In a world where there seems to be a lack of new oxymorons, I heard a dandy - "Disambiguity"
Think about that. Ambiguous already means something that is not clear or hard to understand. I heard it from a speaker in a webinar on high level social media marketing who was discussing how to avoid confusing a potential online customer. That's why his use of "disambiguity" left me beyond LOL.
If you are wondering about the spelling of this word, I have no idea either since it bears no resemblance to anything among the uses of ambiguous. For some reason, when unable to find the right word, people are making up their own words. Smart writers stay away from this trap. Unless you are writing in the voice of a character who frequently coins his own words, don't pick up these stray syllables and assume anyone will know what you mean. Poor Webster, his carefully crafted collection of the English language is continually being trashed by people who are at a loss for the words.
Virtual Conference for Book Bloggers & Authors
Attend a top-notch blogger conference at a bargain price without the cost of travel - - that's a deal. Thanks to a Twitter friend, I discovered the upcoming Virtual Conference for Book Bloggers and Authors, August 6-7. Check the schedule and prepare to be impressed at all this program has to offer for a mere $15 (pay using PayPal).
In addition to general interest sessions there are break-out sessions for bloggers, authors and industry professionals. Authors will learn how to work with bloggers and bloggers will get tips on approaching authors and publishers for interviews. As an experienced author who is a newcomer to blogging, I think this conference is smart to show all of us how to work better together.
Can't attend full days? Actually, I will be teaching at my university during some of the BBA Conference but I won't lose out on anything because the sessions will be recorded to hear later. That's a major bonus for me.
Book Bloggers and Authors Virtual Conference receives my Fuzzy Leopard Seal of Approval for convenience.
Which Plot is Right for Your Story?
A book, short story or screenplay without a well defined plot is like flesh without enough bones to appear human. The plot is the structure for the story. Perhaps one of life’s endless questions is: how many types of plots exist?
In writing the Poetics, Aristotle (384-322 BC) described two plot types: simple and complex. His idea of a simple plot was linear where the action followed a logical conclusion based on the situation. Ok, admit it: who thought the two plot types were good and awful? The complex plot was evident in the finest Greek tragedies where a series of circumstances cascaded to a fateful conclusion.
Since the Greek intellectuals faded away, writers continued to complicate Aristotle’s elegant simplicity. In 1959, William Foster-Harris in The Basic Patterns of Plots took this to 3 types: A –happy ending, B- unhappy ending, C-Literary plot or complicated situations where fate trumps facts or feelings.
In 1916, George Polti attempted to align plots with emotional responses and presented his book, The Thirty-Six Dramatic Situations based on work of Carlo Gozzi according to Goethe. Who really did create this? With so much second hand information, it’s hard to tell. Regardless of the original source the concept seems like he is splitting literary hairs. In my mind, “murderous adultery, adultery, crimes of love, necessity of sacrificing the loved one and dishonesty of a loved one” are fruit from the same poisonous tree. Overlap among “disaster, falling prey to misfortune, erroneous judgment and remorse” are kissing cousins.
Fans of Writer’s Digest Books learned from Ronald Tobias’ 20 Master Plots (1993) that there were spin-offs to the simple/complex including such plots as; the quest, rescue, temptation, underdog, metamorphosis, forbidden love and more. Tobias was gracious enough to give many examples of books and plays that are based on each plot type. For me, this makes his book the most practical as a writer can see how the plots are shaped in an actual published work.
While thrilled to receive Tobias’ book in my Writer’s Digest book club order, this book initially did more to confuse than enlighten. Years later in the development stages of a fiction project, I dusted it off again and read. Then I realized my error; I was attempting to write a story to fit a plot. That made as much sense as an architect developing elaborate blueprints without asking the family who would live in that house about their lifestyle. When I paused to visualize in my mind the story and how it would progress from my outline, then it began to make sense which “plot” was right for the structure of my story.
