Fiction Writing: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Metaphor Examples
Metaphor examples are easy to find, both in great literature (and not-so-great literature) and in everyday speech. These examples of both will help you make the most of this writing tool.
Metaphor examples are easy to find, both in great literature (and not-so-great literature) and in everyday speech. These examples of both will help you make the most of this writing tool.
third person
A definition of the literary term third person point of view as it applies to the craft of fiction writing. Third person point of view may be limited or omniscient.
A definition of the literary term third person point of view as it applies to the craft of fiction writing. Third person point of view may be limited or omniscient.
first person point of view
A definition of the literary term first person point of view as used by fiction writers.
A definition of the literary term first person point of view as used by fiction writers.
Figurative Language Quiz
How much do you know about metaphors, similes, personification, and synecdoche? Test your knowledge of common figures of speech.
How much do you know about metaphors, similes, personification, and synecdoche? Test your knowledge of common figures of speech.
round character
Chances are good that the characters you've most loved or appreciated in fiction are round characters. Find out what makes a round character dynamic and how you can create your own round characters here.
Chances are good that the characters you've most loved or appreciated in fiction are round characters. Find out what makes a round character dynamic and how you can create your own round characters here.
Short Story Ideas
Sometimes the hardest part about writing is finding short story ideas. These exercises and prompts will provide a jumping-off point when you're feeling stuck or uninspired.
Sometimes the hardest part about writing is finding short story ideas. These exercises and prompts will provide a jumping-off point when you're feeling stuck or uninspired.
Writing Dialogue
These simple rules and obvious pitfalls are good to keep in mind when writing dialogue that advances the action of the story and builds the characters.
These simple rules and obvious pitfalls are good to keep in mind when writing dialogue that advances the action of the story and builds the characters.
flat character
A definition of the literary term, "flat character," as it applies to short story writers and novelists. Flat characters are minor characters who do not tend to undergo emotional change or growth.
A definition of the literary term, "flat character," as it applies to short story writers and novelists. Flat characters are minor characters who do not tend to undergo emotional change or growth.
third person limited
A definition of the literary term third person limited point of view for writers of short stories and novels. In third person limited, the narrator reveals the thoughts of only a single character.
A definition of the literary term third person limited point of view for writers of short stories and novels. In third person limited, the narrator reveals the thoughts of only a single character.
third person omniscient
A definition of the literary term third person omniscient point of view as defined for fiction writers.
A definition of the literary term third person omniscient point of view as defined for fiction writers.
second person
A definition of the literary term second person point of view as defined for fiction writers.
A definition of the literary term second person point of view as defined for fiction writers.
Writing in the Third Person
In a rut with the first person? It's common for beginning writers to avoid writing in the third person initially, but some stories benefit from the freedom it allows you. This exercise will help you rewrite a story in the third person.
In a rut with the first person? It's common for beginning writers to avoid writing in the third person initially, but some stories benefit from the freedom it allows you. This exercise will help you rewrite a story in the third person.
Everyday Metaphors
We don't have to look very far to find examples of metaphor. From expressions like "raining cats and dogs" to "table leg" and "old flame," everyday speech is full of them. But why are the useful? And exactly how do they work? Discover the logic behind everyday metaphors.
We don't have to look very far to find examples of metaphor. From expressions like "raining cats and dogs" to "table leg" and "old flame," everyday speech is full of them. But why are the useful? And exactly how do they work? Discover the logic behind everyday metaphors.
figurative language definition
A figurative language definition for creative writers, students, and teachers from About.com's guide to fiction writing.
A figurative language definition for creative writers, students, and teachers from About.com's guide to fiction writing.
How to Publish Short Stories
Learn how to publish short stories in journals and magazines, from formating your work to weathering rejection.
Learn how to publish short stories in journals and magazines, from formating your work to weathering rejection.
Assonance Examples
Examples can help you make use of a literary technique in your own work. These examples of assonance and alliteration have been compliled to help you do just that.
Examples can help you make use of a literary technique in your own work. These examples of assonance and alliteration have been compliled to help you do just that.
Creative Writing Prompts
Need a starting point for your creative writing session? These creative writing prompts will get you or your class or your writing started.
Need a starting point for your creative writing session? These creative writing prompts will get you or your class or your writing started.
Creating Characters
Creating complex, well-rounded characters takes time -- time spent thinking about how your characters look, where they're from, and what motivates them, for instance. The questions on this page provide structure to this all-important thought process.
Creating complex, well-rounded characters takes time -- time spent thinking about how your characters look, where they're from, and what motivates them, for instance. The questions on this page provide structure to this all-important thought process.
Contests by Month
Keep up with short story contest deadlines with these monthly calendars, and find information on fellowships and residencies.
Keep up with short story contest deadlines with these monthly calendars, and find information on fellowships and residencies.
How to Find a Literary Agent
Finding a literary agent can be one of the hardest steps in getting your book published. This how-to breaks the process of finding an agent into manageable tasks.
Finding a literary agent can be one of the hardest steps in getting your book published. This how-to breaks the process of finding an agent into manageable tasks.
Story Ideas from Pictures
A creative writing exercise for writing groups or individuals to help generate writing ideas using pictures. By using an image you did not create, you are more likely to free associate and come up with original ideas.
A creative writing exercise for writing groups or individuals to help generate writing ideas using pictures. By using an image you did not create, you are more likely to free associate and come up with original ideas.
