Recently, I’ve been writing about Thoreau and Oliver and how they remind me to pay attention to the world. There’s magic to be found in the ordinary world, even if we don't always take the time to recognize it. We walk through our days surrounded by small but still remarkable things: the way the afternoon … Continue reading The Art of Noticing: Why Writers Should Pay Attention to Ordinary Things
the writing life
The Slow Burn: Why Some Stories Need To Take Their Time
I’ve been hearing the term slow burn a lot lately when it comes to books. I knew what slow burns meant in terms of romance, but I hadn’t considered the concept of slow burn when it comes to other genres. A slow burn story is a narrative technique that focuses on gradual tension, deep character … Continue reading The Slow Burn: Why Some Stories Need To Take Their Time
Rediscover Joy in the Writing Process
What are you willing to give up in order to become who you really need to be? —Elizabeth Gilbert Writers are like anyone else. We require shelter, food, and water. We need companionship, in human or animal form. We do better if we recognize our purpose in this world. For me, that purpose is writing. … Continue reading Rediscover Joy in the Writing Process
The Unexpected Gift of Letting Go
A Faint Hint of Autumn In Southern Nevada it takes a little longer to feel the cooler weather. Though we’re into September and school started more than a month ago, the temperature is still well above the 90 degrees Fahrenheit mark, certainly cooler than the 100 plus degrees Fahrenheit we experience in July and August, … Continue reading The Unexpected Gift of Letting Go