This is the original weblog

I kept this weblog for more than ten years, and this is the place to be if you are looking for information about writing fiction. There are  multiple discussions of technical and craft issues (point-of-view, narrative voice, how to write sex scenes — a perennial favorite, etc.) That’s also where you’ll find posts about my own storytelling process, how I have dealt with writer’s block (or failed to deal with it); my experiences with the business end of publishing and also a series of autobiographical essays.  If we know each other through some academic connection, there are some posts about linguistics on the weblog, as well as links to some academic publications.

Some of the topics here, the ones most often visited:

On writing fiction: rules of thumb (an overview)The unbearable lightness of the blank pageEssential traits for writersStory or plot:  Finding your wayThe story arc Conflict: The little engine that must; Or, Interviewing CindyLet’s not forget her prince: interviewing what’s-his name?Plots 7, 20, 56Twisty plotsThe Trifecta of storytelling: The whole pie