I think one of the things that holds new writers back is the idea that a first draft is supposed to be perfect. It’s easy to fall into the trap of self-editing or giving up partway through a manuscript, but first drafts aren’t supposed to be perfect or pretty. They’re supposed to be messy.
I like to write good-natured comedy – the type that comes from situations that go wrong, and quirky characters. I love capers – generally heists that go wrong.
Making Shana a martial artist was pretty self-serving… she needed a pastime, and I already had some knowledge of karate due to my own experience. I do think drawing on that helps to build emotion and tension, simply because the sensation of sparring with someone is familiar to me.
My one piece of advice to all writers is to write. Write anything and everything, write wherever you are, however you can and write what excites you.
Discover how to find inspiration, craft tension elements, and draft your own short story.
I'm delighted to be teaching another series of writing workshops at the Norwood Public Library this spring! This time, the focus is on writing short stories.
Julia Cameron's WRITE FOR LIFE is an encouraging companion for writers completing a first draft and especially useful for those tackling NaNoWriMo.
My first book event of the new year! I'll be reading from *Cover Art*, chatting about my writing process and sharing tips for aspiring writers.
In 2022, I've filled notebooks with words, soaked pages with turquoise ink, and felt grateful to be savouring the writing life.
Find out more about Carolyn Huizinga Mills' writing process and her fierce refusal to give up on the story that took up permanent residence in her brain and heart.
