This is a little note to remind you why you should write your first drafts by hand. When you open up to a new blank page and uncap your pen and use your hand to make a mark, you are telling your mind: now it is time to make art. I know that might… [Read More]
Why the short story is so freaking cool.
I already know that you love short stories. This letter isn’t going to try to convince you to love them. But if you’re like me, you know smart readers who say that they don’t like to read short stories because they “end too soon.” Yes? They’re missing the point, of course. A good short story… [Read More]
It’s okay to skip the reading.
I’m writing you now from misty Newfoundland – this weekend I will be a lucky guest at the Winterset in Summer Festival. This has been a summer full of readings: last week I was in BC, reading at the Sunshine Coast Festival. In July, I was part of the Lakefield Literary Festival, and before that,… [Read More]
What to do when you’re annoyed by your best work.
When you write your best scenes, do they simply come to you as gifts, out of your control? Do you ever find yourself thinking, “Well, that just came out of nowhere!” Does this ever annoy you? Be honest. This is what happens to me: I’m trying to work on a new story. There’s never enough time –… [Read More]
Dear Author: Thank you.
Have you felt that dark force that tries to keep you away from your writing desk? Yeah. You know it. Once you finally get yourself to your notebook, do you hear a nasty (and convincing) voice in your head that tells you: This is no good? Okay. You’ve been practicing. You’ve learned how to push… [Read More]