Writing Excuses

Discover how setbacks shaped a writer's career and the value of diversifying income streams. The hosts explore creative avenues beyond traditional novels, such as RPGs and nonfiction. They discuss the importance of redefining your identity as a writer and staying flexible amidst challenges. Learn about the evolving media landscape, the rise of creator-led opportunities, and practical strategies for branching out. Plus, try writing in an unfamiliar genre as a fun homework challenge!

Highlights include the debate on the age-old advice "show, don't tell," and how telling can sometimes enhance storytelling. The hosts discuss emotional pacing, exploring when to compress less important moments and expand on key scenes. Plus, they delve into magic systems—do they need rules? Erin introduces a framework to evaluate magic's role, while others argue for the beauty of mysterious, systemless magic. Tune in for practical homework on breaking writing rules to spark creativity!

Explore the art of breaking writing rules! Discover when it’s beneficial to throw out classic guidelines and what fresh revelations can emerge. The hosts discuss the effective use of passive voice for mood and pacing, demonstrating how it can enhance storytelling. They also delve into the complexity of protagonists, emphasizing that inactivity can still drive interest through interior thoughts. Plus, a fun homework assignment encourages listeners to challenge their own writing conventions for growth!

Discover practical tips on crafting believable relationships in storytelling. Explore the innovative Kowal Relationship Axes, which illustrate how dynamics can shift and create tension. Learn how misalignment on different axes can fuel conflict, and why treating relationships like characters themselves adds depth to your narrative. The hosts share how understanding roles and statuses enhances character development and themes. Dive into writing exercises that encourage you to explore the flaws and complexities of your characters' connections.

Dr. Tara Lepore, a newly minted PhD in paleontology, engages listeners with her insights into the world of deep time. She explains how mammal teeth can serve as ancient birth certificates, revealing fascinating information about past life. Dr. Lepore also discusses the interdisciplinary nature of paleontology, emphasizing the connections with geology and biology. Listeners are encouraged to think of paleontology as a storytelling tool and are tasked with integrating deep time into their writing. She also debunks common paleontological misconceptions in pop culture.

In this engaging discussion, game writer and prose author Erin Roberts shares her eclectic writing process, framing it around four key areas: getting work, getting in, getting done, and getting right. She emphasizes the importance of saying no and negotiating deadlines to manage freelance commitments effectively. Erin offers insights on tracking projects with tools like Airtable and recommends the Pacer app for setting writing goals. Plus, she shares her unique techniques for finding voice and character, ensuring that creativity flows while staying accountable.

DongWon Song shares insights into his chaotic writing process, shaped by a demanding career as a literary agent. He emphasizes the importance of a low-stimulation environment to enhance focus and creativity. Instead of outlines, he jots down questions and lets his subconscious work through them. DongWon advocates for intentional boredom as a catalyst for creativity, suggesting that even brief, device-free moments can count as productive writing time. He also discusses the power of capturing fleeting ideas and the necessity of being kind to oneself amid distractions.

Discover the unique writing process of Mary Robinette Kowal, who thrives on a chaotic schedule shaped by her puppetry tours. She reveals how living with ADHD and depression has led her to adopt creative brain hacks for focus. The conversation challenges the notion of daily writing, embracing writing as a flexible practice. Tune in for insights on micro sessions, protecting writing time at home, and using personal motivators, like lists and playlists, to enhance productivity in writing.

Discover how to structure your writing journey using the classic Who, What, Where, When, and Why framework. Learn to use lenses as tools for revision and creativity, not just rules. Explore techniques to overcome writer’s block by focusing on single lenses and shifting story elements. Engage in focused practice to enhance specific skills and see how personal preferences influence your dominant lens. Plus, celebrate your strengths by identifying your best lens and sharing your writing insights!

Charlie Jane Anders, the award-winning author of 'All the Birds in the Sky,' dives into her unique approach to narrative. She discusses the playful use of omniscient POV and its impact on tone, sharing how her characters evolve alongside the narrative. Anders reveals insights from her new book, 'Lessons in Magic and Disaster,' blending queer themes with humor. She also emphasizes the importance of whimsy and offers a writing exercise to enhance scenes with narrative asides, encouraging authors to take bold risks.