Wednesday, August 4, 2021

#IWSG: Writing craft

 It's time once again for the Insecure Writer's Support Group monthly post! 

 

The IWSG is a fantastic group of writers and bloggers who share posts the first Wednesday of each  month.

Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!

The awesome co-hosts for the August 4 posting of the IWSG are PK Hrezo, Cathrina Constantine, PJ Colando, Kim Lajevardi, and Sandra Cox!
Every month, we announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say. 

Remember, the question is optional!

August 4 question - What is your favorite writing craft book? Think of a book that every time you read it you learn something or you are inspired to write or try the new technique. And why?


I'm skipping the question this month. I've talked before about writing books, but right now I'm not feeling the love. Actually, I'm feeling pretty good as a writer, because (cue blaring of trumpets and clashing of symbols)... I'm actually writing! I'm 49,000 words into a really horrid, messy, glop of a draft of a new novel for a new mystery series. Okay, I also just picked up another rejection for a short story, but I've turned it around and sent it back out. I also got much-needed insights (thanks, Jemima Pett!) into why another story kept coming back. I've got that one queued up for a complete rewrite--the plot is sound, the execution... well, the less said, the better. Not sure exactly when that will happen, but maybe while I'm hiking?

Because, yup, it's August and Rebecca is headed to the High Sierra. Cross your fingers and toes for us, that we won't get smoked out! And meanwhile, tell us about the writing books that help you. I'm sure I'll need them again. In fact, given the mess I'm looking at with the new novel, I'll be especially grateful for books that address messy rewrites!


 ©Rebecca M. Douglass, 2021
 As always, please ask permission to use any photos or text. Link-backs appreciated.

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23 comments:

  1. Hi Rebecca - so well done on your writing projects to date ... but just enjoy that trip to the High Sierra ... stay safe - Hilary

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    1. Thanks, Hilary! I’m planning to enjoy myself to the hilt—and sometimes that includes sitting in a campsite writing :). No noveling while backpacking, though 😄

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  2. Have a great time. Why have you never written a hiking cosy? Or is that what you're researching? lol

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    1. I’ve tried to come up with something for a hiking cosy, but it’s hard, thinking about jurisdiction and how to have a set of suspects and…

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  3. What an excellent trip, I am hoping for clear skies for you! Glad you got some good feedback.

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    1. Smoke-free! I’m good with some nice, refreshing afternoon showers :). Haven’t seen rain in months.

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  4. Congrats on the 49K and good on you for the resubmissions.
    Enjoy the High Sierra. Sounds wondrous.

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    1. Okay, the resubmission got sidetracked, but I’ll find someplace else and send it before I leave town!

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  5. Hi,
    I truly hope that you don't get smoked out. Enjoy yourself.
    For me, the best craft book I've read so far is The Writer's Journey by Christopher Vogler.
    All the best.

    Shalom aleichem,
    Pat G @ EverythingMustChange

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  6. Great photo! Enjoy your time in the High Sierra.

    Ronel visiting for IWSG day Being Busy vs Being Productive

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    1. Thanks! And I like your post title—I definitely have that in my life.

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  7. Congratulation son being 49,000 words into the first draft of a new novel!

    Enjoy the High Sierra. :)

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    1. Thanks! I’m a little bummed about having to break off at this point, but heading to the mountains is important!

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  8. Way to go, Rebecca! And enjoy the High Sierras ~ so beautiful!

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    1. Thanks! I'm not sure I have a clue what I'm doing with this new book, but as long as I'm putting words on paper (pixels on screens) I'm assuming I'm making progress :D

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  9. I'd rather be exploring that area as well!
    Keep writing.

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    1. It's one of my favorite parts of the world. And I'm taking my laptop (not on the trail, but the training hikes/acclimatization period will involve some down time).

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  10. You're writing and exploring. Now that's living! I'm off on a hike tomorrow, but not as exciting as yours. I hear the smoke is headed east, so I hope you'll be okay.

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  11. Have a blast on your hiking trip. I always take my laptop on road trips. Even in unfamiliar places, there's usually a little nook (or quiet time) where I can just write -- free from the commitments of the ordinary. I'm also dreading the smoke a little as we're planning two trips in the next four weeks, one to the Wallowas in eastern Oregon and the other, a leisurely drive down to Santa Fe NM. Write on!

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  12. Enjoy the hiking! Sounds awesome. I hope your laptop is light and you find your nook and get some writing done. That messy first draft sounds about right. Get the story down!

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  13. Congratulations on all the writing you're getting accomplished! Enjoy your trip!

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  14. Thanks for stopping by my blog.
    Glad your writing is going well.
    Your trip sounds fun.

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