Punctuating Dialogue
Provides the absolute essentials for punctuating dialogue: the details that most clearly mark a beginner from a professional.
Provides the absolute essentials for punctuating dialogue: the details that most clearly mark a beginner from a professional.
How to Write a Short Story
To write a short story successfully, a number of elements have to come into play. Read about each of these elements and learn how to employ them in your short stories.
To write a short story successfully, a number of elements have to come into play. Read about each of these elements and learn how to employ them in your short stories.
How to Write a Novel
Though there are no hard and fast rules for how to get from first draft to bookstore shelf, these tips on how to write a novel will help you find your way with this labor-intensive form.
Though there are no hard and fast rules for how to get from first draft to bookstore shelf, these tips on how to write a novel will help you find your way with this labor-intensive form.
Examples of Third Person
If you're still a little confused about what third person looks like in prose, learn from these examples from classic fiction.
If you're still a little confused about what third person looks like in prose, learn from these examples from classic fiction.
Basic Plot
While some writers have absorbed or were born with a sense of how to tell a story effectively, most study the elements of plot and pay serious attention to how to successfully construct a narrative. Here's what to keep in mind.
While some writers have absorbed or were born with a sense of how to tell a story effectively, most study the elements of plot and pay serious attention to how to successfully construct a narrative. Here's what to keep in mind.
Writing Prompt Pictures
Choose one of these photographs as a writing prompt for your next free writing session. By using an image you did not take, you are more likely to free associate.
Choose one of these photographs as a writing prompt for your next free writing session. By using an image you did not take, you are more likely to free associate.
Types of Characters
Round characters, flat characters, stock characters . . . learn about all the different kinds of characters and what they mean for you as a writer and a reader.
Round characters, flat characters, stock characters . . . learn about all the different kinds of characters and what they mean for you as a writer and a reader.
Choosing a Point of View
As a writer, you must choose which person will allow you to most effectively develop your characters and tell your story, but how do you make that crucial decision?
As a writer, you must choose which person will allow you to most effectively develop your characters and tell your story, but how do you make that crucial decision?
static character
Static characters are minor characters in a work of fiction who do not undergo substantial change or growth in the course of a story. Also referred to as "two-dimensional characters" or "flat characters," they play a supporting role to the main character, who as a rule should be round, or complex.
Static characters are minor characters in a work of fiction who do not undergo substantial change or growth in the course of a story. Also referred to as "two-dimensional characters" or "flat characters," they play a supporting role to the main character, who as a rule should be round, or complex.
Gift-Buying Guide
Having trouble selecting gifts for writers in your life? Want something that shows support, but is more creative than a generic pen and pencil set? With a little thought, you can choose a gift that your friend will cherish. This guide will help you get started.
Having trouble selecting gifts for writers in your life? Want something that shows support, but is more creative than a generic pen and pencil set? With a little thought, you can choose a gift that your friend will cherish. This guide will help you get started.
How to Get Published: A Quiz
Find out if you know all you need to about how to get published with this quiz.
Find out if you know all you need to about how to get published with this quiz.
metaphor
Used correctly, metaphors can be a powerful tool for fiction writers. Used incorrectly, however, metaphors only confuse and distract your reader.
Used correctly, metaphors can be a powerful tool for fiction writers. Used incorrectly, however, metaphors only confuse and distract your reader.
Freewriting
Freewriting is one of the best tools for generating short story ideas. It is a simple writing exercise that can be done anywhere and requires a minimum of time. The only thing free writing does require, in fact, is a pen and paper. Even the willingness to let go is provided by the exercise.
Freewriting is one of the best tools for generating short story ideas. It is a simple writing exercise that can be done anywhere and requires a minimum of time. The only thing free writing does require, in fact, is a pen and paper. Even the willingness to let go is provided by the exercise.
An Example of Assonance
Poets tend to work more consciously with literary devices like assonance, the repetition of vowel sounds, and alliteration than fiction writers do. By studying verse, like this example from "Paradise Lost," we can better understand how to use assonance in our own work.
Poets tend to work more consciously with literary devices like assonance, the repetition of vowel sounds, and alliteration than fiction writers do. By studying verse, like this example from "Paradise Lost," we can better understand how to use assonance in our own work.
Overcoming Writer's Block
Though some people say that writer’s block doesn’t actually exist, the fact remains that most writers have trouble with writer's block at some point in their careers. Almost anything, it seems, can cause writer's block. Fortunately, there are just as many ways to overcome writer's block as things that cause it.
Though some people say that writer’s block doesn’t actually exist, the fact remains that most writers have trouble with writer's block at some point in their careers. Almost anything, it seems, can cause writer's block. Fortunately, there are just as many ways to overcome writer's block as things that cause it.
protagonist
The protagonist is the main character in a story, novel, drama, or other literary work, the character that the reader or audience empathizes with. The antagonist opposes the protagonist. In the most simple narratives, this boils down to bad guy vs. good guy: Luke Skywalker versus Darth Vadar.
The protagonist is the main character in a story, novel, drama, or other literary work, the character that the reader or audience empathizes with. The antagonist opposes the protagonist. In the most simple narratives, this boils down to bad guy vs. good guy: Luke Skywalker versus Darth Vadar.
allusion
An allusion definition for creative writers, students, and teachers from About.com's guide to fiction writing.
