managers. They learn early about the importance of researching markets, acquiring guidelines, checking for comparable works, keeping interview notes, organizing queries, tracking submissions and recording payments. This is the “paperwork” of the writing business. Writers who master these tasks with simple, orderly systems maximize their income. An expensive software program is not necessary. All that’s needed is a ledger page or tabbed index cards. Set aside one day a week to update the organizational paperwork that sustains a productive writer.

Writing Advice from the Trenches Part 1

2010-12-06T17:28:00.000-05:00

John Steinbeck was feeling the wrath when he lamented, “No one wants advice, only corroboration.” As every writer knows, all we really need is a great idea, an uninterrupted week, a flawless grammar checker, a monster contract with a huge advance and plenty of media interviews after the book is published. In the meantime, would you settle for a little good advice from others who have “made it”.

“I think I did pretty well, considering I started out with nothing but a bunch of blank paper.” Steve Martin. That’s funny, Steve, because it’s universal. All writers start with a blank paper on which to pour out words. Even those computer programs promising pre-fab plot pointers are useless if the idea never gels in the writer’s brain and bursts from a heart full of excitement.

“Writing is a combination of ditch-digging, mountain-climbing, treadmill running and childbirth. Writing may be absorbing, exhilarating, racking and relieving. But amusing? Never.” Edna Ferber Writing is the most exasperating job you’ll ever love. Yes, Edna, it’s plot labor. Once the work is published and the check arrives, writers easily diminish the time spent conceiving the idea, carrying the concept to delivery and surviving those cruel cuts (edits) to bring forth the finished product. Working writers work at their craft daily. Some days are a drudge. Some days are a delight. A combination of those days is how writing is refined into some thing worth reading.

Know your audience

2010-12-01T07:50:00.001-05:00

One-size-fits-all rarely works with socks so why do you think it works for writing? Prehaps your headlines grab the wrong audience. As Tyra Banks says; "pose one way for men's magazines and another way for women's magazines." Psychotactics gives this the "write twist".

Sean's articles are among my favorites because he gives practical examples to illustrate his points. Even if you are not writing web site or marketing content, these ideas about targeting your audience are useful for many types of writing. He shows that if you want attraction, write for then Cosmo reader. If you want conversion, write for New Yorker's reader. Apply this to a novel or short story by considering whether you are writing to capture attention, shock value or excitement (Cosmo) v. writing to inform, persuade or rally (New Yorker).

Here's a simple exercise: take one idea and write a headline with first paragraph for the Cosmo reader than give it the write twist for the New Yorker reader. Notice the differences. Which approach best serves your theme? Consider taking the unexpected approach to liven up your story and keep your reader curiously turning pages.

Write Thankfully Now

2010-11-29T11:50:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving disasters and delights make wonderful short stories, essays or scenes in a novel. Did you write down those experiences? Better do it now while the imagery, conversation and characters are fresh in your "write mind". How many times did you say, "remember when Nana cremated the turkey" (Yes, she did, and nearly burned down our kitchen too) or other fond family memories? Write them down NOW.

These moments are ideal for Thanksgiving holiday articles. Keep in mind that Thanksgiving starts in June or July for writers who intend to submit articles to print or feature publications. You can get the story on your blog instantly, however, having additional lead time to tease these as a feature is still better than instant upload.

Rule of thumb for writing holiday material is to submit 5-6 months ahead of the actual publication date. Publication date for a November magazine may be September, so that backs up your deadline farther. Scan those writer's guidelines for detailed information. When you find the deadline dates, add immediately to your new year calendar. The stories your family loves to recall during holidays will resonate with readers. So share your stories, get published and (preferably) make money.

Some turkeys trot

2010-11-29T07:50:00.000-05:00

Being in the crowd at the start of the Times Turkey Trot was like getting dropped into a fantasy novel, where unusual characters are the norm. It was a reminder that creativity transcends the obvious. My favorite interpretation of the Thanksgiving holiday was with the inimitable Knife and Fork.

Not to be outdone, two guys morphed into turkeys. Needless to say the people watching was amazing. When you consider that every trotter has a story, over sixteen thousand stories ran past me; plot lines all around!

I found the Turkey, who managed to stay ahead of the fork and knife. A wonderful, healthy way to start Thanksgiving Day.

Imitation is flattery or in this case fatter

2010-11-23T11:35:00.000-05:00

The recognition of NANOWRIMO is moving from writer groups to the popular jargon where it's being imitated. Have you seen NaBloPieMo? That's new to me also so had to click for more info. This is a pie a day for the month of November as a feature on BlogHer.com.

This reminded me of the old saying, "imitation is the most sincere form of flattery." Apparently this quote is so often imitated (or claimed) I found several alleged sources from Ghandi to Charles Colton. Imitation is a downhill slide that's exhilarating at the top, not bad during the ride and dull at the end. Such is the cycle of imitation in genres or books. Frankly, I'm ready for the Vampire and Zombie craze to hit the bottom. To make the stories different, writers go far outside the "norm" (strange word for the un-dead) to have Zombies who talk and Vampires with a tender side. Yawn. Pie baking is more interesting so slide a pie in the oven and see how many words you can write while it bakes!

E-Book silent revolution growing

2010-11-22T08:30:00.005-05:00

2011 may be the year that e-books dominate publishing. Out from this much aligned, easily dismissed electronic publishing format, the e-book is the "little engine that could" and did!

Nook in color

James McQuivey, writing in Forrester.com, goes so far as to predict "When the dust settles, publishers will think think of their eBook strategy first. Does this spell the end of print publishing? Not at all. McQuivey theorizes that
"Paper decisions will be made as an adjunct to digital decisions. Many, many books will be published without paper versions at all, at least until they get enough critical mass to justify going to paper."

Rather than a death knell this sounds to me like a celebration for new and formerly mid-list authors. The rising costs of traditional publishing has led to fewer books coming out each year. Publishers are less willing to invest in new authors. For writers, that's been the real death knell. If McQuivey is right, this option to try in ebook before print opens many new doors for writers. New authors develop a e-book following with cost efficient to free social media marketing and have time to build a print book audience.

So authors, start your computers! This economic driven change in publishing opens creative opportunities to us that are unprecedented.

Look who is cheering on NANOWRIMO

2010-11-20T09:45:00.004-05:00

What do Sue Grafton, Piers Anthony, Jonathon Stroud and Meg Cabot have in common? (P.S. the answer is NOT bestsellers). These successful authors sent encouraging messages to the NANOWRIMO community. They know how it feels to face a blank screen and an equally blank brain that all writers experience on the way to composing something wonderful.

If you are among the writing fanatics participating in NANOWRIMO, congratulations! Whether or not those 50,000 words are the launching pad for your literary career or simply the motivation to start writing regularly, this event is worthwhile for each writer on a personal level. Write on!!!

To motivate your Write Brain - move your body

2010-11-18T14:29:00.000-05:00

Writers can spend hours sitting in front of the computer. The concentration is so intense that you forget an unseen element of your success - your brain. Brain cells work better when your entire body takes time to move. Exercise is an important partner in for your writing success. Walking is an easy way to fit 30 minutes of exercise into even a busy workday or writing schedule.

Start by setting your clock ahead 18 minutes. Before going to bed, lay out comfortable shorts and tee with walking shoes and socks beside your bed. In 3 minutes, you can sit on the side of the bed and change into walking clothes. Then get a drink of water on the way out and you can be on the road in 3 minutes. Remember to clip the pedometer to your clothing and reset for a new day.

Start by walking 15 minutes in an area near your home. If it’s still dark, wear reflective tape on your shoes and reflective clothing. When you return from this brisk walk, go right to the shower and prepare to dress for work.

Transfer the pedometer worn during the morning walk to your work clothes. See how many steps you take during work hours. Make the effort to add to that count by taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking farther away from the office and walking down the hall to deliver a memo instead of tossing it into inter-office mail slot.

After work, you want to get home and unwind. Decide if you prefer to take another 15 minute walk before dinner or after dinner. If you walk after dinner, allow at least an hour for your food to digest before walking.

Without any fanfare, you can add 30 minutes of aerobic walking to your day. Not only is this important for your heart health but it’s ideal for kicking the fat burning stage to a higher level. As a bonus, your brain cells get more oxygen and feel refreshed from the exercise break.

P.S. That's me about a local race. As a race walker I enjoy the event without harming my knees.

"Fearless is the new black" - - Yes it is!

2010-11-15T12:20:00.008-05:00

Fearless - - - what would you do if you had no fear of loss, failure or embarrassment? Would you move from being a writer to a published writer? How many articles or book proposals would you submit if you didn't fear rejection? I appreciate Patty Hogue Soffer who is teaching business owners how to rise from disaster to success based on her real life experience. Rather than being stuck in the past disappointments, she's moving forward at warp speed toward new goals including writing a book.

Catch the enthusiasm from Patty's blog entry, "Fearless is the New Black". Speaking of fearless, she zip lined through the Scottish wilderness on a recent trip only to return home to an art class. So it's not about going out to an adventure, it's about the adventure of discovering who you are and what you can create right where you are.

