Monthly Archives: June 2017

Okay, I’m Done. Now What?

Posted on June 25, 2017 by joshlangston

You’re “done” you say? That begs a few questions. Like: Are you finished with the rough draft/first “complete” manuscript? Are you finished with all the updates of your first draft? Have you given up altogether? Are you ready to start … Continue reading →

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When Yay Becomes Yuck

Posted on June 18, 2017 by joshlangston

There comes a point in the development of most novels, maybe even all ’em, when the writer throws up his hands, his pen, and maybe his beer, and says, “This is shit. It isn’t working. The characters aren’t talking to … Continue reading →

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Deconstructing Cinderella

Posted on June 11, 2017 by joshlangston

Here’s a handy way to review the 7-Point Plotting approach. We’re going to take apart an old and well-loved tale and completely rebuild it. In the process, we’ll experiment with Point of View as well as the plotting formula. And, … Continue reading →

Posted in editing, novel writing, Writing | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Dialog Ain’t Just Talk

Posted on June 4, 2017 by joshlangston

The things that make dialog great are the same things that make plots and characters great–imagination. Dialog should present surprises. The unexpected makes stories not only more interesting, but more challenging. At it’s heart, dialog is action, and its value … Continue reading →

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