MOMENT by MOMENT

Hosted by: Cynthia Swanson & Andrew Swanson

Writing

A Case for Critique Groups

While every writer inevitably writes alone, there comes a time when most writers want or need feedback. Does the story work?  Do your sentences flow?  Does a certain character seem real enough?  Is there a better or more creative way to describe something? Who do we often look to for those critical answers? Family.  Having family read your work is good for the spirit, but unless they’re a writer or […]

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Collaborative Writing: Writing with a Single Voice

A comment came up that bears mentioning: The one thing that I find most difficult with collaborating is blending writing styles. Everyone has a unique voice. Often when I read published books written by two people I can point out where one author stopped and the other author started. It really bugs me. It does feel jarring and disjointed when the reader can tell there are two writers involved.  People […]

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Thoughts on Collaborative Writing

A writer creates and writes alone. It’s the nature of the craft.  Even when you collaborate, for vast portions of the actual writing each of you is writing alone.  And that’s a good thing.  If you’ve worked in the corporate world, you know that decision by committee is the norm, but definitely not as agile or decisive as a single decision-maker.  Needless to say, writing a book by committee is […]

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Textual Artistry

Two people dancing in a gazebo by water

A painter, illustrator, or digital artist (above) endeavors to create an image that captures a moment in time.  As they add layers to their work, it begins to evoke a mood that will hopefully capture the imagination of everyone who sees it.  In the image above, the fog creates an ethereal poignancy to the setting.  Why are these two people alone, dancing in a gazebo while a sailing boat waits […]

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The Craft of Writing

Writing is a craft and an art. Today’s post is about craft. Becoming a proficient writer requires perseverance, repetition, and trial and error that is unique to each writer.  Yes, all writers must learn the basics of how to put a sentence together.  But what separates those who can write a letter from those who can spin a story that makes you eagerly turn the page to learn more? Some […]

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