Musing About September

 

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It's a holiday, so a repeat post from last year about Labor Day and September topics. 

Today is Labor Day which honors the achievements and contributions of the American worker. Individual states started celebrating a day to recognize those who worked in the late 19th century. President Cleveland signed a law passed by congress in 1894 to make Labor Day a federal holiday. Today, most people consider it a time to have one extra day on a weekend, a time for picnics and barbecues. It's also considered the official end of summer, even if you live in a state that has hot temps all through September. There was once an unwritten rule that no one was to wear white shoes after Labor Day. 

The photo today shows our Kansas sunflowers. Lots of other states have them, but the sunflower is the official flower of the state of Kansas. They go well with the Meadowlark, our official state bird. 

I've been on a reading binge lately. Reading is one of the most relaxing things I do. How about you? Does curling up with a book with a favorite beverage by your side help you forget about everyday cares and chores? We know they will be there when we finish the chapter or the whole book, but we've still managed a bit of escape for a while. Kids do more reading during the school year than in the summer, so a family trip to the library might be just the thing this month.

This first weekend of September brought a multitude of college football games to watch in person or on tv. My husband and I are football fans. I keep telling him how lucky he is that I like football because many women do not. The men in their lives watch with other men or alone. I grew up with a dad and three brothers who watched the game, so it was either fight it or join them. Both my mother and I joined them and became fans. 

I've noticed that several neighbors have put a fall-themed wreath on their front door. I suspect several have also done a bit of fall decorating inside their homes, too. Time for me to get with it and switch the summer wreath to fall on our door. 

Does September affect your writing life? Maybe those writers who have children back in school now find more time to write. Sometimes, a change of seasons gives us inspiration to write. When I walked for exercise, I found the fall walks stimulating and came home filled with thoughts about what I had been writing or ideas for a new piece of writing. 

Enjoy this holiday Monday and a shorter work week for many. Not all have the blessing of a day off today. Farmers have chores seven days a week. I wonder if we shouldn't have a special holiday to honor our farmers. We too often take them for granted. 

13 Years, But Who's Counting?

 

On August 14th, three days ago, this blog and I celebrated thirteen years together. Many of you were here from the beginning, while others started reading Writer Granny's World later. Each and every reader is appreciated. This is what I wrote to begin the first post on August 14, 2009:

I'm starting a new adventure, becoming a blogger. At age 70, I'm not about to let the world pass me by. I intend for this blog to be concerned with the writing world and also my personal world, now and then. Maybe others can learn something here, find a subject that they can relate to, or just enjoy getting away for a short visit.

I noted today that I have published 3,361 posts since that first day. That boggles my mind! The best part is that I've enjoyed being a blogger. Somehow, I come up with a topic day after day. Sometimes, it's something I've seen, or read. Sometimes, I go to my photo gallery and find a quote from a writer, and let it inspire my post for that day. I've posted stories and poems that I've written along with the 'tips and encouragement for writers' that my sub-banner promises. 

I've had many fine Guest Bloggers, one just yesterday. They are all people who have a lot of history in the writing world. I appreciate each and every Guest Post they have graciously agreed to write. 

In the thirteen years since I started this blog, I have become older. That's a given! I've also gained more experience in the writing world. In this length of time, some topics about writing have been repeated, but we learn through repetition, so I feel that is alright. I try to do the repeated topics with a new slant, but sometimes it is necessaary for the sake of time on a very busy day to repost an older post that is still relevant. 

One of the best benefits of writing this blog for so many years is that I have met many other fine writers and have formed friendships, even though we've never met in person. We learn from one another, and we understand one another, as well. Another benefit is that we help each other when asked.

I have always been one to try to be of service to others in some way. First, was my short teaching career (stopped after five years to raise my children), then many years as a hospital volunteer, and finally, the blog to be of some help to other writers.

I'm not sure how many more years my blog has, but my inspiration has not waned, and I'm still coherent, so on we go for year fourteen.

Writng Character Sketches of Family Members

Yesterday, I thought of something more that you can add to your Family Stories book. You might try some character sketches. We know that a 'sketch' is a rough, or unfinished drawing with details to be added later. A character sketch is much the same, but it is in written form, not drawn. 

Pick a person in your family. In your character sketch, you'll want to show his/her personality traits, behavior, physical traits, nature, and perhaps his/her background. You might show things the person does or says that portray his/her personality. 

