#Novel Writing

[53rdcenturyhero]

Let's all never go back to "please don't get mad at me island".

been stewing on an analytical approach to fiction which I call "is this book afraid of me?" and in order to answer this question you determine how hard the book is trying to make sure you don't come after the writer on twitter

[luna-azzurra]

Your Protagonist Needs to Be Wrong About Something Big

A compelling character arc isn’t just about growth, it’s about realizing they were wrong. Wrong about themselves. Wrong about the world. Wrong about someone they loved. A character who starts the book believing one thing and ends it with a shattered worldview? That’s how you make it unforgettable.

[morallysuperiorlips]

PLEASE Write Your Book!

I'm serious. Please write it. If you need a sign to start, continue, or whatever is inbetween, this is it. Go do it.

I spent the past couple weeks indulging myself in some BookTok recommendations. While some were indeed good (Kings of Sin, my beloved), some were just...I don't need to finish my sentence there.

I DNF'd some books for the first time since I read Lord of the Flies (sorry Golding, you put me to sleep with your descriptions) and I powered through others in hopes that they would eventually get better. The general consensus I ended up getting was that I could not understand for the fucking life of me how these books got published. The writing in some of them was no better than that of a 2010s teen writing Maximum Ride fic on Wattpad for the first time, with the characterization abysmal enough to match.

I don't want to knock any specific author or book here, because I will concede one thing: they finished their books. They got them published. They're successful. For that, I commend them, because I'm still on my way there myself and I can't take that away from them. Jolly good show.

But that brings me to my point: if they can do it, YOU absolutely can do it too.

If some of these Amazon and NYT bestsellers can have prose on a Wattpad level with characters that have enough poorly-written cognitive dissonance to make Deadpool or Walter White jealous, your fleshed out, deeply intuitive, and remarkably creative epic can sit right alongside them no problem. Whether you're writing the next GoT or a romantic slice-of-life, there is a not a goddamn thing on this planet stopping you from rolling up with the big dogs.

If these guys can do it, so can you.

So, stop telling yourself you can't. Stop letting other people tell you you can't. Stop comparing yourself to these authors who, respectfully and bluntly, can't write for shit (or at least need to fire their fucking editors, good lord).

WRITE YOUR DAMN BOOK. PLEASE. WE NEED IT.

(If you like my guides, prompts, writing, or art, consider supporting the blog today! All donations help me keep this thing up and running and all are appreciated <3)

[bonnibelleangelicaofficial]

3 Exercises To Improve Your Writing

1) Sentence Patterning 🎨

Print off a random page of your work and use different coloured highlighters on each sentence, depending on how long they are. You might realise you’ve been stuck in a rhythm without realising it. A rainbow is what you want to see!

2) Stickynoting! 📝

Write out each scene (or topic change) on a stickynote thats colour indicates how plotheavy it is. A few fluffy, relaxed scenes are fine, but you don’t want half the book to be pointless. Likewise, you also don't want every scene to be insanely over the top.

3) Pindropping 📌

Draw a line, mark out the major events of your story, then drop in every revelation, character introduction, first mention, shift and development. See how dense certain areas might be vs others. Do you throw everything at the reader in the first chapter? Or do you hold back too much and leave your audience clueless.

Click “My Writing Tips” in the tags for more!

Click here to check out my book! @statusquoofficial

[writer-logbook]

How did I improve my writing style... without actually writing.

Intro : It's just a clickbait title to talk about theory and side techniques - before actually practicing, of course.

LINGUISTIC ISN'T GRAMMAR - AND IT'S BETTER TO KNOW ABOUT BOTH. It's useful for writing impactful dialogue and giving your characters depth. Your characters' language should (ideally) take into account: their social position (rich or poor), the locality (local expressions?) and sometimes their age (different cultural references). And this is best transcribed with linguistic knowledge. In short: linguistics is descriptive, grammar is prescriptive.

The areas of linguistic analysis are syntax (rules governing the structure of sentences),  semantics (meaning),  morphology (structure of words), phonetics (speech sounds and equivalent gestures in sign languages), phonology (the abstract sound system of a particular language, and analogous systems of sign languages), and pragmatics (how the context of use contributes to meaning). (Linguistics, Wikipedia)

Literary theory isn't as boring as it sounds. Learn more about internal criteria of the text (figure of speech, style, aesthetic...) and external criteria of the text (the author's persona and responsability, the role of the reader and what is left to interpretation...). I refer you to the French Wikipedia page, which you can translate directly via your browser in case you need more information. (Make sure you translate the page not switch language, because the content isn't the same).

