do you know that you haven't just written the dumbest novel ever? I'm reminded of the time I was praying to the dating gods to make this guy like me, and I was sitting next to him hoping he found attractive and clever and way too many other good things, and I almost believed that …
happy sick
When working on a scene, I feel one of two ways. Either dread--as in this is not right and sounds awkward or dull or dragged out--or happy sick. My stomach lurches because the characters are going through hell and the rest of me dances because the dialogue and description are just right. I could jump …
What I Want Now…
...are first lines. Come on and hit me with your best shot. Tell me the first line of your novel in progress. Of course, I say that and my first shot, so to speak, may be way off the mark, but here it is (until I change it again)--Mercie put on red lipstick and rehearsed …
last line written (but not the last word)
Wow. Thanks to those who shared the last line they've written in their novel so far. And to keep my word, here's mine for what it's worth-- "I believe in luck though," he said. I'd love to hear more lines...anyone?
Badgering–The Spring Cleaning Edition
Hello Novelists! And how are you feeling about your novel today? Are the two of you enjoying the sense of possibility that spring brings? Or are you stuck in the gray, dullness of winter? If the former, you don't need me. If the later, well, throw open some windows and breathe in some fresh air. …
paper passion
Will there finally be a generation not enamored of paper? Will books feel unreal if they're not spread upon a shiny screen instead of laid out on dull matte pages? I'm addicted to paper. I love notebooks, journals, sketch pads, and books. Few things cheer me up like a blank piece of paper and a …
Struggle to Do Nothing
Yesterday in class a student rushed through the classwork as quickly as he could. "It's not a competition, you know," I said. He nodded. "Yes, I know." But he hurried on and then he had to sit and do nothing. He fidgeted, he sighed, and stared at his now empty desk. "What are you going …
A Life in One Sentence
This meme was lolling about at Sherri Blossoms, and since I liked the look of it, I picked it up and brought it here. The details: 1. Write your own six word memoir. 2. Post it on your blog and include a visual illustration of you'd like. 3. Link to the person who tagged you …
the end is near
Well, I wrote 1,500 words this evening and now I'm going to bed. This novel may get done yet.
another cheat
When I was in the 8th grade, I cheated. In English class for extra credit we could write a paper on any book we wanted and present it to the class. I copied. A girl who had often called me names in the hallway and made fun of my clothes, found me out, cornered me, …
Marta Bacon 