Reading Tobias’ book and studying these plots in actual books provided necessary background information. Find the right match between your story and plot type. Be willing to change your mind about the type of plot that works best. After all, to apply a well-worn phrase to plot selection: “If it (story) does not fit, you must edit it.”
Readers follow Writers, not Publishers
Publishers Weekly put the exclamation mark on what writers know, readers follow writers, not publishers. In 2009, 764,448 titles came from micro-niche publishers and self-publishers compared with 288,355 from traditional publishers. That’s an 87% increase from the non-traditional publishing side.
How did traditional publishing lose ground so rapidly? As an author who has worked with 5 traditional publishers (including two major houses), here’s my opinion:
1. Traditional publishers failed to recognize the significance of social media marketing. They cling to promotion by the old ways which are more expensive and slower to achieve results.
2. Traditional publishers are paternalistic – it’s still a good ole boy system. New and mid-list authors are like “yard children” outside the Master’s house where the hot ticket authors dine in splendor.
3. Traditional publishers use the “spit ball” approach by putting out quantity of works and waiting to see what “sticks” with readers. Those who rise to the top get more attention, while others languish on the shelves.
4. Traditional publishers have the “politician’s game” rules: promise plenty in the beginning, deliver as little as possible and charge everything imaginable against the author’s royalties.
5. Traditional publishers thought they would always “own the game” without realizing how creative people would gravitate to eBooks and self-publishing options.
6. Traditional publishers are slow to get a product to market. When the topic is hot, the work needs to be produced quickly. After producing an academic book complete with citations and APA form in 90 days, I received a printed copy of the book 23 months later!
7. Traditional publishers left a void which micro-niche publisher smartly filled. The micro niche publishers played fast break basketball to keep pace with the market which the traditional publishers were still on the croquet court wondering what just happened.
Bottom line: readers follow authors and genres, not publishers. When I find a fascinating book by a top-notch writer, I don’t care how it transferred from the author’s brain onto paper. The publisher does not matter to the average reader. Do you hear that writers? Whether your book is published out of New York or not makes no difference to your readers. Respected Publishers Weekly’s statistics proved this.
How did traditional publishing lose ground so rapidly? As an author who has worked with 5 traditional publishers (including two major houses), here’s my opinion:
1. Traditional publishers failed to recognize the significance of social media marketing. They cling to promotion by the old ways which are more expensive and slower to achieve results.
2. Traditional publishers are paternalistic – it’s still a good ole boy system. New and mid-list authors are like “yard children” outside the Master’s house where the hot ticket authors dine in splendor.
3. Traditional publishers use the “spit ball” approach by putting out quantity of works and waiting to see what “sticks” with readers. Those who rise to the top get more attention, while others languish on the shelves.
4. Traditional publishers have the “politician’s game” rules: promise plenty in the beginning, deliver as little as possible and charge everything imaginable against the author’s royalties.
5. Traditional publishers thought they would always “own the game” without realizing how creative people would gravitate to eBooks and self-publishing options.
6. Traditional publishers are slow to get a product to market. When the topic is hot, the work needs to be produced quickly. After producing an academic book complete with citations and APA form in 90 days, I received a printed copy of the book 23 months later!
7. Traditional publishers left a void which micro-niche publisher smartly filled. The micro niche publishers played fast break basketball to keep pace with the market which the traditional publishers were still on the croquet court wondering what just happened.
Bottom line: readers follow authors and genres, not publishers. When I find a fascinating book by a top-notch writer, I don’t care how it transferred from the author’s brain onto paper. The publisher does not matter to the average reader. Do you hear that writers? Whether your book is published out of New York or not makes no difference to your readers. Respected Publishers Weekly’s statistics proved this.
Spreading evil to downtown St Petersburg
Writing a major fiction work like Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc takes hours of typing, thinking and planning; mostly solitary work. Book signing parties are the author's reward for making the story come to life.
I have plenty of pens, a rolling suitcase and ready to travel to your city for book signing. Help us spread evil to your city. . . ask for Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc at your favorite bookstore or recommend to your book club. If you don't find it locally, you can order on Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble online.