Listening to Youtube Video about the analysis of film sequences and/or scenario. Remember when I told you to read historical fiction to learn how to describe a castle properly ? Same vibe.

Novel adaptations of movies. = when the movie exists before the book, and not the other way around. e.g : The Shape of Water ; Pan's Labyrinth. In line with tip n°3, it allows us to see how emotions, scenes and descriptions have been translated into writing - and thus to better visualize concepts that may have been abstract.

Read books about authors' writing experiences. e.g : Stephen King, On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft. Everyone's different, but they can provide some insightful tips not only on the act of writing itself, but on the environment conducive to writing, planning… Comparing completely different authors' experience could also be fun (this video of King and Martin is actually one of my fav)

Ah and many thanks for your ❤ and reblogs on my latest post ! UwU

[the-lady-in-progress]

I’ve always struggled with this. If it’s someone you care about then how long do you hold on and try to help them become a better person before you have to let go? I guess that depends on each persons breaking point.

“If someone treats you badly recognize that there is something wrong with them, not you. Normal people do not go around destroying other people.”

— Unknown

[haru-natsuka]

Second Male Leads Are all Yanderes but I Won't Rest Until I Win My Love Back (Female Reader x OCs)

CHAPTER 8

Story will start after the synopsis

Every second male lead who appeared in this world had a hidden yandere side that can emerge at any moment and turn them into a twisted and obsessive villain.

As someone with a severe case of the "second male lead syndrome", you are determined to pursue your love for the second male lead, leaving the original male lead to become the second.

While you were busy chasing after the second male lead, the original male lead kept on bothering you and trying to get you to choose him instead.

"Don't you dare to come any closer!" You snap at the original male lead, your tone sharp and firm.

"Oh, and who's going to stop me? You?" The yandere stares at you, a menacing look in their eyes, as their body slowly moves closer.

"Too close! Step back!"

"Your words mean nothing to me. You can't control me. I will come as close as I please, you can't stop me."

As if a yandere was not enough, when you chose to ignore the original male lead, another second male lead suddenly entered your life, further complicating the situation.

The yandere and the upcoming second male lead both seem determined to have you for themselves, and they were both very possessive and pushy in their approaches to you.

You just wanted to be happy with your true love. Yandere or not, you would stick with your crush!

CHAPTER 1 << CHAPTER 2 << CHAPTER 3 << CHAPTER 4 << CHAPTER 5 << CHAPTER 6 << CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 8: MY LOVE

Cyrus's words echoed through your mind, leaving you reeling. Frustration and annoyance surged through you at his nonchalant attitude.

'This guy! This worthless dumb guy!'

"Is your love so devoid of depth?" you retorted, your voice cutting through the air like a sharp edge.

"Do you think someone you loved can just be replaced so easily? The feelings can be discarded like yesterday's trash? Is your love that shallow?" Your anger and hurt boiled over as you continue.

"Do you think love is as frivolous as choosing a new outfit?" you continued, your words laced with sarcasm. "That I can just toss away all the time I've spent with Adrian and jump into your arms just like that?"

'Even if the world comes to an end, my end would only be my sweetest man'

"What?" Cyrus's expression morphed into baffled surprise at your response, having not anticipated the depth of your lecture on love.

"I'm not sure what led you to break up with Liesel," you continued, your tone sharp, "or even if your previous relationship ended in a bitter dispute. But it's rather comical how much effort you invest in finding another girl to fill Liesel's place. You should know that no one can truly replace her—she is her own, unique person. And the reason behind your failed relationship is one that lies firmly within yourself."

With a final scoff, you added bitterly. "You can keep looking for someone like her, but you'll only end up alone and miserable."

Cyrus's face fell, his usual smirk replaced with a hint of vulnerability as he took in your words.

"Alone and miserable, huh?" he echoed softly, his gaze dropping to the ground. He remained silent for a moment, absorbing the weight of your truthful remark. When he spoke again, his voice had lost some of its usual cockiness, replaced by a trace of uncertainty.

"Maybe you're right," he said, his tone lacking the usual confident edge. "Maybe I am just chasing a fantasy, trying to replace Liesel with someone else."

Cyrus's demeanor transformed, his gaze hardening as he closed the distance between you. His expression was serious as he spoke.

"But I am not simply searching for a replica of Liesel," he clarified. "I want someone better."

