Wednesday's writing related ramblings - September 9th 2015

I've got several links to share with you this week, but this post contains the best writing advice you'll ever get... I'm still going to share the other articles though. Like this one that explains how there are benifits to being able to write blind. Well, if that's the case, that's one positive thing about no longer being able to see, I guess.

So... Do you write too? Are you an alchemist of words? If so, you might agree with these 13 reasons why being a writer feels like something from Harry Potter, as well as this quote about how sometimes the less a writer knows about his story the better, and will definitely be familiar with the struggles of keeping the writer's fear in check. Although, for those times when you can't keep it in check, and it causes writers block, here are some things to do when you're suffering from writer's block.

There are many reasons why writers write, here are 6 of them. Also, I'm curious to know, which of these 15 compelling reasons to be a writer motivates you? I write because I feel I have to, and because I love to write, though I also hope to entertain people. The flexible lifestyle helps with my very unpredictible sleeping pattern too. How about you?

Regardless of your motivation for writing, you need to figure out your own writing process. Once you've done that, here are 10 common writing errors that make you look like a newbie, 10 ways to keep readers hooked, and some tips on avoiding the writers' up-front info dump, to help you out. Also, don't forget to use your senses in your writing.

They mention research in one of the articles linked to in the above paragraph... Research can be fun, but it can also be a lot of work sometimes. If you're not sure where to start when it comes to research, here are 8 ways you can research your novel and characters to get you started.

Those who write stories - be they short stories or full length novels - may be interested in these tips for understanding the minor character's role, and how to write sound, as well as this post about why every story needs its own pit of snakes. You may also find these practical tips on writing a book, from 23 brilliant authors worth reading; bear in mind that some may work for you, and others may not though... These are just what worked for the authors in question.

Or, if it's poetry you write, here's how to make a living as a poet. Although, in all honesty, the lessons could apply to writers of most types of writing, and some are good lessons to live by in general, I think.

Regardless of whether you write stories or poems... If, like me, you self-publish, bear in mind that when it comes to our books, we are the gatekeepers; if we don't do all we can to make our book the best it can be, and help others to do the same, nobody will. So, be honest... Both with yourself, and with others. I always try to be... It's why I never give anything the full five stars if its poorly edited; no matter how fantastic the story was otherwise.

Finally... No matter what... Keep on writing!