WRITE ON

writing.poster

I’m receiving a number of comments and messages from readers looking for help becoming writers. Some of them lead me to believe you haven’t been keeping up with the Writing Process section here on the blah-g. Check this out first in case any of your questions have already been answered in depth: Blah Blah Blah Writing Process

And a few of you have asked me for some tips and tricks. Tips and tricks for writing, huh? I wish, sisters. I’ve said this before, but there aren’t any tricks. You have to write every day. It’s that simple. Read books in the genre you are writing so you can see how other people do it. Stephen King says if you don’t have time to read, then you don’t have the time–or tools–to write. So do it. Read and write as much as possible. Keep a notebook with you and write down amazing details you stumble on during the day. It’s these details that will bring your writing to life. And read about writing. Books on the actual craft are very helpful and inspiring. Be sure to check out my Tumblr I devote entirely to writerly things (okay, okay, there are some pups and Internet memes thrown in there, too) that I update every Tuesday and Thursday. It’s full of great writing tips for character development, story structure, inspirational words, and anything else you need to spark your creativity while honing your craft.

Writerly Words

Most of all don’t try to sound like anyone else. It’s your voice we want to hear because no one sees the world like you do. Neil Gaiman has my back on this one, albeit his version is a little more harsh:

Start telling the stories that only you can tell, because there’ll always be better writers than you and there’ll always be smarter writers than you. There will always be people who are much better at doing this or doing that — but you are the only you.

― Neil Gaiman

Which reminds me, developing a thick skin is step 1 in becoming a writer. Harper Lee agrees:

I would advise anyone who aspires to a writing career that before developing his talent he would be wise to develop a thick hide. — Harper Lee

Now hit it.

 

TTYW,

Lisi

 

6 Comments

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  • MMG says:

    I don’t even know if you read these anymore. But I need advice on my writing style. Your books have been such inspirations!! I am working on a novel about social hierarchy and I don’t want to sound cliche or overdone. My older sister and I made a bet to see who can get their novel on the bestsellers list. And she’s always been very critical about my writing even though I try my hardest and everyone else claims I am a good writer. I feel as if my books are never really good enough, you know? I have NEVER finished a book. I always give up in the middle. I need your help, Lisi.

  • Danielle says:

    Yes yes and yes!!! I can’t get over this I must have read this a million times. Your advice is like the best and its what keeps me going as a writer. I can’t thank you enough for all that you’ve done for me there are no words, I may be being dramatic here but I’m not lying when I say that you’ve given my the confidence to achieve and live out my dreams. Love you so much and thank you

    • Thank you so much for this, Danielle. It’s made my evening. I’m glad some of this advice resonated with you and I can’t wait to read some of your future work. Feel free to put some of it up here in the blah-g comments so others can read, too. xoxo to the moon and back.

      – Lisi

  • Jade says:

    I want to be a writer

  • Shaila Gottlieb says:

    I’m trying to perfect my style and my voice. I love you and miss you. I love you and miss you. I love you and miss you. I love you and miss you. I love you and miss you. I love you and miss you. I love you and miss you.

    HELL… WHY MESS WITH PERFECTION!!!

    Xoxo mom

    PS

    I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU!!!

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