Showing posts with label creativity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label creativity. Show all posts

Monday, July 22, 2019

Master Class With Margaret Atwood


I stumbled across the Master Class series some time ago. At that time I thought that an all access pass was the way to go. My wallet decided otherwise! I just signed up for the class that I was primarily interested in - Margaret Atwoods class on writing. The link above talks about the general outline of what is offered. This post takes a look at what I am actually experiencing in the class.

"Creativity is one of the essential things about being human. So you don't have to apologize for it. It's something human beings do." ~ from the workbook

I downloaded the workbook - which is a true gem!  In it, Atwood references her own work, as well as presenting writing prompts for her students. There are assignments, links to reference material, examples of various techniques that can be used to create beginnings, middles, and ends, deciding on what voice to use in a story, and so much more!

In her videos, Atwood is very clear about her topic, has a very eloquent speaking voice, and a lovely sense of humor. The next chapter that I am going to be working with is all about layered narratives and how to structure a story. I am very happy that I took the plunge and paid for this course ... you will see better work coming from me in the very near future!

(c) July 2019 Bonnie Cehovet
Reproduction prohibited without written permission from the author.


Monday, July 8, 2019

Writing Prompts


What exactly are writing prompts, and why do we need them? Writing prompts are starting places, they present us with ideas that we can use to unleash our creativity. They help us when we are stuck in our writing, when we are not sure how to bring things together. 

There are many ways that we can make use of writing prompts:
  • Expand your creativity by challenging yourself to write as many stories as you can using the same prompt.
  • Use the prompt to create an entire story using the elements of plot, characterization, and interaction of characters.
  • Work with a partner (or within a group) to critique each others use of prompts.
Working with writing prompts allows us to hone our writing skills - and it is fun! There are many online sites, and blogs, that offer writing prompts. Use them to break out your writing!

(c) July 2019 Bonnie Cehovet
Reproduction prohibited without written permission from the author.

Long Chapters Or Short Chapters - What Is Your Preference?

Does it make a difference to a reader whether the chapters in a book are long or short? It does to me. I like shorter chapters, as they feed...