So be fearless. . . .boldness is always in fashion!

Oxymoron Alert: Inopportune Bogey

2010-11-14T09:45:00.000-05:00

Sports announcers have time to fill and no script. A golf analyst commiserated, "that was an inopportune bogey". By definition, a "bogey" is taking one more shot than par or in lay terms, "one too many". When is missing the mark opportune? Would you say "inopportune auto accident", implying there is a good time for an accident?

Before I get a call from St Andrews defending this golf-speak, it goes to show how quickly phrases can be misunderstood by those who are not "in the club". I still contend that the golfer in question, who ended up losing the tournament, saw nothing "opportune" about his bogey.

NANOWRIMO v. 10/10/10

2010-11-12T08:45:00.000-05:00

Laura Miller goes against the grain to "just say NO" to NANOWRIMO. Blasphemy you say? No, it's switch pitch for the 10/10/10 project. This ambitious goal keeps writers reading, not their own words but those of others. Good writers are avid readers so this make sense.

Not inclined to indulge in what she calls "self agrandizing frenzy of NANOWRIMO", Laura Miller supports the challenge launched by Kalen Landow and Melissa King to read 10 books in 10 categories between January 1 and October 1. For maximum effectiveness, read books outside your writing genre or your favorite genre. For me that would be 10 books on Zombies, Vampires, Romance and Westerns.

January is coming soon. Would you make the 10/10/10 commitment? Think about what you might read in different genres. That seems to require a trip to Barnes & Noble or Borders, don't you agree? A nice afternoon in the bookstore with coffee sounds ideal. But it will have to wait until I finish my day job.

How does coffee sell more books?

2010-11-10T08:45:00.007-05:00

If coffee motivates book buyers, then I want my books printed on coffee scented paper! Internet Psychologist Graham Jones says studies show drinking coffee lowers resistance and causes people to buy more books. No wonder coffee shops inside bookstores are popular!

My fav - Starbucks Pumpkin Spice

Conversely the lack of controlling coffee drinking is a negative for online book sellers. The online world is screen limited, without the ability to control sights, smells, displays and other clever ways that retailers turn lookers into buyers. If you want a great example of this visit IKEA stores. On the way out as you approach the check-out stands you are enveloped in the scent of cinnamon buns. Guess what - - - those hot pastries are right there to get one more dollar or two out of your wallet.

Perhaps there is an option - - - a discount based on amount of caffeine intake prior to purchase. That's hard to monitor. What about using a photo of steamy, cream topped latte as the "buy" button?

Assuming Jones is correct, make sure to bring coffee to a meeting with an agent or publisher's representative. . . and make it a Venti with extra shots.

Study of Tweet-speak

2010-11-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

Careful what you say on Twitter. Those 140 characters are being anaylzed by academics for meaning and purpose. Do all Tweets have meaning? No. Even that is meaningful for linguistic analysis and psychological profiling according to Dan Zarrella who developed Tweet Psych.

In Zarrella's creative conscious, social science and psychology, converge (or maybe collide) inside those prolific little Tweets. Get his take on this at The Science of Retweeting. Inside this article is a substantial report for download with more analysis.

Among Zarrella's recommendations is to stop short of the 140 characters or about 120. That leaves room for the ever popular "retweet". The same day I read this article I also read a comment from Writer's Digest suggesting to take one word out of every sentence to improve writing. This is a simple, yet inspired idea. Wait, let me try that again. This is a simple, inspired idea.

NANOWRIMO in action

2010-11-07T17:28:00.000-05:00

Huddled in the corner of Panera Bread frantic fingers flew, rushing to meet the day's word count. Who are these strange creatures tied by electrical cords and mice? They are writers pursuing the elusive novel in a month. Yes, these writers celebrate NANOWRIMO by cranking out 50,000 words in a month. Such is the essence of National November Writing Month when writers choose to experience extreme frustration and stupendous joy in rapid cycling positively manic.

St Petersburg members of Florida Writers Association gathered to write, empathize and encourage. Take this great idea and run with it. Call a few dedicated writers and invite them to join you for an early afternoon NANORIMO session as local restaurant, coffee shop or bookstore with free wireless internet access. Gather in a back corner so that the key taping, laughter and occasional weird plot twist conversations will not scare the locals. If possible get a free public service mention in the local newspaper. You may find that this fledgling group decides to stay together and become a regular writers critique group. That could be a value-added benefit of NANOWRIMO.

Cheap Conversion

2010-11-05T07:12:00.001-04:00

Zamzar mascot?

Sorry no sinners to saints stories but there is "grace" for writers who lack the bucks for big Adobe or other sophisticated files. Zamzar offers as free option for file conversions with more choices than a candy store. You can use this site to convert a pdf to a mobi (Mobi pocket ebook) or JPEG image to GIF or BMP. That's only a small sample, it's a bonanza for writers.

For larger files or repeated use, you are asked to sign up for Zamzar which is still a bargain at $7 month for Basic or $16 for Pro Edition. Since there is no long term contract or penalty for cancellation, you can use this when needed and opt out when your writing project is complete. With so many new opportunities for eBooks and Kindle/Nook uploads, Zamzar is a cost efficient option for the photos, graphics and video to make your work sparkle.

What can the iPad do for writers?

2010-11-03T07:27:00.002-04:00

The iPad brings instant coolness to the holder. People will let their lattes chill while fawning over an iPad. It's as much a curiosity as was the Model T Ford at the turn of the past century. Frankly, it may be about as useful since this shiny Apple is a brighter version of old school chalkboard, lacking the power of a netbook.

Going from heavy laptop to netbook for travel was a major improvement. Reducing the backpack weight from old laptop to netbook makes it possible to keep the computer handy. Having that electronic note taker at my side when an idea lands is wonderful. Then came the iPad; a small, sleek, even easier to carry device arrived. Fortunately my iPad envy was cured after handling the device and noticing it's lack of USB port and printer connection.

Publishing executive Michael Hyatt, an early iPad adaptor, validated my initial thoughts by characterizing the iPad as "an elegant solution in search of a problem." With the advances in smart phones and the increasing availability of free wifi hotspots, including some city block areas, the iPad is an overly expensive toy. For writers, the actual keyboard of a netbook or laptop may be the more efficient alternative to working away from home base.

As for Apple technology, I can only say, "Please Steve Jobs, cure my iPhone envy by bringing this magnificent phone to Verizon." As for the iPad which rumor says is coming soon toVerizon users; yawn.

Ode to creativity

2010-11-01T08:40:00.000-04:00

What better way to start NANOWRIMO than with a new video from Errol! Not sure about his novel, but his videos are fantastic. If this does not inspire you to start writing your novel this month, then nothing will. I had to pause and share this with you. After the fifth time of watching and laughing, GET BUSY WRITING.

Satire is all that makes sense

2010-10-30T07:22:00.000-04:00

Satire is the writer's response to something so outrageous that there is nothing else to say. That's how I perceive the Zombie craze. Why can't dead folks have the common courtesy to stay dead? We have enough traffic jams without zombies wandering in the streets. Then I found Scott Kenemore, an author who motives me to love zombie satire.

Scott's Zen of Zombie: Better Living Through the Undead kicked off the zombie satire sub-genre that has become like a vocational exploration for the unemployed undead with too much time on their hands. My favorite is the Code of the Zombie Pirate book. And then I found this video; yoga for zombies.

So zombie freaks, enjoy. Then put away those stupid costumes, wipe the fake blood off your face and get back to serious writing on Monday when NANOWRIMO begins.

Diagnosing Literary Characters

2010-10-28T07:22:00.000-04:00

With my psychotherapy training, I am constantly diagnosing characters in novels. Face it, aberrant behavior is the core of thrillers, mysteries and other fictional genres. Was Darth Vader crazy or crazy like a fox? What about gentle Bartleby the Scrivener? Dave Gibson's article in Mother Jones' gives his take and more.

My key characters in Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc represent several diagnosis categories: Antisocial Personality Disorder, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Dependent Personality Disorder and just plain EVIL (not an official DSM code, but no mystery even to the layperson).

Power of 3 for your writing

2010-10-26T07:37:00.002-04:00

As a huge fan of Psychotactics, Sean's clear explanation of using "3" as the ideal illustrative number for writers is worth reading. After all, how many is too many when listing attributes of a character or location? Three balances well and seems to work with the human brain's processing potential. Two looks whimpy. Five, seven or nine is overkill.

Psychotactics writer, Sean, offers three reasons why three works:

Focus quickly
Solid substance
Curse of knowledge

My favorite is "curse of knowledge" and I see this in student papers and works of novice writers. Editing and restraint seem to be missing from their dictionaries. Yes, you can know too much. In fact, the more expertise you have about a topic, the greater the danger. Before unloading a written tsunami on unsuspecting readers, consider Sean's advice: "three things restricts your amazing power to write endlessly". To that I would add: and bore intensely or overwhelm without mercy. Less is more. . .be concise then be done.