In this character sketch, you are not telling a family story. Instead, you are giving a picture of an individual . In another exercise, you can use this person in a family story. Set aside a section of your Family Stories Book for character sketches of the people in your family--siblings, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, even pets you have had. Give each one a separate page. 

Another section of your book might be reserved for your Memories which yesterday's post highlighted. This is why I suggest using a large 3-ring binder as it is so easy to continue adding to it. I have recently purchased a third book as the first two were getting quite full. My after New Year's job is going to be to reorganize each one and to add hard copies of my writing that is on file on my laptop but has not been printed and put in the book.  

Let's get back to the character sketches. You'll want to describe the physical traits of the person--stature, hair and eye color, and complexion. Next describe some personality traits and their nature. If they had phrases or words they often used, add that to your sketch. I had a great-aunt that added 'don'tcha know' to the end of almost every sentence. Finally, write about their background. It can be very short or more defined, your choice. You might add that they were mother of, or father of, and name their children. Or that they were the son or daughter of and name those people. 

What you put in and how much is your choice. The more you tell about the person, the clearer the picture of them will be. Again, don't write an actual family story. For this exercise, you want to show the person in several ways. 

Details will enhance your character sketch. Things like 'Uncle Pete had hands the size of dinner plates.' Will give a clear picture, and it's more descriptive than saying he had big hands. Or 'my cousin, Sammy, never blew his nose, just sniffed over and over.' These small details can add so much. 

Make a list of people in your family; then create a character sketch of each one. Do one a day rather than several. You'll find these character sketches most helpful to you when you do write those family stories. 

A Good Question for Writers

A Good Question

How often have you told yourself you would write a book someday, or a series of essays, or enough poems to fill a book? Keyword here is 'someday.' 

We all have good intentions, but the goal gets farther and farther away as we procrastinate. Yes, we procrastinate. Why don't we get started on those many projects swirling in our minds?

One reason is fear that they won't turn out in reality the way we vision them in our minds.

Another reason is lack of confidence. We don't always trust ourselves to do what we dream about. 

Yet another reason is lack of time.

And one more--lack of discipline. 

Still another--spreading ourselves too thin, taking on too many activities.

Another--we're waiting for the project in mind becomes more clear before we start the first draft.

As you see, there are many reasons that we delay starting a new writing project. Have you been guilty of any of them? I imagine that nearly all of us can say yes to one or more. I've found that the longer I delay getting started, the easier it is to let the project stay as an idea in the recesses of my mind. 

Think about a writing project you would like to start someday. Ah, there is that word again--someday. Our photo today asks a good question. "If not now, when?" It seems a good one to put on a piece of paper or cardboard and post in your working space where you'll see it on a daily basis. Let it nag you into writing that first draft. 

If not now, when?" A very good question.

 

Writers and Public Speaking

Me, third from left with other panelists at a convention

Have you been asked to serve on a panel at a conference or teach a workshop? Have you been invited to speak at a local meeting? Ever been interviewed on radio or tv? Done a book signing and reading? Have you talked to children in schools?

If so, do you enjoy speaking about your writing? Or, do you shudder at the thought? 

The photo today is of me and three other writers who served on a panel about blogging at a Kansas Authors Convention in 2019. It was great fun. All four of us have blogs, but each one has a different theme. Yet, the act of blogging is much the same. We each gave a presentation, and then we took turns answering questions from the audience. We all look like very ordinary people, but we had something to give to others at the convention.

Many people shy away from speaking in public. It gives them the jitters. They agonize over being in the spotlight. But guess what? Doing so is part of building your writer's platform. The writing is only the beginning. You must sell yourself to your readers and fellow writers. It's a way to enhance your name recognition. 

You needn't always wait to be asked. Volunteer to give a program at your church or a local organization you belong to. If you have had a book published, approach the local bookstore owner(s) and offer to have a book signing and reading. Many Chicken Soup for the Soul authors have signings for the book in which their story appears. Don't hesitate to ask, but don't do so timidly. 

You can start small by reading your work aloud at a writers' group. The people there are on your side, so there is nothing to be nervous about. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are going to be a speaker:

A.  Write the speech, then highlight the points you want to make.

B.  Practice in front of a mirror

C. You need not memorize word for word, but read what you have written multiple times so that just a paper with highlighted points on it will let you speak to each. 

D.  If you can speak 'off the cuff,' you're going to come across well

E.  Consider that the people in your audience have come to hear you, the expert. Keep in mind that you ARE the expert on your topic.

