I recently read an obit for a YOUNG man I didn’t even know that seemed to encapsulate his entire short life. It said this adventurer and mischief maker was asked at age 3 why he was climbing up onto the washing machine. “So I can get on top of the fridge.” When asked why he wanted to get on top of the fridge he answered, “So I can jump through the doorway on to the couch.” Under similar circumstances, what would you, the author, be asked, and how would you encapsulate your life and attitude toward it in 2 or 3 short sentences? What would you ask your MC, and what would his/her answers reveal?
Brenda
I read somewhere that an apprenticeship in writing takes ten years. Ten years from your first serious written word. Ten years to really absorb the intricacies of writing novels.
I “published” my first book at eight years old. It was bound in scrap cardboard covered with wrapping paper and stapled computer paper inside. The story, you ask? An illustrated collection of horror stories, the most memorable being a killer doll.
My 28th birthday was on last Monday, so if that was my first serious attempt then I’m already ten years behind. However, I generally consider my start in writing to be when I entered Carol’s classroom, which is only seven years ago. Three to go.
I better start writing….
Cheryl
Just when I think it can’t get any worse for those I love, it does. Yes, more news that’s bad news. It seems that all I hear.
As writers, we can use good news and bad news to help us as we write. Those words can ease the pain around us. Touch the hearts of those who rejoice or mourn. Change a life.
This is our job.
We get to do it as novelists or picture book writers.
So dig deep, tell the truth, reach out.
You may be the only one there.
Carol
Throwing Up Words 