Get ready for NANOWRIMO

2010-10-24T16:25:00.000-04:00

November is known for more than turkeys and parades. To writers this is NANOWRIMO or National Novel Writing Month. Sound complicated? Errol tells the whole story in this 3 minute summary . If that doesn't inspire you, nothing will. So start your outline, research and plot notes. You are 30 days away from turning your ideas into a 50,000 word book. Remember to give your idea the "write twist" to stand out from the pack and possibly be the prizer winner!

Trifecta for Writers this weekend

2010-10-21T08:05:00.003-04:00

Three blockbuster events happen on Saturday, October 23. If only the Sci-Fi writers could explain how to beam around to all; the Florida Writers Conference, Time Festival of Reading and Necronomicon 2010.

Florida Writers Association Conference offers top flight speakers, seminars and networking Friday and Saturday in Lady Mary, outside Orlando. Royal Palms Literary Awards are announced at the Saturday banquet. I am a finalist in the Thriller category for my book, Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc.

The Times Festival of Reading in downtown St Petersburg is a joyous celebration of writers, readers and all things to do with books. The festival is located at Bayboro Harbor, 140 7th Avenue South, 10am-4pm with free admission.

And then there is Necronomicon 2010 also in downtown St Petersburg. This one baffles me. For those who enjoy the company of zombies, vampires and other horrible creatures (disguised as writers), grab your chains and follow the blood trail to Bayfront Hilton, October 22-24.

How are regional personalities developed?

2010-10-19T07:22:00.000-04:00

Do you take for granted certain regional personalities or do you want to know the backstory? Here's the research to explain City Mouse/Country Mouse and what made them similar yet different? Dr Peter Renfrow thinks there are three options to explain how people in a certain area of the country acquired distinctive characteristics associated with where they live.

1. Selective migration patterns - People move where they are comfortable, satisfied and find others like themselves. That's how my Italian grandparents came from northern Italy to Memphis, Tennessee. Seems like an odd place for them to settle. They came because there was a community of friends from the old country who said that they could like Southern people in America which is different than how they felt about Southern Italians ( another regional personality issue). In the same way, farm kids with big dreams move to urban areas and musicians flock to Nashville.

2. Social influences from people around them - Unless you choose to be isolated, you are influenced by the customs, traditions and behaviors of people around you. Social learning occurs when you are immersed in a place for continual time period. That bored farm kid can easily become hypervigilant, stressed and exhausted like other people around him in the fast-paced city.

3. Ecological influences - The geography and topography definitely impacts the population. Living in a rural area means thoughtful planning for shopping trips unlike a suburban area where driving to the mall happens on a whim. Conversely people without cars in urban areas are more mobile due to available mass transit unlike those in smaller cities without mass transit who become mobility limited and have fewer job choices.

Think about how these factors influence your characters. Which characters move to dramatically different social environments? Is this key to the plot development? Do characters change behavior due to the move, then encounter internal or external conflicts because of that change? Consider how these three issues of regional personalities can be used to spice up your storyline.

Rentfrow,P. (Sept 2010). Statewide difference in personality:towards a psychological geography of the United States. American Psychologist, 65,6,548-558

Regional Personalities

2010-10-15T06:46:00.001-04:00

Amid the psycho-babble of my professional journals, I found a fascinating article that can be useful to writers seeking to infuse regional personalities into their stories. Rentfrow's (2010) study of psychological geography found that Florida is filled with agreeable, conscientious neurotics. As a Floridian, I'll give him two out of three.

Writing in American Psychologist (Sept.2010), Dr Peter Rentfrow analyzes five personality domains

extraversion
agreeableness
conscientiousness
neuroticism
openness

What does this information do for you as a writer? It's a credible study that can add to your knowledge or assumptions about the overall behavior of people within a given region of the U.S. For example, Rentfrow mentions the assumptions that "New Yorkers are outspoken,neurotic and always in a hurry", "Californians are laid-back, superficially charming" and "Texans are slow talking, friendly and proud members of NRA" (p 548) Do you agree? Is that how you have portrayed characters in your writing?

This journal has several articles that writers might find worthwhile. If you can't read this online, add it to your research list for the next visit to a university library.

Rentfrow,P. (Sept 2010). Statewide difference in personality:towards a psychological geography of the United States. American Psychologist, 65,6,548-558

Teacher's Write!

2010-10-13T06:56:00.000-04:00

FACCS Educator's Conference is a favorite for me in fall conference season. My encouragement to teachers came in form of presentation; "Turn Your Teaching Experiences in a Book." Their seasoned ideas and creative teaching methods need to be shared with other educators. I want to continue sparking their interest with an upcoming "Teachers Write" free webinar. If you are anyone you know is a teacher who is thinking about writing, email me and I'll include you when the next Teachers Write webinar date is announced.

I am known as the "duck whisperer" since fowl of all types flock (no pun intended) to me. Naturally I had to do a photo with the oversized Aflac Duck.

Make your book a STAR - Part 4

2010-10-11T07:27:00.000-04:00

How do you know what you know? Without research, you have opinions not facts. R is for Research and it's a writer's BFF. Whether fiction or non-fiction, a writer needs a context in which to craft ideas. Traditional publishers demand that you research comparable works as part of your proposal and that's a wise idea no matter how or where you publish.

I admit it; I am a research junkie. Online research is a blessing for easy access. I also delight in spending a Saturday at a graduate library with real paper journals and shelves of books. There's no end to what can be discovered that adds richness to your work.

Don't use fiction writing as an excuse for pushing aside research. You can incorporate actual locations, local myths, historical background for the timeline of your work and other details that take your work to a higher level. See you in the library!!

STAR System

S = Start with your best idea

T = Tailor it with an outline

A = Accentuate the highlights

R = Research, Research, Research

Make your book a STAR - Part 3

2010-10-08T11:27:00.003-04:00

At the risk of sounding like Sesame Street, today we will begin with the letter "A" for Accentuate the Highlights of your subject. Whether establishing the characters in fiction or defining the background in non-fiction, avoid getting so mired in the background that the reader begins to yawn. Readers want a sparkle-fix that they get from reveling in the highlights of your ideas.

Totally new, never before written topics are rare. What makes your work different from the others are the highlights that you bring to the subject or story. Think about what you have to say that makes listeners look alert or turn toward you to hear more. Those are highlights. When the idea or dialogue drives you to distraction and demands to be written? Those are highlights. Your unique sense of humor, irony or curiosity are also highlights in the way you present a story.

To borrow the line from Miss Congeniality . . . "Be the highlights. YOU are the highlights" in your work.

STAR System

S = Start with your best idea

T = Tailor it with an outline

A = Accentuate the highlights

R = Research, Research, Research

Make your book a STAR - Part 2

2010-10-07T07:37:00.003-04:00

How well do you travel in an unfamiliar city without a map or GPS? Not so well. As my graduate students can attest, when I write "wandering" on papers, the grade drops. Readers are equally intolerant of wandering words that confuse more than contribute to the story. Face it, your middle school English teacher was right: you need to outline before writing. That's the "T" in my STAR system.

S = Start with your best idea

T = Tailor it with an outline

A = Accentuate the highlights

R = Research, Research, Research

Write or speak aloud the short version of your story from beginning to end. Make it like an abstract; 100-150 words. From that point, begin an outline. Microsoft Word and other formats have outline page template or you can type as you go ( my preference).

Remember if you have a section with only one subsection, either expand this to additional subsections or join the larger category. Simply stated, if you have an "A" under a category, you also need at "B". Keep the outline balanced and your story will not have those odd drop-off points.

Stop whining about using an outline! Every nonfiction book starts that way - - - you see it as chapters and subchapters. Fiction books also need basic outline to keep the essence of the story on track. You have more flexibility in fiction, but that does not mean random.

If you need to brush up on outlines, go to Purdue University's Writing Lab.

More to come on the "A"

Make your book a STAR

2010-10-05T11:35:00.000-04:00

At this week's FACCS K-12 educator's conference, I am presenting "Turn your teaching experiences into a book". Here's one idea from this presentation that applies to all authors, the STAR approach.

S = Start with your best idea

T = Tailor it with an outline

A = Accentuate the highlights

R = Research, Research, Research

The best place to begin is "start with your best idea". Writers are notorious for juggling more ideas than time. I admit that it only takes a phrase, a casual comment overheard or an odd billboard to set my mind crafting a story or how-to piece. The crisis for creative writers is not what to when but when to focus on one concept and complete that work.

This reminds me of a old Lovin' Spoonful song about making choices; "Say yes to one and leave the others behind; its not always easy, its not always kind, but I guess you have to make up your mind."
If you sort all the options, then you can choose and start with the best idea. Keep the others for future books.

Think of it like baby names, so many wonderful options but eventually the parents have to put a name on the birth certificate. You are not abandoning those other amazing ideas, merely asking them to wait their turn.

Come back for second part - - - the "T"

Experience Tips # 8-10

2010-10-01T08:05:00.000-04:00

Authors take heed, here are more Experience Tips from discussions at SIBA Conference. Writing is not merely a literary pursuit, it's a business. As with any product, the old sales adage applies: "nothing happens until somebody sells something".

Experience Tip # 8: Identify your book buying audience by demographics. Create a profile of your prime book buyer then look for groups or organizations where that buyer is represented. If your prime book buyer is 25-40 year old female, then don't waste time speaking to an aging, predominately male civic club.