An allusion definition for creative writers, students, and teachers from About.com's guide to fiction writing.
Literary Magazines to Note
Are you starting out with the process of submitting work to literary magazines and journals? The first step is familiarizing yourself with the market. This list will help you begin.
Are you starting out with the process of submitting work to literary magazines and journals? The first step is familiarizing yourself with the market. This list will help you begin.
Hands: Writing Exercise
This creative writing exercise begins with a description prompt and then leads writers through a series of seemingly unrelated steps, resulting in original and surprising associations.
This creative writing exercise begins with a description prompt and then leads writers through a series of seemingly unrelated steps, resulting in original and surprising associations.
dynamic character
Chances are good that the characters you've most loved or appreciated in fiction are dynamic, or round, characters. Find out what makes them dynamic and how you can create your own dynamic characters here.
Chances are good that the characters you've most loved or appreciated in fiction are dynamic, or round, characters. Find out what makes them dynamic and how you can create your own dynamic characters here.
More Literary Magazines
Looking to start submitting your fiction to literary magazines, but unsure of where to begin? These ten journals are prefect for beginning the process. All are well-respected, but also open to work by new authors.
Looking to start submitting your fiction to literary magazines, but unsure of where to begin? These ten journals are prefect for beginning the process. All are well-respected, but also open to work by new authors.
Writing Style
To a certain extent, your writing style will evolve naturally over time through your reading and writing, but there are things you can keep in mind with regard to writing style. These tips are outlined here.
To a certain extent, your writing style will evolve naturally over time through your reading and writing, but there are things you can keep in mind with regard to writing style. These tips are outlined here.
Exercises for Story Ideas
Sometimes the hardest part of writing is coming up with something to write about. These exercises and writing prompts will help you generate new short story ideas.
Sometimes the hardest part of writing is coming up with something to write about. These exercises and writing prompts will help you generate new short story ideas.
Alliteration Examples
Examples can help you make use of a literary technique in your own work. These examples of alliteration have been compiled to help you do just that.
Examples can help you make use of a literary technique in your own work. These examples of alliteration have been compiled to help you do just that.
Create Your Own Metaphors
Spending just a little time on metaphors and similes can spur you to make better use of them in your writing. This exercise designed for poets works for fiction writers as well.
Spending just a little time on metaphors and similes can spur you to make better use of them in your writing. This exercise designed for poets works for fiction writers as well.
Rules for Mystery Writing
The mystery, more than other genres, tends to follow standard rules, making it both easier and harder for the mystery writers. Whether you end up following them or breaking them, it's important to at least know what they are.
The mystery, more than other genres, tends to follow standard rules, making it both easier and harder for the mystery writers. Whether you end up following them or breaking them, it's important to at least know what they are.
Chandler Metaphor Example
For examples of metaphor in contemporary literature, it's hard to do better than Raymond Chandler, the hard-boiled detective novelist. Here we look at a metaphor example (or two) from The Long Goodbye.
For examples of metaphor in contemporary literature, it's hard to do better than Raymond Chandler, the hard-boiled detective novelist. Here we look at a metaphor example (or two) from The Long Goodbye.
Sample Bios
If you're not sure what to write for the short bio in your cover letter to a literary journal -- perhaps because you don't have any publications yet -- these samples from published writers will get you started.
If you're not sure what to write for the short bio in your cover letter to a literary journal -- perhaps because you don't have any publications yet -- these samples from published writers will get you started.
Stephenie Meyer
Whatever you think of her books, Stephenie Meyer has built the kind of devoted fan base other writers only dream of. What can we learn from Stephenie Meyer in writing our own books?
Whatever you think of her books, Stephenie Meyer has built the kind of devoted fan base other writers only dream of. What can we learn from Stephenie Meyer in writing our own books?
Secrets Writing Exercise
It's sometimes hard to come up with original short story ideas. This game involving secrets helps writing students discover new inspirations for their short stories.
It's sometimes hard to come up with original short story ideas. This game involving secrets helps writing students discover new inspirations for their short stories.
style
Definition of the word "style" in terms of both creative writing and editing.
Definition of the word "style" in terms of both creative writing and editing.
November Short Story Contests
Find book and short story contests, awards, fellowships, and residencies with November deadlines, including urls, deadlines, and fees.
Find book and short story contests, awards, fellowships, and residencies with November deadlines, including urls, deadlines, and fees.
The New Yorker
Founded in 1925 by Harold Ross, the New Yorker continues to be one of the most venerated publishers of short fiction. As such, it has helped make the career of writers such as John Updike, Haruki Murakami, Raymond Carver, Janet Frame, Salman Rushdie, and Alice Munro.
Founded in 1925 by Harold Ross, the New Yorker continues to be one of the most venerated publishers of short fiction. As such, it has helped make the career of writers such as John Updike, Haruki Murakami, Raymond Carver, Janet Frame, Salman Rushdie, and Alice Munro.
Use Metaphors Correctly
When used correctly, metaphors are effective fiction writing tools, but like most literary devices, metaphors bomb when used incorrectly. Learn about the two most common traps to avoid when using metaphors in your fiction writing.
When used correctly, metaphors are effective fiction writing tools, but like most literary devices, metaphors bomb when used incorrectly. Learn about the two most common traps to avoid when using metaphors in your fiction writing.
simile
Simile, like metaphor, is a type of figurative language used by fiction writers to convey an image or idea to the reader.
