Writing Right

A Patron Saint of Writers?

2011-10-06T09:24:00.000-07:00

I'd never heard of a Patron Saint of Writers before, but recently I came across a story that indicated that there was such a person. St. Francis de Sales (1567-1622) is considered the Patron Saint of authors and journalists. He apparently had quite a life trying to 'reach' the people and his sheer grit and resolve to get the written word into the hands of those who needed it was admirable. What a lesson for writers today. Read the whole story here if you are interested: http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=51 Here is a little excerpt that sort of prodded me into never whining about rejection again:

"For three years, he trudged through the countryside, had doors slammed in his face and rocks thrown at him. In the bitter winters, his feet froze so badly they bled as he tramped through the snow. He slept in haylofts if he could, but once he slept in a tree to avoid wolves. He tied himself to a branch to keep from falling out and was so frozen the next morning he had to be cut down. And after three years, his cousin had left him alone and he had not made one convert.

Francis' unusual patience kept him working. No one would listen to him, no one would even open their door. So Francis found a way to get under the door. He wrote out his sermons, copied them by hand, and slipped them under the doors. This is the first record we have of religious tracts being used to communicate with people."

Now that is dogged determination at its finest. So I am thinking that the next time I feel rejected because an editor has indicated that my manuscript doesn't suit, then I will think of Mr. Francis and then go slip my submission under the door of another editor.

So how did you react to your first rejection letter?

Who Should I Tell?

2011-03-20T17:59:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when we write we love our work a little too much. I know when I first started writing I took offence when someone criticized my words or rejected a submitted manuscript. I soon realized that I would never grow as a writer unless I listened and paid attention to the responses of others - particularly those with a wealth of experience.

So who should we get to review our work? Wouldn't it be handy if our Mom or hubby or son, daughter, sister, brother would take on the role of editor. Unless any of your dear relatives are editors or fellow pursuers of the craft, they probably won't have the insight or impartiality to help make your writing better. Sure, they may have your best interest at hearts, but since you are emotionally involved, and then some, you are not likely to hear a lot of helpful criticism.

What's a writer to do then? How about finding a local writer's group and getting feedback from fellow scribes? Or join a writer's organization like The Word Guild (TWG) http://www.thewordguild.com/ or Inscribe Christian Writer's Fellowship (ICWF) http://inscribe.org/ . I am the Ontario Representative for ICWF so if you want further information about this great web based organization, let me know. They publish a great writer's newsletter/magazine for members. TWG sponsors an incredible annual writer's conference - Write! Canada - in Guelph each year. Check out this link for further information: http://www.writecanada.org/ . The next conference will take place June 16th-18th of this year.

Keep an eye open for creative writing courses at local colleges, universities, through continuing education courses or online courses through reputable organizations. Because we have access via the world wide web, the possibilities are endless for getting someone to critique your work. Just a little caveat...make sure you have done your homework and checked for references or comments from past customers of potential editors or critiquers. Ask yourself if the fees include both line by line editing and overview and critique if that is what you want. Are follow-ups included? What are the qualifications of the provider? Do you feel the relationship is genuine?

Perhaps you are seeking a mentor. Some writing organizations love to set members up in a beginning writer/mentor relationships. Do some investigating but don't expect professional writers to be able to walk you through an entire book for free.

A good writer is an observer of details. Keep an eye open for notices at local libraries, art centres, and schools for information on upcoming writing events, author visits, writing contests and more. Writing magazines are available at bookstores and libraries.

Soak up any information you can get your hands (or eyes) on, plan to write. Start writing, then rewrite, then get an extra pair of eyes...

The Journey

2011-03-05T19:02:00.000-08:00

So you wanna' be a writer, huh? There is just something deep inside your soul that presses you to put words upon a page and spill your heart.

Jesus bids you shine with a pure, clean light. Like a little candle burning in the night? You have a gift, a story and a passion.

You heed the call and press the keys. Words appear. A story emerges. If the Lord impresses upon your heart to use your creative gifts via the written word, then it shall be so. And you shall be blessed. Yet along with obedience comes responsibility.

A writer reads. A writer observes. A writer writes.

READ everything you can get your hands on. The classics; the current; history; the present; the new; the old. Read it all.

OBSERVE the details. What is it about the way she walks, talks, dresses, her voice; her passion; her faith; her action; her reaction. Observe and absorb it all.

WRITE every day. Try all forms. Journal; jottings; poetry; shorts; long. Find your niche.

There are two aspects to writing - the craft and the art. Learn the craft (the grammar; active verses passive; the dialogue) Revel in the art - the God-given blessing. No one can take away the passion to express life via the written word. Journey on scribes...journey on...

Ye old 'Show - Don't Tell' Fiasco [and what to do about it]

2011-02-05T20:25:00.000-08:00

"Just the Facts, Please"

Show – Don’t tell! Every time we go to a writer's conference, we hear it. Each time someone edits our work, we see it highlighted in red. We know it's the right thing to do, but what does it really mean to show and not tell?

Telling is the act of passing along information. Just the facts ma'am.

Almost anyone can write: Robin was mad so she hit her brother with her doll.

If we want the facts this sentence works just fine.

It's not particularly riveting, but it works well when we just want the facts. However, when we want to capture and audience, we need to do more to spark the imagination of the reader.

Showing speaks to the imagination.

Showing allows the reader experience a moment

Consider the following:

Robin clenched her fists tight around her Raggedy Ann doll.

"Don't come in my room again!" she shouted. Bryan turned to leave and “whap!” Robin threw her doll and hit him square in the head. “Hey!” Bryan yelled back.

See how the reader's imagination engages. Suddenly they're involved. They can see her flying doll, they can feel it hit the back of his head and they can hear the conversation and they can read between the lines. Robin is pretty ticked off about Bryan coming into her room.

If we are unsure whether or not we are telling instead of showing, we can check for these elements:

a) Little or no dialogue. If we haven't used quotation marks in a while, it may be time to re-evaluate our technique. When is the last time our characters actually spoke?

b) Little or no movement. If our characters remain in the same space, sitting, mulling, contemplating, wondering, analyzing, remembering, etc.,

c) The journalistic questions, who said what, when, where and how, are answered - but that's it.

Examples of passive words: is, isn't, am, are, aren't, was, wasn't, were, will, would, won't, has, had, have, be, been, do, don't, did, didn't, does, doesn't, seem, seems, exist, exists, appears, make, makes, show, shows, occur, occurs, get, got, went, put, some, many, most, that, very, extremely, totally, completely, wholly, utterly, quite, rather, slightly, fairly, somewhat, and suddenly.

These words are not wrong and many times they are needed. Make sure, however, that your writing avoids a plethora of these words. Passivity slows down the piece and often results in a snoozer of a story.

The active voice has the subject doing the action.

The dog bit Jimmy, and that would be active, but if you say Jimmy was bitten by the dog, that is passive.

- Try these:

- The road was crossed by the chicken

- Shirley was loved by John.

- The tree was chopped down by Mark

- The Police were called by the woman who was in the accident.

- Telling can be useful, in some kinds of writing. Scientific writing often employs a more passive style.

Showing is vital to an effective story, essay, or blog post. Showing allows the reader to follow the author into the moment, to see and feel and experience what the author has experienced.

It takes a bit of practice but having the proper balance of showing and telling will make a story or article more interesting and effective.

Tips to Make Us Think

1. Use dialogue

Dialogue allows the reader to experience a scene as if they were there.

Instead of telling the reader your mom was angry, they can hear it for themselves:

“William James,” mom bellowed, “Get in here this instant!”

Dialogue can show a reader a plenty about a character, the emotion and the mood.

2. Use sensory language

The five senses, seeing, hearing, touoching, smelling, tasting, should all be incorporated somehow. A good way to see if your story or article has the right balance of senses is to take five different colours and mark off what sense is elicited within each sentences. At the end of the exercise, if there is too much of one and not enough of another, maybe you should consider incorporating a different sense a little more often.

3. Be descriptive

Teachers, when we were in elementary school, pounded the parts of speech into us and we were instructed to use plenty of adjectives and adverbs in our work. As a writer, now it is our challenge to say the same thing but without the ly at the end of a word. Carefully choose the correct active words to replace adjectives and adverbs. Here is an example:

Telling: She sits quietly on the couch holding her guitar. She is upset.

There’s nothing wrong with that sentence. It gives the reader some basic information, but it doesn’t create an image. Compare that sentence with this:

Showing: Tears streaming down her face, she sits on the creamy, leather couch, cradling the guitar like a baby. The only sound is her the steady rhythm of her heartbeat.

The second example takes that basic information and paints a picture with it. It also uses figurative language to help create an image.

When using description, we should not overdo it. We don't want to present our characters as a list.

