Here is the fourth installment of the Wild Writers Literary Festival Series. Missed the previous ones? Read them here #1 #2 #3!
This workshop was animated by Brad Smith, author of the Virgil Cain mystery series. It took the form of a casual chat between the participants and the writer. Here is what emerged from the exchange.
- The writing process is much more important than where the idea came from. Chances are authors will prefer being asked about the former rather than the latter.
- Newspapers can be a great source of inspiration for subplots.
- Writing is a mental and physical process. There are no right or wrong. You have to do what works for you.
- You can work with or without an outline. One way is not better than the other.
- Macguffins are great tools to get the readers into the story.
- Don't switch P.O.V. in the middle of a scene.
- Do your research. Although Google is an amazing tool, to really "get" a place, you need to go there.
- Write your first draft then do the research. That way, you'll know what you need.
- Pay attention to your secondary characters. Give them quirks, traits that don't necessarily help the story.
- Create a back story for your characters. You don't need to put it all in the story, but it will help you create more believable characters.
- Eavesdrop on other people's conversation to create good dialogues. Find a voice for each characters. Be aware of rhythm and cadence.
- Use your others senses. See things from a child's point of view.
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