Simile, like metaphor, is a type of figurative language used by fiction writers to convey an image or idea to the reader.
December Deadlines
Keep up with December book and short story contests, awards, fellowships, and residencies with this calendar including information on website urls, contest deadlines, and fees.
Keep up with December book and short story contests, awards, fellowships, and residencies with this calendar including information on website urls, contest deadlines, and fees.
Figurative Language Overview
Metaphor and simile are the two most common examples of figurative language, but figurative language also includes hyperbole, synecdoche, puns, and personification, among others. Learn more about what makes these types of figurative language.
Metaphor and simile are the two most common examples of figurative language, but figurative language also includes hyperbole, synecdoche, puns, and personification, among others. Learn more about what makes these types of figurative language.
Ten-Minute Writing Exercise
If you think you don't have time to write, think again. See what you can produce with a simple set of writing prompts and ten minutes of your time with this creative writing exercise.
If you think you don't have time to write, think again. See what you can produce with a simple set of writing prompts and ten minutes of your time with this creative writing exercise.
voice
A definition of the literary term, "voice," as defined for writers of novels and short stories. In many cases, voice is one of the most important element of a story.
A definition of the literary term, "voice," as defined for writers of novels and short stories. In many cases, voice is one of the most important element of a story.
Cover Letter Advice
Submitting creative writing for publication is not that different from applying for a job. You want to put your best, most professional foot forward, starting with your cover letter. How do you achieve this?
Submitting creative writing for publication is not that different from applying for a job. You want to put your best, most professional foot forward, starting with your cover letter. How do you achieve this?
figure of speech
Figures of speech are imaginative, non-literal ways of using language that will make your prose stronger and more effective when used properly.
Figures of speech are imaginative, non-literal ways of using language that will make your prose stronger and more effective when used properly.
plot
A definition of the literary term, "plot," as used by fiction writers. Plot differs from story in that plot is concerned with how events are related or structured, and the kinds of changes they work upon the characters.
A definition of the literary term, "plot," as used by fiction writers. Plot differs from story in that plot is concerned with how events are related or structured, and the kinds of changes they work upon the characters.
January Deadlines
Get yourself organized for the new year with this calendar listing book and short story contests, awards, fellowships, and residencies with January deadlines.
Get yourself organized for the new year with this calendar listing book and short story contests, awards, fellowships, and residencies with January deadlines.
character
Definition of the word character as used by writers of novels, short stories, and other fictional works.
Definition of the word character as used by writers of novels, short stories, and other fictional works.
Writer's Market
A review of the Novel and Short Story Writer's Market series, an indispensable tool for any fiction writer wishing to see his or her work in print.
A review of the Novel and Short Story Writer's Market series, an indispensable tool for any fiction writer wishing to see his or her work in print.
NaNoWriMo
Every November, National Novel Writing Month, or NaNoWriMo, spurs writers all over the world to write -- or at least attempt to write -- an entire novel in one month. Sound crazy? You don't know the half of it.
Every November, National Novel Writing Month, or NaNoWriMo, spurs writers all over the world to write -- or at least attempt to write -- an entire novel in one month. Sound crazy? You don't know the half of it.
Novel Ideas
If you're going to commit years of your life to a project, you obviously want to be sure that it's worth it. So how do you know if your idea is novel worthy? A few questions will help you decide.
If you're going to commit years of your life to a project, you obviously want to be sure that it's worth it. So how do you know if your idea is novel worthy? A few questions will help you decide.
How to Freewrite
Are you foggy on exactly what freewriting should look like? Here's one example of how the process might play out.
Are you foggy on exactly what freewriting should look like? Here's one example of how the process might play out.
stock character
Stock characters draw from widely known cultural types for their characteristics and mannerisms, and are often used in parody. Every culture has its own set of stock characters.
Stock characters draw from widely known cultural types for their characteristics and mannerisms, and are often used in parody. Every culture has its own set of stock characters.
Modifiers
While modifiers -- adjectives and adverbs -- can add to a story, too many, or the wrong ones, can bog down your prose and lead to weaker nouns and verbs. This writing exercise, by forcing you to hold off on modifiers altogether, will challenge you to choose your nouns and verbs more carefully.
While modifiers -- adjectives and adverbs -- can add to a story, too many, or the wrong ones, can bog down your prose and lead to weaker nouns and verbs. This writing exercise, by forcing you to hold off on modifiers altogether, will challenge you to choose your nouns and verbs more carefully.
antagonist
An antagonist is one of the central characters in a piece of fiction, key in providing a source of conflict upon which the plot may turn.
An antagonist is one of the central characters in a piece of fiction, key in providing a source of conflict upon which the plot may turn.
Creative Writing Programs
Creative writing programs can provide a writer with time and space in which to write, but they can also be uncomfortable places. Some careful consideration can make a big difference in your experience.
Creative writing programs can provide a writer with time and space in which to write, but they can also be uncomfortable places. Some careful consideration can make a big difference in your experience.
Stephenie Meyer & Plot
Stephenie Meyer does a great job of hooking the reader. Even her critics admit that the Twilight books are page turners. How does she do this? What can we learn about plot as we read her books?
Stephenie Meyer does a great job of hooking the reader. Even her critics admit that the Twilight books are page turners. How does she do this? What can we learn about plot as we read her books?
Are You Ready to Publish?
