“If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it.” ― Toni Morrison
WARNING: SPOILER ALERT FOR DOCTOR WHO SERIES 12 FINALE EPISODE. I know I said I was done with Who but I promise this isn't just another reason to rag on the series 12 finale and why The Timeless Children is undoubtedly the most insulting episode to anyone that cares about Doctor Who and its history. The… Continue reading Why Canon Matters
To anyone that has read this blog for any length of time, it's no secret I love reviewing stories in all forms of media. It enables me to think critically and learn what makes a story fail or succeed. I owe much of my growth as a writer to watching other reviewers discuss what they… Continue reading How to NOT Suck at Reviewing in Five Easy Steps
Recently I was introduced to a gorgeous poem by the late Charles Bukowski called "so you want to be a writer?" Here's a small exert: if it doesn’t come bursting out of you in spite of everything, don’t do it. unless it comes unasked out of your heart and your mind and your mouth and… Continue reading The Most Beautifully Awful Writing Advice Ever
I am happy there is someone who is willing to give me their honest opinion of my work. It can be difficult to a) find someone who is willing to read anything, let alone something I wrote and b) find someone who will not pull punches when it comes to problems with plot, story, characters,… Continue reading Letting My Friend Break My Kneecaps, or Getting Constructive Criticism
It's not perfect, but it's done. After several long weeks, I finally finished that pesky third draft that has been plaguing my every thought. Remember how a few posts ago I wrote about how a second draft was like a forest fire? Well, this draft was like trying to put the forest back together after… Continue reading The Third Draft of Redemption
Over the last few weeks, I've experienced the most inspiration I've had in ages. There was no climactic moment in my life that ignited this outpouring of expression. For whatever reason the spark just came like a surprise visit from your favorite uncle that you haven't seen in years. I resurrected a story I laid… Continue reading The Return of Doubt: a Writer’s Buzzkill
Recently, a friend of mine posed the question: What's the point of critiquing published works? It's already published so it's not like the author can rewrite it for a better review or something. Personally, I don't critique books that often unless the author is dead, or I have something positive to say about the novel.… Continue reading What’s the Point of Critiquing Published Books?
The professionals encourage amateur authors to write at least a little bit everyday. However, some days this is not possible. Unless you don’t need sleep and operate solely on the power of hopes and dreams. If I’ve had an idea marinating in my head for a long time, not being able to write it down… Continue reading Writing Withdrawal
Dear First Draft, Remember how I said I needed some time away to think about our relationship? Well, I’ve given myself some breathing room and I’ve finally come to the conclusion that we should see other people. I know this must be heartbreaking for you. It’s difficult for me as well. In the beginning, our love… Continue reading Dear First Draft: a Breakup Letter
A few weeks ago, I bought an Underwood typewriter at a garage sale for $20. The S and A keys are almost entirely rubbed out, the keys stick sometimes, and the space bar doesn’t work. I love it. I’m hoping I’ll be able to get it working somehow, but I’m just content to punch the… Continue reading Why I Love Typewriters
The Crooked Pen 