#let Austen’s storytelling shine!!!

[whenthegoldrays]

I don’t know what it is about the Jane Austen adaptations I’ve seen recently, but they just have so much trouble sticking the landing.

[decorationinside]

Immerse Yourself in Words: Crafting a Literary Lounge Cafe Experience

For bookworms and bibliophiles alike, the allure of a cafe infused with the spirit of literature is undeniable. Step into a Literary Lounge, and you'll find yourself surrounded by the magic of stories, where every corner whispers tales and every cup fuels imagination. So, how do you transform your cafe into this haven for word lovers? Bon Bock Cafe (c.1881) painting by National Gallery of Art is licensed under CC-CC0 1.0 wAndering through the Books Imagine the blend of a great coffee and perfect book in the lazy weekend afternoon. Heaven for book lovers.. Explore more Building the Bookshelf Backdrop: - Books, glorious books: Line the walls with floor-to-ceiling shelves overflowing with novels, poetry collections, and plays. Offer a diverse selection across genres and languages, encouraging guests to browse and discover new treasures. - Vintage charm: Opt for antique furniture like plush armchairs and worn leather sofas, creating a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of old libraries or reading nooks. Don't shy away from mismatched pieces – they add to the lived-in character. - Lighting the way: Warm, amber-hued lamps and strategically placed spotlights provide ample reading light without drowning out the cozy ambiance. Candles with literary scents (think old bookshops or parchment paper) add another layer of charm. Storytelling Through Details: - Quote corner: Dedicate a wall to showcasing inspiring quotes from famous authors, changing them regularly to keep things fresh. Encourage guests to contribute their own favorite quotes, creating a community-driven touch. - Themed nooks: Designate different areas based on popular genres or literary figures. Have a Jane Austen-inspired tea room, a Sherlock Holmes-themed deduction corner, or a whimsical corner dedicated to children's literature. - Literary touches: Scatter vintage typewriters, antique globes, and book-themed artwork throughout the cafe. Play classical music from films based on novels, or curate playlists specific to different genres. A Feast for the Mind and Body: - Menu with a twist: Name your dishes after famous literary characters, quotes, or book titles. Offer "Moby Dick's Whale Steak" (a hearty sandwich), "Alice's Wonderland Tea Party" (a selection of colorful teas), or "Romeo & Juliet's Love Potion" (a fruity cocktail). - Literary events: Host book readings, author talks, poetry slams, or even themed trivia nights to engage your book-loving customers. Partner with local bookstores or literary societies for collaborations. - Book exchange corner: Encourage guests to leave and swap books they've finished, fostering a sense of community and shared love of reading. Points to note: - Small spaces, big impact: Even a tiny cafe can be a Literary Lounge. Utilize mirrors to create the illusion of more space, and arrange furniture to create intimate nooks for reading and conversation. - Embrace technology: Offer free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating with charging points for digital readers. Encourage book discussions online and create a dedicated social media hashtag to connect with your literary community. - Be authentic: Most importantly, let your own passion for literature shine through. Choose themes and details that resonate with you, creating a space that feels genuine and inviting for fellow book lovers. https://cozypronest.com/step-into-a-dream-a-modern-hello-kitty-hotel-room-experience/ A Literary Lounge isn't just a cafe; it's a haven for the mind, a stage for stories, and a gathering place for kindred spirits. So, open your doors to the world of words and watch your cafe blossom into a truly unique and captivating destination. Read the full article

[writeleg1ant]