His eyes locked on yours as he continued, his voice firm and the confidence slowly slipped in again. "I've noticed you at the academy. The devotion and loyalty you exhibit towards Adrian. I don't have overly high standards. I want someone dedicated to me, someone with their undivided attention on me, someone like you."

'WHAT THE-'

You unleashed your anger, stomping forcefully on his foot with the heel of your shoe. You choose to never lying of your feelings as this man would misinterpret it as he pleased.

"I detest you," you retorted, your voice filled with frustration, "so shut up."

Cyrus winced slightly from the pain but did not back down.

"Hate is merely the opposite of love. I am capable of protecting you. You can count on me. I'm an accomplished knight, part of the royal guard, and I am stronger than Adrian. Trust me."

'OH MY GOD! Why it's so hard to make this guy understand!'

You took a deep breath, trying to compose yourself despite your anger.

"Your strength is certainly impressive," you acknowledged grudgingly, "but it takes more than physical prowess to be a reliable partner."

Your gaze remained fixed on Cyrus as you added, "Trust and loyalty aren't things you can simply demand or force. They are earned through actions and time. And Adrian give me more reason to trust him."

"Trust and loyalty are indeed earned, not demanded. Adrian has given you more reason to trust him, huh? But what has he done to deserve such unwavering faith, hm?"

Your frustration continued to bubble up as Cyrus challenged your trust in Adrian.

"Trust and loyalty are exactly that," you agreed, your voice firm. "They are earned by consistent actions over time."

You met his gaze head-on as you responded, "And yes, Adrian has given me ample reason to trust him, reason enough that I don't need to justify it to you. But let me ask you this. What have you done to deserve such blind trust from me?"

"All I can say is that you haven't been a good friend to Adrian," you snapped back, unable to hold your tongue. "You knew damn well how much he adored Liesel, yet you had the audacity to confess your feelings right in front of him. Did you even try to comfort him when his heart was shattered? No, instead of being there for him, you both just ditched him like discarded leftovers."

Cyrus's eyes widened, caught off guard by your sharp words.

"Not even a good friend, huh?" he muttered, his tone defensive. "I might not have been the ideal support for Adrian during his heartbreak, but I had my own feelings to consider."

He attempted to justify his actions, "I couldn't help confessing my love for Liesel. It was eating away at me. And leaving Adrian? We both had our own reasons. We didn't leave him like some discardable food. It was a complex situation."

"COMPLEX SITUATION?!!! HOW DARE YOU SELFISH BRAT!-"

Your frustration rose to a new peak as Cyrus covered your mouth mid-sentence. His habit of touching you without permission was irritating beyond belief. Enraged, you managed to get a hold on his hair, tugging aggressively as you also you bite strongly on his palm, causing him to grunt in pain and agony.

"There!" You snapped, a hint of satisfaction in your voice. "How does a bald patch sound?"

Near you, there was sound of rustling and crashing foliage alerted you to an unexpected development. It seemed that your struggle with Cyrus had attracted a nearby wild boar's attention, and it was now charging towards you both with its short and fast tiny feet.

"That's what I want to tell you" Cyrus turned his attention swiftly towards the wild boar, his instincts on high alert. He clutched his head, rubbing the spot where you had grabbed his hair, while also trying to keep a wary eye on the approaching danger.

"You are a knight, do something with that sword!"

"Right," he muttered, drawing his sword from its sheath. With practiced ease, Cyrus positioned himself to confront the approaching boar, wielding his blade with practiced precision.

The wild boar was closing in rapidly, its fierce eyes fixed on you both. Cyrus positioned himself in front of you, preparing to confront the charging animal.

"Stay behind me," he instructed, keeping his gaze firmly fixed on the charging animal. "I'll handle this. At the end you still require someone strong"

As Cyrus stood valiantly, sword in hand, preparing to face the charging boar, you seized the moment. There was no reason for you to stay with him. You also had successfully collected all the flowers you need for Adrian. He was so focused on being the hero that he did not notice your sudden departure.

Taking advantage of his distraction, you swiftly turned and dashed away towards your house, leaving Cyrus to face the wild boar on his own. You did not look back, your mind set on putting distance between yourself and the obnoxious knight that you had no care what would happened to him.

'Oh wild boar, I hope you are satisfied with your breakfast. I will make sure no one would find out'

As you raced towards your house, you noticed Adrian tending to the fields as usual, his figure familiar and comforting. The sight of him brought a pang of mixed emotions – relief and reassurance.