Here is an annoying list of facts. Not wrong...but annoying:

He was tall, with brown hair and blue eyes. He wore a red shirt and jeans, and a brown leather jacket.

Try incorporating these facts in your story somehow. Have someone look up to him therefore implying tall

Maybe somewhere along the line someone could be admiring his hair – could it be the colour of dark chocolate?

Clothing descriptions could be said something like this as you introduce him: His red plaid shirt tucked tightly into his stonewashed Levi’s gave every indication that he was a cowboy. The camel leather jacket tossed over his shoulder confirmed that his dream included prosperity.

Now it's your turn. Look through some of your stories and articles and check for passive words and sentences. It's time to breathe a little life into your writing. Showing, and not telling is a great way to start the process!

Ready? Set? Go!

2011-02-01T21:06:00.000-08:00

Who? Me? Write? Do you read? To be a writer, you need to be a reader, first.

Before you beat yourself up and try to convince yourself that maybe you are not really a writer, only a reader, try the C.A.R.E. test:

C - Craft - This is the part of writing that is learned. Am I willing to educate myself in whatever way I can in order to perfect my craft? Maybe it's time to take a course on writing. Maybe it's time I attended that writer's conference. Maybe I should purchase a couple of resource books and start honing my skills.

A - Art - God has given everyone a gift [or two.] Is writing a passion that gurgles from deep within? Do I have a story to tell and the ability to express myself creatively? This does not mean I will create perfect prose each time I put pen to paper. I still have to acquire skills and experience in writing. But how badly do I want to write?

R - Realistic - I really shouldn't quit my day job. Writing doesn't always cover the bills. Especially when I am new on the scene. I need to remember that there is much to learn and rejections to receive. A few hit the big time out of the starting gate, but writing for a living is difficult. Writers are not well paid. Sometimes I might even write for free in order to get my name out there. I need to be realistic. But I also need to know that my dreams can be reality, too. Due diligence is the key!

E - Energy - Do I have the motivation and the energy to keep writing each day? Writing is a solitary profession. Can I take long hours of solitude? If something isn't working on the screen, will I delete it and give up or will I press on? Writing takes energy. If I am down a quart will I still function? Will I know how to regroup and revitalize?

Do you CARE enough to be a writer?

How can you become a better writer? Check out this video:

Best Advice

2010-10-31T19:20:00.000-07:00

Over the years I have received much advice from editors and fellow scribes. If I had to decide on three of the best pieces of wisdom, they would have to be the following:

1. Cut it down by half and leave nothing out - an editor proferred this advice when I turned in a manuscript that used a little bit too much fluff and stuff.

2. He who asks a question feels a fool for five minutes. He who does not ask a question remains a fool forever. (Old Chinese Proverb) - I read this somewhere and it became my impetus for raising my hand when I attend writing workshops or seminars.

3. Tell me, I’ll forget. Show me, I’ll remember. Involve me, I’ll understand. (Old Chinese Proverb) This sage piece of advice reminds me how and why to show, not tell in my writing.

Finding the Magic Bullet

2010-10-24T17:11:00.000-07:00

Bad news...there is no magic bullet. There are no shortcuts or quick tips to making it in the writing world. First, I believe a writer needs passion. If God intended you to write, He will guide you little by little in your craft.

Find what triggers that yearning to knit together words on a page and then take steps to pursue and perfect your chosen career. Persistence and patience are essential character traits in the kit of a writer who is worthy. Take courses. Find writer friends. Join a writer's group. Read books on writing. Read the kind of books you would like to write. Read them again and do so for logical reasons. Then read them again, paying attention to what appeals and what doesn't. Research. Write and rewrite. Pray. Then pray some more. Make sure your motivation is in line with God's plan. Are you trying to write for the big bucks? Or are you writing what you know (or would like to know?)

Know your publisher's or editor's target market and then ask yourself what do these readers want and need to know? What is missing from the wealth of information out there and then fill in the blanks.

Be professional but be natural. When your fingers move with abandon and words appear almost miraculously on the page, your heart is taking over and you are writing right.

I think one of the best pieces of advice I was given as I started out in my writing career was when an editor told me to write from the heart.

"If you do this," she said," then you will touch other hearts."

How very true. This was my encouragement to write with passion and purpose. When I get a little down and dejected because I have become too task oriented, I remember those great words and I get inspired all over again. Just remember there are no quick fixes in this profession but there are amazing results when you write from the heart.

Which is Which?

2010-10-17T13:29:00.000-07:00

When you decide to write for children, there are some other things you need to think about. What kind of book will I write? Will it be a picture book? An early chapter book? A YA? Or maybe something in between. Here is a bit of an outline that will hopefully give you the general idea of where your story might work:

1.The Picture Book category is called such because the illustrations play a significant role in telling the story. Baby books and Toddler books are usually lullabies, nursery rhymes, fingerplays, or wordless books. The length and format varies with the content. For babies and toddlers the books are short, simple stories and usually range from 0-300 words
Picture books - typically picture story books are 32-page books for ages 4-8. Some publishers say ages 3-7 or even 5-9. It depends on the publisher. Word count is usually somewhere up to 1500 words, with 800-1000 words being the average length. Plots are not complicated and they have one main character who assumes the child's emotions, concerns and viewpoint. The illustrations and story share a 50/50 role. Usually the pictures are on every page or every other. Sometimes a picture book will exceed 1500 words; this is usually geared toward the upper end of the age groups and is the longer ones are often non-fiction. Nonfiction in the picture book format can go up to age 10, 48 pages in length, or up to about 2000 words of text. Early picture books are geared toward the lower end of the 4-8 age range and are simple stories under 1000 words.

Easy readers are for children just starting to read on their own (age 6-8). The books usually have color illustrations on every page like a picture book, but the format is more a little more mature and sometimes are broken into short chapters. They can be 32-64 pages long, with 200-1500 words of text, occasionally going up to 2000 words. The stories are told mainly through action and dialogue with one idea per sentence.
Books average 2-5 sentences per page.

Transition books or Early Chapter Books for ages 6-9 bridge the gap between easy readers and chapter books. They have the same style as easy readers but are longer - sometimes about 30 pages long with 2-3 page chapters.

Chapter books for ages 7-10 are 45-60 pages long and broken into 3-4 page chapters. Stories have a more intricate plot than transition books, though they still can contain a lot of action. The sentences can be longer but paragraphs are still short with 2-4 sentences being the average. Chapters often end in the middle of a scene to keep the reader turning the pages.

Middle Grade Books have the greatest readership. This age 8-12 age group is considered to be the golden age of reading. Stories are longer (100-150 pages,)and more complex with sub-plots involving secondary characters. The themes are more sophisticated. Readers at this stage and age enjoy good characters that they can relate to; they get hooked and want to read more. Series books are popular in this age group. Fiction genres range from contemporary to historical to science fiction/fantasy; nonfiction includes biographies, science, history and multicultural topics.

Young Adult for ages 12 and up, are longer stories, about 130 to 200 pages long. Plots can be complex with several major characters, though one character should emerge as the focus of the book. What do teens struggle with today? That's what YA novels need to encompass.

Twenty Snippets for a Children's Writer

2010-06-17T04:51:00.000-07:00

1. Stop being an adult telling a story and become a child living it!

2. Don't expect perfection from your first - or even fifth - draft.

3. Give yourself permission to write badly!

4. Focus on being the best writer YOU can be.

5. Don't worry about being better or more prolific than someone else.

6. Forge a path for yourself, for your own creative journey. Don't feel you need to race against others.

8. Read, read, read

9. Study recent issues of publications that interest you if you want to write for a children's periodical.

10. Study the publishers' current and recent catalogs.

11. Attend a writer's conference.

12. Make connections.

13. Observe children; play with children; listen to children and discover what interests them.

14. Don't preach (intentionally)

15. Don't teach (intentionally)

16. Challenge a child with new vocabulary but make sure you are writing at the correct level.

17. Know your audience

18. Join a writer's group for critiquing and encouragement

19. Write

20. Pray. Pray again.

Creating a Life!

2010-05-29T04:46:00.000-07:00

Before I write, I have a great need to know my character. The only way I figure I can really know someone, is to get inside her head and live with her for a very long time. Since I cannot do that literally, then I have to create a life. That's what I call my character outlines - Create a Life.

I know I tend to go a little overboard when I do this, but I love to get into my character's heads and become them. Here is an outline of Melanie. It really is incredibly long but it is the way that I create the life in my character.