The Best Writing Tips and Tricks from Famous Writers

Outline

- Introduction - Importance of learning from successful writers - Brief overview of the writing tips and tricks to be covered - Finding Your Unique Voice - Embracing individuality in writing - Learning from renowned authors who have distinct voices - The Power of Observation - How keen observation enhances writing - Examples of writers who excel in observing the nuances of life - Crafting Compelling Characters - Techniques for creating memorable characters - Insights from famous authors on character development - Mastering the Art of Dialogue - Importance of authentic and engaging dialogue - Dialogue tips from acclaimed writers - Navigating the Plot Structure - Understanding the fundamentals of a strong plot - Examples of well-structured stories from renowned novels - Utilizing Literary Devices - Exploring the impact of literary devices - Instances of famous writers employing devices effectively - Balancing Show and Tell - Finding the right balance between descriptive and narrative elements - Writers who excel in the art of showing and telling - Handling Writer's Block - Strategies for overcoming writer's block - Personal anecdotes from successful authors - The Importance of Revision - Why revision is a crucial step in the writing process - Stories of famous authors and their revision journeys - Embracing Feedback - Understanding the value of constructive criticism - Writers who credit feedback for their success - Staying Disciplined and Consistent - Establishing a writing routine - Success stories of authors who prioritize consistency - Exploring Different Genres - Benefits of experimenting with various genres - Examples of writers who successfully transitioned between genres - Dealing with Rejection - Coping mechanisms for handling rejection in the writing industry - Success stories of authors who persevered through rejection - Conclusion - Recap of key writing tips and tricks - Encouragement for aspiring writers to apply these lessons

The Best Writing Tips and Tricks from Famous Writers

Introduction: Writing is an art, and learning from the best is a surefire way to hone your craft. In this exploration of writing tips and tricks, we'll delve into the wisdom of famous authors who have left an indelible mark on the literary world. From finding your unique voice to navigating the complexities of plot and character development, let's uncover the invaluable insights that can elevate your writing. Finding Your Unique Voice: Writing is an expression of individuality. The most celebrated authors have a distinct voice that sets them apart. Embrace your uniqueness, and draw inspiration from writers who fearlessly let their personalities shine through their prose. The Power of Observation: Great writing often stems from keen observation. Learn to observe the world around you, capturing the nuances that breathe life into your narratives. Writers like Ernest Hemingway and Jane Austen excelled in translating their observations into compelling stories. Crafting Compelling Characters: Characters drive a story, and creating memorable ones is an art. Explore techniques used by renowned authors to breathe life into their characters, making them resonate with readers long after the book is closed. Mastering the Art of Dialogue: Dialogue is a powerful tool that can bring your narrative to life. Dive into the secrets of crafting authentic and engaging dialogue, drawing inspiration from writers who masterfully navigate conversations on the page. Navigating the Plot Structure: A strong plot is the backbone of any successful story. Understand the fundamentals of plot structure and learn from the storytelling prowess of authors who intricately weave their narratives, keeping readers hooked from start to finish. Utilizing Literary Devices: Literary devices add depth and texture to writing. Explore how famous authors employ devices such as metaphors, similes, and symbolism to enhance their storytelling, creating a rich and immersive experience for readers. Balancing Show and Tell: Finding the right balance between showing and telling is an art form. Discover the techniques employed by successful writers to create vivid imagery while maintaining a compelling narrative flow. Handling Writer's Block: Writer's block is a common challenge. Uncover strategies to overcome creative hurdles and glean inspiration from famous authors who've faced and conquered the dreaded writer's block. The Importance of Revision: Revision is where good writing transforms into great writing. Understand why revision is a non-negotiable step in the writing process, and take cues from renowned authors who attribute their success to the refining power of revision. Embracing Feedback: Constructive criticism is a writer's best friend. Explore the value of feedback and learn from authors who credit the input of others for the refinement of their work. Staying Disciplined and Consistent: Consistency is key in the writing journey. Establishing a writing routine fosters discipline and sets the stage for success. Hear stories of accomplished authors who attribute their achievements to a steadfast commitment to their craft. Exploring Different Genres: Venturing into different genres can be a source of growth and inspiration. Discover the benefits of experimenting with various genres and learn from writers who seamlessly transitioned between literary landscapes. Dealing with Rejection: Rejection is a part of every writer's journey. Develop coping mechanisms and draw inspiration from authors who faced rejection but emerged stronger, eventually achieving literary success. Conclusion: In the vast realm of writing, the wisdom of seasoned authors serves as a guiding light. From the nuances of observation to the resilience required in the face of rejection, each tip and trick uncovered here contributes to the rich tapestry of becoming a proficient writer. As you embark on your own literary journey, remember: the best stories are often written by those who dared to learn from the best.

