One of the central tools of literature is using a made-up story to tell a human truth. Make your story, regardless of how outlandish, feel real to readers. It does not matter what you’re writing, understanding how you work as a storyteller is just as important as understanding how story works.
Stories have been told for thousands of years; in myths, novels, or in everyday life. They generate feelings. The most effective way to sell products is through emotional bonding. Well-written stories are memorable, can conjure up emotions, and the reader can identify with them
Find your voice
Your writer’s voice is what makes it possible for someone to pick up a book and recognize that you wrote it. Learn how to develop your voice and how to overcome the fear of making mistakes.
Develop the story
Every story begins with an idea. Learn how to make it meaningful, how to create conflict and compelling situations for your characters.
Dialogue and character
Learn how to write realistic dialogue; listen to and trust your characters. Let them tell their own story. You are just the fingers on the keyboard.
World building
Create compelling and believable settings in your novel. Avoid the common pitfalls many inexperienced writers make. Take the time to create original and engaging worlds that your characters live in. A fictional world needs a beating heart.
Descriptions
Liven up descriptive prose, withhold information, find emotional weight, and choose memorable details.
Humor
Add humor to your work. Every writer should take the time to learn humor writing. It is the difference between flat writing and dynamic communication.
- state the obvious
- be subtle
- surprise your reader
Deal with writers’ block
Every writer faces times when they’re stuck.
Editing
It is important to take time away from your project. Let your manuscript rest, then get feedback from a trusted reader.
Rule for writers
Strike the right balance between humility and confidence.
“Linda has published sixteen books. She blogs about the publishing world, posts useful tips on the challenges a writer faces, including marketing and promoting your work, how to build your online platform, how to get reviews and how to self-publish.”