Before beginning the process of trying to get your fiction published, it's important to know whether or not you're ready. These five questions will help you evaluate whether or not you're ready to embark on that stage of your writing life.
Before beginning the process of trying to get your fiction published, it's important to know whether or not you're ready. These five questions will help you evaluate whether or not you're ready to embark on that stage of your writing life.
Is Your Story a Novel?
How do you know if a short story is really a novel? These six signs will help you evaluate whether or not to expand your short story into a novel.
How do you know if a short story is really a novel? These six signs will help you evaluate whether or not to expand your short story into a novel.
assonance
Although the term "assonance" is most commonly seen in reference to poetry, it is a tool that all creative writers may employ at one time or another.
Although the term "assonance" is most commonly seen in reference to poetry, it is a tool that all creative writers may employ at one time or another.
Teen Publications
Are you a young writer who's ready to publish your work? Magazines from Stone Soup to Teen Ink are taking work from young adult and teen writers now.
Are you a young writer who's ready to publish your work? Magazines from Stone Soup to Teen Ink are taking work from young adult and teen writers now.
mystery novel
A definition of the term, "mystery," for writers of detective stories or mysteries. A mystery is another term for a detective story, in which the protagonist solves a crime or a series of crimes.
A definition of the term, "mystery," for writers of detective stories or mysteries. A mystery is another term for a detective story, in which the protagonist solves a crime or a series of crimes.
symbol
Definition of the literary term, symbol, as used by writers, and in literature and art.
Definition of the literary term, symbol, as used by writers, and in literature and art.
Avoiding Back Story
Does your fiction tend to get bogged down in back story? Are you unsure of how to stay in the present with a piece? This exercise will help you learn to create forward-moving fiction.
Does your fiction tend to get bogged down in back story? Are you unsure of how to stay in the present with a piece? This exercise will help you learn to create forward-moving fiction.
Creative Writing Exercises
No matter what stage you're at with your writing, it's always beneficial to work on craft and technique. These creative writing exercises target common problems and weaknesses.
No matter what stage you're at with your writing, it's always beneficial to work on craft and technique. These creative writing exercises target common problems and weaknesses.
Listening for Dialogue
For many writers, writing natural-sounding dialogue is one of the hardest parts. This little exercise helps you develop an ear for the way that people really talk.
For many writers, writing natural-sounding dialogue is one of the hardest parts. This little exercise helps you develop an ear for the way that people really talk.
imagery
A definition of the literary term, "imagery," as it applies to writers of short stories and novels.
A definition of the literary term, "imagery," as it applies to writers of short stories and novels.
synecdoche
Definition of the literary term, synecdoche, for writers of short stories and novels.
Definition of the literary term, synecdoche, for writers of short stories and novels.
climax
Definition of the literary term, "climax," as it applies to writes. A climax is a moment of great intensity in a literary work, generally bringing events to a head and leading to the conclusion.
Definition of the literary term, "climax," as it applies to writes. A climax is a moment of great intensity in a literary work, generally bringing events to a head and leading to the conclusion.
"Your Mother" Writing Prompt
A teacher of mine once used this creative writing prompt with good results. In it, you use a common phrase to jumpstart a freewriting session -- and hopefully a story or poem.
A teacher of mine once used this creative writing prompt with good results. In it, you use a common phrase to jumpstart a freewriting session -- and hopefully a story or poem.
theme
A theme is the central idea or ideas explored by a literary work. John Gardner puts it this way: "By theme here we mean not a message -- a word no good writer likes applied to his work -- but the general subject, as the theme of an evening of debates may be World Wide Inflation."
A theme is the central idea or ideas explored by a literary work. John Gardner puts it this way: "By theme here we mean not a message -- a word no good writer likes applied to his work -- but the general subject, as the theme of an evening of debates may be World Wide Inflation."
personification
Personification, a common figure of speech along with simile and metaphor, is used in prose and poetry as well as in everyday speech.
Personification, a common figure of speech along with simile and metaphor, is used in prose and poetry as well as in everyday speech.
First Line Story Starters
Often all you need is the first line to fill a page. These story starters, meant as opening phrases, were offered by readers as their favorite story starters.
Often all you need is the first line to fill a page. These story starters, meant as opening phrases, were offered by readers as their favorite story starters.
point of view
A definition of the literary term "point of view" as defined for fiction writers and literature students.
A definition of the literary term "point of view" as defined for fiction writers and literature students.
Tips from Kris Saknussemm
Kris Saknussemm, author of Zanesville: A Novel, offers his advice on making it as a novelist.
Kris Saknussemm, author of Zanesville: A Novel, offers his advice on making it as a novelist.
Learn from Other Writers
While books on writing have a lot to say about the writing process, many valuable skills and strategies can be learned by studying the work -- as well as the lives -- of writers you admire. Writing fiction is a complex process: it requires a suitably nuanced course of study. In the same way, the answers to many questions about how to lead a writer's life can be found in the examples set by successful writers.
While books on writing have a lot to say about the writing process, many valuable skills and strategies can be learned by studying the work -- as well as the lives -- of writers you admire. Writing fiction is a complex process: it requires a suitably nuanced course of study. In the same way, the answers to many questions about how to lead a writer's life can be found in the examples set by successful writers.
Cover Letter Example
Middle-grade novelist Berniece L. contributed this example of a cover letter she sent for her first novel.
Middle-grade novelist Berniece L. contributed this example of a cover letter she sent for her first novel.
