C.S. Lewis: The Death of Words

Do you ever mourn the loss of English as it once was? Words like “basic” and “extra” do this for me.
Today’s post escalates from a snowball to an avalanche, but C.S. Lewis and I both feel strongly about the preservation of vocabulary. Brace yourself, and then take a look.
(Bonus points if you’ve read George Orwell’s 1984.)

On Writing, Part 5: Revision

So how do you feel about your first drafts? Hopeful? Optimistic? Proud? If so, I have nothing to say to you. I cannot relate.
Personally, I hate my first drafts. I think of how lousy my work is and how I hope that no one ever has to suffer the torture of reading it. But Stephen King has some encouraging advice for those of us who get trapped in the Draft One Doldrums.

Something Worth Writing About

Ever feel like you’re just plumb out of inspiration? I sure do. At times like those, where do you turn? To TV? Books? Ice cream?
One of the most wonderful sources of inspiration is actually just outside your front door, so strap on your hiking boots and join me for an adventure in the wild and in writing!

(You’ll also see loads of pictures from my trips to Yosemite National Park, and I know you won’t want to miss out on those views!)

On Writing, Part 4: Making Stories

When it comes to story writing, there are three essential pillars. As per usual, King gives some sage advice about them, including his unorthodox approach to plotting and dialogue. Check it out!

On Writing, Part 3: Good Habits

It’s a holiday weekend. The last thing on your mind is implementing more good habits, right?
That’s completely understandable. Live it up, and then come back to this post when you’re good and ready to kick your life (and your writing) up a notch.
Trust me, some of these tips are worth the wait.

On Writing, Part 2B: The Writer’s Tools

You certainly remember my last post about the writer’s toolbox, right? Sure you do. It was the one about vocabulary and grammar. (Did the mention of those words put a damper on your summer? Sorry about that.)

Anyway, this week’s installment from Stephen King’s “On Writing” is equally helpful, looking at paragraphs, fragments, and fiction. Don’t miss out on this great advice and ultra-short post!

Plus, find out which two famous books were written on a dare.

Hot Off the Press: The Edge of Everywhen

This week, Past Watchful Dragons offers you a bonus post! I’ve recently read a brand-spanking-new book called The Edge of Everywhen, by A.S. Mackey, and I wanted to tell you all about it!