As the title says, I’m gonna try something a little different.
I talk about writing in the abstract, and sometimes I post what I write. Those are the ends of the spectrum. But what about the middle? The actual craft? The stress, the sweat, the frustration. What do I do to get better at writing?
The answer, when I was in school, was: writing workshop. Workshop provided a safe avenue for discussion and expression where I absolutely knew I would learn and grow as a writer — because everyone else in class was there for the same reason. We hashed things out, we agreed, we disagreed. Mostly, I observed, because I felt like everyone else was so much smarter than me.
We read each other’s stories and poems. And the thing about writers — they all write differently. And sometimes, it’s because they read differently. So we learned how to write and read in disparate ways, making us more well-rounded as creators and as individuals. Workshop day was nerve-wracking and rewarding, hands down the best day of the week.
And let’s be real. I miss the hell out of school.
I want to foster that kind of safe space here. So on Wednesdays, I’m going to talk shop. How do I write? When? What am I actively trying to do to get better? What challenges am I facing with particular characters or plot lines?
I want to hear from you, as well. Let’s dig deep and dive in. Let’s discuss what you’re working on. Let’s get started!
Liz Makes Stuff 