*************************

Character Outline - Melanie
Protagonist
CHARACTER'S NAME & AGE:
Melanie Fairchild; 12 years of age
A. BACKGROUND:

1: What is her background? Melanie Fairchild was raised in a loving, Christian Home. (Morals instilled; value system established by parents with a resulting accountability) For 10 of her 12 years, Melanie lived in the small community of Bestwick. Here Melanie felt reasonably well-accepted despite her hearing impairment. Her family recently moved to a century farm on the outskirts of Guelph – two hours away from Bestwick. (Moving to a new community intensifies feelings of inadequacies) Because Melanie has a sensory-neural hearing loss, she has to wear two hearing aids. She sees herself as different and has the tendency, lately, to keep herself secluded from any lasting friendship or relationship with anyone other than her family members. (sense of belonging is decreased; does not cope well with transition)

2: Where did she grow up? Melanie was born in England. She moved to Bestwick when she was 2 years old. (stable family life helps Melanie find some sense of belonging- at least in her family)
3: What are her parents like? Murray Fairchild, Melanie’s father, is an audio engineer by trade who travels out of town a lot on business. He is a loving father but has been a little delinquent in ‘being there’ for Melanie, especially since their move. (Melanie misses her dad and his absence has created some distance in communication. Melanie has trouble venting to anyone and her anxiety increases.) Hilary Fairchild, Melanie’s mother is a busy woman. She just got a job working part time at Sun-Valley Plywood and she used to teach piano in Bestwick. She plans on getting some new piano students lined up soon. Hilary Fairchild also writes greeting cards as a hobby/part time job. (The busyness of Melanie’s parents will add to her insecurity; some bitterness will develop because she needs someone to understand her feelings; neither parent will be there for her at first)
4: Childhood, and family members: Melanie Fairchild is the older of two children. (Loves her brother but is at odds with him lately. Simon has settled into school and community. Melanie is bitter about this and wonders why she cannot fit in easily like Simon does. Starts to feel freakish and different- wallows in self pity)

5: Education, level achieved, grades, popularity: Presently in grade 6; low self-esteem (Will affect her relationship with others)

6: Sports and Hobbies, pets: Shies away from sports. Feels she is different and cannot live up to expectations of coaches. She does like to watch sports, particularly school sports from afar. Her Dad and brother are avid fans of baseball (because Melanie knows the basic rules of baseball, she is able to converse with Dad and Simon on occasion about sports.)
Chinese fighting fish is only pet. Melanie collects angels. (Hobby will cause her to be drawn towards the stone angels that are in the garden; Melanie is attracted to inanimate objects or animals that require little attention, therefore she feels a measure of control)

B. HABITS: It is important to make sure you are clear on how your character acts in a crowd and alone.
1: Bad and good habits: fiddles with hair; tries to cover hearing aids. (This emphasizes her embarrassment about her hearing loss) Finds it hard to look a person in the eye for fear of them sensing she cannot hear (reading lips is an asset but because Melanie always watches lips, she rarely looks at people’s eyes); likes everything in it’s place in her room; hates to see a label sticking out of someone’s shirt; will often be brave enough to tuck it in for someone (when something is awry in her room, she can spot it a mile away.)
2: Social habits: Is quiet in a crowd; considers a crowd three or more (increasing self inflicted isolation and reinforces people’s beliefs that ‘maybe there is something wrong’); Is polite when spoken to but does not go out of way to initiate conversation. (Sometimes misconstrued to be ‘snobby’)
3: Physical Characteristics: Ash brown, shoulder length hair with natural streaks of blonde; Five foot two inches in height; weight – approx. 90lbs (Does not see herself as attractive most of the time, especially when she is dwelling on her hearing impairment)
4: Facial features: square face with smooth peaches and cream complexion; no pimples; bushy brown, expressive eyebrows; small, flat nose; piercing hazel eyes that appear more brown when tired or ill (Thinks her nose is too big, eyebrows are too close together and too thick and that her face is fat. All this decreases her confidence when she is in social situations)
5: Grooming habits: Is fastidious about keeping herself clean and tidy. Hair is always brushed and parted in the middle. Carries purse with her essentials always. (When Melanie’s clean and tidy appearance changes, this is a definite indication that something is amiss)
6: Morals, and friendships: Melanie’s faith is evident as she struggles with her attitude and feelings. When she encounters the stone angels, she speaks as if she believes that there is a spiritual realm. Has troubles adapting to the new school and environment. Manages to make two new friends. Feels closer to Amanda than Carlotta but suspects Amanda is a friend out of pity. (Friction results from insecure friendships. Strong moral base results in inner turmoil because she feels a pull towards what is right but wants to do the opposite.)

C. STYLE:
1: How is their home decorated? Combination of new, yard sale and auction sale antiques and bargains. Parents have refinished a lot of furniture. Home looks classy and coordinated with character, although much is second hand. Melanie’s bedroom is pale blue with blue cloud border. Posters of musicians and some philosophical sayings (Biblical and otherwise) placed strategically. Refinished oak desk with computer and cd player on it. Single bed with Aztec blue patterned quilt. (Values recycled and second hand items; attracted to antique stone angels in driveway)
2: lifestyle (should reflect who he/she chooses for friends and job): since she is new to the community, Melanie is hesitant to start all over again in church and school and community activities. Used to belong to youth group in church. Used to be in the Awesome Authors writing club in school. Enjoys contemporary music. Television is watched in moderation with special attention to violence and sexual situations in programming. Melanie is aware of this and restricts herself – most of the time. Starting to spend a lot of time on computer. Makes some attempts at friendship when confronted by two classmates (isolating self and becoming more reclusive; fearful of not being liked and accepted; negative feelings intensified)
3: Job, satisfaction or dissatisfaction: Responsible for certain chores, such as dishes, cleaning room, changing beds, vacuuming on Saturdays, feeding and cleaning fish, helping with supper on occasion – especially when mother is late; enjoys most of the work. (mother can trust Melanie to do what she asks; is responsible enough to care for Simon) Doesn’t like vacuuming. Gives odd feeling and is noisy. Will usually turn hearing aids off when vacuuming but then will not hear the ‘change’ of noise if something is caught or jammed. (sometimes the vibration of the vacuum makes her nauseated; mother thinks it is an excuse not to do vacuuming)

4: friends: Carlotta, Leslie and Amanda are on Melanie’s list of new friends. Melanie still e-mails good friend in Bestwick – Chantelle; dependent on friends for self worth (emotions on roller coaster as friendships are in their infancy and unable to reach Chantelle at times)

5: income: is paid for looking after Simon each week. Can earn money doing extra chores – list on fridge (Opportunity to be independent; is able to pay for extras)

6: car: relies on parents for transportation (parents are always aware where she is)

7. clothing: work clothes, and are these different from the weekend person? Looks like she has stepped out of a Sears catalogue. Enjoys fashion. Has ‘play’ clothes. Will buy clothes from yard sales if it is ‘brand name’ clothing.

D. RELATIONSHIPS:
Mother: preoccupied with getting settled and getting into a routine in new job. (this interferes with Melanie’s desire to find solace in her mother and doesn’t help when she needs to just talk, like they used to. Melanie begins to feel more alone)
Father: often absent due to work commitments and is also trying to establish himself in his new position in Guelph. (absence causes Melanie to reflect on ‘is this what God is like too?’ No one seems available for Melanie to talk to about problems)
Simon, brother: Teases sister but does seek her advice at times. 9 years old. Nosiness bothers Melanie. (Simon is a source of aggravation for Melanie and she tends to take her frustrations out on him)
Amanda: Takes an instant liking to Melanie. Has a sister who has Down Syndrome. She is aware of some of the difficulties handicapped people face. Does not tell Melanie about her sister, though. (Melanie thinks she feels sorry for her that is why she befriended her. This causes bad feelings)
Carlotta: Tries to be friendly with Melanie but is a bit standoffish. Waits for cues from Amanda. Exhibits some jealousy about friendship with Amanda (Melanie has difficulty having more than one friend at a time. Although Carlotta’s intentions are not always the best, she does seem as if she wants to befriend Melanie. Melanie’s anxiety level is escalated as she imagines that she (Carlotta) is out to get her.
Leslie: Melanie’s dream-boy. Melanie spotted him in class from the onset but beats herself up thinking [imagining, hoping] the impossible. (sets herself up for disappointment and ridicule at the expense of her overactive imagination; has trouble realizing that he [Leslie] really does want to be a friend with no strings attached)

E. RESPONSIBILITIES: is responsible to do certain chores around the house as outlined in ‘jobs’. Has Chinese Fighting Fish for pet. (learned responsibility at early age)

F. DETAILS:
1: Style of music: Contemporary Christian; some secular tame rock
2: favourite food: Hot German Potato Salad; drumstick ice-cream bars
3: phobia: being shunned; snakes
4: memory: security of living in Bestwick
5: emotional trauma: seeing the handicapped kitten that was ‘murdered’ by the farmer
6: emotional security: knowing that there is peace despite the world and the attitude of people who don’t care.
Character Type:
Amiable, Driver, Analytical or Expressive?
Analytical Personality
How does this character:
Look: Melanie looks like a typical 12 year old except for her hearing aids. She is slim and dresses well. (Maintains her appearance because she knows it is essential in order to fit in and that is something she so longs to do in her new school)
Feel: Due to the upheaval in her life and her continued and (now) intensified struggle she has with her hearing disability, Melanie feels unsettled and unaccepted and becomes more reclusive except for the budding relationship with Amanda.
Move: Short apologetic strides. Runs when confronted.
Eat: Decent table manners
Dress: Meticulously
How does this character react, in general to what life throws at him or her?
Prior to her move from Bestwick to Guelph, she coped well and felt accepted for the most part in her school – although there was the occasional jerk who badmouthed and attacked her self confidence. She was more apt to stand up for herself in Bestwick, though for she knew she knew she could count on the back up of family and friends.