Experience Tip # 9: Use Social Media Marketing to the fullest extent of your knowledge. Keep in mind, it's not totally free. What you spend is your time, so target your efforts rather than scatter.

Experience Tip # 10: When preparing for book signings, send press releases and announcements to your regular networks. Unless you have worked with a book store before and know their marketing style, never assume that they will do all the marketing for you. Better for the local newspaper to receive two press releases rather than none.

Experience Tips # 4-7

2010-09-30T07:12:00.000-04:00

Charming southern authors, Shellie Tomlinson and River Jordan, are a publisher's dream team. They loaded the car and went on the "Wing & a Prayer Tour" with 22 bookstore stops in 14 days. This was not a whim, but a carefully crafted book tour which, if you can afford the time and money, might be the "write twist" for your promotion.

Here are elements of their tour that are worth repeating by those of us who can't leave the day jobs:

Experience Tip # 4: Build interest in the tour weeks before departing. Shellie has a radio show, however, you could use Facebook, Twitter or other social media to announce your plans. Choose a manageable travel schedule. You may only have three day weekends and can't cover as much ground.

Experience Tip # 5: Work in advance with each bookseller to encourage local promotion. Don't put all of the marketing on the bookseller, send your own press releases to media in each stores' local area. Ask the store owner to share their media list with you.

Experience Tip # 6: Bring promotional materials, free standing sign (better than a banner), small folding table with clean cloth and give-aways. Shellie and River got prizes from their publishers and other sponsors. As a newcomer, you won't have that luxury so bring along inexpensive but clever giveaways.

Experience Tip # 7: Post information and photos of your tour online promptly and send old fashioned "thank you" cards to each book store that hosted your appearance.

Shellie and River partnered in this venture. At each stop, Shellie mentioned that they cross-promoted each other's books. Shellie suggested that several authors representing different genres might team up to reduce costs and multiple interest.

*** Click the links on their names above to visit their sites. You'll be glad you did!

"Experience" - New Feature for Getting the Words Out

2010-09-28T08:05:00.004-04:00

Beside my desk is this button reminding me that even in seeming disasters there is the experience value. It's darn costly, but that may be all that remains from mistakes made and dreams delayed. Fact is, no matter how well you write, you have to "get the words out" to build a following who become loyal book buyers. For most of us, this is more challenging than writing. In our enthusiasm, authors go careening down one-way streets, wasting time and money attempting to "get the words out". We have to work smarter, not harder.

My weekend at Southern Independent Booksellers Association (SIBA) didn't get what I expected but did give me experience lessons that I needed. Stay tuned as I pass these along to you. I deeply appreciate each book blogger and book store owner who spent time to educate me on the booksellers perspective.

Experience Tip # 1: Get an electronic copy (preferred) or printed copy of your book to book bloggers and reviewers at least three months prior to release date. The book bloggers present affirmed Rebecca Joines Schinsky's (The Book Lady's Blog) comment that "When your book is out for 2 weeks, it's old news to bloggers so don't expect any attention."

Experience Tip # 2: Book Blogger Ron Hogan mentioned the value of timing, "Get review copies to key bloggers early enough that the review can be published just prior to a major book show or other event where your book is launched."

Experience Tip # 3: If you are looking for endorsements, get review copies out as much as 3-5 months in advance. The bigger the name value of the reviewer, the longer the lead time. After all, that endorser is busy with his or her own writing, speaking, etc, so make it easy for that person to review your work. Don't bother to send it a few weeks before debut. Instead of a quick turn around, you are likely to get a quick return with no review.

Taking Book Blogging to new heights

2010-09-26T19:11:00.000-04:00

The infamous duo from "Get in Bed with a Book Blogger" fame shared how their wicked humor translated into a powerful book seller-blogger relationship. SIBA President Kelly Justice shared that this works because they are complimentary personalities who respect each others as independent thinkers. Blogger Rebecca Joines Schinsky encourages book bloggers to find their "home bookstore" and build rapport with the owners and customers. Kelly reminds book sellers to treat the book blogger as a team member without attempting to influence what the blogger writes.

Kelly and Rebecca's "Get in Bed with a Book Blogger" photo is heading for legend status. This proves that the best campaigns are attention grabbing, clever and connect with a wide audience. Frankly, they beat the pants off any New York publicity agency with their idea. Careful, let's not mention pants. Rebecca has that panty-throwing habit but you can learn more from reading The Book Lady's Blog.

SIBA - Books and Beds

2010-09-24T14:09:00.000-04:00

Book conference and ocean view resort, that's a writer's paradise! Delightful folks with side order of humor, as you see in the lobby display inviting us to lounge and read. Naturally I had to do it.

Heard Steven Johnson talk about his new book, "Where Good Ideas Come From". Look at his book trailer, it's amazing. Plus he gave attendees an autographed book! His ideas are philosophical yet have a broad based appeal which is a tough balancing act.

Best session so far was "Get in Bed with a Book Blogger". Kelly Justice (owner of The Fountain Bookstore) and Rebecca Schinsky (aka The Book Lady's Blog) started this eye-catching campaign before BEA and they became rock stars in the book world for this creative effort.

Heading for Southern book heaven!

2010-09-22T08:30:00.000-04:00

Attending my first SIBA (Southern Independent Booksellers Association) conference this week, I plan to delight in down home style networking. As a GRITS (girl raised in the South), these are my people bringing Tennessee gentility to Florida. SIBA is an opportunity to connect with hundreds of independent booksellers in prime markets for my novel.

When your work has a strong regional edge, look for organizations that give maximum access to potential book buyers and book signing locations. A few good contacts would more than compensate for my membership and conference expenses. Since I enjoy meeting people and presenting my work, this is the ideal forum to network. For writers who are shy or less comfortable walking into a room of strangers and talking about your work, this would not be a good option. Conference are exceptional opportunities to make contacts, acquire new ideas and amp up motivation to keep going on the never ending promotional push to get a new book noticed.

Do you Squidoo? I do.

2010-09-20T07:12:00.001-04:00

An early player in the blogging world, Squidoo offered a simple, yet powerful way to create a "lens" in your topic of choice. I heard so much about Squidoo from Tiffany Dow, excellent writer and marketer, that I decided to try it. To my surprise, my first lens about Online Teaching Jobs rose up the rankings and continues to hold a strong position in the Education category.

Squidoo is sales friendly with links to Amazon and many other ways to generate income (writers certainly need that). New features at Squidoo reward Lensmakers with additional tools as each lens gains popularity. While I'm not obsessing over my lens daily or even weekly, I receive checks from Squidoo. You can take the money and run or send it to your favorite charity.

A Squidoo lens in your writing genre is another useful way to recycle articles or other work to a fresh audience.Squidoo meets all my criteria; free, easy and well received by Google search bots. Start your lens today and let me know what you think.

Oxymoron Alert: Zombies

2010-09-17T07:00:00.002-04:00

Why are writers dying to get into the zombie world? Even seasoned writer John Rehg invited the St Pete Florida Writer's group to a "lovely evening. . . with zombies". I warned John that this comment (lovely evening - zombies) was destined to be a featured oxymoron at The Write Twist.

Before even contemplating writing about zombies, I have much to learn. Do zombies text? My daughter, Kelly, says no because other zombies ate their thumbs. Is that the underworld version of the current cupcake craze?
Do zombies have jobs? The stalking of the living must get old after awhile, what else do they do?

What about personalities, do zombies retain their former personalities? At the risk of being politically incorrect, seen one walking dead person, seen them all. I'm going to stay with living characters like my evil doers in Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc. No zombies or vampires here, my characters do their blood sucking the old fashioned way; they bilk the government.

Thinking outside the traditional rules of publishing

2010-09-16T12:04:00.000-04:00

For any writer who knows the frustration of rejection by a traditional publisher, Scott Nicholson's article (September 16) in The Blood Red Pencil has a fresh take on the current state of publishing. His views may seem radical, yet he is offering alternatives. Are these easy? No, but neither is breaking into traditional publishing houses that take month to reply and a year to print.

Book Blogger Appreciation Week!

2010-09-14T00:27:00.003-04:00

September 13-19 is the official Book Blogger Appreciation Week. With so little newsprint devoted to books, the book blogger has become a leading literary information source for savvy readers.

My highest compliment goes out to Terry Kate who developed the Book Bloggers and Authors Conference. This online conference was packed with information for book bloggers, authors and publishers. Thankfully, Terry arranged to record many of the excellent sessions for later listening. Since I was teaching at Regent University during that week, I deeply appreciated the recorded sessions.

Celebrate book bloggers this week by locating and subscribing to two book blogs in a genre that interests you. When you sign in, remember to say, "Thanks" because book bloggers are instrumental in discovering and promoting new books.

Mystery Monkey - a Character Study

2010-09-10T09:00:00.000-04:00

A fugitive brown monkey has attained local hero status by eluding captors in his dash around Pinellas County. The blogs and Facebook are filled with "Go Monkey, Go". Recently he showed the high cost of his freedom.
In a heart breaking photo snapped by a homeowner, the Monkey was befriending a mirrored cube. He was initially excited to find another monkey only to touch glass. The final photo showed him visibly downcast at the lack of monkey companionship.

