Oftentimes when we set out to write a story or a screenplay, dialogue proves difficult to handle. Sometimes it’s unrealistic; sometimes it’s unnecessary. And sometimes it’s too much, usually in the way of serving up exposition to your audience or trying to make issues as crystal clear as possible. But this often bogs down your…
This one is a bit of a group effort. When you find yourself at a point where you’re stuck, and all your other tactics for facing writer’s block have failed, bring someone you trust into the mix. If you are willing, have them read the last few lines you have written (and refrain from providing…
The art of meditation is bringing your mind into your body and releasing focus on everything but the present moment. When you meditate, you are elevated to a different state of mind, and many people practice it in order to relax or to bring clarity to their emotions. However, meditation can be utilized in the…
In his book, The Grammar of Fantasy, noted writer of Italian children’s literature Gianni Rodari gives an example of re-creating a familiar fairy tale by breaking it down to its most basic elements and “recasting” the story. For example, Character A (Cinderella) lives with Characters B, C, and D (Stepmother and Stepsisters), who are invited…
In one of our previous Writing Prompts, I asked you to pick a favorite line from a book and use it as a starting point for your own story. Now, however, I’m telling you to use a “starting point” as a way to combat getting stuck in a scene or suffering through days of writer’s…