F.  Don't shy away from a tv interview. I have found that the tv personality puts you at ease. They do all they can to make you comfortable.

G.  If presenting a workshop at a meeting, offer to have attendees ask questions as you progress, or tell them there will be a Q&A at the end of your presentation. 

The first couple times you speak to an audience can be a bit nerve wracking, but the more you speak in public, the easier it becomes. In fact, it can be completely enjoyable.

Remember that it's to your benefit to tell others about your writing world, and you'll give them something to take away, as well. 

Responsible Writers

 

Regular readers of this blog know that I frequently tell writers that it is up to them to make the decisions and choices in their writing world. I can't do it for you. Your spouse cannot do it for you. Your kids can't do it. Your hairdresser cannot do it either. 

You are the one who must allot the time devoted to writing in your day.

You are the one who must find story ideas.

You are the one who must find a grand opening for each writing project.

You are the one who must write the first draft.

You are the one who needs to edit and revise that first draft.

You are the one who needs to find a place to submit the finished product.

You are the one who needs to market self-published books.

You are the one who should continue learning about the craft of writing.

You are the one who must go to writing conferences to learn and mingle with other writers.

You are the one to decide if you should join a writing critique group.

You are the one must enter writing contests.

You are the one responsible to keep the passion for writing alive.

Oh Wow! That's a lot to put on any one of you, or me. However, it's what our writing world is all about. It's whole basis is you and the decisions and choices you make. You're a team of one! 

Are Trees and Writers Alike?

 As we were driving to church this morning, I noticed the vast number of different trees we passed. Big ones, small ones, Tall ones, short ones. Trees that were full and those a bit sparse. Some had leaves, while others were dressed in needles. Go farther south, and some of the trees would have fronds. All are classified as trees, but each one is different from the others. 

Most everyone has seen or memorized the famous poem by Joyce Kilmer titled 'Trees.' It seems worth putting it in this post.

Trees

BY JOYCE KILMER

I think that I shall never see

A poem lovely as a tree.

A tree whose hungry mouth is prest

Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast;

A tree that looks at God all day,

And lifts her leafy arms to pray;

A tree that may in Summer wear

A nest of robins in her hair;

Upon whose bosom snow has lain;

Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are made by fools like me,

But only God can make a tree.

Writers are like trees. Writers may be our group name, but each one looks and writes in a different way. No two are exactly alike. Nor should they be. Each writer uses his/her own voice, his/her own style. All trees should not look alike, and all writers should not write alike. 

Finding your voice, or the style in which you write, does not happen as soon as you begin writing. It evolves as you pursue your craft. The more you write, the more evident your particular way of writing becomes. You are an individual that fits under the group heading of Writers. 

Have you ever heard a reader say something like "Oh, I love the way he writes." Readers are aware of the differences in writers. They know the ones they like best, just as botanists have favorite trees. 

I am reading a book that is written in present tense. It's driving me crazy. I like the story but not the way the writer tells it. Even so, it's his style, his way of telling a story. Many readers might like reading the entire book in present tense. Is he wrong for writing in this manner? Not at all. Different readers appreciate different writers. That's the way it should be, I think. 

Some writers try to copy or imitate the style of a writer they admire. Go ahead and admire that other writer, but develop your own voice, your own style of writing. Each tree is individual, Writers should be, as well. Be yourself. You will still fit into the glorious group known as Writers.

Strive for Perfection in Each Submission

 

Welcome to October! How it got here so fast is beyond me. It's a month of cooler temps, crisper days, falling leaves, jackets and sweaters, and many other things. We have two photos today--one to welcome this new month and the other to show perfection in a table setting for an autumn dinner. 

Why the table setting? Because it makes me think that our writing should strive for the same kind of beauty and perfection. It appears that the table is set for a special occasion meal, and the hostess wants to put her best into the setting. It's exactly what we, as writers, should do with everything we write.

If we are aiming at publication, achieving perfection in what we plan to submit is a leap forward in the publication process. Send in some slap-dash hurried writing, and you're most likely to get a rejection. Put some time and effort into creating the very best writing you can, and you're more likely to move ahead several steps in the line of submissions. Editors appreciate writing that shows the writer understands all the mechanics as well as being able to tell a story or make a statement in an essay.

How do we create a submission that is as near perfect as possible? Let me count the ways! (Shameless, I know, but it popped into my head.)