Testing a New Story Idea
How do you know if your short story idea is compelling? Robert McKee, in his book, "Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting," has this tip for testing out a new idea.
How do you know if your short story idea is compelling? Robert McKee, in his book, "Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting," has this tip for testing out a new idea.
Dictionary Writing Exercise
The dictionary is a wealth of story ideas and writing prompts. This exercise will guide you through the process of unlocking this tool.
The dictionary is a wealth of story ideas and writing prompts. This exercise will guide you through the process of unlocking this tool.
How to Write Fiction
Want to learn how to write better? If you have a willingness to work at it, you can learn to write anything, including fiction. Start by reviewing these basic components.
Want to learn how to write better? If you have a willingness to work at it, you can learn to write anything, including fiction. Start by reviewing these basic components.
Books for Writers
What creative writing books should every writer have on his or her shelf? From getting inspired to getting published, these books on creative writing will help show you the way.
What creative writing books should every writer have on his or her shelf? From getting inspired to getting published, these books on creative writing will help show you the way.
American Short Fiction
A quarterly magazine, American Short Fiction strives to discover and publish new fiction in which transformations of language, narrative, and character occur swiftly, deftly, and unexpectedly. This profile provides all the information you need to submit your work to ASF.
A quarterly magazine, American Short Fiction strives to discover and publish new fiction in which transformations of language, narrative, and character occur swiftly, deftly, and unexpectedly. This profile provides all the information you need to submit your work to ASF.
Editing Checklist
Before you show your story to anyone, make sure that you've caught at least the obvious spelling and grammar mistakes using this comprehensive editing checklist.
Before you show your story to anyone, make sure that you've caught at least the obvious spelling and grammar mistakes using this comprehensive editing checklist.
Kate Turabian's Style Book
A review of Kate Turabian's classic style book, A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations.
A review of Kate Turabian's classic style book, A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations.
alliteration
Alliteration is another tool used by creative writers, especially in more poetic works, although it is often employed for comic purposes as well.
Alliteration is another tool used by creative writers, especially in more poetic works, although it is often employed for comic purposes as well.
Description
Many writers struggle with description, but it's a necessary element of vivid prose. How can you add description to your writing? These tips will help you get details on the page.
Many writers struggle with description, but it's a necessary element of vivid prose. How can you add description to your writing? These tips will help you get details on the page.
November 2009 Writing Prompt
For this month, we have an exercise in compression, both of language and of time, based on a story by Abigail Thomas.
For this month, we have an exercise in compression, both of language and of time, based on a story by Abigail Thomas.
Invisibility Story Starter
I found this story starter in Beth Baruch Joselow's book of writing prompts, Writing Without the Muse, but it just as easily could have come from Woody Allen's movie Alice. In it you're asked to imagine a scene you might observe only if you were invisible.
I found this story starter in Beth Baruch Joselow's book of writing prompts, Writing Without the Muse, but it just as easily could have come from Woody Allen's movie Alice. In it you're asked to imagine a scene you might observe only if you were invisible.
Books for Beginning Writers
With so many books for writers out there -- particularly for the beginning writer -- it can be hard to know where to start. These reviews of some classic and recent books for writers will help you decide which ones are right for you.
With so many books for writers out there -- particularly for the beginning writer -- it can be hard to know where to start. These reviews of some classic and recent books for writers will help you decide which ones are right for you.
bildungsroman
The literary term "bildungsroman" is not as complicated or mysterious as it sounds. In fact, most writers at some point attempt to write this kind of novel.
The literary term "bildungsroman" is not as complicated or mysterious as it sounds. In fact, most writers at some point attempt to write this kind of novel.
Stephen King's On Writing
A review of Stephen King's book, On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft, a funny and practical look at the secrets behind King's prolific career.
A review of Stephen King's book, On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft, a funny and practical look at the secrets behind King's prolific career.
hyperbole
Read a definition of the term "hyperbole" as well as an example from the writings of Mark Twain.
Read a definition of the term "hyperbole" as well as an example from the writings of Mark Twain.
epilogue
The epilogue, which comes at the end of a work of literature, can be important in closing a story or novel.
The epilogue, which comes at the end of a work of literature, can be important in closing a story or novel.
denouement
Definition of the literary term "denouement" as it applies to a short story or novel.
Definition of the literary term "denouement" as it applies to a short story or novel.
Idea Box
An idea box is one way to ensure that you always have a stock of ideas for your creative writing.
An idea box is one way to ensure that you always have a stock of ideas for your creative writing.
Format Short Stories
If you want to be taken seriously as a writer, you'll want to be familiar with these rules for formatting short stories.
If you want to be taken seriously as a writer, you'll want to be familiar with these rules for formatting short stories.
Lost and Found Writing Prompt
These creative writing prompts encourage you to delve into two of the most fertile topics for writing. Spend some time writing today -- it only takes a few minutes to get started.
These creative writing prompts encourage you to delve into two of the most fertile topics for writing. Spend some time writing today -- it only takes a few minutes to get started.
Query Letter Dos and Don'ts
The query letter is your one-page chance to win over a literary agent. How can you be sure you're getting it right? This list of dos and don'ts will help you strike the right tone.
The query letter is your one-page chance to win over a literary agent. How can you be sure you're getting it right? This list of dos and don'ts will help you strike the right tone.