Name the major motivating event in this character's life and its effect; "and therefore, this person (must, chose, behave, avoid, etc) ..."
The major motivating factor in Melanie’s life is when she is trapped in her home after the tornado. She thinks at one point, she will surely die, alone. She curses God at first but then realizes that she has no one else to turn to. Her faith is tested, strengthened and after she is rescued, she begins to see life (and her relationships) on another level or different light, as the saying goes. She refuses to accept her faith with a Pollyanna type attitude, though, and still questions why things happen the way they do.

Name events and the character’s decisions in the past that have brought him or her to the present moment. There must be a strong, believable reason for those decisions.
Melanie has always felt a measure of insecurity because of her hearing impairment particularly following the incident of the farmer ‘murdering’ the blind and deaf kitten. She was fitting in well at her school in Bestwick but once they moved, her self conscious feelings being to surface. She attempts different relationships but her motivation for friendship is selfish and she finds herself in a few pickles as a result. Her relationship with her parents fuels the fires of insecurity and she begins to feel all alone, despite the contrary.
How does the character start out, then grow, and finally end up at the end of the story?
Melanie begins her journey as a young lady with issues of non-acceptance and insecurity due to a recent relocation. Her hearing impairment compounds the problem and she (Melanie) sees it as a major obstacle to establishing relationships.
Melanie has sublimated a past experience with a kitten (that was promptly killed because it could not hear or see) that scarred her and caused her to look upon her life as a (self-imposed) prison sentence. No family member knows about this experience so she has never dealt with it. When the tornado strikes and Melanie is trapped and fears death, she calls out to God and comes to the realization that her attitude has been a stumbling block to both her faith and her relationships.
After her rescue, Melanie delves deeper into her feelings and begins to make some changes. The conclusion does not cast Melanie into a land of milk and honey but it does allow her to reflect on some of her mistakes and, so, it does forecast a brighter future for Melanie and releases her from her burden.

Basic Statistics :
Current Residence: On a small acreage (2) on the outskirts of Guelph, Ontario.
24 Wheat’s Road, Guelph. NIR 2R2
Occupation: Student
Talents/Skills: organizational; collector; journals (writes);
Birth order: Oldest of two
Siblings (describe relationship): Usually close to brother, Simon, but has been tense since the move
Spouse (describe relationship): n/a
Children (describe relationship): n/a
Grandparents (describe relationship): Doesn’t see them often; maternal grandparents live in Bestwick; Grandpa e-mails on occasion; paternal grandparents - deceased
Significant Others (describe relationship): mother & father; strong but being tested since the move and the intensification of Melanie’s insecurites
Relationship skills: limited until situation changes then she becomes more tolerant; not perfect
Physical Characteristics:
Height: 5’2”
Weight: 90lbs
Race: Caucasian
Eye Color: hazel
Hair Color: Ash brown with natural blonde highlights
Glasses or contact lenses? no
Skin color: Smooth peaches and cream complexion; no pimples;
Distinguishing features: bushy brown, expressive eyebrows; small, flat nose; piercing hazel eyes that appear browner when tired or ill
Mannerisms: Generally quiet with a contagious smile when sincere. Eyes wrinkle when smiling. Suspicious of strangers. More accepting when she knows people better.
Favorite Sayings: “No Way”
Speech patterns: Some obvious impediment when saying ‘d’ ‘s’ ‘t’ in particular; has been accused of a monotone voice
Disabilities: sensory-neural hearing disorder
Greatest flaw: suspicious of people and their motivations
Best quality: faithful and true in secure relationships
Intellectual/Mental/Personality Attributes and Attitudes Intelligence Level: needs some adjustments and modification in school (FM system; placed strategically to read lips, etc.)
Any Mental Illnesses, neuroses, self doubt? To begin with, experiences lots of insecurities and figurative fist shaking.
Learning Experiences: she controls her attitude and reactions to what ever is presented to her in a day.
Character's short-term goals in life: To fit in to her new school, initially, and then to be rescued from the tornado
Character's long-term goals in life: To be accepted, to have purpose in life and to not be a burden to anyone.
What barriers stand between the character and his or her goals? Attitude towards her hearing impairment and the destruction wreaked by the tornado.
How does Character see himself/herself? Initially she relates her existence to that of the kitten who was deemed worthless (and subsequently killed)
How does Character believe he/she is perceived by others? She thinks they think she is less than worthy of the same respect afforded to others the same age
How self-confident is the character? Not very
Does the character seem ruled by emotion or logic or some combination thereof? Definitely emotion
What would most embarrass this character? If she misconstrued a boy’s feelings
Emotional Characteristics
Strengths/Weaknesses: Determination of thought and follow through is a strength (sometimes called stubborn!); impulsiveness of thought tends to be her weakness
Introvert or Extrovert? Introvert (self imposed)
How does the character deal with anger? Most common response is to run away and become reclusive, especially in confines of new room; Since ‘meeting’ the stone angels, she will often retreat to where they are located and she sits in the crook of the angel’s arm. She journals and this is cathartic for her.
With sadness? Prays. Again she finds solace in her angels
With conflict? Can get defensive; sometimes will cry
With change? Introspective. Anxious and becomes more intorverted
With loss? Sadness. Cries easily
What does the character want out of life? To be accepted by peers and to establish sincere relationships with key figures, especially Amanda and Leslie
What would the character like to change in his/her life? Her hearing disability
What motivates this character? Her desire to be accepted and loved by God and significant others
What frightens this character? Rejection
What makes this character happy? Continuity in life situations; writing; genuine friendship
Is the character judgmental of others? Sometimes hasty when assessing motives and then judges unfairly
Is the character generous or stingy? Generous
Is the character generally polite or rude? Generally polite but can be short with those she encounters who treat her in a negative fashion.
Spiritual Characteristics

Does the character believe in God? Yes
What are the character's spiritual beliefs? That Jesus is her Saviour
Is religion or spirituality a part of this character's life? Yes. Constantly battles good vs bad;
If so, what role does it play? At first, displays anger towards God for allowing ‘things’ to happen; talks with God and the angels many times.
How the Character is Involved in the Story -- Character's role in the novel (main character? hero? heroine? Romantic interest? etc.):
She is the main protagonist
Scene where character first appears: First scene
Relationships with other characters: Tempest in a teapot at times; individual relationships need affirmation and raison d’être as story line progresses.
How character is different at the end of the novel from when the novel began:
Wounds are healed and relationships are established therefore she feels more self-confident and is starting to turn her disability into ability with help of family, friends and faith in God.

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So there we have it. A rather long example of a character outline, but thorough!

Baby You've Got Style!

2010-05-02T18:32:00.000-07:00

When an editor talks about your style she is not referring to your lovely Levis or your patent leather pumps.

She is talking about how you say something rather than what you are saying in your writing. Content isn't the immediate concern, as your editor discusses style. She is focussing on the way your express your ideas and then present them on paper. Your style is your unique fingerprint.

Speaking of style, one of my first magazine assignments was to interview the reigning Miss Canada. My second one was to interview a ritzy-glitzy fashion designer. This was all interesting work and the pay was rather tempting, but the intimidation factor was daunting and really, when I stopped to think about it, I had nothing decent to wear and I realized interviewing big people with big egos was not my thing anyway. As a result, my style seemed boring and too limited for my scatterbrained ADD mind.

Soon I found myself writing a humour column for a local newspaper then articles for children's magazines, Sunday school take home papers and Christian educational periodicals. I'd found my niche and my style became more clear as I continued in my craft.

A writer's style doesn't really appear overnight. The more you write, the clearer it becomes. I also think that when you are passionate about something, your style emerges. But don't despair, it really does take time and practice to develop your own way of putting your thoughts into words. Keep writing!