Change the character from Monkey to college student away from home, adventurer, recluse. . .you decide. Notice how this little animal's story is the same as one you might write for a person. The price of freedom can cost more than imagined. What appears to be freedom from the outside looking in may be a golden handcuff, like the price of fame is to a celebrity.

Characters make the story - vivid characters make the story great. Even the glass mirror cube reflection is a "character" who becomes a foil to the bold, entertaining Monkey. What could you do with this story using human characters?

Think like a Journalist

2010-09-07T07:10:00.002-04:00

Journalists stay focused on the classic "who, what, when, where and why" questions when developing stories. That's a smart approach for any type of writing. From blogging to thrillers and romance to science fiction, the writer needs to know the answers to those journalistic questions. Face it, if you don't know then how will the reader know what's happening.

Here's a technique I teach to my graduate students who have to boil down a complex paper into an abstract: think TV promo listing. What is the essence of your story?

Now expand this to a news story or book review. How would you give a short, concise and factual account of this work? Now you see where the "who, what, when, where and why" questions are valuable to consider as you develop the writing product.

Every Day is Labor Day for Writers

2010-09-03T08:00:00.001-04:00

While regular workers anticipate a four day holiday weekend, writers are not able to turn off their "write brains" that easily. To stop thinking about writing takes more than a legal holiday, perhaps a coma or alien abduction is required. Coma might work, but there would be too much exquisite detail and future characters to memorize in an alien abduction. Besides, what writer really wants a holiday from new ideas or resolving existing plot dilemmas?

Holiday weekends are prime people watching time, whether traveling or staying in the local area. Get out and soak up this information. In fairness, writers need tee shirts or signs announcing: "Anything you say may appear in my next book or blog."

Have a relaxing Labor Day weekend with family and friends. Drive safely and defensively. Enjoy simple pleasures. Meanwhile, "write on" as many of us will, even on Labor Day.

Oxymoron Alert: Play Responsibly

2010-09-02T09:00:00.002-04:00

The Florida Lottery radio commercial caught me off guard by adding in Buccaneers football details. Then I heard a phrase worthy of Oxymoron Alert: Play Responsibly. Trading hard earned, recession weary cash for a ticket with the odds worse than getting struck by a meteor needs a warning, but not that one. The act of buying these tickets is irresponsible, greed boosting and cheats education which it was touted to help.

To Play Responsibly is not to play at all. Or if you have the unquenchable urge to waste cash, use the 24/7 convenience of flushing money down the toilet.

Meet the "Godmother of Ethical Thrillers"

2010-09-01T13:32:00.008-04:00

Dr Kathie Erwin & Professor Jane Till

May I introduce the “Godmother” of the Ethical Thriller, Jane Till, professor in the Applied Ethics Institute at St Petersburg College. When I shared with her the concept of my book, Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc, as a thriller but with more ethical issues than the usual blood, guts and police tape, she instantly proclaimed it a Thriller of Ethical Genre. From that idea came this new sub genre, the Ethical Thriller.

She was hooked when I mentioned “guest appearances” in my novel from truly old school guys like Augustine, Dante and Machiavelli. During my years teaching as an Adjunct Instructor in the Applied Ethics Institute, I looked for ways to make ethical issues come to life for our students. That’s exactly what happens in this novel, where clashes of good v. evil and decisions made in the midst of those clashes drive this thriller. Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc is Applied and Mis-Applied Ethics set in the real world controversies that still swirl around Medicare fraud and patient manipulation.

Developing Your Brand

2010-08-31T03:56:00.003-04:00

What you write is not as significant as who you are as a writer. You are the brand for which your work is the product. Think about this: whether you order the tall, grande or venti latte, you went to the "brand". What are we doing as writers to build our brand? That's a target project for me so I welcome suggestions.

Here's one step I took in less than twenty minutes by creating products with my book image and promo line on Cafe Press. To my surprise it was a simple process, blessedly requiring no graphic arts or HTML skills. Now it's up to me to include this link on all my sites and potential selling sources. I also plan to purchase the "official" Taylor Kendall Evil Inc Tote to bring with me for book signings and other author promotion events.

What makes these branded products enticing is the promo line. . . "Help us spread Evil". That makes you take a second look in the same way that my Health Coaching tee with my Before and After (70 lbs lost) photos are a walking billboard which often starts conversations that lead to new coaching relationships.

Keep in mind, it's all about the brand . . . how are you developing your brand as a writer?

Are you loyal to your writing?

2010-08-27T10:02:00.002-04:00

"In the absence of clearly-defined goals, we become strangely loyal to performing daily trivia until ultimately we become enslaved by it." Does Robert Heinlein's comment describe your writing routine? How much of that "daily trivia" is electronic lure? The temptation of instant information is strong and can steal from productive writing time.

As a clinical psychotherapist, I suggest to you that the availability of instant information sends writers into a spiral of obsession. You can become so obsessed with having all the information, the most current information, the hottest information, etc. that we don't finish the writing project. With the speed of content development today, don't bother to be current. In the time it takes to write, the material is out of date. So what can you do? Start by putting aside the obsession and focus on the product.

Will you know everything about an issue? Of course not. What you do have to offer is your unique perspective which no one else has. Start your day by writing for thirty minutes without click on email, RSS feeds, search engines, Facebook, Twitter or anything else. Treat your computer like an old fashioned word processor where YOUR WORDS are the focus. Attempt to extend that time up to an hour without plugging back into the usual electronic distractions.

Break the "strange loyalty" to trivia and be loyal to your writing. The results will set your creative brain free so your muse is inside your head (where it belongs) not on flashing screen.

What Madonna knows that you need to know

2010-08-26T09:39:00.002-04:00

What does Madonna have to do with branding your blog or books? From virgin to bondage and from material girl to devoted mother, Madonna knows how to "go with the flow" in marketing herself as a brand. When your book or blog starts to sink, take a lesson from Madonna and reinvent yourself!

Check out the brand revival ideas from one of my favorite e-Newsletters, Psychotactics. The central point of these changes is to remain true to your central idea or theme while finding new ways to market your writing product. Beyond the artistic wonder, your blog needs followers and your book needs buyers.

Be open to change! If you aren't attracting an audience with what you think is attention-getting, you can stubbornly cling to your "look" or make revisions that appeal to your target market.

Marketing is a moving target with the flood of content and ideas daily online. Audiences are fickle and swayed toward the trend. You have to put the write twist on your marketing to develop the loyal audience who will follow you regardless of the next trend.

Writer's Electronic Assistant

2010-08-25T10:02:00.003-04:00

For the price of a latte, I get a month of 24/7 service from Jott, my electronic assistant. When random ideas hit, I press my Bluetooth and say: “Call Jott”. I can leave a reminders, message to a group or forward a Tweet from ANY phone, not just a smart phone.

When driving or riding my bicycle, I see or hear something that triggers an idea and I capture that thought instantly using Jott. When I return to my office, I have an email from Jott with my message transcribed. How good is that? Or I can leave the same message for a predefined group of people.

Frankly, I’m a basic Jott user. There are many other applications for Jott to connect with Twitter, Facebook, Microsoft Outlook and sophisticated business or accounting programs. I’m satisfied to let Jott replace scratching notes on coupons or paper sacks that are easily lost.

Efficiency is important for me as a writer, professor and health coach. I have to keep my tasks moving and avoid missing the next great idea. For a free month use of Jott to see how it can be the write twist for you, start here. Another writer told me about Jott when it was still in testing phase and I’ve been a devoted user since.

Best of times, Worst of times

2010-08-24T18:11:00.001-04:00

"It was the best of times and the worst of times"; both are writing influences. When Charles Dickens used this sentence to set the tone for Tale of Two Cities, he was prepared to feel the happiness and despair about which he eloquently wrote. Are you prepared for both emotions in your writing?

You will find a story or a character emerge from either emotional extremes if you are willing to let that voice be heard. Suffering for art is not high on the bucket list, however to write authentically about suffering you have to have first hand experience. The same is true for outrageous joy; it's a mountain top moment that takes happy to new levels.

If you think that you can only write well when feeling content, you are missing a crucial part of the human equation. Sadness is not, at least for me, a productive time but it can become a useful time. Capture words, mental images or phrases that come to mind during the extremes of sadness or joy. You may recall these feelings later, but never with the sharpness that you have when engulfed in those moments. The act of writing is therapeutic for many people, but for writers it is necessary. In a time forward when you are back in your "write mind", review those notes. What you read can be personally healing and give the words to add to your writing so that others can identify with your work, exclaiming, "that's how I feel too!"

Writers are not the best sleepers

2010-08-23T20:41:00.000-04:00

Writers are readers, but sometimes not good sleepers. Those story telling voices in my brain don't operate in my time zone. During busy times of the day such as while I am teaching or coaching, they are drowned out or ignored. Then when my head hits the pillow in a quiet room, those pesky storytellers feel like they own my attention.

