Tag: Research

Posted on

Tip #4

What is your job, your function as a writer? Do you write poetry or prose? If you write prose, what genre do you favor If you write novels, you probably tell stories. James A. Michener was a storyteller, and he excelled at it.

Tip #4. “The job of a storyteller is to tell stories, and I have concentrated on that obligation.”

And Mr. Michener did an outstanding job! You might have noticed that his novels are long. For example, Texas has 1,474 pages, and Hawaii has 1,490 pages. But he conducted extensive research, he did his homework, and rewrote them several times with editorial assistance. The first printing of Texas was 750,000 copies.

But don’t try to copy Mr. Michener. Don’t try to write long stories. Instead write what you feel comfortable with. Be yourself, establish your voice and your style, do your homework, give yourself time to excel. But write! And you may be thrilled with the results if you …

Write Creatively.

Posted on

Don’t Quit Writing – Just Change Directions

In 1982 I started writing a book about ancient Middle-eastern history. I enjoy studying about Abra … what did you say? Did I finish it?

Well, not quite. I mean, no. I have perhaps over 500 pages of research on it, and have written 18 chapters. But often an idea for change hits my mind, and I stop work on the project until the change has been understood, resolved, and implemented. Apparently I am not ready to finish this one, yet.

What have I been doing? Well, I’m glad you asked. I have written 4 other books, and 2 more are on the drawing board. But I will eventually finish this one.

No, I’m not wasting time, and I haven’t given up on that book. If you know me, I don’t give up on anything I put my hands to. However, I do change directions at times. It might surprise you to know that I’ve also written for newspapers for over 22 years, and I now format and publish books for people.

But forget that. What I’m trying to get across is the following: Writers don’t stop writing just because ideas stop flowing. Writing is what we do. So we put one project aside and start another, or continue on another that’s been waiting for us.

So, don’t get stressed out if what you are writing doesn’t seem to be flowing. Don’t toss it away. Save it – most likely on your computer – because the idea might come alive later. But don’t stop writing. It is okay to have several projects going simultaneously. When you feel like stopping on one book, work on another one. You will eventually have several books written. And don’t forget to …

Write Creatively.

But now that I think of it, I stopped on the Middle-eastern book when Abram was summoned to the palace of King Ibbi-Sin (pronounced “Eebbee-Seen), and Abram sensed danger. … I think I’ll get back on that project.

Hey, don’t stop writing. If you need help, contact me, and we’ll talk about your project.