Writing for the Homeschool Market

2010-04-20T19:12:00.000-07:00

First Published in October, 2003 Fellowscript Magazine

Writing for the Homeschooling Market
by Glynis M. Belec

Writing for a niche market is like sweet syrup to some. When a writer is an expert in a particular field, or if he/she has special insight into a subject, a healthy and lengthy editorial relationship can result.

More and more readers and consequently, periodicals, are looking for well-written articles on homeschooling.

Homeschooling, an alternative form of education, is on the rise. Some Parents, discouraged and disillusioned about the state of the school system, or for personal reasons, are opting to teach their children at home.

Because of this, both seasoned and potential home educators are looking for ideas. They are interested in reading articles on a wide range of topics including how to get started in homeschooling, various resource information, personal interviews with other homeschoolers, internet communications, cooking, crafts, socialization tips, recreational math, how to organize a convention, how to get the most out of a convention, where families can volunteer, simple-living family activities, inspirational and devotional encouragement – the list is endless.

Other readers are simply curious about this rapidly increasing option for educating children. They want to learn more about what is involved in homeschooling and how children manage to learn in a home environment. Is it statistically working?

It is not a pre-requisite for a writer to be a teacher or to have homeschooling experience – although it does help establish some credibility. What matters is that you are well informed and knowledgeable about the subject you present to an editor.

There are exclusive homeschool magazines whose focus is primarily home education while other periodicals look for well-written general articles on the subject. Here are some for your consideration:

1. Homeschooling Today - http://www.homeschoolingtoday.com/

2. Home Educator .com - http://www.homeeducator.com/FamilyTimes/submissions.htm

3. Home Education Magazine - http://www.homeedmag.com/write.html

4. Home School World - http://www.home-school.com/writers/

Grandmothers’ Necklace Set for May 1st Launch in Kitchener

2010-04-07T05:28:00.000-07:00

Press Release

by Glynis M. Belec

When Patricia Anne Elford attended her first meeting of the Petawawa Grannies for Africa, she was compelled to do her part. Elford, a writer, editor and teacher, felt an immediate stirring to help the now estimated 15-18 million African children orphaned by AIDS and their caregiver grandmothers.

“I wanted to do something because the need was so great,” said Elford.

She referred to the immense task and responsibility that sub-Saharan grandmothers face in caring for their grandchildren. Not only have these brave, African grandmothers lost their own children to the pandemic of HIV/AIDS, but they face the rest of their lives wondering how to provide the basic necessities as they raise their grandchildren.

Elford decided to use her gifts and abilities as a writer to compile submitted stories into a book that would help raise funds for these quietly courageous grandmothers.

Grandmother’s Necklace, a collection of inspiring stories, is the outcome of Elford’s brainchild. This remarkable anthology includes writings by 61 authors from across Canada, the United States and Ireland. The book also contains narratives from five African grandmothers.

None of the anthology authors receive payment for their contribution. All profits from the sale of the book will go to the Stephen Lewis Foundation (SLF) www.stephenlewisfoundation.org/grandmothers.htm through the Petawawa Grannies. SLF is a registered charitable organization that funds grassroots efforts in sub-Saharan Africa to better the lives of the women and children there.

The Kitchener launch of Grandmothers’ Necklace will be held Saturday, May 1, 2010, from 2pm until 4 pm at St. Philip's Lutheran Church, 236 Woodhaven Road in Kitchener. Local author Carolyn Wilker, with the help of Listowel and Drayton authors, Ruth Smith-Meyer and Glynis Belec, is organizing and arranging for selected author readings and a time of celebration, refreshments and reflection. Refreshments will be provided by Omas Siskonas, the local chapter of Grandmothers to Grandmothers.

“We hear much about people in Third World nations and how they struggle,” says Wilker, “but rarely do we hear about those people—grandmothers, in this case— who work so hard to hold things together for their families.”

Wilker, as she contemplates the inconceivable tragedy that is sweeping Africa, joins with Smith-Meyer and Belec in saying that it feels good to [do our part] to help.

Smith-Meyer’s treasured relationship with her own grandmother inspires her to do what she can to foster and help other grandmothers.

“When I saw the request for submissions, I immediately felt compelled to do something for the grandmothers in Africa,” says Smith-Meyer. “I realized the difference between having [my] Grandmother as a "back-up" support and having her serve as a mother because my own was gone.”

Along with contributions by Wilker, Smith-Meyer and Belec, other award-winning contributors to Grandmothers’ Necklace include Phil Callaway, Kathleen Gibson, Judy Maddren, Patricia Elford, L. June Stevenson, and others.

For further information about the launch, e-mail gbelec@everus.ca or cari.edit@rogers.com or call (519) 570-9595

ICWF Word Challenge February 2010

2010-03-12T20:28:00.000-08:00

The criteria for submission was as follows:

"...write a short news story that has some connection to the Olympics. In your story you need to clearly answer the journalistic questions as follows: who, where, what, when, why, how. They don't have to be answered in this order, but it should be clear that each is covered.
The newspaper that you are writing for is called the "Glory Times" and its content includes current events from a spiritual perspective. The maximum word count is 300 words not including the snappy headline for your story..."

The submissions were sent to the Inscribe listserve, members voted and then the votes were tallied and Pat Earl was our winner! CONGRATULATIONS, Pat!

Here is her winning story:

Savour The Moment

Cheryl Bernard thought they had it. The final rock of the women’s 2010 gold medal Olympic curling challenge glided smoothly toward the waiting rings. The confident skip of team Canada smiled as she hollered, " Clean. Clean!" Her stone struck the opponents rock dead on and stopped short of the blue ring. Sweden counted two. The game was tied, six six. Smiles changed to looks of disbelief. Overtime. One more chance. Bernard once more had the last rock. The projected tap on the opponent’s stone failed to materialize. Sweden won gold. As the Swedish women whooped and cheered, team Canada stood dejected, looking on. None more so than their skip who was known for putting her rocks in place when it counted most.

Later, as the Canadian team stood on the podium to receive silver medals, their downcast faces told the story of disappointment. Bernard, speaking to a reporter later that evening, said she would be reliving her last throw for some time. She acknowledged it would perhaps be a week or two before she could appreciate being second best in the world.

But something happened between Friday’s game and Sunday. Was it the adulation of the Canadian crowds? Was it words of encouragement from family and friends? Or perhaps, Bernard knew in her heart she had done her best and had used her God given talent to support her team.

Whatever the reason, there she was, all smiles, savouring the moment during the closing ceremony, looking every inch a proud Canadian. For a team inexperienced on the world stage, winning the silver medal was a spectacular feat. Bernard and all of Team Canada can be proud of their performance.

Inscribe Christian Writer's Fellowship (ICWF) Winner

2009-11-09T05:15:00.001-08:00

Greetings to you as you take a moment to rest those tired writing fingers and read the winning submission from our most recent ICWF Word Challenge. The criteria was as follows:

Develop a story that contains the following:

God says, "No." What is the question?

God says, "Yes." What is the question?

God says, "Maybe..." What is the question?

The word count was to be 300 maximum and there was a deadline to meet. Participants on the Inscribe listserve voted and the following selection written by Joyce Harback won the honour of first place. Second place was awarded to Addy Oberlin and Bruce Atchison came in a close third. Congratulations to all.

Here is Joyce's winning entry:

There’s No Place Like Home

by Joyce Harback

I drove away from the babysitter’s home, weeping again. For six months I had been working temporary jobs after being laid off during a company downsizing. Money from the severance package was running out and I was trying the third caregiver for my toddler after two unmitigated disasters. As I gave her my contact information, my son began to cry but she firmly shooed me out the door.

“Crying is healthy,“ she said, “He’ll calm down after you leave.” His volume increased as I ran to the car, blinded by tears. I cried out to God as I drove. He is a God of miracles.

“Please, Lord, is there is ANY way you can make it possible for me to stay home with my boy?” I begged.

“I should be his caregiver. I don’t know how, but I can’t bear to see him cry like that every morning.”

Having rolled my burden over onto God, I wiped my eyes and started my job. After lunch my husband called.

“How are you?” he asked. “Oh, fine,”

Things were pretty crazy at his workplace, no need to burden him with my sadness.

“Now, don’t freak out,” my husband warned, “but my boss says they’re having a hard time finding someone to take that position up north.”

Rainbow Lake was where the road ends. Literally. Only the name was attractive. I knew exactly what he was suggesting. He wanted to apply for the job. It would be a huge promotion. The financial benefits were great.

“Yes,” I said. “Excuse me?” my husband said, shocked.

“Yes. I’m willing to go.” I explained my heart-broken appeal to God from the morning.

