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Why Aren't You Writing?

@writeinspiration / writeinspiration.tumblr.com

Do you write? Do you procrastinate? Then this is for you! I'll provide writing prompts, inspiration, random ramblings, and the kick-butt attitude to get you to cut the crap and JUST WRITE. -- Ask me questions! You can ask me about ANYTHING. I'll always be honest with you! -- If "Why Aren't You Writing?" is something you enjoy and/or something that benefits you, then feel free to drop a tip here: paypal.me/WriteInspiration. -- My name is Stephanie Tillman, I have a Master's degree in English, I have a lot of physical and mental health problems, and I'd love to have some extra financial support if you appreciate my work. :) Any amount is welcome! -- Icon by Emmersdrawberry -- Products available here: https://society6.com/writeinspiration -- NOW AT StephanieTillman.com
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Some tips to help you improve your writing style:

1. Read widely: Reading a variety of genres and authors exposes you to different writing styles and helps you develop a broader vocabulary and an understanding of various sentence structures. For example, if you want to improve your descriptive writing, read books by authors known for their vivid imagery like J.R.R. Tolkien or Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

2. Write regularly: Like any skill, writing improves with practice. Set aside dedicated time for writing, whether it's a journal entry, a short story, or an essay. Consistency is key. By writing regularly, you'll become more comfortable expressing your ideas and develop your unique voice.

3. Be mindful of your audience: Tailor your writing style to suit your target audience. Consider their level of familiarity with the subject matter, their interests, and their expectations. For instance, if you're writing a scientific paper for experts in the field, use technical language and provide in-depth analysis. On the other hand, if you're writing a blog post for a general audience, use accessible language and relatable examples.

4. Use active voice and strong verbs: Active voice makes your writing more direct and engaging. It emphasizes the subject performing the action rather than the action itself. For example, instead of saying "The ball was thrown by John," use "John threw the ball." Strong verbs also add clarity and power to your writing. Compare "He walked slowly" with "He sauntered" or "He ambled."

5. Vary sentence structure: Experiment with different sentence lengths and structures to maintain reader interest. A mix of short, medium, and long sentences can create rhythm and flow. For example, a series of short, punchy sentences can build tension or convey urgency, while longer sentences can provide detailed explanations or set a contemplative tone.

6. Use precise and vivid language: Choose words that convey your meaning precisely and evoke vivid imagery. Instead of saying "The flower looked pretty," you could say "The delicate blossom bloomed in vibrant shades of crimson and gold." Specific and descriptive language brings your writing to life and engages the reader's senses.

7. Edit and revise: Good writing often requires multiple rounds of editing. After you finish a draft, take the time to review and revise your work. Look for clarity, coherence, and grammar errors. Consider whether each sentence contributes to the overall message and whether the organization of your ideas flows logically. Don't be afraid to make significant changes if they improve your writing.

8. Seek feedback: Share your work with trusted friends, colleagues, or writing groups. Constructive feedback can help you identify blind spots and areas for improvement. Consider their suggestions while maintaining your unique voice and style.

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Writeblr Glossary

A list of words commonly used in the Writeblr community and their meaning!

I’ve gotten a lot of questions about what some things mean, so I thought it was time to compile a list of meanings.

  • Writeblr — A community of writers on tumblr; A blog that posts primarily about writing. See here for a more in-depth explanation. (Also written as Writblr on occasion)
  • WIP  — Stands for Work in Progress. Primarily, it’s a piece of fictional work that is still in the writing process and is unfinished. (Also see: WIP page)
  • OC  — Stands for Original Character. This is a character entirely of your own creation.
  • Tag list  — A tag list is a list of users who will be tagged in every post that a Writeblr makes about a certain WIP. It is often included at the bottom of a post, and people are free to ask to be included, or removed from it.
  • WIP Page  — A page or a post on a Writeblr that describes a WIP. Commonly includes a synopsis, setting, characters, etc. See here for what goes in a WIP page and how to make one.
  • Tag games — Tumblr games where people will do something (often answer questions, a snippet of their WIP, etc) and ask other users to participate by using the @ function in that post.
  • Ask games  — A tumblr game where a user will request people to send them things with the ask function. Often times will include a list of questions they wish to be asked.
  • Fanfiction  — Fiction written by a fan about an existing TV show, movie, book, etc. Often features the characters, the setting, etc. of that piece of media.
  • AU  — Stands for Alternate Universe. AUs typically feature the same cast of characters of a WIP or an existing piece of fiction with a major change or two. (For example, a Fantasy AU would involve placing the characters in a fantasy setting. There also may be an AU of what might happen if a certain character didn’t die in their story).
  • Canon  — Material or information that is accepted as an official part of a story. (i.e., the creator confirms it and includes it in their story).
  • Headcanons  — Ideas and interpretations of a fictional work that is accepted by a fan, but isn’t necessarily supported by canon.
  • Moodboard  — A collection of images meant to evoke a certain feeling or emotion. Often used by Writeblrs for their WIPs and OCs.

