John Truby's book, "The Anatomy of Story" focuses on this, a lot. Great info.
What happens in the old country that is important to the emotional journey of the characters or the plot? If it is necessary to start in the...
I like Cogito's answer. I would add that conflict, suspense and tension are important characteristics to a good plot (all related to the ideas...
Sometimes one story does not work, and you move to another. However, I would not be too quick to scrap it. I think that all plots start off...
From what I have seen in life, I don' think that any of this has to do with her intelligence level. I have seen plenty of smart people in messed...
I agree. The reason most editors don't spend much time on spelling, punctuation and grammar is that they will just throw the piece away if it has...
Do you create outlines before writing? If so, what is your process for moving from ideation to outline? If not, why not?
What are your revision and editing processes? Do you have a method that you follow when soliciting criticism?
Multiple subplots can be very interesting (as per examples cited, above). Just remember that it is generally best to stick to one main-line, big...
I like this one from Thoreau, also. “If one advances confidently in the direction of one's dreams, and endeavors to live the life which one has...
description Hi Like Sol Stein's advice. Don't worry about nailing every detail. Just focus on the few truly distinctive details, and nail them...
Hey. Yes, I agree that very general physical characteristics are not important enough to waste time and energy on showing in this manner (reader's...
I agree completely. What type of story is it?
Separate names with a comma.