Sharing some Thoughts on Writing that "Great American Novel" * (from Creative Writing Course)

Article Title: Sharing some Thoughts on Writing that "Great American Novel" * (from Creative Writing Course)n* or that of any other country
Author: Craig Lock
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Category (key words): Writing, writing the novel, Writing Course, Creative Writing Course, the novel, Writing Hints/Tips
Web Sites: http://www2.webng.com/write
z and http://www.craiglockbooks.com

Publishing Guidelines:
This piece may be freely published, electronically or in print.

"We share what we know, so that we all may grow."n n *
Sharing some thoughts on Writing that "Great American Novel"*n(from Creative Writing Course) nn* or that of any other country

"Writing is like sex in that it can be very nice when you arenthinking about it, terrific when you are doing it, verynsatisfying afterwards...and you write because you have to." n-anon

"Asking a working writer what he thinks about critics is like nasking a lamp post how it feels about dogs."n- Christopher Hampton, British writer and dramatist

Take an objective viewpoint in your story. Writing in the FIRST personnis probably easiest, especially for first time novelists.n n# Don't shift viewpoints. Write from one perspective: first,nthird person, etc.n n# Write as you talk.n n# Introduce problems with which the reader can identify ornsympathise. Bring in emotions (such as pity, contempt, fear,nanger and hatred).n n# You can even use the technique of flashbacks. A difficult tool,nyet effective, if not overdone.n n# Use dramatic symbols, termed 'foreshadowing'. Eg: When Joe wentninto the store, he had no idea he was about to make one of thenbiggest blunders of his life. Foreshadowing builds up dramaticnintensity in your story.

Read with care and attention. In her book, 'Becoming a Writer',
Dorothea Brande suggests you should read a book twice in quicknsuggestion. First for enjoyment, then to discover how the autho
tells it. Look at the techniques, successes and failures of thennarrative. Do you think the author succeeded in his/her aims atnthe outset?

You learn by practice - only later think of publishing.

Think of a new angle for your story. For example: opposition tonquarry - "greenies" vs businessmen for "progress". Instead ofndescribing the protesters chained, write about the child injured.

See your story, is if it's taking place before you on a lightednstage...make the reader see it. Then they'll FEEL it. In summary,nwrite smarter not harder.n *

I only write about subjects, about which I'm passionate - for a PURPOSE:
"My writing mission is through my words to inform,nilluminate, entertain, uplift, delight, as well asnhopefully even inspiring people. I aim to do this bynsharing my knowledge and life experiences - throughnsupporting, encouraging and empowering others to be the nbest person they can possibly be."

You too can implement a plan, a purpose for your writings. It may be to inform, nimpact, enchant, dazzle, enlighten, or even uplift others spirits through nthe immense power of your words. For example, as a contrast betweennwriting light-hearted words of entertainment, or ones of suspense and maybe sadness. Otherwise you may use the power of the pen to write incredibly moving words of laughter and love. "You incredible romantic", Mills and Boon, here we come! n
You need to be totally sincere about what you write. Write fromnthe heart, even at times from the inner depths of your soul. Younwill find that it will stir you and touch every fibre of you
being. Be proud of what you write. If you think it is good, saynso. Who cares anyway (if you are a little "vain")! Most creativenpeople, like artists are. Write with authority - get your factsnright by doing proper and detailed research. Be original, benpatient, perservere and don't build up your hopes too high.
Accept that no publisher has an obligation to publish your book.
Your job is to make her (they usually are in this industry), ornhim want to publish your book.

"I write because something inside myself, inner and unconsciousnforces me to." That is the first compulsion. The second is one ofnethical and moral duty. I feel responsible to tell stories thatninspire readers to consider more deeply who they are." Mynwriting reveals who I really am (an "arty-farty type"???)

Use the beauty and grace of language to tell your tale.

Happy writing and enjoy your creative jou
ey of self discovery and self fulfilment.

Craig Lock (Eagle Productions)

About the author:
Craig is a writer, who believes innsharing information with a touch of humour, as well as encouraging and helping others to find their talents and gifts, to strive for and accomplish their dreams in life - whatever they may be.

Books (inc novels) by Craig Lock are available at: nhttp://www.craiglockbooks.com andnhttp://www2.webng.com/write
z

All proceeds go to needy and underprivileged children - MINE

What's the definition of an aspiring author?
A waiter!

What's the difference between a writer and a family pizza?
The pizza can feed a family of four!

Writing Course: http://www2.webng.com/write
z/creative.htmln(the "original" online creative writing course)

THIS ARTICLE MAY BE FREELY PUBLISHED