‘Creative’ is not a noun…Lots of people want to be the noun without doing the verb. They want the job title, not the work.”
Austin Kleon, Keep Going
I read Chapter 3 of Kleon’s latest book this morning and it stopped me in my tracks.
Not because I didn’t know and understand what he said.
I have, after all, made a name for myself as the person who entices writers to actually write during May & September every year.
But because it made me wonder: am I actually doing the verb?
This month, as we transition from StoryADay September into the rest of our writing lives, I encourage you to slow down, turn left, and break things.
LINKS
SWAGr: https://stada.me/swagr
Opening Lines Article: https://storyaday.org/opening-lines/
This month I am still talking about writing for minor holidays and anniversaries. In this podcast I reveal the grand plan behind this: it’s a system for focusing on particularly stories, regularly.
I talk about the importance of systems (because apparently Ihave a problem with the word “routine”) and I recommend you check out Tim Grahl’s new book Running Down The Dream.
If you want a super-bundle that includes not only Tim’s book, but the new book by Stephen Pressfield too “The Artist’s Journey” (swoon!), you can find that here.
https://stada.me/grahl (not an affiliate link. I’m just a huge fan of both of these guys)
The bundle contains all ebook formats plus audio book files. Quite the steal!
This week I share some of the prompts from week 4 of StoryADay May 2018, talk about creativity and limits, and encourage you to dive into the community at StoryADay.
Also, I talk about drug discovery and wheelbarrows…
LINKS
Serious Writers’ Accountability Group (SWAGr): https://stada.me/swagr
The problem with doing something hard (like writing) is not that you aren’t good. It’s that it’s hard to know how long to work before you decide that you really aren’t any good.
(Hint: It’s longer than you think. And you may never be able to tell!)
How to keep going when you’re not sure if you should.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
My author interviews at NaNoWriMo’s blog: http://blog.nanowrimo.org/
Jerry Jenkins: http://jerrysguild.com
DIYMFA’s 101 Course: https://members.diymfa.com/101-course/
In Week 2 of StoryADay May 2018 we’re working on craft-based writing prompts (character desires, conflict, structures, openings and endings). Picking up skills and putting down words.
But now that the novelty has worn off, what can you do to rekindle your excitement about writing every day for a month?
The only qualification to be a ‘Superstar” is a desire to write and support your fellow writers.
A supportive group of committed writers, who meet virtually, support each other’s efforts, and inspire each other.
Registration for 2024 open now-June 8, 2024
A 6-part journey through the short story.
Starts Jan 3, 2025