A.  Make sure your tenses don't jump back and forth. Be consistent.

B.  Check for spelling and punctuation errors.

C.  Limit the use of adverbs. You'll end up with more telling than showing.

D.  Make sure subject and verb tense are compatible.

E.  Use adjectives sparingly. One or two is best--not a handful for one noun.

F.  Check for clarity. What may be perfectly clear to you may not be for the reader.

G.  Look for overly long sentences and revise or split into two shorter ones.

H.  Make sure words and phrases are not repeated close to one another. 

I.  Turn passive verbs into active ones wherever possible.

J.  Check to see what words can be cut.

K.  Look at your opening and closing paragraphs. Are they strong?

L.  Have you included sensory details? They bring life to your writing.

If you can come up with a good story or essay idea, and you go through the checklist above, you'll have a better chance for publication than the many haphazard kind of writers. 

When you prepare for submission, use the same care, thought, and pride that the hostess of a beautiful table setting does. When submitting, you should send your best work. Don't be in too much of a hurry. Take the time to make your submission as perfect as possible. Not once, not twice, but every time you submit your writing for publication. 

Writers--Take One Step at a Time

Our poster today is meant to encourage, and I think it does. That little girl's goal is getting to the top of the stairway. Each step is more difficult as her little legs are getting tired. She knows that there is something special at the top of the stairway, so she keeps going, one step at a time.

As writers, we're doing much the same. We make our writing journey one step at a time. There is no skipping steps to reach our writing goals at the top. We get tired. We become frustrated and stop for a while. The battle is moving up those steps one at a time, but the joy is the goal we reach at the top. 

Any worthwhile job should make us work harder to reach our goal. For most writers, publication is what they strive for. A writer doesn't just make a decision to write a story and have it published. If only it were that easy! There are many steps along the way:  the story idea, first draft, proofreading, revising, editing, final draft, possible critique, finding a market, submitting, waiting for an answer. Then start all over again with another story idea. 

Added to the above is the continuing learning cycle that we should embrace to become a better writer. The writer who writes one story after another, then submits, then back to the keyboard for another story is not increasing his/her writing knowledge. Learning about the craft of writing should be a continuous chain. We should not reach a point where we feel like there is nothing more to learn. There is always something  to add to your writing know-how. I find that I always come home from writing workshops or conferences with some golden nugget that helps me be a better writer. If you're lucky, you might learn a handful of new ideas from a conference to enhance your writing skill

Reaching our goal of publication and writing success is not a quick journey. We must take it a step at a time. The longer we write, the more writing information we have, the easier climbing those steps will be. If we shun learning more about writing, the steps can be much more difficult to climb, the goal harder to reach. 

Those writing exercises I (and other writing gurus advise) will make your legs stronger and the steps easier to climb. You can help yourself to making your goal easier to reach, but it's up to you to do it and take it a step at a time.

(NOTE: THE NEXT POST WILL BE ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29. I'M TAKING A COUPLE DAYS OFF.)

 

Wannabe Writers Who Can't Begin

 

I have heard people say countless times--"I would love to write, but I can't seem to get started.' Or 'I plan to write my family stories, but I haven't got time to do it.' Or 'I am going to write my family stories someday." Or 'I've always wanted to be a writer, but I don't know how to begin.'

All of them aspire to write and have good intentions, but they never get to step one. Our poster today gives some good insight as to how you become a writer. Neil Gaiman says:  This is how you do it:  you sit down at the keyboard and you put one word after another until it's done. It's that easy, and that hard." 

I'm glad he added the bit at the end about it being easy and hard. That is so true. 

One of the hard parts is taking that first giant step. Ask yourself some questions.

A.  How serious am I about wanting to write?

B.  Why do I keep making excuses?

C.  Could I set aside 30-60 minutes a day, or every other day, to write?

D.  Am I willing to read about writing to help me learn about the craft?

E.  Can I ask for help from another write?

F.  Do I have the discipline to start writing? 

G.  Is my desire to write strong enough?

H.  Am I willing to do writing exercises to help me learn?

One reason many talk about wanting to write but never take the first step is fear. Fear of the unknown is real. We aren't sure we can do something even if the desire is there. What if we're a big flop? What if others laugh at our efforts? What if....? So many concerns for the new writer. Maybe one fear is that once you start, you'll feel compelled to continue. 

The strength of your desire to write is key. If it's only a passing thought, it probably won't happen. 

Those who want to write family stories have the same time constraints and concerns as the people who want to write for publication. 