Unless you are a writer, this sounds completely off the chart. Does this writer need to see a psychotherapist (never mind, she is one)? Or does she have “Overactive Characters’ Syndrome” where the characters from the last story are insisting that their next saga be transcribed? This never happened with my non-fiction academic books. Fiction is a different animal.

What do you do when your eyes close at night but the ideas won’t turn off?

Some writers keep notepad by the bed to jot the idea. That means turning on the light and becoming even more wide awake.

Others choose to get up and write for a short period of time to avoid losing the ideas.

When the rush of thoughts seriously interrupts sleep, my approach is to go to my home office and work myself to sleep. Not always convenient with my morning schedule but if I ignore the writing urge and manage to get to sleep; I awaken certain that I have lost the most fantastic idea known to human literature.

Writers tread along the slippery slope of compulsion in their insistence on writing at the least convenient times. Perhaps we need to set aside some quiet time during the day to listen to the characters tell their stories and stop intruding on our sleep. Inspiration is a strange thing that is not bound by place, time or schedule. After all, what’s losing a few hours sleep compared to working your way out of a plot confusion?

Book Signing at Troy University Tampa

2010-08-21T23:48:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Troy University Tampa Campus for "helping us spread Evil" and get more copies of Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc. into the hands of eager readers.

Having taught in the graduate mental health program for past four years at the Tampa Campus, I appreciate these folks so much, not just at the book signing but in general.

Meet Carmen Frederico, Development Director, me (KT Erwin) and Carol Walters, Campus Director at Troy University in Tampa.

Nostalgia for Writing

2010-08-09T20:45:00.010-04:00

Human nature wants the unavailable; the multi-story doll house, the upgraded video console, the fully loaded convertible. For me this week, the "unavailable" object of my desire is time to write. As I teach in this Intensive (8 hours per day) graduate seminar at my university, I desperately miss my stolen moments between tasks to write. Even this blog has been neglected in order to attend to my students.

What can you do when writing time simply isn't possible? You have three valuable options: think, jot, plan.

Think: Let your mind wander around a topic or listen to the characters play out scenes that you can transcribe later. Work out challenging scenes in a "what it" manner: what if he did this or what if she made that choice.

Jot short notes, like a word association exercise. These can be character names, places to include in scenes or phrases to remember for dialogue. I confess that there are "writing jots" in the margins of the textbook from which I am teaching my class. A student comment, something from the text or my own random thought provides the ideas to develop later.

Plan: In between classes, back at the hotel relaxing or waiting in the airport, I can sketch out an action outline to be fleshed-out later. I can also take a previously developed outline and add details. Or I can use my calendar to revise the writing schedule for when I return to my home office.

No matter how much I add by the think-jot-plan method, I know that I'll be so grateful to be back to my writing schedule that my typing fingers will cramp from the speed. Ideas are piling up in my brain like rush hour traffic. If absence does make the heart grow fonder, perhaps time away from writing is a strong motivator to increase productivity and remember how beloved is the written word (particularly my own!).

Need Motivation - Use AFFORMATIONS

2010-08-03T14:14:00.000-04:00

Afformation - that's not a spelling error, it's "the write twist" with a fresh approach to motivation. One of my daily must-read emails is Michael Masterson's Early to Rise newsletter. While this is business oriented, the articles and ideas adapt to many types of work including writing.

Noah St John's article explaining Afformations caught my attention. How many times have you heard about the usefulness of positive affirmations? Have you made it consistently work for you? Too often these ideas get lost in the daily routine or the vigor of the idea wanes days after attending a motivational seminar.

This is the genius of St John's idea: Afformations are not what you want to gain, but rather what you want to increase in your life. Read his article for full details. I am going to adapt his concept to a writer's example:

   Typical Affirmation: I am writing a book to present to a publisher this year.

   In the background your "critical editor" voice says, "Yeah, heard that last year and the year before and nothing has been finished. What's different this time?"

   Your brain gets busy attempting to refute the Critical Editor. In the process, you are focused on the past, lack of performance and defending yourself. Negative energy is wasted energy.

   Afformations work with you, not against you. Here's the difference:

Afformation: How did I finish my book ahead of schedule with ease?

Now your brain focuses on how effectively you accomplish the goal without questioning whether the task will or will not be completed. Is this a lot of mumbo-jumbo? No. As a Clinical Psychotherapist I can say with confidence that the brain works better dealing with positives than with negatives. Additionally, speaking in the positive neutralizes the “Critical Editor” (that’s actually a psychological concept, not only for writers).

Having attended and taught many motivational programs, I felt like I heard it all until reading this morning’s Early to Rise. Noah St John’s approach to Afformations excites me and I hope you will put these to work for super-charge your writing productivity.

P.S. I highly recommend signing up for the free subscription to Early to Rise newsletter.

Great News - I'm a Finalist

2010-08-02T14:31:00.003-04:00

No ribbons, sequin gowns or queenly waves, I am a FINALIST in the Royal Palm Literary Competition sponsored by Florida Writers Association. My book, Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc, is in the Thriller/Suspense Category.

Winners will be announced at the FWA Conference banquet on October 23. Click to view the full FWA Conference agenda and register to attend the full conference October 22-24 in Lady Mary, Florida.

Let me encourage you to join a local, state or regional writer's organization. This is the best place to network, share ideas and sign up for critique sessions. The more your work is polished and edited, the better chance you have for publishing (which is only half the battle) and selling to develop a loyal group of readers.

Oxymoron alert!

2010-07-29T18:39:00.000-04:00

In a world where there seems to be a lack of new oxymorons, I heard a dandy - "Disambiguity"

Think about that. Ambiguous already means something that is not clear or hard to understand. I heard it from a speaker in a webinar on high level social media marketing who was discussing how to avoid confusing a potential online customer. That's why his use of "disambiguity" left me beyond LOL.

If you are wondering about the spelling of this word, I have no idea either since it bears no resemblance to anything among the uses of ambiguous. For some reason, when unable to find the right word, people are making up their own words. Smart writers stay away from this trap. Unless you are writing in the voice of a character who frequently coins his own words, don't pick up these stray syllables and assume anyone will know what you mean. Poor Webster, his carefully crafted collection of the English language is continually being trashed by people who are at a loss for the words.

Virtual Conference for Book Bloggers & Authors

2010-07-28T12:53:00.000-04:00

Attend a top-notch blogger conference at a bargain price without the cost of travel - - that's a deal. Thanks to a Twitter friend, I discovered the upcoming Virtual Conference for Book Bloggers and Authors, August 6-7. Check the schedule and prepare to be impressed at all this program has to offer for a mere $15 (pay using PayPal).

In addition to general interest sessions there are break-out sessions for bloggers, authors and industry professionals. Authors will learn how to work with bloggers and bloggers will get tips on approaching authors and publishers for interviews. As an experienced author who is a newcomer to blogging, I think this conference is smart to show all of us how to work better together.

Can't attend full days? Actually, I will be teaching at my university during some of the BBA Conference but I won't lose out on anything because the sessions will be recorded to hear later. That's a major bonus for me.

Book Bloggers and Authors Virtual Conference receives my Fuzzy Leopard Seal of Approval for convenience.

Which Plot is Right for Your Story?

2010-07-26T20:04:00.005-04:00

A book, short story or screenplay without a well defined plot is like flesh without enough bones to appear human. The plot is the structure for the story. Perhaps one of life’s endless questions is: how many types of plots exist?

In writing the Poetics, Aristotle (384-322 BC) described two plot types: simple and complex. His idea of a simple plot was linear where the action followed a logical conclusion based on the situation. Ok, admit it: who thought the two plot types were good and awful? The complex plot was evident in the finest Greek tragedies where a series of circumstances cascaded to a fateful conclusion.

Since the Greek intellectuals faded away, writers continued to complicate Aristotle’s elegant simplicity. In 1959, William Foster-Harris in The Basic Patterns of Plots took this to 3 types: A –happy ending, B- unhappy ending, C-Literary plot or complicated situations where fate trumps facts or feelings.

In 1916, George Polti attempted to align plots with emotional responses and presented his book, The Thirty-Six Dramatic Situations based on work of Carlo Gozzi according to Goethe. Who really did create this? With so much second hand information, it’s hard to tell. Regardless of the original source the concept seems like he is splitting literary hairs. In my mind, “murderous adultery, adultery, crimes of love, necessity of sacrificing the loved one and dishonesty of a loved one” are fruit from the same poisonous tree. Overlap among “disaster, falling prey to misfortune, erroneous judgment and remorse” are kissing cousins.

Fans of Writer’s Digest Books learned from Ronald Tobias’ 20 Master Plots (1993) that there were spin-offs to the simple/complex including such plots as; the quest, rescue, temptation, underdog, metamorphosis, forbidden love and more. Tobias was gracious enough to give many examples of books and plays that are based on each plot type. For me, this makes his book the most practical as a writer can see how the plots are shaped in an actual published work.

