Chapter and Verse one line at a Time

You have probably been waiting for my novel update so here goes. I have learned since I took upon this venture that birthing an idea to write a book seems a lot simpler until you actually begin the task. It occurred to me that all the idealistic thoughts and romantic fantasies I had about successful authors began some place in a chair just like the one I often find myself sitting, alone for hours brainstorming and writing, and rewriting. The lines begin to form in a fluid pattern that supports the original story concept. Then the paragraphs come together in magical synchronicity. After some work the first chapter actually seems to be finished. In the world of novel writing, get used to the idea of "seems to be finished". You have to be flexible because by the time the story chronology and plot seem to resonate into one fluid story, a change might need to be made to that finished chapter that you tucked away a month or two ago. Just keep flowing and don't be discouraged.

 NEVER THROW ANY THING AWAY UNTIL YOUR STORY IS FINISHED!

This is the greatest piece of wisdom that I can pass on from my own personal experience. And remember to back up all your work on the computer whether in draft form or final copy. Save copies of any printed notes and manuscripts as well. It's a good idea to give a sealed copy to a trusted friend or relative who can put it in a safe place for you, just in case the unexpected happens.

My first few months working on my novel have been adventurous, perplexing, creative, hard work, and very rewarding. Ultimately though, my novel is coming together one chapter and one line at a time. I have a ways to go till I can realize seeing a final draft in print so come back often for updates. Will you be my cheering rally?

The Midnight Writer

Freelance Writing is a Literary Artform

When the word "freelance writing" resounds in the ethers of writing infamy, what do you think about?

Perhaps writing short stories for anthologies or magazines comes to mind. Maybe you think about writing blog or web content. Or your thoughts might wander in the direction of flash or short story fiction. Whatever the venue, consider the substance of freelance writing. It is an art form that encompasses many writing styles, genres and outlets for expression.

I'm not referring to any style of writing when I compare freelance to literary art. It is important to differentiate between simple writing styles, creative writing and literature worthy prose. All styles of writing can be classed as literary art. Some forms are just far more elegant than others. Let's explore the different styles and set out on a quest to find good examples of each one.

I've developed three titles for my simple classifications and for the purpose of research, I'll start breaking down the categories with these three classes. As research reveals the finer details of each category, I'll list the actual terms and provide a description and example of the writing styles. 

Simple Writing Styles

This basic form of writing refers to the construction of simple sentences written in the most effective and efficient patterns. An idea is conveyed by using the simplest words to achieve it. Simple writing takes a thought and finds a way to express it.

Creative Writing 

Creative writing is a more imaginative style of writing that is used in stories, poetry, prose and fiction novels. It involves the use of imagination, style and voice. The language is vivid, descriptive yet fluent and transitory. Emphasis and dialogue often adds depth to the written piece in the case of short or long story fiction. 

Literary Prose

Creative writing is literary prose in its purest form. Other forms of prose are found in most types of writing such as poetry, prose, novels, essays, fiction, and critical reviews. 

I've described the most basic definition of writing styles. Each category listed above has many aspects that embrace the depth and width of literature. The next session will delve deeper into a critical analysis of writing styles with historic samples. 

The Midnight Writer