Get a small notebook. Jot down ideas for stories. If phrases come to you that you like, write them in the notebook for future use. Otherwise, those lovely words will float right out of your head into the blue skies above.

The only way to begin is to begin. Redundant? No. Important? Yes. 

Embrace Your Writer Friends

 

While chatting with a neighbor, I said something about 'one of my writer friends...' Later, I thought about that term 'writer friends' and had to smile. Why? Because over the years of writing, I have acquired a great many 'writer friends,' and they are an important part of my life.

I'm of the opinion that all writers should cultivate a large group of writer friends. Our poster today gives a definition of a friend. All the points made can apply to writer friends. I have had other writers give me encouragement, said a prayer or two for me, and given me hope when I needed it. They've lifted me up more than once. 

My online writing group friends have done all of those stated and more. We know one another well and are supportive. It's not only about critiquing a submission, even though that is the main purpose of the group. When one member has an illness or difficult time or a family loss, the others are there for her. 

I've made many writer friends through social media. Joining writing groups on Facebook has brought some, but others have come because one writer tells another and that one gravitates to my page. I have never met many of these people in person, but I consider them friends, nevertheless.

Another place I have made friends with writers is through my state authors' organization. Many have become close friends whom I treasure. We have a common bond and relate well to one another. We support and promote each other's work.

Writer friends are there for consultation. We can ask what they think about an idea we have, or ask them to read a short story and give some feedback. We can cry on their shoulders when we receive umpteen rejections for one submission. Who can understand that situation better than another writer? They also rejoice with us when something good happens on our writing journey. Once again, our success is understood better by them than from other everyday, non-writing friends. 

If you don't have any, or only a few, writer friends, now is the time to find some. Reach out to help another writer, and you'll soon have a writer friend. 

Embrace writer friends for they are special. Give them a hug in person or virtually, but let them know you care.

Be a Standout Writer

 

The photo for today advises us to stand out in the crowd. Don't be like all the others. Make yourself noticed. It's one reason why some of our celebrities dress in outlandish outfits. They want to be the one who is remembered, but many don't seem to care whether that memory is a positive or negative one. 

As writers, we should aim to be the flamingo in the flock of pigeons. We want our writing to stand out from the others. The best way to do that is to work at learning the craft of writing until our it shines above others. How do we accomplish that? Could be a lot harder than it sounds.

A.  Find your writer's voice. The style in which you write is important. You don't want to sound like any other writer. Think of the authors you read frequently. They each have a personal style of writing, one that appeals to you if you continue to read their work. You should aim to be that kind of writer.

B.  Write about a common subject but find a new angle. Approach it from a view others have missed. If you're writing about  a disaster of some kind, use an uncommon person to be your point of view character. In a looming tragedy on a ship at sea, choose a cabin boy or the cook as your pov person. Most would use the captain who has great responsibility. If you are writing about electric cars, look for a  way to view them other than how much good they would do for our atmosphere. Write about  the negatives of electric cars, and you'll stand out from the writers who are supporting them.

C.  Writers sometimes wear certain clothing or hairstyle to stand out in the crowd at a writing conference. I knew a woman who always came to our state convention in a formal. Another always wore a hat of some kind. It didn't mean their writing was any better than the rest, but they became known and perhaps others might want to read their work. It piques interest. 

D.  You'll stand out among writers if you study the craft regularly. Many writers stop reading about writing once they begin to have some success. That's not when you should discontinue studying your craft. Do so on a regular basis. Much of what you read may be old hat to you, but there is always something new to learn. 

To be that flamingo in the crowd of pigeons, give writing everything you've got. Always! Make your writing shine each and every time you write. We all get a little lax at times. When we do, our writing shows that lack. When you edit your drafts, ask yourself 'Is this the very best I can do?' I hope you can give an honest yes as an answer. If not, it's back to the beginning.

Write Personal Travel Essays

Nancy in Rottweil, Germany

Today's photo who2w me with a well-behaved Rottweiler dog in Rottweil, Germany. The picture was taken several years ago, but is still a fond memory. We were traveling with dear friends who have since passed away. It's one reason why we take photos during our travels. Looking at them later brings back memories of the trip and the people who accompanied you.

When you add writing about the trips, you complete the circle. Whenever we travel, particularly overseas, I keep a daily journal. Must admit to those entries looking like scribbles occasionally as the days are packed full on a trip and time is rationed. 

After returning home, I go through the journals, adding a detail here and there. Then, if something stands out, I write a personal travel essay. Several have been published. The scant details in the journal are enlarged upon. 

