As writers, we’re often told, “write what you know.” But what do we really know. If I know a single mom, are all single moms like her? Of course not. Many factors make us who we are, and as we write characters, we need to think about the myriad factors that make characters who they…
Category: Writing Wrongs: Essays on Language
This blog is an opportunity to discuss language – its usage, its limitations, and its beauty—through an array of shorter and longer essays.
The thesaurus is out to get us
As writers, it’s easy to get in the habit of relying on words. These words are old friends we know well and they work for us. I know—when I search one of my manuscripts for over-used words, I find some favorites over and over and over. Yikes! It’s time to treat that well-worn word as…
Writing a character you don’t like
Sometimes a story or poem requires a character (or narrator) you don’t like. In fiction it’s often the antagonist. While this person isn’t always evil, s/he is generally unlikeable. After all, the antagonist is thwarting your main character for some reason. So how do you approach writing a believable character you don’t like? Here’s how…
The proof is in the reading
Proofreading. Oy. Yet we all know those people. They seem like they can spot a transposed i and e from a football field away. Well, most of us are not those people, so we have to work just a bit harder to do a great job proofreading. When proofreading your manuscript (or anything), here are…
The power of words
The written word is not tantamount to symbols and letters strung together; it has the ability to sway opinions; to declare wars; to create imaginative worlds to visit; and to help us empathize with someone we’ve never met. I think those who have a real love for language appreciate many aspects of how words fit…
Between you and I (Let’s get the word out)
I’ve heard the phrase “between you and I” many times. Often, it seems to be used when someone is trying to be more proper or formal. I even saw it in an episode of Lost Girl, spoken by a character trying to be very proper. Unfortunately, “between you and I” is NEVER correct. It is…
Intersection of Fiction and Poetry
Fiction and poetry are often treated as different types of writing—and they are. I think, however, that the most beautiful writing happens when the two intersect. Poetic passages within fiction that paint an emotive, vivid picture transport our minds and souls. Poetry that tells us a story as well as affects us can teach us…
What a Grammar Nazi does not see
The goal of this blog is not to be a Grammar Nazi. Plenty of folks out there already think of themselves as self-appointed Grammar Nazis. I have some issues with this policing of language: It promotes public shaming. It focuses on grammar as aesthetics and pedantic enforcement of rules (rather than meaning). It obscures common…
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