The first rule of writing is to read! Learning through osmosis.
Author Archives: Thomas Fawkes
Why “just keep writing” is the best writing advice ever
Keep trying, keep failing, and watch the failures become more and more spaced out. Wannabes talk about writing, real writers actually write. Keep trying. No magic key. Just keep writing.
Debating the value of an idea or belief is not debating the value of the person who holds it.
Some people are willing to separate themselves from their ideas, while others are not. I have some acquaintances who are easy to discuss differences of opinion with, because they don’t take it personally. Others get frustrated when I question an idea. I don’t necessarily question because I disagree, but because I want to view it fromContinueContinue reading “Debating the value of an idea or belief is not debating the value of the person who holds it.”
How to overcome getting overwhelmed and work efficiently
Use these rules and tools for greater efficiency and focus in managing your projects.
What makes a corrupt civilization?
In fictional or real worlds, anytime a governing body has absolute rule, innocents suffer and die. The more innocents suffering and dying, the worse a civilization you have. In fact, that is the true measure of a moral government and/or civilization. Do they see the deaths of innocents as a “necessary evil” to bring about change?ContinueContinue reading “What makes a corrupt civilization?”
When the worst thing that CAN happen will ALWAYS happen (in fiction)
Write fiction where the next most LOGICAL thing happens, not always and only where the WORST thing happens.
How to discipline your creative brain
In short, rid yourself of the mindset that you have a Creative Brain and an Analytical Brain. Create a new mindset where you have 1 brain: A well-trained, well-practiced, and highly-disciplined Creative Brain.
Facebook and Google are putting you in a bubble
Someone on the radio the other day (NPR, perhaps?) pointed out that some groups think that the whole country is going to vote for their favorite presidential candidate while polls show that only about 20% of people are considering them. Why? Because: Facebook and Google, in their efforts to show content which they think we would like,ContinueContinue reading “Facebook and Google are putting you in a bubble”
Is my fantasy too European?
Is my fantasy European? Should I base it on another culture? My advice: Create new cultures from scratch.
Useful Query Tips
The following tips were helpful in writing my query: No longer than 1 page, 12 pt. font, double-spaced (most agents/editors want this length). Keep the overview/hook under 200 words. Don’t include the ending. Do include the fun, the feel, the tone, and the unique voice. State specific reasons why you are sending to this particularContinueContinue reading “Useful Query Tips”
Thomas Fawkes 