Writing lessons and the writing life
Salon’s Laura Miller has an excellent article about what readers look for in a compelling novel. Published writers and aspiring writers can learn much from this column. I especially liked this bit:
3. The components of a novel that readers care about most are, in order: story, characters, theme, atmosphere/setting. Of course all these elements are [...]
I went out with friends tonight to Momo’s in Austin and had what was one of the best nights I’ve had in a while. Good friends, good music, and a “find” — a musician we never heard before and we’re still talking about.
First up was The Vermeers, a friend’s band. I love the Vermeers. They [...]
Attention, fantasy and paranormal romance fans in the Austin area: I will be at the Hastings in Round Rock on March 10, signing books and visiting with the paranormal romance readers at their meeting later that evening.
When: Wednesday, March 10
Where: Hastings Round Rock (2200 South IH-35)
Time: 6 pm
I am looking forward to meeting local readers [...]
I went out to the farm again today, this time to ride. Since the main ring is closed because it’s still too wet, there was a queue for the round pen, for which we have to sign up. So I got Frisbee, groomed him again (and despite yesterday’s hard work, he had clearly lain down [...]
I’m trying not to feel bad about having to cancel on ConDFW. What’s helping me is that we have sunshine and crisp cool weather that is perfect for seeing my horse.
I cleaned up my office last week after AggieCon with the expectation that I would get some writing done this week. That didn’t happen for [...]
Early this morning I had to make a decision regarding traveling to Dallas. After checking weather sites, news, and TXDot, I decided not to go to ConDFW. Although it turned out that today’s road conditions were safe, the worry during the 3+ hour drive north was just not worth it to me. So I was [...]
Quote of the Con:
“I have a problem with fantasy that ignores reality.” — Jayme Blaschke.
The most important thing to know about AggieCon is that I did not win the sword raffle. Man, can you imagine how cool that would have been? That was neat sword. A katana. We already know that it wouldn’t work on [...]
Friday, 4 pm. The Laboratory.
“Harvey Dent for President” – How do science fiction and fantasy media comment on current political situation? Panelists discuss how these genres can be used as a powerful medium to talk about cultural issues. [Rosen, Gould, Sarath*, Blaschke]
Uh oh. I think I’ll need to do some homework. Although I will definitely [...]
I wonder if there is a fifth taste for writing and music. I think there has to be. Right now I’m listening to Raising Sand by Krause/Plant, and the song Your Long Journey gives me that feeling of fullness, of satiety, it’s so completely beautiful.
Vivaldi’s Winter Largo gives me the same emotional response — a [...]
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