Join Nadia Saward, a talented poet and editor at Orbit Books, as she dives into the fascinating world of publishing and poetry. She shares invaluable tips on crafting compelling query letters and the importance of captivating character arcs. The conversation delves into TikTok's revolutionary influence on book marketing and the vibrant relationship between poetry and storytelling. Nadia emphasizes the power of debut authors to reshape literary trends, making this a must-listen for aspiring writers and literature lovers alike.
Captivating characters are essential for engaging readers, allowing for initial worldbuilding imperfections to be refined during the editing process.
Effective worldbuilding should be gradual and immersive, enhancing the narrative through sensory experiences aligned with character development.
A strong query letter crafted with a compelling tagline and relevant comparisons is crucial for capturing publishers' attention and securing submissions.
Deep dives
Character Connection and Worldbuilding
In the early stages of a book, it is crucial for characters to resonate with readers. While worldbuilding is essential, it can be refined later during the editing process. Publishers look for unique and engaging character portrayals instead of seeking perfection in the manuscript. If the characters captivate the reader, they are likely to continue reading regardless of initial worldbuilding flaws.
The Role of Detailed Worldbuilding
Editors emphasize the need for expansive worldbuilding that includes intricate details such as magic systems and cultural norms. Effective worldbuilding allows readers to feel immersed in the story's universe by providing sensory experiences that enhance believability. Successful fantasy series often reveal their worlds gradually, aligning with the natural progression of character development rather than through heavy exposition. This method preserves reader interest by allowing them to discover details organically throughout the narrative.
Avoiding Exposition Dumps
A frequent challenge encountered in submissions is the presence of exposition-heavy passages, particularly in prologues. Writers are encouraged to convey information through dialogue or character interactions rather than lengthy descriptions. Readers are perceptive and able to piece together a story through subtle hints instead of overt explanations. This technique prevents overwhelming readers and maintains engagement with the plot and characters.
The Art of Effective Query Letters
A compelling query letter can make or break a submission, highlighting the importance of a strong pitch and concise synopsis. Writers should focus on crafting an intriguing tagline that captures the essence of their story while adhering to publisher guidelines. Referring to comparable titles can provide context for the work, but it's crucial to select relevant and lesser-known examples. A well-formatted query with a strong first page helps grab the attention of editors who review numerous submissions regularly.
Incorporating Poetry and Cultural Elements
Poetry and other cultural forms can breathe life into worldbuilding, revealing societal values and traditions. Including songs or poems in a narrative can enhance character depth and connect readers to the setting. The contrast between sparse poetry and expansive narrative allows for rich exploration of themes and character experiences. Utilizing these artistic elements effectively displays the interconnectedness of characters and their world, bringing authenticity to the overall story.
Welcome back to Worldcasting! To kick off season four, Adam, Taylor, BK, and—all the way from Orbit UK—Nadia Saward talk about publishing and poetry. BK has experience as an indie publisher, and Nadia is a poet and editor at Orbit Books. Between them, they answer our burning questions about preparing your first draft, writing your query letter, and more!
Follow the hosts!
Adam @adamcbassett
Taylor @TaylortheSkald
BK Bass @B_K_Bass
Nadia @chronicles_of_n
McKenzie @mckenziepower1
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