Writing Excuses

Discover how gaming transforms narrative engagement, offering players a unique sense of agency that differs from traditional storytelling. Explore how player choice fosters emergent narratives, leading to personalized experiences. The discussion dives into the symbiotic relationship between gameplay mechanics and storytelling, illustrated by popular titles. Learn how audience preferences shape both gaming and reading experiences. Finally, the importance of collaborative storytelling is emphasized, encouraging creators to balance audience impact with their artistic vision.

Hosts dive into the art of writing confrontations, both physical and emotional, revealing key elements like focus and physicality. They discuss how anticipation and character history shape these intense moments. The conversation flows from crafting dynamic fight scenes to exploring verbal arguments, emphasizing character depth and emotional stakes. A fun take on action scenes is shared, encouraging listeners to rewrite movie confrontations for prose. Plus, an engaging look at the Hulu show 'Death and Other Details' adds fresh insights for writers!

Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author of The Power of Habit, dives into the art of communication. He discusses how listening shapes writing and shares techniques like 'looping for understanding' to enhance conversations. Duhigg emphasizes the power of deep questions in fostering meaningful connections. He also encourages writers to embrace feedback as growth opportunities and offers creative homework to tap into one's unique voice. Get ready to unlock the secrets of impactful dialogue!

Dive into the world of sensory details in storytelling! Discover how sounds, scents, and tastes can enrich character development and worldbuilding. The hosts share personal stories illustrating the power of sensory perception in creating emotional connections. Learn about innovative experiences like Darkfield, where storytelling comes alive in total darkness. Engage your creativity with exercises that expand your character's sensory interactions, making their world feel more real and immersive.

Time serves as a dynamic lens in storytelling, shaping characters and narratives in profound ways. The discussion covers techniques like flashbacks and sensory shifts that enhance emotional impact. Listeners learn how timing influences character behavior, builds tension, and deepens engagement. Practical examples highlight the manipulation of time in action scenes and quieter moments alike. A creative writing exercise challenges writers to rethink time settings in their scenes, sparking fresh insights for their storytelling.

Dive into the transformative power of context in storytelling! The hosts explore how rich details can make worlds feel authentic, enhancing emotional connections and driving conflict. They discuss the fine line between useful and excessive world-building, like unnecessary goblin toe counts. Humor also plays a vital role, bolstering character interactions without overwhelming the audience. Plus, engage in creative exercises that challenge you to reimagine narratives with different contexts. Join the fun and refine your storytelling skills!

Explore the powerful connection between setting and narrative in speculative fiction. Discover how time and place shape characters, influencing their experiences and growth. The speakers share tips for crafting vivid, dynamic worlds and highlight the importance of cultural and temporal details. Engaging examples, like time-measuring goblins, illustrate how practical world-building enhances storytelling. Writers are encouraged to experiment with their own narratives by rewriting scenes in different contexts, revealing new dimensions to character dynamics.

Cooking and writing share surprising similarities, with both processes benefitting from creativity, preparation, and improvisation. The idea of 'mise en place' underscores the importance of outlining in writing, much like setting up a kitchen before cooking. Personal expression takes center stage as hosts discuss how everyday cooking can spark inspiration for narrative development. They also examine the balance between structure and flexibility in both art forms, invoking the joy of experimentation to enhance storytelling and enrich the creative process.

In a lively discussion, guest Mark Oshiro, a young adult author and passionate writing teacher, shares his insights on the complexity of teaching writing. He dives deep into the importance of engaging teen writers by connecting lessons to their personal interests. The trio explores creating safe spaces for marginalized voices, emphasizing empathy in teaching. They also reflect on the joy of mentorship and the transformative power of sharing personal passions through lessons. Tune in for strategies that inspire creativity and connection!

Christopher Schwarz, a furniture maker, writer, and publisher, shares fascinating insights into the worlds of woodworking and writing. He discusses how his craftsmanship informs his storytelling, emphasizing structured writing and the essence of quality in both books and furniture. The conversation delves into the significance of physical media in a digital age and the lost art of woodworking. Schwarz also highlights the value of ongoing learning and offers creative advice for aspiring writers, blending practical experiences with historical techniques.