“This is the answer to my prayer.” He got the job, I got to be a stay-at-home mom and God got the glory.

******************************

Congratulations Joyce!

Part Two - Writing for the Stage - Less is Best!

2009-10-31T19:47:00.000-07:00

Subtle type directions such as gestures, responses to dialogue, idiosyncrasies of character and the like, are left to the discretion of the director.

For a start, you as the writer are not usually aware of the type of stage where your play will be performed or some of the subtleties involved as a complete stranger interprets your play. Nor will you have control over the pace and delivery. Actors, if they have some experience, will be most aware of the acting is reacting truism. If you, as the writer, try to tell them how to respond or what to do, then you are actually stifling their creativity. You need to write using your God-given gift but you also need to learn to limit the fluff.

Give both the actor and the director credit for reading your story and interpreting it for the audience.

An area where the writer does have a reasonable measure of input is in the creation of the set. The first part of the script should offer a description of the setting: a living room; a hunting lodge; heaven’s gates; a church sanctuary; a homeless shelter. As tempting as it may be, however, resist the tendency to go into great detail about the luxurious velvet brocade on the Victorian couch and the shiny bronze spittoon beneath the solid mahogany, hand-carved hat rack. You’re not writing a novel. Keep that in mind and keep things simple. If it has no bearing on the play – scratch it.

It is okay to indicate the time period and condition of the furniture and where the pieces are situated on stage, but make sure that everything on stage is there for a purpose. If there is a teapot on the table with two cups, make sure someone has enjoyed a taste before the end of the play.

It’s okay to give minimal direction about lighting but only if it pertains to the mood of the play or is necessary for a particular moment, otherwise leave the lighting up to the lighting director or producer.

Stage directions for characters should also be kept to a minimum. A brief, general description of each character should suffice. Don’t worry about describing the specific outward appearance or personality traits unless it is essential to the role. Personality, attitude and behavior will emerge as the discourse progresses. Concentrate more on creating good dialogue than on instructing the actor how he should react or behave on stage.

When I write a play I often am the director, too, so it’s easy for me to work as I go. I often do bare bones stage directions in that case. But when I write to submit my work I have to read my work in a different light. Have I offered sufficient information for staging without going overboard, is a big question?

Because someone else is reading my play, I sometimes feel I need to explain more. However, if the dialogue is well done and the story line is believable then I remind myself that I need not worry.

Minimal stage directions are all the director needs. So, are you ready to get out that script and give it the once over? Here’s a good way to edit the stage directions in your script. Read each direction then ask yourself, each time – “Who needs to know this and why?”

Too much information is not always a good thing. Keep it simple, Shakespeare!

Bacon Sandwiches and Salvation

2009-10-28T17:16:00.000-07:00

(Photo: Adrian Plass sharing wisdom and wisecracks!)

"Do you love what you are doing?" I asked Adrian Plass last Friday night after his presentation at the The Waterloo Mennonite Brethern Church. I was curious. This gentle giant of a man seemed a natural with his delightfully lovely (and oh, so familiar) British accent. I could tell he really did love his Anglican roots, although he did not mince words when it came to 'wound tight' Christians. Mr. Plass was very forthright and almost gushed at how much he loved his writing and speaking. He also told me a little bit about how he had been struggling with depression and how this ministry was the healing tonic that God poured into his vessel!

(Photo: Glen Soderholm - right and David White filling the night with a joyful sound!)

The music for the night provided by the sweet voiced Glen Soderholm and his multi-talented musical sidekick, David White, was delightfully uplifting, honouring and wonderfully entertaining. These gifted boys were a lovely complement to Adrian's cheeky one liners.

The intimate venue at the church on Lexington Road was perfect for creating an intimate setting for the World Vision Story and Song evening. I had a great time.

It's not often I venture out on my own to such an event. At one point, after those who were initially going to attend with me couldn't make it last minute, I thought I might not go. But since I had a ticket and my happy hubby was out of town, I hopped in my car and headed out. And I am not one bit sorry that I did.

Mr. Plass, with his unique humorous perspective on the Christian life, was responsible for many a stitch in the side. People were guffawing right, left and centre as Adrian Plass spoke about everything from bacon sandwiches and salvation to büstenhalters. (If you are even the slightest bit curious about the büstenhalter, then check out this video!)

I am extremely thankful to the Word Guild and Eric Spath for offering tickets to TWG members. I encourage anyone who still might have the opportunity to see this great presentation. It's a wonderful evening out. Now I am off to have a read of my signed copy of Bacon Sandwiches and Salvation.

ICWF September Word Challenge Results

2009-10-07T12:01:00.000-07:00

Go Inscribers! Here are the results of the September Word Challenge. Actually there was a tie for first place so a hearty congratulations go out to both Violet Nesdoly for her cleverly 'boring' poem and also to Diane Stephenson for her creatively 'boring' story. Ya'll will know I am not being rude when you read the criteria for submission. Here it is:

'Describe in 200 words or less someone who looks bored. Do not use any form of the words 'yawned,' 'stared' or 'sighed.'

The artist takes calculus

by Violet Nesdoly

His feet were up, his eyes were down

he doodled through the lecture

and then slipped out his berry black

to go online and twitter.Of course he never raised his hand

when prof asked for the answer,

was sandwich-groping through his bag

when buzzer said to quit’er.

MONOTONY HAS GOT TO ME by Diane Stephenson

The young girl slouched in the overstuffed chair with her feet plopped on the hassock. A book sprawled open on her lap. Her eyes focussed somewhere–or nowhere–beyond the pages of the book. Elbow propped on the worn arm of the old chair, she absentmindedly leaned her chin in her open hand. Fingers drummed softly on her tanned cheek. A lazy fly buzzed aimlessly in the window. Without turning her head, her languid eyes glanced in that direction. She breathed in deeply and slowly let out a whisper of air through pursed lips. She closed the book and stretched her arms over her head. Slowly one foot dropped to the floor; the other followed. She stood. Leisurely, as if searching for something, she scanned the den. Not finding what she was looking for, she sauntered into the kitchen. One after another she opened the cupboard doors and shut them again with no obvious purpose. She shrugged her shoulders. Bare feet padded down the hall to the bedroom. Sue flopped on the bed. As her head sunk into the down pillow she threw an arm across her forehead. Consciousness faded as sleep prevailed over the monotony of the day.

Part One - Writing for the Stage

2009-09-25T20:13:00.000-07:00

Stage fright does not only happen to actors. A writer, especially someone writing their first play, can be as equally terrified about what will, won’t or might happen on stage. Should the lead character shift upstage, downstage, left or right? And how will this movement affect the other characters? What is the job of the writer regarding stage directions and other interactive information? What constitutes too much information [TMI?] and how does the director, the actors, a potential publisher view TMI?

As you sit and contemplate [what you thought was] your completed script, let’s discuss how much is too much, regarding stage directions.

How Much Wood Would [Should] a Woodchuck Chuck…?

Probably the best piece of advice regarding writing stage directions into your script is to follow the KISS method – Keep It Simple Shakespeare!

First, if you want a character to move to a specific spot and you indicate this in your script, make sure there is a reason for him to move. Never have a character reach a spot and do nothing. Make it purposeful, otherwise it is distracting and the audience will be focusing on this actor [what is he going to do now?] rather than the one delivering the dialogue. Be careful that you do not offer realms of suggestions for movement. Be specific. For instance, Rosemarie crosses to pick up the telephone. That’s specific. Rosemarie crosses stage right, picks up telephone, dials and makes a surprised face when someone other than the person she was calling answers. TMI. This is too much information. The surprised face and body language is up to the director and the actor. The ensuing dialogue that you create should make this situation real to the audience – remember the old show, don’t tell, wisdom? You don’t need to offer particulars about location in your script. These details are evident in the set layout, which you have hopefully already established from the beginning.

Be aware of offering all kinds of upstage and downstage pointers. If it is essential for the director to know the actor must move stage left, then indicate so; otherwise leave movement and blocking alone. Let the director decide. Your concern as the writer is to show and tell the actor where he should be at a particular time only as it pertains to the relevancy and the flow of the story. A writer’s attempts at blocking are frequently viewed with annoyance by a director. As far as the director is concerned, the only time a writer need offer specific stage movement cues, is when they are necessary to advance the story. Too much information can be more than aggravating and may irritate the director or a potential publisher previewing a script sufficiently, to toss yours and pick up the next one in the pile.

Four Letter Words

2009-09-15T19:30:00.000-07:00

There are so many four letter words in our English language. Here are some that can change the world: love, hope, care, heal, work, feel, duty, home, good, kind, pity, rest, seek, live, pray...

Can you think of any more?

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The most important attributes a writer must have are faith, hope and clarity!

