5 Quick Writing Tricks and 1 Treat by Irene Latham

1. When you want to get to know your character better, write 100 affirmatives in the character's voice:
like...

I am 11 years old.
I love horses.
I don't like riding the bus to school.
I am good at climbing trees.
I have a secret.
I am not good at keeping secrets.
...

2. When you're stumped, try writing a scene from the antagonist's perspective.

3. When you're ms is sagging, introduce a new character. (You don't have to keep said character, but it can really help open your mind/keep you going.)


4. Scan the ms for the word “feel” or “feels.” Convert those sentences to body language to SHOW the feeling instead of telling it.

5. Use a thesaurus to amp up your verbs

...and now for the TREAT:



Just puts things in perspective, doesn't it?! Happy day!

Comments

  1. Good advice. I practice # 4 and #5 on a regular basis. I'll have to give the others a try. Cute treat!

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    1. Yes, Janet, I am all about the tricks. And the treat. Sweet kittens... happy writing!

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  2. Thank you, Irene! I'll try these methods to wake up my sleeping WIP!

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    1. Oh Sleepy WIP... sounds like a poem! :) Happy writing, Carole!

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  3. Great ideas, Irene! I use the thesaurus for verbs a lot. And the treat is adorable! I showed it to the kiddos and they loved it. :-)

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    1. Thank you, Kimberley! Nothing like a kitten, eh? Happy writing!

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  4. Love the "feels" suggestion. I'll have to give that one a go! And the KITTEN!!!

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    1. Holly, I have watched that kitten a billion times and it makes me smile EVERY TIME. Happy wriitng!

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  5. Going to scan now. Great advice. Thanks, Irene. I love finding you here with flipping kittens.

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    1. Ha, Margaret, flipping kittens! :) Happy writing my poet-friend! xo

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  6. Irene, I can't stop watching the kitten! So adorable. And thank you for the tips. I especially love #4.

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  7. Great suggestions. I especially like the affirmation idea. And....KITTENS!

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