Alarie Tennille
MY FIVE R'S OF WRITING (advice for an aspiring writer)
(1) READ, READ, READ. Since you're on Goodreads, you're likely an avid reader, but be sure to read the genre you wish to write.
(2) REVIEW. Grammar drills are boring, but you must be sure you've mastered the mechanics of writing or editors will be tossing out any work you send them.
(3) REVISE. No matter how good a first draft is, you can find ways to improve it. Put it away and look at it a few days later.
(4) RESEARCH. You know the standard advice to "write what you know," so expand what you know. Also research potential markets for your writing.
(5)REACH OUT. You need to find some trusted reviewers who will critique your writing and give you an honest opinion. You also need to develop your own critiquing skills. Take advantage of writing centers or workshops near you to learn from those with more experience. Once you get some publishing experience, reach out to other new writers. It's a nice payback for all the mentors who've helped you.
(1) READ, READ, READ. Since you're on Goodreads, you're likely an avid reader, but be sure to read the genre you wish to write.
(2) REVIEW. Grammar drills are boring, but you must be sure you've mastered the mechanics of writing or editors will be tossing out any work you send them.
(3) REVISE. No matter how good a first draft is, you can find ways to improve it. Put it away and look at it a few days later.
(4) RESEARCH. You know the standard advice to "write what you know," so expand what you know. Also research potential markets for your writing.
(5)REACH OUT. You need to find some trusted reviewers who will critique your writing and give you an honest opinion. You also need to develop your own critiquing skills. Take advantage of writing centers or workshops near you to learn from those with more experience. Once you get some publishing experience, reach out to other new writers. It's a nice payback for all the mentors who've helped you.
More Answered Questions
Susan Raineri
asked
Alarie Tennille:
Hello Alarie! I am the publicity chairperson for our quilt guild, Pajaro Valley Quilt Guild (for the Santa Cruz, CA area). We have a facebook page and I would love to post your poem about Gee's Bend as we all LOVE those quilts? Let me know if that is okay with you. By the way, it is a stunning poem. Thanks for your consideration.
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