FAQs

- Q: How can I find my unique writing voice? - A: Embrace your individuality, draw inspiration from your experiences, and experiment with different writing styles until you find what feels authentic to you. - Q: What's the significance of mastering dialogue in writing? - A: Dialogue adds authenticity and brings characters to life. Mastering it enhances the overall readability and engagement of your narrative. - Q: How do famous authors deal with writer's block? - A: Strategies vary, but many authors take breaks, engage in different creative activities, or explore new environments to overcome writer's block. - Q: Is it essential to stick to one genre as a writer? - A: No, exploring different genres can enhance your writing skills and provide fresh perspectives. Many successful authors have excelled in multiple genres. - Q: How do I handle rejection in the writing industry? - A: Understand that rejection is part of the process. Seek constructive feedback, persevere, and let rejection fuel your determination to improve and succeed. - The #1 rule of writing: Precision and Clarity. In the realm of effective communication, precision and clarity stand as the bedrock. Writers must articulate their ideas with utmost clarity, ensuring that readers effortlessly comprehend the message. A well-crafted piece resonates when it communicates seamlessly, capturing and maintaining the audience's attention. - Improving writing skills demands a multi-faceted approach. Writers refine their craft through consistent practice, soliciting constructive feedback, and voracious reading. Actively engaging with diverse genres and styles broadens perspectives, honing the ability to adapt and innovate within one's own writing. - Insights from bestselling authors underscore the importance of authenticity and connection. Crafting relatable characters, weaving engaging plots, and maintaining an authentic voice are pivotal. By forging emotional connections with readers, authors create narratives that linger long after the last page, a key ingredient in the recipe for bestsellers. - The paramount advice for writers: Persevere and Embrace Resilience. Rejections and setbacks are inherent in the writing journey. Embrace them as stepping stones, learn from critiques, and persevere with an unyielding passion for storytelling. Resilience transforms obstacles into opportunities for growth. - Top-tier writing tips involve Goal Setting, Self-Editing Mastery, and Consistency. Establishing writing goals provides a roadmap, refining self-editing skills ensures polished content, and consistency fosters discipline. These principles lay the foundation for sustained improvement and success. - Drawing from renowned authors involves meticulous study and application. For instance, J.K. Rowling's world-building expertise can inspire immersive settings, while Hemingway's concise prose encourages impactful brevity. Learning from these masters enriches one's writing toolkit, enabling the infusion of proven techniques into personal styles. - Expert-level writing tips encompass nuanced elements such as Tone Mastery, Subtext Utilization, and Pacing Perfection. Achieving precision in language, experimenting with diverse styles, and ruthless editing elevate writing to a sophisticated level. Embracing these nuances refines storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on the reader. Read the full article

[wordsbywomen]

Empowering Voices: Jane Austen's Impact on Women in Literature

Jane Austen's Hidden Pen: Navigating Anonymity in a Male-Dominated Literary World

In the realm of literary giants, Jane Austen's name shines brightly as a symbol of unparalleled storytelling. Yet, what sets her apart is not only her literary prowess but the remarkable circumstances in which she wrote. Jane Austen published her novels anonymously during her lifetime, a practice common among female writers in the early 19th century.

In the first edition of "Pride and Prejudice," her most renowned work, her authorship was attributed merely to "a lady." This intriguing aspect of Austen's career underscores the challenges women writers faced in an era when their voices were often marginalized.

Austen's decision to conceal her identity was a strategic move in navigating the societal norms of her time, protecting her work from biases and prejudices. While her novels enjoyed some success, widespread recognition eluded her. It was only after her death that her true identity was revealed.

This article explores Austen's world, shedding light on her brilliance and the struggles faced by female authors in a male-dominated literary landscape.

We delve into how her anonymity was both a tactical choice and an act of defiance, offering insights into the broader challenges confronted by women who dared to share their perspectives and narratives. Join us in uncovering the hidden truths of Austen's life, a testament to the resilience of female authors who dared to let their words speak for themselves in a world that often sought to silence them.