Working like Barbie
While I lack a pink convertible driven by a plastic hair guy, I change roles enough times during the average day to feel like Barbie™. Such is the life of writers who also have day jobs.
Fortunately as an Assistant Professor in Clinical Mental Health (online) for Regent University, its part of my job to write; course content, student paper evaluations, podcasts for classes, research and other scholarly pursuits. Although different than developing ideas for fiction, the “academic rigor” sharpens the logic, insight and attention to detail in ways that benefit all types of writing.
That leaves blogging and other writing as my hobby which is totally pleasurable. For writers who complain that they can’t afford to leave the 9-5 job for writing, be thankful. Instead of thinking of writing as work, you have the luxury of viewing it as entertainment. When my work is done, then I can write with the same delicious anticipation as awaiting a decadent dessert.
In addition to working as an online university professor, I buy the groceries, do the laundry, pump my own gas, babysit grandchildren, and all the other “Mom” duties. I still manage to attend choir rehearsal, volunteer for charitable events and drink buckets of Starbucks Latte with friends and colleagues.
Now that I think about it, Barbie and I have a lot in common. She has more careers than I do, but I’m happy with teaching enhanced by creative outlets like writing, sewing and knitting.
Prepare for Book Signing
To prepare for the first book signing event for Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc, I looked around online for any pertinent tips from other writers. Among the standard fare was the best, laugh-until-sliding-out-of-my-chair book signing description by Penny Warner (look at her blog for March 29, 2008). I wouldn't dream of attempting to paraphrase her extraordinary experience, you have to read it in her words.
With a chic location in downtown St Petersburg where most of my book action takes place and ample social networking as well as old fashioned invitations, I am still not sure of the outcome. R.S.V.P. seems to get minimal attention these days when at the beep of Twitter, folks are off in a different direction to see the next big thing.
Earlier this week, crowds lined up at $150 per ticket for Dale Chihuly's book signing and exhibit opening on Beach Drive in St. Petersburg. Sadly, he was ill and not able to fly to Florida which left attendees holding rather expensive, non-autographed books. By comparison, my event is a bargain at $20 per ticket including the book, a party and I'll actually be there.
I agree with Penny Warner, unless you are J.K. Rowling or Stephen King, don't worry about hiring traffic control officers outside your location. Building your brand as an author takes time. I have a stack of smear-resistant, fine line blue Sharpie pens, practiced my autograph and I'm ready to sign. I plan to enjoy the celebration and everyone who blesses me by spending their evening celebrating with me.
With a chic location in downtown St Petersburg where most of my book action takes place and ample social networking as well as old fashioned invitations, I am still not sure of the outcome. R.S.V.P. seems to get minimal attention these days when at the beep of Twitter, folks are off in a different direction to see the next big thing.
Earlier this week, crowds lined up at $150 per ticket for Dale Chihuly's book signing and exhibit opening on Beach Drive in St. Petersburg. Sadly, he was ill and not able to fly to Florida which left attendees holding rather expensive, non-autographed books. By comparison, my event is a bargain at $20 per ticket including the book, a party and I'll actually be there.
I agree with Penny Warner, unless you are J.K. Rowling or Stephen King, don't worry about hiring traffic control officers outside your location. Building your brand as an author takes time. I have a stack of smear-resistant, fine line blue Sharpie pens, practiced my autograph and I'm ready to sign. I plan to enjoy the celebration and everyone who blesses me by spending their evening celebrating with me.
Top Writer's Newsletters
Space in my email is valuable real estate, so I limit my writer's newsletters to those that consistently deliver top quality information. Here are favorites that I recommend:
Writer's Weekly Angela Hoy brings fresh markets, guest experts, topical ideas and fearlessly takes on those who scam writers in the Whispers and Warnings Forum. From intellectual property law questions to self-publishing, you'll find practical answers to your questions. No matter how busy I am, this is a "must read".