You quickened your pace, your heart pounding in your chest. The events with Cyrus had left you both physically and emotionally shaken, and all you longed for now was the comfort of Adrian's presence and his soothing voice.

"Adrian!"

Tag list:

@d3sperate-enuf @sirenetheblogger @orinnie @aoiyx @chin-chii

@elsoleil @iamapotatoe @yzuposts @black-butterfly-2405

@beeskn3es @ivorette @type-ink @lol-leo @rafayelslittleconchshell

[elleldoe]

'coming up with a phrase that you're really proud of and then feeling the urge to overuse it' is the writer equivalent of 'buying cute clothes and then wanting to wear them every day for a month'

[smellyrottentrees]

Huge fan of the ship dynamic where no one knows they’re dating—not because they’re hiding it or anything, their personalities just clash so hard no one believes them when they do relationship shit.

[thewordsarestuckinmyhead]

the face I have to hide every time a new plot idea for my WIP comes to me in a public setting

[the-lady-in-progress]

This one reminds me of my MMC.

“Somewhere, far down, there was an itch in his heart, but he made it a point not to scratch it. He was afraid of what might come leaking out.”

— Markus Zusak

[theaftersundown]

the holy grail types of fanfic

[charbroiledchicken]

if it's good enough for you, then it deserves to be made. don't let anyone else decide if your story is worth it or not.

[hayatheauthor]

10 Non-Lethal Injuries to Add Pain to Your Writing

New Part: 10 Lethal Injury Ideas

If you need a simple way to make your characters feel pain, here are some ideas: 

1. Sprained Ankle

A common injury that can severely limit mobility. This is useful because your characters will have to experience a mild struggle and adapt their plans to their new lack of mobiliy. Perfect to add tension to a chase scene.

2. Rib Contusion

A painful bruise on the ribs can make breathing difficult, helping you sneak in those ragged wheezes during a fight scene. Could also be used for something sport-related! It's impactful enough to leave a lingering pain but not enough to hinder their overall movement.

3. Concussions

This common brain injury can lead to confusion, dizziness, and mood swings, affecting a character’s judgment heavily. It can also cause mild amnesia.

I enjoy using concussions when you need another character to subtly take over the fight/scene, it's an easy way to switch POVs. You could also use it if you need a 'cute' recovery moment with A and B.

4. Fractured Finger

A broken finger can complicate tasks that require fine motor skills. This would be perfect for characters like artists, writers, etc. Or, a fighter who brushes it off as nothing till they try to throw a punch and are hit with pain.

5. Road Rash

Road rash is an abrasion caused by friction. Aka scraping skin. The raw, painful sting resulting from a fall can be a quick but effective way to add pain to your writing. Tip: it's great if you need a mild injury for a child.

6. Shoulder Dislocation

This injury can be excruciating and often leads to an inability to use one arm, forcing characters to confront their limitations while adding urgency to their situation. Good for torture scenes.

7. Deep Laceration

A deep laceration is a cut that requires stitches. As someone who got stitches as a kid, they really aren't that bad! A 2-3 inch wound (in length) provides just enough pain and blood to add that dramatic flair to your writing while not severely deterring your character.

This is also a great wound to look back on since it often scars. Note: the deeper and wider the cut the worse your character's condition. Don't give them a 5 inch deep gash and call that mild.

8. Burns

Whether from fire, chemicals, or hot surfaces, burns can cause intense suffering and lingering trauma. Like the previous injury, the lasting physical and emotional trauma of a burn is a great wound for characters to look back on.

If you want to explore writing burns, read here.

9. Pulled Muscle

This can create ongoing pain and restrict movement, offering a window to force your character to lean on another. Note: I personally use muscle related injuries when I want to focus more on the pain and sprains to focus on a lack of mobility.

10. Tendonitis

Inflammation of a tendon can cause chronic pain and limit a character's ability to perform tasks they usually take for granted. When exploring tendonitis make sure you research well as this can easily turn into a more severe injury.

This is a quick, brief list of ideas to provide writers inspiration. Since it is a shorter blog, I have not covered the injuries in detail. This is inspiration, not a thorough guide. Happy writing! :)

Looking For More Writing Tips And Tricks? 

Check out the rest of Quillology with Haya; a blog dedicated to writing and publishing tips for authors!

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[bunnie-tells-stories]

If you’re having writers block…READ!!!! CONSUME MEDIA

I feel like I don’t hear that given enough as advice for writers block..just read? Watch tv? Movies? Find inspiration in media.

Writers block is a lack of inspiration, so go collect more.