(Will Conway)

Isaac Assimov

2009-09-11T20:26:00.000-07:00

"Thinking is the activity that I love best. and writing is simply thinking through my fingers!"

I like this guy!

Thinking

2009-09-08T19:27:00.000-07:00

By reading, I can exchange a dull hour for a happy hour!

By writing, I can turn mere thoughts into an inspirational journey!

And the Winner Is...

2009-08-31T11:30:00.000-07:00

JOANNA MALLORY!

Congratulations!

Joanna is the lucky winner of

the Hot Apple Cider tee-shirt. Joanna's name, drawn from a pool of motivated HAC readers, was selected by a highly esteemed 'judger of all things great' - namely my grandson!

If the truth be known, I have to confess that I had to make the tee-shirt draw twice. The first time around I was a tad eager and made the draw only to discover that an hour later, still under the wire, another eager HAC reader joined in on the fun.
Joanna's name was pulled the first time around (my happy hubby did the honors then!) I decided to wait until midnight after that.

The next day, when Trenton stuck his chubby little hand into the dish, Joanna's name resurfaced!
My conclusion - it was meant to be. I was almost tempted to try again to see if it would happen three times, then I realized I was losing focus! Anyway...'nuff said. Thanks to everyone for their lovely comments about Hot Apple Cider (HAC).

BUT WAIT! There's more...We made a second draw. Jocelyn, my sweet little granddaughter decided we needed a runner up! So I am happy to announce that WENDY ELAINE NELLES - the esteemed co-editor of Hot Apple Cider was the 2nd place winner. She has a little surprise gift coming her way.

Joanna's comments on Hot Apple Cider were concise and right on. Here is what she had to say in her entry:

"Canadian Christian authors are a vibrant and articulate group, and Hot Apple Cider is a wonderful sample of some of their work. They're real people writing about real situations, with faith in a real God who makes a difference. I like the mix of fiction, non-fiction and poetry."

How true. Wendy, as always, is encouraging. Here are her comments on my post about HAC:

"Wonderful post, Glynis. Great to see how Hot Apple Cider has blessed so many people through you.I must say, this is the FIRST time I ever have seen a book promoted on the side of a car! How creative! It's like the big ads people with big budgets buy for the side of a big bus. Very cool. Maybe your low-cost marketing idea will catch on with lots of other Canadian writers who are Christian. Bravo, and glad to see you back in the saddle."

(Photo: The winners announced!)

(Photo: Me sporting my own HAC shirt. You get a new one Joanna, don't worry!)

Writing with Passion

2009-08-29T20:29:00.000-07:00

Writing for me is a passion. I would love to be able to write full time and without restraint but because the incoming cheques from freelancing are not as frequent as the incoming bills, I have to offset my chosen profession by working at a job which promises a routine income. Thank the Lord, though, the job that I do each day is also one that I love. I often count my blessings when I think of how I am able to do the two things I love - writing and teaching.

Some days I am so busy with my students or lesson plans or meetings that I feel a little sad that I cannot work on something wholly writing related.

I was talking to someone lately - a beginning writer, in fact, about what he should be writing about and where he could start. My initial response was that I couldn't really answer that in a cut and dry manner.

When we talk about writing, we talk about passion and fervour and excitement and zeal and sometimes even obsession. I asked him what he was interested in and what he knew; what excited him and what did he read? Those are the things that God is laying on his heart. This new writer needed to find his niche and pursue it with relentless anticipation.

I remember when I first started writing for magazines. I had been writing a weekly slice of life, humour/inspirational column in our paper for a number of years, but then I wanted to branch out and write something else. I bungled headlong into what I thought was something I might do. In fact a writer friend told me to approach this regional magazine and ask for an assignment. To my absolute surprise, I got one.

A local drama professor was staging a one man play at a university. I was a little intimidated by the caliber of this man but I also knew a little about drama and I loved what this fellow was performing. My editor, in turn, loved my work and paid [well] on acceptance - the whole nine yards. But I was devastated to get a call a week later saying they had to bump my story because of advertising and since I was the lowest on the pole...but my editor gave me another assignment. I was to interview Miss Canada 1988. [My husband volunteered for the job but I reminded him I was the writer and then I pinched him!]

I chugged up in my old Buick and parked far away from Miss Canada's shiny baby-blue Mercedes. Miss Canada, a tall, blonde beauty complete with glittery glossed lips and perfectly manicured hands, welcomed me to her high tech office. This time it was total intimidation. I interviewed her in her posh office and it was all a little surreal.

I spilled my glass of water. My batteries died in my mini tape recorder. I felt like a frump and I ran as fast as I could once I got the interview. I prepared my story and sent it off. This time my editor didn't love me as much. She prefaced our conversation with something like 'you didn't like this assignment very much, did you?" I mumbled and stuttered my way through the telephone call but in the end she told me I had to set up and re-interview Miss Canada again. As if once wasn't enough! So I did and this time my article was published. It was a real lesson to me about writing with passion. But it still took another two by four to convince me completely.

My next assignment with this magazine was with a local fashion designer. I wore a splashy orange bargain store special and felt once again like second hand rose interviewing this professional fashion fellow. My story was published and life went on but there was something not quite right about what I was doing. It was all interesting stuff but my passion was hardly ignited.

Then I started to remember the One who had blessed me with a love for and a gift of writing. I realized I was a mom, a nurse a teacher with lots of passion and excitement for and about children. In a nutshell I started writing for children. I also wrote devotionals and articles for ministry magazines. I still occasionally do the odd 'different' article but I always make sure I am excited about and interested in what I write.

My point with all this rambling? Find your passion. Pursue it with fury. Discover the magazines that publish the kind of writing you want to do and then go to the library, bookstores, go online, visit thrift stores, yard sales, etc and study, read, study and read some more and then write without ceasing [and praying without ceasing is probably a good piece of advice to adhere to, too!]

No one can teach someone to have passion. It comes from within. So if you are serious about writing, don't worry, it will come. It will become something you 'just have to do!' Start thinking about what you know [or want to know] and then start looking for ways to fuel your passion and hone your skills - study to show thyself worthy of the gifts bestowed upon you! And most of all, have fun!

Inscribe Winner for August Word Challenge A

2009-08-16T16:35:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Bruce Atchison who won the most recent ICWF Word Challenge.

I am the Ontario Representative for Inscribe and one of my responsibilities includes creating a mini contest for Inscribe members. We have a lot of fun doing this and it helps give participating writers at all levels, motivation and encouragement.

If you are not familiar with Inscribe Christian Writer's Fellowship - check out the website. http://www.inscribe.org/. I promise you, you will not be bored! This is one of the most deliciously filling sites I have savoured. The information found on this site for writers will tempt the palate and before long you will find yourself tasting and being filled beyond your expectations (can you tell I haven't had supper?)

This most recent exercise for Inscribers was the following:

"Write a paragraph about a cat attacking something, but don't use the words, HISS, SCRATCH OR POUNCE. This might be a good challenge for those of us who have quite a time telling rather than showing. Find some lovely descriptions and make it a visual treat."

The votes are in and the winner is Bruce Atchison who wrote the following piece:

The Queen

Though summer is a time for memorable family activities, minor episodes can also leave lasting impressions. This recollection from my teenage years comes back to me as clear as if it happened yesterday.

Brilliant sunlight poured through the living room picture window early one evening as my family and I watched TV. Cocoa, our Siamese cat, gracefully entered, intent on stretching out in one of her customary spots. Then she froze, her sky blue eyes locking onto her favourite game.

In the centre of the rectangle of sunlight on the light brown carpet, a foolhardy fly sat motionless and exposed. This chance was too good to miss. Like a hunting jungle tiger, she slunk through the shade cast by the chesterfield to within two feet of the unsuspecting insect. Seeing that the fly hadn't noticed her stalking it, Cocoa crouched lower, gauged the distance to the target, and launched herself. Her lithe creamy body described a perfect arc as her dark chocolate forepaws pinned down her prey. Cocoa's expression abruptly changed as she sniffed the inert object.

It was a watermelon seed that a careless human dropped. With all the haughtiness a feline could muster, she straightened up and strode underneath the chesterfield. She flopped down and glared at us, her violently swishing tail conveying her righteous indignation. The raucous laughter from my sisters and me only deepened her chagrin at making such an undignified mistake. The Queen, as we nicknamed her, was definitely not amused.

The Shirt Off My Back!

2009-08-07T20:26:00.000-07:00

Hello All. Just another little promo idea for Hot Apple Cider. Yours truly is sporting the latest in HAC casual wear. I so love this book that I will give the shirt off my back to help promote it.

