Musings from The Pipeline by wordshaper Janet Fix ~~ I often vacillate between about the importance -- or unimportance -- of backstory in a novel, how much detail is too much or too little. Obviously it differs between books, but in general it is a greater challenge to exclude backstory or to offer the details more creatively than an "explanation dump." I'm curious to hear your thoughts on this subject. Do you find backstory a challenge one way or the other,...
~~ Pipeline Musings by Janet Fix As I write my first novel, which is based in the sweet li'l town of Tarpon Springs, I am reminded of the importance of Greece historically to our language systems, religion, mythology, food. The cultural traditions of Greek communities is fascinating. The following link provides us with a brief list of popular Greek terminology used frequently in current day conversation and writing. http://www.dailywritingtips.com/greek-words/ I would be interested to know additional insights you may have regarding the...
As authors, we are entertainers. We should practice and fine-tune our craft, so we may share our written word unfettered by poor production. We must surround ourselves with excellence in our editing and design choices.
~~ by Editor Jan This November, I became a student of myself. Below are seven insights I gained about myself as a writer -- and editor -- and person in general -- having participated in National Novel Writing Month, November 2011. For those of you who may not know what NaNoWriMo is: Each year this organization encourages writers, new and experienced, to engage in complete "literary abandon" and write freely to achieve 50,000 words in 30 days -- the ultimate goal...
I've never lived in Arizona, but I could probably make my way around there better than most newcomers just by having read so many J. Carson Black novels. Specifically today, I'm encouraging readers to try the J. Carson Black trifecta: three brilliant crime novels featuring Detective Laura Cardinal, including Darkness on the Edge of Town, Darkside of the Moon, and the Devil's Hour (my personal favorite) -- all in one convenient package. It is rare to experience a series of...
~~by Editor Jan (Part 2 in the "Guts" blog) Authors: Demand a reciprocity of your passion! Surround yourself with professionals who match your intensity for each written word in your manuscript; who look at things from new angles and will share those with you, respectfully and with good humor; and who enjoy the new flavors of innovation. This doesn’t have to be expensive, mysterious, or time-consuming. Be relentless and demanding in your selection of creative people who can assist you not just...
~~ by Editor Jan Fix When it comes to developing a powerful novel, today's authors must have some uncompromising, new-and-improved kind of guts. As impressive as any creative team may be with its credentials and experience, it is merely ordinary without a unique, bold instinct for raising the bar and a bulldog tenacity for superiority on all levels. Today's authors must demand this extraordinary team. Whether that's just one professional editor or a slew of design and marketing experts, to excel beyond...
This book is Five-Star Verve. Recommendation by Janet Fix This memoir simultaneously takes you back in time and tickles your present-day musings. One of the most entertaining examples of story-telling based on fact that I have ever had the pleasure of editing -- or reading! I'm interested in hearing your comments as well. Order here or on Amazon: http://shop.boutiqueofqualitybooks.com/Born-on-a-Buzzards-Stump-The-Epic-Saga-of-a-Man-and-His-Myth-978-1-937084-12-7.htm
by Jan Fix, owner/editor During my daily encounters with our customers, this country's students, teachers, publishers, writers, and other business professionals, and with my fellow editors at thewordverve, I am reminded to appreciate and admire our many talents and gifts. I can be pouring my coffee in the morning or about to close the computer for the night. I can be eating a PB&J or writing a check. I can be transcribing an interview or redlining a letter. And suddenly I...