Have a word you’d like to see included? Let me know and I’ll add it!

Have a question on what a writeblr term means? Ask!

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character playlists always should have the following:

  • song that is pretty accurate to the character’s story
  • song that doesn’t fit the character at all but i was thinking about them while listening to it on loop
  • song that has one or two lines accurate to the character’s story
  • song that just kind of is the character’s vibe
  • song that i desperately wish they would listen to because i personally like it
  • song that fits the character so well that it’s scary
  • unsure why this song is in the playlist but it’s so ingrained in my mind as 'part of the playlist' that it would feel weird to remove it
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prokopetz

I think a lot of slasher horror gets stuck in a rut because the monsters are only moderately Catholic. Like, ooh, you're cutting people up for entry-level sexual immorality – how edgy. I want to see a monster that cuts people up for something that's only a sin in one specific early 4th Century heresy, and half the movie is taken up with the protagonists trying to figure out what it's even mad about.

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reblogged

I demand vampires with parent issues. the parents in question have been dead for 7 centuries but their immortal offspring still bring them up every week in therapy

and no i don't mean their vampiric sire aka the rando who bit them in the woods one night and fucked off. i mean like the 14th cent stonemason who refused to let his kid apprentice with a traveling bard, because that's just not solid steady work, not like this here cathedral we've been building for generations, this is a respectable family business my lad, a blessing fallen right into your lap! and you going on and on about the hurdy-gurdy. traveling minstrel indeed!

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Embracing Chaos: A Pantser's Guide to Crafting Compelling Fiction

Planning a story when you're a pantser (someone who writes "by the seat of their pants" without extensive outlining) can be a creative and fluid process. Here are some steps to help you plan a fic, even if you prefer to write without a detailed outline:

  1. Start with an idea. Begin with a basic idea or concept for your fic. It could be a character, a situation, a setting, or even a specific scene that's been floating around in your mind.
  2. Character Sketches: Develop your characters. Write down their names, physical descriptions, personalities, and backstories. Even if you don't plan everything in advance, knowing your characters well can guide your writing as you go.
  3. Set your goals: Determine what you want to achieve with your fiction. Is it a short story, novella, or novel? What's the central theme or message you want to convey? Understanding your goals can give your writing direction.
  4. Identify Key Plot Points: Instead of a detailed outline, focus on identifying key plot points or moments you want to include in your fic. These could be major events, conflicts, or turning points. Think about the beginning, middle, and end.
  5. Create a Loose Timeline: Organise your key plot points in a loose chronological order. This will help you maintain a sense of structure without stifling your creativity. You can rearrange or add new points as you write.
  6. Develop Themes and Motifs: Consider the themes and motifs you want to explore in your fic. These can help guide your writing and give it depth. Themes could be love, friendship, redemption, etc.
  7. Write a First Scene: Start with the opening scene or chapter. This will help you dive into the story without feeling overwhelmed by the entire plot. As you write, let the characters and situations evolve naturally.
  8. Follow Your Characters: Allow your characters to guide the story. As you write, pay attention to how they react to situations and make decisions. Sometimes, the best plot twists come from character-driven choices.
  9. Embrace Revision: Understand that your story may evolve and change as you write. Don't be afraid to revise and rewrite parts of your fic to maintain consistency and improve the overall narrative.
  10. Use Writing Prompts: If you ever get stuck or need inspiration, consider using writing prompts. They can help you generate new ideas and keep the creative juices flowing.
  11. Beta Readers or Feedback: If you're comfortable with it, share your work with beta readers or writing groups. They can provide valuable feedback and suggestions to help you refine your fiction.
  12. Stay Open to Change: Be open to making major changes if the story naturally takes a different direction than you initially planned. Sometimes, the best stories come from unexpected twists.
  13. Trust the Process: Remember that everyone's writing process is different. Embrace the pantser approach if it works for you, and trust your instincts as a writer.

Writing as a pantser can be an exciting and spontaneous journey. While it may require more revisions and editing along the way, it often leads to unique and organic storytelling. So, start writing and let your creativity flow freely!

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Currently I’m working on asking myself how I can make any situation I’m in more cozy and enjoyable. That means making a hot drink and cleaning my glasses before I sit down to read. Putting on my favorite music while I scroll tumblr or draw. Checking the weather and putting on proper clothing before going on a walk. Preparing something nice to snack on before sitting down to watch TV. Listening to an audio book while doing the dishes. Because often it only takes a couple minutes to do something extra that makes a positive difference!

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wordsnstuff

Character Development : A Collection of Resources

Resources

General Tips

Understanding Your Character

Traits

Archetypes

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