So here's the deal...Write out in 50 words or less why you think people should read this uniquely Canadian book. It's that easy. The cut off date for this mini contest is August 31st. After that time, I will gently toss everyone's name into a hat and pick out a lucky writer's name. The winner will receive a lovely Hot Apple Cider tee shirt for his or her very own. And then the happy soul can wear it and tell everyone about this great Canadian work of art!

Let's do it. Your entry shall be written in the comments section of my blog. I will check them regularly and will happily jot your name down in anticipation of YOU being the lucky one whose name is drawn sometime after midnight on August 31st!

Have fun and get writing. Joy and Peace in the name of the One who has blessed us with a desire to write!

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

2009-08-07T19:30:00.000-07:00

Being your own boss has merit. I love it and really, when I stop and think about it, I wouldn't change it. But sometimes I moan and groan and think how nice it would be to have a nine to five job where I come home and leave work behind.

I write and I am a private tutor. Writing is a passion but it doesn't pay the bills on a regular basis. Of course, I figure if I could find the time to write full time then it just might become a regular, reliable source of income. But I am not ready to give up my students and besides, I love them too much! I teach right now, grades three to eleven and my super students are a source of inspiration and motivation. I am certain God has me teaching for a reason.

So what are the advantages (the good) of being a freelance writer? First, as I alluded to earlier, you are your own boss. You can come and go as you please, set your own hours and you practice as a profession, the craft you love the most. You choose what you want to write about and have the liberty to express your creativity. Childcare expenses can be significantly reduced. You can toss in a load of laundry as you craft the next article. Dishes can be done as you await inspiration and if you really want to, you can work in your pyjamas!

On the other hand, freelancing doesn't bring in a regular paycheck (the bad) plus you are responsible for collecting your own money and keeping up with administrative work like bookkeeping, filing taxes plus you work alone and there are no fringe benefits.

Then there is the terrible 'r' word - rejection (the ugly). Most writers, especially novice writers, face multiple rejections as they seek to establish themselves and gain experience. It helps if you have thick skin and a strong faith. It also helps to think about and ask God if this is where He wants you to be at this time in your life.

And if it is...then you have made the right decision. Happy Writing.

2009-07-19T20:23:00.000-07:00

Every so often on our Inscribe Christian Writer's Fellowship (ICWF) listserve that I belong to, I post a word challenge that is designed to promote a little chatter and encourage writers. I will post a criteria along with a deadline. Once I have received the submissions and the deadline is over, then I strip all the entries of any identification and arrange them in order. Then they are sent out once again for members to vote upon. Voters also usually send along comments on some or all of the entries. It is a wonderful way to receive some feedback and to get some encouragement.
This month's Word Challenge was to write a paragraph about a girl named Dot, but to use no letters with dots (that would be j & i). It wasn't quite as easy as you might think and we had some interesting entries.
Starting this month, the first place entry will be published here for everyone's reading pleasure.

Joyce Harback of Calgary, Alberta is the winner of our 'No Dot' Word Challenge for July. Congratulations, Joyce. Here is her entry:

“From Small to Tall” by Joyce Harback

Dot. Not a bad name, but so average. So short. The end of the sentence. A spot on a map. The smallest of the small, not tall at all. The trouble was, Dot was small. Patty loved to taunt her with “Dot the tot has teeth that rot” and other unpleasant rhymes about snot and pot. One summer day, as Patty and Dot made sandcastles at the beach, Patty chanted, “Dot’s not hot, she’s a crock pot.” Suddenly, Dot dumped a bucket of sand on Patty’s head. Patty let out a scream and ran to her mom, teary-eyed. Dot’s mom took Dot home and gently sat her down on the bed. “Why would you do that?” she asked. Dot hung her head and told how Patty teased her about her name. “Mom, why Dot?” she wept. “Everyone bugs me.” “Why, sweetheart, we named you Dorothy, or Dot for short. When you were born, we felt you were a present from God. That’s what your full name means.” “Wow,” Dot’s eyes shone. “Could everyone please call me Dorothy from now on?” “Okay,” her mom nodded, “but you must say you’re sorry to Patty.” Dorothy agreed and suddenly she felt very tall.

Read Canada!

2009-07-16T14:26:00.000-07:00

I love Hot Apple Cider #1. If you haven't had the privilege of reading this distinctly Canadian book yet, why not take a little trip downtown and buy a copy from your local bookstore this weekend? Nudge...nudge...

I am privileged to say that I know the majority of the Canadian authors whose work appears in this lovely volume. It is somewhat akin to the Chicken Soup Series books but it's typically Northern content is absolutely heart-warming.

I was intending to submit a story and climb aboard when this book was being readied for publication, but circumstances prevented me from doing so. Perhaps when #2 is in the making.

When I was going through my cancer journey last year, in lieu of flowers, Nancy Lindquist sent me some copies of Hot Apple Cider and encouraged me to pass them out to people I encountered and who I felt led to share them with. I had so many angels in my midst and was able to give them out for many different reasons.

There was Casey, my favourite ultrasound technician who initially found the tumours. I visited her numerous times after that for more tests and she came a wonderfully encouraging part of my health care team. As I lay on her stretcher, we had some good conversations about books and the like. So I thought it most fitting for Casey to be my first angel to receive a copy of Hot Apple Cider. Then there was the private nurse's aid who took her turn on the shift caring for the elderly patient next to me following my surgery. She shared some shocking stories with me and for some reason opened up about the abusive life she had lived. We had a wonderful spiritually uplifting conversation and when I handed her the book she wept and told me that no one had ever given her a book in her life before.

A mother of one of my students cared for me like a mother, preparing meals and surprises not just once but at least half a dozen times a month. And when the laundry basket full of dinner arrived, there would not be a casserole. We feasted on spareribs, roasts, chicken and more. She received a book and savoured it in small bites, digesting and sharing with me some of her responses to the stories.

And there were more. I think I received 6 or 8 books. I was so blessed and grateful that I was sent some copies of Hot Apple Cider and was proud to pass on this beautiful collection of heartwarming stories written by Canadians.

I am so thrilled with this wonderful ground breaking book - a collection of stories written by Canadians who are Christian, that I had some magnetic car signs made up. I'm loving mine. Do you like it? Happy Reading.

Mohamed's Moon

2009-07-14T11:15:00.000-07:00

"...The sun burned like a welder's arc, cutting a white hole in the sky..."

"...A lone pelican flew by, a silhoutte on a shimmering red sky..."

"...The plane shuddered, making a tempest of the coffee in his cup..."

"...The car pulled away, disappearing into the mist like a bug caught up in a spiderweb..."

Keith Clemons, award winning author from Caledon, Ontario, is a master at creating word pictures. As I started to read through his latest book - Mohamed's Moon, I found myself captivated by his ability to write in pictures.

The cover of Mohamed's Moon suggests that the story line offers a conflict with grave repurcussions, little hope of resolution set against a back drop of a ticking clock. I was not disappointed as I read each page expectantly.

The story begins on the shores of the Nile as Mohammed and Layla - childhood best friends - - enjoy the innocence of youth. Layla's father a physician works in Egypt among those of the Muslim faith. When Layla talks to Mohammed about becoming a Christian so that they can marry one day, he tells her that all Christians are liars and infidels. A foundation is laid as it is revealed that Zainab, Mohamed's mother is actually a Christian.

The story takes off early as we enter into the distorted thought process of Khalaf, Mohamed's father, who sacrifices his life and many others for the sake of Allah. Through a series of flashbacks and clever dialogue sequences, we follow Mohamed and Layla into adulthood and become a part of the triangle that is the basis for this exceptional story.

In Mohamed's Moon, tension builds between the two brothers Matthew and Mohamed - twins separated at birth as they clash about the state of one another's culture and the expectations of Isa - Jesus - Allah - Jehovah. It is interesting to hear how some of the Muslim faith view western society. Mohamed refers to the western world as a land of gluttony rather than a land of plenty. Food for thought. This fiction story is certainly thought provoking in many ways.

At first a reader might cry predicatability and a bit of a far fetched idea for twin brothers to find each other after more than two decades and that they would both fall in love with the same girl - Layla.

But, there is nothing predictable about the plot in Mohamed's Moon. The story, interwoven with stunning descriptions that take the reader on one adventure after another, is plausible in every sense. Mohamed's Moon blends romance and suspense creating tension as Mohamed and Matthew face physical, psychological and spiritual challenges throughout the book.

Islam verses Christianity. A vengeful Allah verses a loving God. Religion verses relationship. The battle is subtle yet the profundity of faith and Who truly reigns supreme, shines through as Mr. Clemons carries his characters through one journey after another.

Mohamed's Moon is an excellent summer read and I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys suspense, a little bit of romance, high adventure, a great plot twist and a not so predictable ending. I was riveted. Congratulations Keith Clemons.