Well Fed Writer Peter Bowerman is the poster child for freelance business writer who knows how to make money at his craft. His weekly newsletters, blog, books and teleseminars are excellent.
Writer's Gazette Krista Barrett gives variety of resources for new writers, freebies and contest listings, author interviews and guest columns. A new writer can post request for book review from peers which is helpful for gaining feedback or reviews.
The Organized Writer Julie Hood offers practical resources that are valuable to new writers or those who want to get serious about making money as a writer. Organization is not the gift of many creative people, so let Julie show you how to get organized and stay organized.
Subscribe to at least 3 writer's e-newsletters; one on business of writing and two in your genre. At different points in your writing career, you may need input from other types of writer's news. Sample new options and hold on to your favorites. We are never too successful or too busy to learn from each other.
Writer's Weekly Angela Hoy brings fresh markets, guest experts, topical ideas and fearlessly takes on those who scam writers in the Whispers and Warnings Forum. From intellectual property law questions to self-publishing, you'll find practical answers to your questions. No matter how busy I am, this is a "must read".
Well Fed Writer Peter Bowerman is the poster child for freelance business writer who knows how to make money at his craft. His weekly newsletters, blog, books and teleseminars are excellent.
Writer's Gazette Krista Barrett gives variety of resources for new writers, freebies and contest listings, author interviews and guest columns. A new writer can post request for book review from peers which is helpful for gaining feedback or reviews.
The Organized Writer Julie Hood offers practical resources that are valuable to new writers or those who want to get serious about making money as a writer. Organization is not the gift of many creative people, so let Julie show you how to get organized and stay organized.
Subscribe to at least 3 writer's e-newsletters; one on business of writing and two in your genre. At different points in your writing career, you may need input from other types of writer's news. Sample new options and hold on to your favorites. We are never too successful or too busy to learn from each other.
Are you a literary in-grown toenail?
Writing can be a solitary pursuit. Its easy to get so lost in your characters and their situations that you become like a literary version of an in-grown toe nail. The best way to spell relief is to get out in the company of other writers.
That's what I did this week, attending the St Petersburg Chapter of Florida Writers Association. Public Relations specialist, Dale W. Hutchings, took us through a brainstorming exercise that had something for everyone. The case study of writers attempting to develop a marketing plan offered ample opportunity for creative thinking. The bottom line on this exercise, according to Hutchings, was to stimulate writers to think outside their current marketing strategies with a plan to maximize strengths and minimize weaknesses.
The next best part of any writers group is the time after the program to get acquainted. Those of us who are experienced and published can encourage newbies. Clearly the St Petersburg FWA has serious talent capable of landing four of the top 10 positions a recent contest including the #1 spot. Congratulations to all the winners.
Exchanging ideas, listening to other solutions and talking with folks who understand your "write mind" is energizing. The cure for in-grown toenail syndrome: find a local or regional writer's group and drop in periodically. Sometimes you learn and sometimes you teach others, but every time you participate with fellow writers you return to your solitary pursuit richer for the time spent.
That's what I did this week, attending the St Petersburg Chapter of Florida Writers Association. Public Relations specialist, Dale W. Hutchings, took us through a brainstorming exercise that had something for everyone. The case study of writers attempting to develop a marketing plan offered ample opportunity for creative thinking. The bottom line on this exercise, according to Hutchings, was to stimulate writers to think outside their current marketing strategies with a plan to maximize strengths and minimize weaknesses.
The next best part of any writers group is the time after the program to get acquainted. Those of us who are experienced and published can encourage newbies. Clearly the St Petersburg FWA has serious talent capable of landing four of the top 10 positions a recent contest including the #1 spot. Congratulations to all the winners.
Exchanging ideas, listening to other solutions and talking with folks who understand your "write mind" is energizing. The cure for in-grown toenail syndrome: find a local or regional writer's group and drop in periodically. Sometimes you learn and sometimes you teach others, but every time you participate with fellow writers you return to your solitary pursuit richer for the time spent.