Rediscovering Jane Austen's Anonymity: Unveiling a Literary Mystery

The revelation of Jane Austen's anonymous publications is a testament to the dedicated efforts of literary scholars and historians. In the years following her death, researchers meticulously pieced together the puzzle of Austen's concealed identity, shedding light on her remarkable career.

One of the crucial pieces of evidence was a letter written by Jane Austen's sister, Cassandra, which hinted at Jane's role as an author. This letter, dated 1813, made reference to Jane's "success in novel writing" and her desire to keep her identity hidden. Cassandra's letter provided a valuable glimpse into Austen's intentions and the secrecy that shrouded her work.

Moreover, the discovery of personal letters and documents belonging to Jane Austen and her family in the 19th and 20th centuries offered further insights. These documents included family records and letters exchanged between Jane and her publishers. They played a pivotal role in establishing Austen's authorship and the challenges she faced as a woman writer.

These discoveries and revelations not only unveiled Jane Austen's hidden identity but also highlighted the larger narrative of women writers navigating a society that often dismissed their contributions. As we continue to explore Austen's journey, we'll delve deeper into the societal challenges she and other women authors faced during her time.

Jane Austen's Enduring Influence: Inspiring Contemporary Women Authors

Jane Austen's legacy extends far beyond her own era, as her works continue to inspire contemporary women authors to pursue their literary dreams. Her novels, characterized by their wit, social commentary, and complex characters, serve as timeless templates for those seeking to explore the human condition through the written word.

Several contemporary authors have openly acknowledged Jane Austen's profound impact on their own writing journeys. For example, such celebrated authors as Helen Fielding, the creator of Bridget Jones's Diary, have been inspired by Austen's keen social observations and her ability to create heroines based on the realities of women's lives. Fielding's modern adaptation of the Austen-esque romantic comedy demonstrates how Austen's themes of love, relationships, and societal pressures continue to resonate with readers today.

Furthermore, novelists such as Curtis Sittenfeld have taken a more direct approach to Austen's legacy by reimagining her timeless tales in contemporary settings. Sittenfeld's "Eligible" is a modern retelling of "Pride and Prejudice," transporting Austen's characters and themes into the 21st century. This novel, among others like it, showcases how Austen's enduring narratives can be seamlessly integrated into today's world while retaining their universal appeal.

Through the lens of contemporary women authors, we witness the enduring influence of Jane Austen's novels, which have transcended time and societal constraints. As we explore Austen's continued impact on literature and the creative journeys of these contemporary writers, we gain insight into how her legacy continues to shape and empower female authors in the present day.

[dfroza]

A photographic memory from may 17 of ‘16 with a walk along Lafayette avenue in GR and a view of a former filling station/garage along with a few signs and a setting sun view

and a few of my Facebook memories from ‘11 and ‘09

i'm not ashamed to have love in my heart-

May 17, 2011 • Facebook

the sound of grace is amazing.

holy love come raining down. Come storming in me.

Austen won but we were both down to the last 2 peg ship!

May 17, 2009 • Facebook

to be concluded by a trio of poetic memories from 2010 and ‘11

M. while you are away

i’m with you there right now in your dreams so natural can you feel me? the touch on your cheek of a single drop of water that holds the sea one step away from crossing in thoughts of you my bridge across this–

writing words that rub into your skin like lotion desert dry breathes now an ocean salty tears i’ll keep them safe just don’t fear my dear, you know it’s alright you see the sunrise in my eyes i’m safe to be found these hands are dipped in the peace of your fondest memories we’ll make them together writing words on the bottom of our feet meant-to-be walked on without any harm like how we’re meant-to-be in each other’s arms my thoughts exactly when this lonely night fell asleep without you–

if these words could speak what they would say is, “i love you” while you are away let’s not change anything once we kiss each other’s face

(may 17, ‘10)

