#WritersCoffeeClub 8
Do you write in the active voice, passive voice or a mixture? Does it matter?
Definitely a mixture.
A lot of conversation IRL uses passive voice, so I write it into my dialogue in an effort to make it sound natural. I'll also choose passive if I want a surprise at the end of a sentence, e.g. "Mr. Boddy was murdered in the Observatory by..." And absolutely if the object is the star of the sentence, e.g. "A flowing crystal hamster had been propped atop the dresser."
#writersCoffeeClub 30
How much detail do you put into character descriptions?
In my notes? A lot. On the page that the reader sees? I try to cut it down to 'just enough.'
If the firelight from the open hearth reflects on dark paneled walls, and the ancient leather chairs hold a history of cigar smoke and brandy, you can see the room.
Likewise, a brushcut man draped in a faded tropical shirt and the smell of liniment, white socks emerging from his sandals providing little contrast to his legs.
A year ago today, I gave myself a birthday present and tried Mastodon (after getting disgusted with Twitter). I stumbled for a few weeks, then found a few writing/artistic communities, most notably the predecessor of #WordWeavers, then later #PennedPossibilities and #writerscoffeeclub
Even if I don't play every day, I know this platform will treat me to smart, respectful discussions about writing and art. My writing has been enhanced. And I've met some wonderful people as well.
I would be slightly bothered by having three paragraphs with the same structure (having an action identifying the speaker between lines of dialog), but it's a good way to avoid dialog tags.
Pour out an extra glass of wine,
And set a place as though to dine.
Speak out their names and call them in,
Tell stories of good deed and sin.
From those who've gone to distant shore,
A chance to hear their voice once more.
Tonight your ears need play no part,
Instead just listen with your heart.
#WritersCoffeeClub 6
Are you self-published or trad-published? How's it going?
I haven't published anything novel-length yet. But I'm hoping to leverage some of what I've learned from short fiction, where I've managed to convince other humans to publish me on multiple occasions. Some lessons learned:
-listen to critique partners
-grow a thick skin
-I'll write better tomorrow
-practice pays off
-keep submitting/querying
-anticipate non-responses
-not every market fits my level of weird
Admit it. You probably thought I'd talk about having an "ah-ha" moment while working in the lab. I'll have you know I'm not all about the science.
Give me a piece of dark Belgian chocolate, a glass of Pinot Noir, and a little Coltrane to set the mood. All the endorphins of good sex, and I get the bed to myself.
6/1 #WritingWonders
Intro Day. You’re transported into your WIP world, where is the first place you’re going? Why?
I'm heading back to the realm of the dead for this one, so I'm starting in the tavern that specializes in cheap bottled beer, strong rum drinks, and amazing conversations—because while I may still talk to those two, I'd also love to once more hear their voices back.
When it's time to leave, I plan to take the bridge over the river Gjöll.
@KurtHohmann I’m going to catch a train out of the city and investigate the rumors about the factory farms the ants keep out there. I have heard some horrific things about ‘aphid abuse’ and want to know if the rumors are true. Also I must warn Timothy, the Librarian woodlouse about that butterfly he has a crush on! Her roommate is a criminal! jewel wasp! Bad news!
@KurtHohmann I hope this isn’t going to be one of those “soylent green” situations… The food in Central City has been amazing and who can resist carbonated Aphid Dew? it’s got a kick!