7 Things I Learned From Writing My First Novel Draft
In 2016, I finished the first draft of my novel. Here’s a few nuggets of wisdom, for those embarking on their first drafts.
Category: Writing
The Genius of Thomas Wolfe
I wanted to see the movie, Genius, because it was about Maxwell Perkins, the famed editor of F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway. But it is really about Perkins’ relationship with Thomas Wolfe, who I’m embarrassed to say, I had…
How to Form That Writing Habit
I was heading out with the whippets for one of our first walks originating from my new condo. Next door lives a young boy who is less than enthusiastic about dogs. Since I don’t want to do further damage to…
Naming Your Characters and Your Book
My oldest brothers are twins. One of them is named after my father, the first and middle names swapped because my father decided he did not want a junior. James is named after the song, “Sweet Baby James.” Because my…
My Secret Writing Habit
Like every writer, I have my habits—the practices I can’t write without. I have to be on the couch in a certain cozy, reclined position, a pillow that’s not too hard but not too soft propping me up. If I’m…
How Intersectional Feminism Made Me A Better Writer
I’m a sub-par writer. Always have been. And I’m totally cool with saying that because, well, for one thing it’s true. But I’ve also learned that it’s not how well you write that makes you a good writer. It’s how…