Theme—The Abstract Element of Novel Writing

Edie here. Today I'm excited to introduce our newest columnist, Kathleen Neely. I've known this talented author for several years and so glad she'll be blogging regularly here on The Write Conversation. Be sure to give her a warm welcome!

Theme—The Abstract Element of Novel Writing
by Kathleen Neely @NeelyKneely3628

A writer makes many decisions when beginning a new novel. Characters. Structuring a plot. POVs. First or third person. Past or present tense. 

However, theme, perhaps the most important element, is often neglected. 

Don't Let Your Writing Get Caught in a Crab Bucket

Edie here. Back in 2010 I met a writer and really loved her spiritual insight and her writing style. I invited her to contribute a guest post to The Write Conversation. She did and then we eventually lost connection. This summer we ran into each other again. She'd taken some time off from writing, but now was back at the keyboard. Today I'd like to re-introduce Susan Browning Schulz. I know you're going to love her post today!

Don't Let Your Writing Get Caught in a Crab Bucket
Susan Browning Schulz

Crab fishermen have long known they don’t need to put a lid on their buckets, as long as there is more than one crab in the bucket. Some call it the Crab Bucket Syndrome. When there are several piled in the bucket, if one tries to crawl out, another one grabs hold and pulls it back down. 

Showing up as a Writer

by Cathy Fyock @CathyFyock

80% of success in life is showing up. –Woody Allen

I love this Woody Allen quote, and I’ve been thinking about how we as authors “show up.” 

I believe that these statements are those that are made by authors who are not only showing up, but making real progress with their work. How many of these are messages with which you identify?

An Unlikely Publishing Story – Hope for When You Feel Like Quitting

by Lori Hatcher @LoriHatcher2

Jerry loves God and those around him. He ministers through his local assembly, studies the Bible, and counsels his friends and neighbors. Concerned about the direction in which his country is moving, he’s become increasingly fervent in his witnessing.

Proverbs for Writers

by Henry McLaughlin @RiverBendSagas

Here are some proverbs I believe apply to all of us, but especially those of us who are pursuing the dream of being writers.

Proverbs 3:12 (NLT) For the Lord corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.

We are writing for the Lord in response to the call he has placed on us. Some of us do it enthusiastically. Some of us not so much. Perhaps we’ve become discouraged by the struggles of getting published. 

Passive Tense isn’t Good for Writing or Our Bodies

by DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills

Writing is not a physically engaging activity. We sit in our chairs exercising our fingers over the keyboard while the rest of our bodies slip into passive mode. 

While writers are concentrating on their manuscripts, they too often forget about taking care of themselves. When we choose high-sugar content snacks and beverages instead of good nutrition, our bodies suffer. The result is unhealthy bodies that suffer from stress, insomnia, and susceptibility to diseases. Energy is depleted. Unwanted pounds creep up. Over time, we can guess what that can do for the quality of our writing. 

Serious Writers Never Quit—A Book Review for Writers

The past few weeks I've attended several writing conferences and as faculty we were asked—at every event—what books and resources do we find most valuable. 

Although I've been asked this question before, it seems like it's becoming more and more common. As I pondered my answer, I also considered why so many are asking.