I’ve written various novel drafts. Usually I start them, at least, during NaNoWriMo. The month-long deadline means I have to start it on November 1, no dilly-dallying, no messing around, start it when the clock strikes 12 and keep on … Continue reading »The metaphorical blank page
Writers don’t, as a rule, need to do any English papers at university or anything like that. Some didn’t even go to university at all. It’s far from a requirement, and there’s always the chance you could hobble yourself in … Continue reading »We don’t need no education
I am exceedingly pleased that people seem to have enjoyed “Resurrection Men”. It’s the first proper short story that I’ve written in the longest time. I’m not sure that short stories are something I am particularly good at; they’re difficult … Continue reading »With a twist (of lemon)
What do I have in me today? Alan Rickman died. Now I recall the old “they come in threes” and wait for the other shoe to drop. I suppose it might be Lemmy, but a part of me feels as if … Continue reading »Karkinos
I am reminding myself that there’s no reason to be checking Submittable every two seconds. Reading periods average at around three months long; I’m unlikely to hear from them for a while, and honestly, in my experience, it’s better if … Continue reading »Writer Problems
Ah, the beginning of a new year. A fresh start! Though it must be acknowledged that January has elements of looking back, as well as looking forward. Thus far, I’m satisfied with how I’m starting the year (hangover notwithstanding). I’ve … Continue reading »2015 in Review
I was on track. I was going to win. 50 thousand words in 30 days? I could do that. I was going to make November my bitch. And then my hard drive fell on its sword. Thankfully I … Continue reading »My absence revealed
NaNoWriMo has been going well. I am on-target with my word-count, essentially forcing 1667 words out of myself every day and often exceeding it. I’ve never been on-target in week two before. My usual habit is to start taking days … Continue reading »Steady steps
It’s been a year since last NaNo, and longer still since I’ve won. This year, I’m determined to succeed. I want to write at least the requisite 1667 words per day. Per day. That means every day. I am focused. … Continue reading »Day Four, and the weather’s not frightful yet
I am filled with the enthusiasm of October, when time is spent browsing the NaNoWriMo forums and making notes. The NaNo forums are a fantastic place in October. November, too, although in November everyone is scatter-brained, sleep-deprived, and running on … Continue reading »Aiming High