Good writing is re-writing: Mark Pawlosky emphasizes the importance of revising and fine-tuning writing for better outcomes.
Brevity in storytelling: Pawlosky discusses the significance of keeping the narrative concise and engaging without wasting time.
Deep dives
Pantsuit Politics - A Different Approach to News
Pantsuit Politics, hosted by Sarah Stewart Holland and Beth Silverce, offers a unique take on the news by avoiding the shouting and scorekeeping prevalent in politics. The podcast highlights the importance of elections while keeping a citizen's perspective on current events. Recognized as one of Apple's Best podcasts of 2021 and GMA3's Podcast of the Month, Pantsuit Politics releases new episodes every Tuesday and Friday, offering a fresh outlook on news commentary.
Mark Poloski - Transition from Reporter to Thriller Writer
Mark Poloski, a former reporter for the Wall Street Journal, transitions his experience into writing thrillers like 'Hack,' featuring journalist Nick Byron investigating crimes and conspiracies. Poloski discusses his struggles with writing, emphasizing the importance of a style guide and incorporating human elements into storytelling to engage readers. His journalistic background shapes his approach to writing novels, maintaining a focus on storytelling and character development.
Writing Routine and Workspace of Mark Poloski
Mark Poloski's writing routine involves starting around 11 am and concentrating on rewriting and editing his work throughout the day, seeking feedback from his spouse, an English major, in the evening. His newly built writing room provides a serene environment with limestone walls, family photos, and various personal mementos. Poloski's workspace includes leather-bound folders, legal pads, and newspaper clippings, reflecting his meticulous approach and commitment to storytelling.
Journalistic Influence on Writing Fiction
Mark Poloski's experience as a journalist influences his approach to storytelling in his novels, emphasizing pacing, human elements, and dialogue to maintain narrative flow. He draws parallels between journalistic storytelling and fiction writing, highlighting the importance of moving the story forward and engaging readers with succinct, well-crafted narratives. Poloski's ability to weave personal experiences into his stories adds authenticity and depth to his fictional characters and plots.
Mark Pawlosky worked as a reporter for the Wall Street Journal, was an editor for CNBC.com, and is now using that experience of sourcing scoops to write the Nik Byron Investigation series.
The first is 'Hack', it looks at Nik Byron getting the story of how top secret US surveillance technology was stolen. He needs to expose the plot and get the story before he, and it, is silenced.
We talk about brevity, why it's important to keep things tight and not waste everyone's time. Also you can hear why his process is mostly re-reading and re-writing, and why he thinks good writing is re-writing.
And be jealous of Mark's very own, purpose-built, writing room.
