Category Archives: Thoughts

What Is A Successful Author?

Posted on April 6, 2015 by Charles Yallowitz

Back in a post, Shawn from Down Home Thoughts had the following comment: “So is an author a successful writer? You might play off the shades of meaning between the two. I tend to see authors as published and successful … Continue reading →

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Lessons from a Lengthy Series

Posted on April 3, 2015 by Charles Yallowitz

I’ve talked a lot about writing a long series and done many a guest post on it.  Character development over the course of several books, world building, rejuvenating a series that goes beyond a trilogy, and so much more.  I’ve … Continue reading →

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Plan for the Best, Expect the Worst

Posted on April 2, 2015 by Charles Yallowitz

I’ve had the above song in my head for a while and been waiting for a good post to use it with.  Then nothing seemed to be working out.  I did a poem based on it, which seemed good enough.  … Continue reading →

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Acts of a Story

Posted on March 25, 2015 by Charles Yallowitz

I’m slowly outlining a series where every book has a 4 Act structure.  It’s rather defined too with a ‘mini-climax’ occurring at the end of each section.  This has been the style for this series for a while, but I’m … Continue reading →

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So you want to use Elemental magic in your story?

Posted on March 23, 2015 by Charles Yallowitz

Last week I talked about elements in fiction. Today, I’ll make that helpful . . . entertaining . . . I promised a list, so I’m going to do it. Don’t say I never deliver even if the end result … Continue reading →

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Elements in Fiction

Posted on March 20, 2015 by Charles Yallowitz

It actually took me years to realize that the Fantastic Four were based on the four elements.  In my defense, I was into Spider-Man and the X-Men, so I barely paid attention to the FF unless they made a cameo.  … Continue reading →

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Throwback Post- Present Vs. Past Tense: A Curious History

Posted on March 18, 2015 by Charles Yallowitz

Originally posted on April 10, 2013.  This has been unaltered.  In fact, I didn’t even re-read it, so I’m going to keep myself in the dark.  (I did notice that it ends with me talking about my 4th book. You … Continue reading →

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Weather and Writing

Posted on March 16, 2015 by Charles Yallowitz

I’m writing this post in late February, so there is snow everywhere.  Colds are a scourge and I sometimes see my breath . . . while in the house.  It’s freaking cold and I’m sure we’ve all heard/seen the rants.  … Continue reading →

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The Outline: A Plotter’s Plan

Posted on March 11, 2015 by Charles Yallowitz

I talk about having outlines and making plans before I write.  These act like a ‘baby draft’ and make the creation of a first draft smoother.  At least to me.  It’s this part of my writing system that makes me … Continue reading →

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Action and Knowing Your Character

Posted on March 4, 2015 by Charles Yallowitz

I’ve talked about writing action scenes before and people still ask for some tips.  Today I’m going to give a few that center on knowing your character.  Some might be repeats from other posts, but it doesn’t hurt to hear … Continue reading →

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