The idea of “High Concept” was addressed in Edith Wharton’s book, The Writing of Fiction, which just came into the public domain. This is what she says: First, ask: What judgment on life does the story contain for me? Quote: “A good subject, then, must contain in itself something that sheds a light on […]

  I was re-reading Michael Ventura’s brilliant piece, The Talent of the Room, and began thinking again about the power of solitude. *The full piece is printed with permission in my book, Write Naked.* In a world where everything moves so fast, from a tap to like an IG post to a swipe left to […]

“Story doesn’t allow us to escape reality but navigate reality.” – Lisa Cron, Story Genius Excuse me, while I blow the dust off of this blog. I’ve been gone the past few months finishing up writing two brand new books and diving into extensive edits. When I go that deep into the hole, I step […]

Sometimes, I forget that writing is like life. You can have clear goals, focus on the finish line, and do the work nonstop to get there. But many times, the end is just out of reach—like the treasure keeps tauntingly moving a few steps ahead of you until you wonder: Was this a good idea […]

There are a few things people think of when they hear the word editor. Deadlines. A smart person dressed in a business suits with glasses who reads manuscripts all day. A mysterious figure who takes you to lunch, and decides whether or not she likes your next book pitch and whether to shower you with […]