While thrilled to receive Tobias’ book in my Writer’s Digest book club order, this book initially did more to confuse than enlighten. Years later in the development stages of a fiction project, I dusted it off again and read. Then I realized my error; I was attempting to write a story to fit a plot. That made as much sense as an architect developing elaborate blueprints without asking the family who would live in that house about their lifestyle. When I paused to visualize in my mind the story and how it would progress from my outline, then it began to make sense which “plot” was right for the structure of my story.

Reading Tobias’ book and studying these plots in actual books provided necessary background information. Find the right match between your story and plot type. Be willing to change your mind about the type of plot that works best. After all, to apply a well-worn phrase to plot selection: “If it (story) does not fit, you must edit it.”

Readers follow Writers, not Publishers

2010-07-23T11:32:00.000-04:00

Publishers Weekly put the exclamation mark on what writers know, readers follow writers, not publishers. In 2009, 764,448 titles came from micro-niche publishers and self-publishers compared with 288,355 from traditional publishers. That’s an 87% increase from the non-traditional publishing side.

How did traditional publishing lose ground so rapidly? As an author who has worked with 5 traditional publishers (including two major houses), here’s my opinion:

1. Traditional publishers failed to recognize the significance of social media marketing. They cling to promotion by the old ways which are more expensive and slower to achieve results.

2. Traditional publishers are paternalistic – it’s still a good ole boy system. New and mid-list authors are like “yard children” outside the Master’s house where the hot ticket authors dine in splendor.

3. Traditional publishers use the “spit ball” approach by putting out quantity of works and waiting to see what “sticks” with readers. Those who rise to the top get more attention, while others languish on the shelves.

4. Traditional publishers have the “politician’s game” rules: promise plenty in the beginning, deliver as little as possible and charge everything imaginable against the author’s royalties.

5. Traditional publishers thought they would always “own the game” without realizing how creative people would gravitate to eBooks and self-publishing options.

6. Traditional publishers are slow to get a product to market. When the topic is hot, the work needs to be produced quickly. After producing an academic book complete with citations and APA form in 90 days, I received a printed copy of the book 23 months later!

7. Traditional publishers left a void which micro-niche publisher smartly filled. The micro niche publishers played fast break basketball to keep pace with the market which the traditional publishers were still on the croquet court wondering what just happened.

Bottom line: readers follow authors and genres, not publishers. When I find a fascinating book by a top-notch writer, I don’t care how it transferred from the author’s brain onto paper. The publisher does not matter to the average reader. Do you hear that writers? Whether your book is published out of New York or not makes no difference to your readers. Respected Publishers Weekly’s statistics proved this.

Spreading evil to downtown St Petersburg

2010-07-17T21:50:00.000-04:00

First local Book Launch Party was a roaring success! Friends and thriller lovers braved the rain to get their autographed first editions and celebrate with us. Since my book, Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc is set primarily in downtown St Petersburg, this location was an obvious choice. In fact, the elegant Aquastone Well Spa, host for the event, was only a short walk to the infamous "thinking spot bench" that plays an important role in the story.

Writing a major fiction work like Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc takes hours of typing, thinking and planning; mostly solitary work. Book signing parties are the author's reward for making the story come to life.

I have plenty of pens, a rolling suitcase and ready to travel to your city for book signing. Help us spread evil to your city. . . ask for Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc at your favorite bookstore or recommend to your book club. If you don't find it locally, you can order on Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble online.

Working like Barbie

2010-07-15T14:20:00.000-04:00

While I lack a pink convertible driven by a plastic hair guy, I change roles enough times during the average day to feel like Barbie™. Such is the life of writers who also have day jobs.

Fortunately as an Assistant Professor in Clinical Mental Health (online) for Regent University, its part of my job to write; course content, student paper evaluations, podcasts for classes, research and other scholarly pursuits. Although different than developing ideas for fiction, the “academic rigor” sharpens the logic, insight and attention to detail in ways that benefit all types of writing.

That leaves blogging and other writing as my hobby which is totally pleasurable. For writers who complain that they can’t afford to leave the 9-5 job for writing, be thankful. Instead of thinking of writing as work, you have the luxury of viewing it as entertainment. When my work is done, then I can write with the same delicious anticipation as awaiting a decadent dessert.

In addition to working as an online university professor, I buy the groceries, do the laundry, pump my own gas, babysit grandchildren, and all the other “Mom” duties. I still manage to attend choir rehearsal, volunteer for charitable events and drink buckets of Starbucks Latte with friends and colleagues.

Now that I think about it, Barbie and I have a lot in common. She has more careers than I do, but I’m happy with teaching enhanced by creative outlets like writing, sewing and knitting.

Prepare for Book Signing

2010-07-13T22:48:00.002-04:00

To prepare for the first book signing event for Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc, I looked around online for any pertinent tips from other writers. Among the standard fare was the best, laugh-until-sliding-out-of-my-chair book signing description by Penny Warner (look at her blog for March 29, 2008). I wouldn't dream of attempting to paraphrase her extraordinary experience, you have to read it in her words.

With a chic location in downtown St Petersburg where most of my book action takes place and ample social networking as well as old fashioned invitations, I am still not sure of the outcome. R.S.V.P. seems to get minimal attention these days when at the beep of Twitter, folks are off in a different direction to see the next big thing.

Earlier this week, crowds lined up at $150 per ticket for Dale Chihuly's book signing and exhibit opening on Beach Drive in St. Petersburg. Sadly, he was ill and not able to fly to Florida which left attendees holding rather expensive, non-autographed books. By comparison, my event is a bargain at $20 per ticket including the book, a party and I'll actually be there.

I agree with Penny Warner, unless you are J.K. Rowling or Stephen King, don't worry about hiring traffic control officers outside your location. Building your brand as an author takes time. I have a stack of smear-resistant, fine line blue Sharpie pens, practiced my autograph and I'm ready to sign. I plan to enjoy the celebration and everyone who blesses me by spending their evening celebrating with me.

Top Writer's Newsletters

2010-07-11T18:43:00.001-04:00

Space in my email is valuable real estate, so I limit my writer's newsletters to those that consistently deliver top quality information. Here are favorites that I recommend:

Writer's Weekly Angela Hoy brings fresh markets, guest experts, topical ideas and fearlessly takes on those who scam writers in the Whispers and Warnings Forum. From intellectual property law questions to self-publishing, you'll find practical answers to your questions. No matter how busy I am, this is a "must read".

Well Fed Writer Peter Bowerman is the poster child for freelance business writer who knows how to make money at his craft. His weekly newsletters, blog, books and teleseminars are excellent.

Writer's Gazette Krista Barrett gives variety of resources for new writers, freebies and contest listings, author interviews and guest columns. A new writer can post request for book review from peers which is helpful for gaining feedback or reviews.

The Organized Writer Julie Hood offers practical resources that are valuable to new writers or those who want to get serious about making money as a writer. Organization is not the gift of many creative people, so let Julie show you how to get organized and stay organized.

Subscribe to at least 3 writer's e-newsletters; one on business of writing and two in your genre. At different points in your writing career, you may need input from other types of writer's news. Sample new options and hold on to your favorites. We are never too successful or too busy to learn from each other.

Are you a literary in-grown toenail?

2010-07-10T21:22:00.000-04:00

Writing can be a solitary pursuit. Its easy to get so lost in your characters and their situations that you become like a literary version of an in-grown toe nail. The best way to spell relief is to get out in the company of other writers.

That's what I did this week, attending the St Petersburg Chapter of Florida Writers Association. Public Relations specialist, Dale W. Hutchings, took us through a brainstorming exercise that had something for everyone. The case study of writers attempting to develop a marketing plan offered ample opportunity for creative thinking. The bottom line on this exercise, according to Hutchings, was to stimulate writers to think outside their current marketing strategies with a plan to maximize strengths and minimize weaknesses.

The next best part of any writers group is the time after the program to get acquainted. Those of us who are experienced and published can encourage newbies. Clearly the St Petersburg FWA has serious talent capable of landing four of the top 10 positions a recent contest including the #1 spot. Congratulations to all the winners.

Exchanging ideas, listening to other solutions and talking with folks who understand your "write mind" is energizing. The cure for in-grown toenail syndrome: find a local or regional writer's group and drop in periodically. Sometimes you learn and sometimes you teach others, but every time you participate with fellow writers you return to your solitary pursuit richer for the time spent.

The Write Gear - Basics

2010-07-07T12:18:00.003-04:00

Gathering the "write gear" is necessary for your creative cocoon. Whether you have the luxury of a home office or work from a corner of the dining room table, a serious writer needs the essentials. Charming as an old Remington typewriter is, save it for photo props and get the best computer you can afford.

Not to get into a debate of iPad v. Netbook or Netbook v. Desktop; it's a matter of choice and money. Personally, I recommend a Netbook or laptop computer so you have the flexibility to work anywhere. There is the additional advantage of getting out of the house and working a few hours at Starbucks, Barnes & Noble or the local library.

Add SKYPE to your computer. This free calling system allows you to talk free from computer-to-computer and for pennies to people with land-phones or cell phones. Save the more expensive minutes on your cell phone plan and use SKYPE for research or interviews. You will need a headset with microphone. Headsets with USB cables tend to have better sound quality than the double plug type.