The Write Gear - Basics
Not to get into a debate of iPad v. Netbook or Netbook v. Desktop; it's a matter of choice and money. Personally, I recommend a Netbook or laptop computer so you have the flexibility to work anywhere. There is the additional advantage of getting out of the house and working a few hours at Starbucks, Barnes & Noble or the local library.
Add SKYPE to your computer. This free calling system allows you to talk free from computer-to-computer and for pennies to people with land-phones or cell phones. Save the more expensive minutes on your cell phone plan and use SKYPE for research or interviews. You will need a headset with microphone. Headsets with USB cables tend to have better sound quality than the double plug type.
Choose a filing system and stick with it. Do not make piles, boxes or other random stacks. If you have to hunt for information, you risk breaking the creative flow.
Get a comfortable chair and a wrist rest. It's worth getting the best ergonomic office gear you can find. Carpal tunnel surgery is more expensive so do what you can to prevent problems.
Choose your favorite comforts for your work area. For example, I work primarily from a home office with my feathered assistants; Par, Mr. Checkers and Cielo. They sit on my shoulders and sing to me. You may prefer a CD player for background music. My other essential "write gear" is my fuzzy leopard slippers.
Writing is a creative process best done in an environment that each writer finds comfortable and efficient.
Writing Tip: Avoid the $50 Zit
After weeks of squirming in my desk chair to stay away from the small painful spot on my back, I decided it was time to get a different view. Even with a mirror I could not clearly see or reach the offending spot. My husband pronounced it “potentially dangerous, maybe a mole, maybe skin cancer, see a doctor.” So I made an appointment.
My dermatologist took one look and barely contained a smile. He explained that it was a huge blackhead, not cancerous and could be dealt with in a minute. However, in this Managed Care world, he could not pop the zit without sending endless forms to my insurance carrier and awaiting approval. I was so grateful that I did not complain about spending $50 to identify a zit.
What does this have to do with writing? More than meets the eye, stay with me. The point is that writers are not intended to be self-editors. We do not see our mistakes. We assume things are different than what they are (the zit). When the paper rolls out of the printer, we tend to anoint it as awesome or awful (the self-diagnosis). From that point the “awesome” manuscript gets no further work because it’s already assumed to be prefect while the “awful” manuscript may get shredded when a few tweaks could make it viable (treatment disproportionate to the problem).
Writers need a “specialist” to read and make constructive critique of their works which can be accomplished in several ways:
1. Join a writing group with experienced, published writers in your genre who will offer critiques
2. Pay for a short critique session at a Writer’s Conference.
3. Hire a professional editor to review, comment and critique the work.
4. Hire an English teacher with a passion for your genre to read and review (less expensive than professional editor )
5. Ask a colleague (not a close friend or family member) who is a capable writer and avid reader to review your work.
Do at least two of these before sending the work to a contest or potential publisher. Never send a manuscript to any publisher until you have done everything possible to make it ready for prime time. As my Daddy said, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” If you aren’t willing to invest time and attention into your work, why would a publisher want to invest in you.
Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc is now on Barnes & Noble online
This is worthy of fireworks - - - my new book, Taylor Kendall: Evil Inc is now available at Barnes & Noble online. The online booksellers seem to have a time advantage over traditional book stores. Next time you are in Barnes & Noble, Borders or other local bookstores, ask for my book. Consumer interest makes an important difference in getting new books to the shelves.
Freedom to Write
Keep in mind that in other parts of the world, some commonly used Internet Search Engines are not able to show the same information that the we can see in the United States. Social networking sites deemed "too risky" are restricted as well.
Yes, this occurs in the 21st Century because the information age cannot touch places where information is controlled by the government. So if you are a writer who is complaining about our government, go ahead and give a fair, honest and accurate opinion. Then breathe a "thank you" to our forefathers and all the brave men and women in our military who won and maintain our right to write.
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