"The Blues" Writing Prompt
For this creative writing prompt, you may want a little music playing in the background for added inspiration. In a structured writing session, move from brainstorming to freewriting to writing.
For this creative writing prompt, you may want a little music playing in the background for added inspiration. In a structured writing session, move from brainstorming to freewriting to writing.
harpercollins
Jeanette Perez offers writers seeking to get their novels and short story collections published advice culled from her time in the editorial department of HarperCollins Publishers.
Jeanette Perez offers writers seeking to get their novels and short story collections published advice culled from her time in the editorial department of HarperCollins Publishers.
Literary Journals
The first step in getting published is researching the market. Start with these lists of literary journals and magazines, grouped by journal size and age group.
The first step in getting published is researching the market. Start with these lists of literary journals and magazines, grouped by journal size and age group.
52 Projects
A review of Jeffrey Yamaguchi's book, "52 Projects: Random Acts of Everyday Creativity," a new book to infuse your life with art and creativity.
A review of Jeffrey Yamaguchi's book, "52 Projects: Random Acts of Everyday Creativity," a new book to infuse your life with art and creativity.
Dialogue and Action
These examples illustrate how to ground your dialogue in the physical world with action and description.
These examples illustrate how to ground your dialogue in the physical world with action and description.
Agent FAQs
A good agent will help edit your book, get it into the hands of receptive editors, and make sure that you get the best deal. How do you go about finding the right one? Find answers to common questions here.
A good agent will help edit your book, get it into the hands of receptive editors, and make sure that you get the best deal. How do you go about finding the right one? Find answers to common questions here.
detective story
A definition of the literary term, "detective story," as used by mystery writers and fans. A detective story must include a crime and a detective, either amateur or professional.
A definition of the literary term, "detective story," as used by mystery writers and fans. A detective story must include a crime and a detective, either amateur or professional.
Bad Metaphors
Believe it or not, there are times when really bad metaphors -- mixed metaphors or clichés -- come in handy, as in this example from George Saunders.
Believe it or not, there are times when really bad metaphors -- mixed metaphors or clichés -- come in handy, as in this example from George Saunders.
22 Facts about Jane Austen
As critic Gary Kelly has observed, "Jane Austen is one of the few novelists in world literature who is regarded as a 'classic' and yet is widely read." Though her novels were by no means autobiographical, the facts of her life do shed light on her fiction -- and more importantly, they offer aspiring writers one model of how great works of literature are created.
As critic Gary Kelly has observed, "Jane Austen is one of the few novelists in world literature who is regarded as a 'classic' and yet is widely read." Though her novels were by no means autobiographical, the facts of her life do shed light on her fiction -- and more importantly, they offer aspiring writers one model of how great works of literature are created.
Research Literary Agents
Before you can begin to query literary agents, you first have to know a few things about them. A little research will help you address them professionally and ensure that you get reliable representation.
Before you can begin to query literary agents, you first have to know a few things about them. A little research will help you address them professionally and ensure that you get reliable representation.
Setting Exercise
Many writers swear that setting is the most important element of any fictional work -- that story and character grow out of setting. Here, you will devote some time reflecting on your story's setting.
Many writers swear that setting is the most important element of any fictional work -- that story and character grow out of setting. Here, you will devote some time reflecting on your story's setting.
Make Time to Write
For most of us, making time to write will always be something of a struggle. With friends and family, financial obligations, and emotional issues all vying for our attention, it takes determination to make a writing schedule and stick to it. I've come to the conclusion that there is no easy answer, but there are concrete things we can do to make time to write.
For most of us, making time to write will always be something of a struggle. With friends and family, financial obligations, and emotional issues all vying for our attention, it takes determination to make a writing schedule and stick to it. I've come to the conclusion that there is no easy answer, but there are concrete things we can do to make time to write.
How to Be a Writer
What makes a person a writer?
What makes a person a writer?
A Writing Space of One's Own
What do you do when you don't have adequate writing space? Ideally we'd all have that room of our own, but sometimes that's just not an option. But space should never keep you from writing. Read here for suggestions on how to overcome space issues.
What do you do when you don't have adequate writing space? Ideally we'd all have that room of our own, but sometimes that's just not an option. But space should never keep you from writing. Read here for suggestions on how to overcome space issues.
autobiography
Definition of the literary term, autobiography, for creative writers. An example of a recent autobiography would be Julia Child's book, "My Life in France."
Definition of the literary term, autobiography, for creative writers. An example of a recent autobiography would be Julia Child's book, "My Life in France."
hard-boiled
Definition of the literary term, hard-boiled detective novel, for writers of mystery and detective fiction. Hard-boiled detective novels typically feature a professional detective as opposed to an amateur sleuth.
Definition of the literary term, hard-boiled detective novel, for writers of mystery and detective fiction. Hard-boiled detective novels typically feature a professional detective as opposed to an amateur sleuth.
Alicia Erian
Alicia Erian, author of the highly acclaimed novel, "Towelhead," talks about writing fiction that moves after a day at the Texas Book Festival in Austin, Texas.
Alicia Erian, author of the highly acclaimed novel, "Towelhead," talks about writing fiction that moves after a day at the Texas Book Festival in Austin, Texas.
October 2009 Writing Prompt
This month's creative writing prompt focuses on character development, and specifically on creating active characters. Use it to get to know an existing character, or to invent an entirely new one.