Choose a filing system and stick with it. Do not make piles, boxes or other random stacks. If you have to hunt for information, you risk breaking the creative flow.

Get a comfortable chair and a wrist rest. It's worth getting the best ergonomic office gear you can find. Carpal tunnel surgery is more expensive so do what you can to prevent problems.

Choose your favorite comforts for your work area. For example, I work primarily from a home office with my feathered assistants; Par, Mr. Checkers and Cielo. They sit on my shoulders and sing to me. You may prefer a CD player for background music. My other essential "write gear" is my fuzzy leopard slippers.

Writing is a creative process best done in an environment that each writer finds comfortable and efficient.

Writing Tip: Avoid the $50 Zit

2010-07-06T12:37:00.000-04:00

After weeks of squirming in my desk chair to stay away from the small painful spot on my back, I decided it was time to get a different view. Even with a mirror I could not clearly see or reach the offending spot. My husband pronounced it “potentially dangerous, maybe a mole, maybe skin cancer, see a doctor.” So I made an appointment.

My dermatologist took one look and barely contained a smile. He explained that it was a huge blackhead, not cancerous and could be dealt with in a minute. However, in this Managed Care world, he could not pop the zit without sending endless forms to my insurance carrier and awaiting approval. I was so grateful that I did not complain about spending $50 to identify a zit.

What does this have to do with writing? More than meets the eye, stay with me. The point is that writers are not intended to be self-editors. We do not see our mistakes. We assume things are different than what they are (the zit). When the paper rolls out of the printer, we tend to anoint it as awesome or awful (the self-diagnosis). From that point the “awesome” manuscript gets no further work because it’s already assumed to be prefect while the “awful” manuscript may get shredded when a few tweaks could make it viable (treatment disproportionate to the problem).

Writers need a “specialist” to read and make constructive critique of their works which can be accomplished in several ways:

1. Join a writing group with experienced, published writers in your genre who will offer critiques

2. Pay for a short critique session at a Writer’s Conference.

3. Hire a professional editor to review, comment and critique the work.

4. Hire an English teacher with a passion for your genre to read and review (less expensive than professional editor )

5. Ask a colleague (not a close friend or family member) who is a capable writer and avid reader to review your work.

Do at least two of these before sending the work to a contest or potential publisher. Never send a manuscript to any publisher until you have done everything possible to make it ready for prime time. As my Daddy said, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” If you aren’t willing to invest time and attention into your work, why would a publisher want to invest in you.

Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc is now on Barnes & Noble online

2010-07-05T13:09:00.000-04:00

This is worthy of fireworks - - - my new book, Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc is now available at Barnes & Noble online. The online booksellers seem to have a time advantage over traditional book stores. Next time you are in Barnes & Noble, Borders or other local bookstores, ask for my book. Consumer interest makes an important difference in getting new books to the shelves.

Freedom to Write

2010-07-03T21:03:00.000-04:00

Celebrating July 4th, Independence Day, also means that we have the freedom to express ourselves as writers. We can write political commentary or political satire. We can discuss our personal religious beliefs openly within our writing. Anyone can add his or her opinions in letters to the editor for newspapers as well as online news sites. That does not even count the many social networking opportunities that allow freedom of expression.

Keep in mind that in other parts of the world, some commonly used Internet Search Engines are not able to show the same information that the we can see in the United States. Social networking sites deemed "too risky" are restricted as well.

Yes, this occurs in the 21st Century because the information age cannot touch places where information is controlled by the government. So if you are a writer who is complaining about our government, go ahead and give a fair, honest and accurate opinion. Then breathe a "thank you" to our forefathers and all the brave men and women in our military who won and maintain our right to write.

Writing Freebies Costs Too Much

2010-06-30T13:21:00.005-04:00

The Internet is overflowing with so-called "writing opportunities", many of which exploit writers. These sites are like the old song, "friendly stranger in the black sedan" offering something that amounts to nothing.

Curb your excitement at being a featured (free) writer long enough to read the fine print. That's where you discover that these sites own your work forever with the right to distribute it in any form, any language ,for any purpose without your permission. The site can sell your work and pay you nothing.

How does this happen? It happens because a writer does not know the meaning of various types of "rights". I recommend reading their excellent article with a simple explanation from the blog, The Blood Red Pencil. Look at the two part article on "Freelance Writing Rights".

The second problem is the "time limited pitch". Sites seeking to lure writers to work free have the long sales pitches which suggest this is a "now or never" decision. The pitch may say something like "claim your category now before it's taken" or "guarantee exclusive topic for you." Don't buy into this. You will spend hours writing what few see and lose the rights to your work.

The third problem is that these sites rarely deliver what is promised. Do you really think that "top Hollywood producers" sit in their offices searching free writing sites to find the next blockbuster script? Top paying magazines have work sent to them. That's why the editors have slush piles of freelance articles that have to be taken down by chain saw as the piles reach ceiling height each month.

Better idea: If you want to build a following for your work, start a blog and gradually increase followers. An added bonus is that you consistently practice writing. Like musicians, writers practice daily to improve technique.

How hard is it to blog? I am impressed with the ease of setting up this blog on Google Blogger and it’s free. Even if you can barely spell "HTML" you can use this blog platform which is a major plus. You own the work and have many ways to blog roll and link your blog to build a following. Blogging is free writing that has a direct benefit for you in building your “brand” as a writer.

Sneak Preview

2010-06-28T18:38:00.000-04:00

Now you can preview the first 3 chapters of my new Ethical Thriller,Taylor Kendall: Evil, Inc.
Go to my book website and enjoy reading. Caution: prepare to be hooked on the action for which the cure is to get the book from Amazon

Experience is what you get when . . .

2010-06-27T12:20:00.000-04:00

Among the favorite buttons on the bulletin board over my computer is the one that proclaims:

Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want.

Think about a time when that was true in your life. Chances are that after the mess was sorted out and the tears dried, you gained insight. As a writer you can tap into those emotions and show how your character progresses from mountaintop to valley and crawls back up again. Notice how often that process becomes the plot line. Its harder to write about tough times from the outside looking in, you need experience in angst to fully grasp the situation or to convey it to a reader.

Writers have an advantage, I believe, in we have the ability to work out those issues in a story. Whether you choose to make the story autobiographical or sprinkle the fiction with moments of truth, experiences are a valuable part of making fiction feel real.

So the next time you are in a wretched situation, make careful notes about your feelings, actions and reactions. Simply writing out your frustrations can be therapeutic, prevent you from saying something aloud that you might later regret and provide background for a future writing project.

iPhone envy

2010-06-26T23:41:00.000-04:00

If Freud were still around, he too might have iPhone envy. My condition is complicated by delusions that Verizon will eventually get the iPhone and avoid splitting my family into two camps (like rival football teams).
As a Clinical Psychotherapist, I might be able to make a case for Adjustment Disorder with Anxious Mood (anxiously awaiting the latest Verizon/iPhone acquisition rumor to become reality). I have already attempted the Droid cure which lasted for three miserable days. Perhaps I am not techie enough to grasp the value of this "iPhone wannabe".

The purpose (excuse) for this electronic angst is to become more involved in blogging, Twitter and Facebook. My iTouch makes that possible but only when near an Internet signal. Getting serious about blogging shows me the legitimate value of an Internet capable phone, not to mention the ease of carrying it around. I have already moved from laptop computer to netbook for easier toting so I can stay in communication with the online classes I teach and with social media. While my netbook snuggles nicely inside my chic Vera Bradley Tall Tote, it's still heavier than a hand held phone.

Thanks to small electronic wonders, writers can keep a keyboard handy to record ideas or avoid losing the inspiration that helps to complete a scene in the latest manuscript. I confess that I still carry a small notebook in my purse, however, there's a huge time advantage to getting ideas in cut/paste form.

Meanwhile, I remain in serious iPhone envy.

What writers can learn from bumper stickers

2010-06-24T12:52:00.000-04:00

Coming out of Starbucks this morning I saw a bumper sticker on a hunk-of-junk car that made me laugh;

This car gets better MPG than Al Gore's Jet

The contrast was as humorous as the idea. That also caused me to reflect on how much can be said in a few words. Twitter's 140 character requirement makes us think before we type (not a bad idea) to get the message across in short space. That's so like what I learned in broadcast news for teaser headlines like;
"Aliens invading local council meeting, film at 11". The idea isn't to tell the whole story, merely to compel the listener to stick around for the next newscast.

College educated writers may be at a disadvantage in what I call the "write tight" mode. That's what my news editor told me in my first radio news job. He cautioned that news writing was conversational not academic and occasionally not grammatically correct. For example, students lose points for ending sentences with a preposition while real people in conversation do that all the time. So I adapted and used my academic knowledge like spice in a food; just enough for gourmets to cheer without confusing the hot dog crowd.
I adapted to a point however I still can't bring myself to end a sentence with as preposition - - - its like chalk screeching on a blackboard.

Keep in mind what you as a writer can learn from bumper stickers. How would you promote your book, blog or article on a bumper sticker to make the reader crazed to know more? Try it. Here's as bumper sticker promo for my new book:

Help us spread Evil. www.taylorkendall.com