Writing Links

“There is no final ‘I’ve made it!’ in publishing.”
Reflections on Success :: Writer Unboxed

A great read (with a short film example) about the assumptions readers bring to stories “and how we as writers can use those assumptions to our advantage.”
How to withhold information without frustrating the reader :: Erin Bowman

“Just because time is moving slowly, that doesn’t mean the pacing or novel itself is dragging. Don’t get confused about that. Suspense and pacing are all tied up with the reader caring—worrying—about what will happen next to their beloved protagonist. That is what creates suspense, for the most part. Once again, it all comes back around to the protagonist and her goal.”
Mastering the Passing of Time in Novel Scenes :: Live Write Thrive

Rejection is part of publishing. Here are some memorable rejections Avi has received in his 50+ years of writing. My favorite (if you can call it that!): From an editor regarding a book we had been working on for a year: “You did everything I asked you to do but it’s no good.”
Getting Used to Rejection :: Avi

“Doing less should sometimes be about enjoying the beauty of right now.”
Heschel on the Joys of Slowness :: Cal Newport

“To readers, how a book came to be is often shrouded in mystery. The acknowledgements tear down the fourth wall.” Before I was published, I devoured acknowledgements for information on agents and editors. Now, knowing all the hands that play a role in the creative process, I still faithfully read them as a sort of bookish celebration.
An Ode to Acknowledgements :: Lit Hub