This month's creative writing prompt focuses on character development, and specifically on creating active characters. Use it to get to know an existing character, or to invent an entirely new one.
narrative
A definition of the literary term, "narrative," for creative writers.
A definition of the literary term, "narrative," for creative writers.
dialogue
Definition of the word "dialogue" with regard to fiction writing.
Definition of the word "dialogue" with regard to fiction writing.
Writing a Short Bio
For writers just starting out, the idea of writing a “short bio” to go along with their submission to a literary journal can be daunting. What exactly are editors looking for? This FAQ will put your mind to rest.
For writers just starting out, the idea of writing a “short bio” to go along with their submission to a literary journal can be daunting. What exactly are editors looking for? This FAQ will put your mind to rest.
February Contest Deadlines
Calendar listing book and short story contests, awards, fellowships, and residencies with February deadlines for writers of novels and short stories. Links, contest deadlines, fees, and more.
Calendar listing book and short story contests, awards, fellowships, and residencies with February deadlines for writers of novels and short stories. Links, contest deadlines, fees, and more.
Research Publishing Markets
A little research will make your efforts to get published more successful. Start by researching the publishing market, finding out which magazines and journals will be open to your work.
A little research will make your efforts to get published more successful. Start by researching the publishing market, finding out which magazines and journals will be open to your work.
Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird
A review of Anne Lamott's popular work, Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life, which has become a classic in the genre.
A review of Anne Lamott's popular work, Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life, which has become a classic in the genre.
Writers' Rooms
Since the Writers Room opened in Manhattan in 1978 to provide urban writers with a place to write, a number of similar spaces have opened up around the U.S. and abroad. Though it doesn't guarantee the proverbial room of one's own, it does offer a cubicle and some community.
Since the Writers Room opened in Manhattan in 1978 to provide urban writers with a place to write, a number of similar spaces have opened up around the U.S. and abroad. Though it doesn't guarantee the proverbial room of one's own, it does offer a cubicle and some community.
Storyteller Exercise
This imaginative exercise inspired by one in Julia Cameron's The Right to Write, encourages writers to listen for story ideas.
This imaginative exercise inspired by one in Julia Cameron's The Right to Write, encourages writers to listen for story ideas.
Profile of Raymond Chandler
Though America's finest hard-boiled detective novelist is known for exposing L.A.'s seedy underbelly and for his streetwise (if poetic) writing style, Raymond Chandler was actually a highly educated, even genteel man, who studied in England and France. Not until adulthood did he come to Southern California, the place that dominated his fiction.
Though America's finest hard-boiled detective novelist is known for exposing L.A.'s seedy underbelly and for his streetwise (if poetic) writing style, Raymond Chandler was actually a highly educated, even genteel man, who studied in England and France. Not until adulthood did he come to Southern California, the place that dominated his fiction.
Writing Contest Tips
The good news about writing contests is that only a small percentage of entries are both competently written and follow the rules. How do you make it into that small percentage? Read on.
The good news about writing contests is that only a small percentage of entries are both competently written and follow the rules. How do you make it into that small percentage? Read on.
Corpses Don't Bother Me
Read and comment on "Corpses Don't Bother Me" by Ann Blackie, a response to the November 2009 writing exercise.
Read and comment on "Corpses Don't Bother Me" by Ann Blackie, a response to the November 2009 writing exercise.
Writers' Rooms in NYC
Famous for attracting writers and infamous for exorbitant rents, New York City has more writers' rooms than any other American city. The Writers Room created the model when it opened in Manhattan in 1978, and similar spaces have sprung up in the city since then, offering space and community to the city's many writers.
Famous for attracting writers and infamous for exorbitant rents, New York City has more writers' rooms than any other American city. The Writers Room created the model when it opened in Manhattan in 1978, and similar spaces have sprung up in the city since then, offering space and community to the city's many writers.
Mattress Writing Exercise
Alix Ohlin uses this creative writing exercise, set in a mattress store, to help her students find the drama in everyday life.
Alix Ohlin uses this creative writing exercise, set in a mattress store, to help her students find the drama in everyday life.
simultaneous submission
A definition of the term "simultaneous submission" (as opposed to "multiple submission") for creative writers interested in beginning to publish their work.
A definition of the term "simultaneous submission" (as opposed to "multiple submission") for creative writers interested in beginning to publish their work.
genre fiction
In general, "genre fiction" refers to nonliterary works and include the categories of mystery, science fiction, fantasy, romance, western, and horror. Genre fiction novels tend to be written and read primarily for entertainment (though it may certainly aspire to and attain other goals).
In general, "genre fiction" refers to nonliterary works and include the categories of mystery, science fiction, fantasy, romance, western, and horror. Genre fiction novels tend to be written and read primarily for entertainment (though it may certainly aspire to and attain other goals).
Story Starters
Almost everyone could use a little help in filling a blank page from time to time. Use these story starters, contributed by readers, to launch your writing session.
Almost everyone could use a little help in filling a blank page from time to time. Use these story starters, contributed by readers, to launch your writing session.
Winter Counts
In this creative writing exercise from Alan Ziegler's The Writing Workshop Note Book, a Sioux Indian practice of record keeping called "Winter Counts" becomes a creative writing exercise.
In this creative writing exercise from Alan Ziegler's The Writing Workshop Note Book, a Sioux Indian practice of record keeping called "Winter Counts" becomes a creative writing exercise.