Category Archives: goal

Captivating Characters

One of the best ways I can think of to create a character who captivates the reader is to become that character. But it’s not that simple, because suppose you become a dull, boring person? Yes, it could happen. So … Continue reading

Posted in characterization, emerging hero, five senses, flaws, goal, internalization, sense of place, Velda Brotherton | 3 Comments

Workshop Reveals Ideas

Twice a year I hold a workshop at Ozark Folkways. Attendance has mushroomed since we first began doing this. Saturday, Sept. 26 we arrived with an enrollment of 25, but two fell out because something came up, so I had … Continue reading

Posted in characters, dreams, flaws, goal, Maslow's Triangle, Ozark Folkways, pacing, plotting, POV, Velda Brotherton, workshop, Writers | Leave a comment

Creating Strong Characters

To me the most important thing before you begin a new book is to get to know your characters. I don’t like charts or outlines, but there are other ways to do this. And you can do it as you … Continue reading

Posted in characters, conflict, five senses, goal, motivation, POV, Uncategorized, writing | Leave a comment

Scene & Sequel

The Peaks and Valleys of WritingSimply put, a scene defines a goal, presents conflict, ends in disaster, thus driving the story forward. The sequel ties that scene to the next, gives the reader and your hero a bit of a … Continue reading

Posted in conflict, goal, motivation, scenes, sequels, writing | 3 Comments