N. the gold in your eyes

i know a lot of life is fake, plastic people trying to impress to feel accepted to feel loved we’re all looking for it and rightfully so we’re supposed to have it but i don’t want the counterfeit i don’t want a credit card love plastic adventures indebted nothing but push and shove i want to be willing to give everything in me to see you happy and that happiness is all i need you won’t owe me a thing and you never will…

so just think what would happen if two hearts were willing to be together and happy in one diamond-ringed tree thinking the same way hearing the same tune might even be something true

yes, there is such a thing i think we both know it these thoughts aren’t running around in empty space i want to hear the sweetness of your voice i want to see the beauty in your face ‘cause everything in me says you are true there’s nothing fake or plastic about you nothing but gold in your eyes it’ll never fade, forever shine

(may 17, ‘10)

D. from beginning to end, a love story that never ends

my eyes in hidden silence have dripped salt water into the dust of the earth a tidal wave drowning me in a harbor of protected innocence now redeemed by your love, a blown treasure in the wind the sand that trickles down the hourglass of your touch on my skin and these tears that permeate the aged ground i’ve been trapped in

with my mind as wine closed in a dark bottle i long to be the red in your glass that kisses your lips as your words pour, an uncorked storyteller i’m engaged from beginning to end these twin ears an eager drunkard itching to be intoxicated by their sound i can almost not even bear the wait of this luminous unknown

in the silent space between us is where love is either hot or cold but my hands feel the flame and i smell myself burning up please rescue me from this forest fire before i’m nothing but ash in your cup or a tree with no limbs is what i’ve felt like all this time the place where my thoughts try to compromise with my mind while my body hangs in the balance of an extracted rhyme

a twisted riddle hidden inside layers of white paper rose petals folded neatly into my dreams where i’ve felt your thorns, and willingly bled “it wasn’t my intention, but it was real,” i said let’s take all that we know and cram it into our head then we can make this our own a love story that never ends

(may 17, ‘11) dfroza

[cupofteajones]

Let’s celebrate another year of reading!

Another long year has gone, but 2017 may be full of strife and hardship, at least we had a lot of  great books to keep us sane through this hectic time. This year, more than ever, was where the importance of reading really shined.

This year of reading was a whole lot better than last year. I really branched out and tried out new authors while still revisiting old ones. So site back and get a pen ready. Because after I list my favorite books of 2017, you’ll be adding them to your own TBR list:

  Muslim Girl: A Coming of Age Story by Amani Al-Khatahtbeh

Really opened my eyes to Islamic culture. It is lovely to read books from strong, courageous women.

      A Vindication of the Rights of Woman by Mary Wollstonecraft

This is insightful and influential book was such a powerful essay to read, especially for this year.

      The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

I cannot stop raving about this book! I consider this to be my favorite YA book of all time!

      The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins

This was the year I was introduce to Collins’s writing and I was not disappointed. I will definitely be reading more of his works in the coming new year.

      And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie

Another author I was introduced to this year. I fell in love withe Christie’s writing style this year. I just can’t get enough of it! But tout of all the Christie novels I read this year, this one is my favorite. The thrills and the plot twist still gives me chills.

      Fault Lines in the Constitution: The Framers, Their Fights, and the Flaws That Affect Us Today by Cynthia Levinson and Sanford Levinson

I learned so much about the US constitution from reading this book. I believe everyone in the country needs to read this book so they have a better understanding of how our country works.

    The Essex Serpent by Sarah Perry

It was a historical novel, not only beautifully written, but that made you think. A book like that written by a contemporary novelist was a new one fore me.

        Victoria by Daisy Goodwin

I am a big fan of the show! And this book does not disappoint. This compelling and well told storytelling will have you becoming a fans of the show yourself!

      The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

Never has there been a novel that was a politically correct story and provided an emotional impact, at the same time.

        Still Me by Jojo Moyes

A stunning way to end an epic adventure! Moyes is returning to her true form!

      Honorable Mentions

The Custom of the Country by Edith Wharton

The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson

Ms. Marvel, Vol. 7: Damage Per Second by G. Willow Wilson

I Am Alfonso Jones by Tom Medina

Baking With Kafka by Tom Gauld

  Books I Reread This Year

Perusasion by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

  What were your favorite books this year?

  A Year in Books: 2017 Let's celebrate another year of reading! Another long year has gone, but 2017 may be full of strife and hardship, at least we had a lot of  great books to keep us sane through this hectic time.