I keep hard copies of everything I write in a large 3 ring binder (actually, 2 of them, and a third started). In one, there is a section for travel stories. I use them once in a while in programs or workshops. They are my memories, but others seem to enjoy reading about the places and events, as well. 

Besides the personal travel essays, I turned one interesting experience in South Africa into a fiction story for children. The first place I sent it accepted it. Children's magazines like stories that take place in other countries. 

What should you include in a personal travel essay? This kind of travel piece is not filled with facts and figures about a place. Those things can be worked into your essay, but the main idea is to entertain people with the personal side of your travels. Things like the first night in a B&B in Ireland, which was not a very nice place. We arrived fairly late in the evening and were sorely disappointed when we saw the first place we would lay our heads down in this country where I had deep roots. There was no place open where we could eat a late dinner. We ended up in a grocery store buying sandwich fixings, went back to the B&B and had some good laughs with our traveling companions over this introduction to Ireland. The rest of the two weeks traveling around Ireland was fantastic, but that first awful night stands out in my mind. I did not write a full essay about it, but I certainly could have with a warning to investigate the places you book thoroughly.

Include the feelings you had when a place impressed you. A heartwarming occurrence. An infuriating one. Something humorous.It's a personal travel essay, so make it seem that way. 

Try to write about the places you visit within a relatively short time after you return home. I've been known to write a first draft in longhand on the plane returning home. Don't wait too long, or the whole idea gets lost. 

One of my personal travel essays is below to give you an example.

Grandpa's Town

My husband wanted to go to Germany, rent a car and travel the scenic southern area. He had a yen to visit small towns and villages instead of big cities, which we’d already seen on earlier trips. Ken planned to drive the secondary roads and stay off the autobahn. For people who had relied on tour guides in the past, this was definitely an adventure.

 

In January, we started planning. I did multiple google searches on hotels, restaurants, attractions, transatlantic flights and car rentals. Ken’s job was to map out the route. He spread a huge map of Germany across our dining room table, leaving half of it clear for us to eat meals. He agreed to fold up Germany when company came.

Pointing to the map one morning, he said, “Here’s Lahr, the town where my Grandfather Kopp grew up.” His finger circled the immediate area. “It’s on the edge of the Black Forest. We could stay there for a few days and take in the surrounding area.”  

With that simple statement, our understanding and love for his grandfather grew tenfold, but not until we’d experienced Lahr.

We arrived in Grandpa’s town on a fine June day. We had good luck winging it as far as hotels went, but Lahr proved a different story. One hotel didn’t meet our standards. Three others were open, but we could never get assistance. They appeared deserted, even though the front doors stood open. We began to wonder what kind of place we’d come to.

We continued to drive up one street and down another. Around a curve, we happened on a place I warmed to immediately. I sent Ken in to look and book. It proved fit for kings and queens, and that’s who could afford to stay there. Ken kept driving, while I had visions of sleeping in the car. Then I grabbed Ken’s arm.

 “There! The Hotel-am-West-End. It looks nice.”

I liked the all-white building and the big, leafy trees that lined the street. The open deck on the second floor, ringed with colorful, overflowing flower boxes beckoned. Ken went in and returned, smiling. We had a room.

We climbed to the second floor reception area, and Ken introduced Dirk, the owner. Dirk must have lost his razor—either that or he liked the stubble on his face. His clothes were clean although a bit rumpled, but he gave us an effusive welcome, his smile warm and genuine.

Ken told Dirk that his Grandfather Kopp had grown up in Lahr. Dirk looked at the register where Ken had signed in. “Kopp? Ja, we got lots of them here.” Ken knew of cousins who had moved away, but not of any other relations here. Apparently, our last name was a common one in this part of the world.

We ambled down the hall on oriental carpeting, dragging our luggage behind, mouths opened as we tried to take in the amazing antique art and furnishings that lined the walls

We learned later that Dirk ran the small hotel and dealt in antiques on the side. 

 

After a quick look at our pleasant room, we met the Guest Relations Manager in the hotel restaurant. Schef was a short-legged, fat, amiable dog, who plunked himself next to my chair, hoping perhaps for a morsel of my wiener schnitzel to fall his way while we planned our agenda. We’d only been in Lahr for a few hours, but already felt warmly welcomed. 

Lahr was not a tourist stop, but had its own charm. The town was surely much smaller in the late nineteenth century when Grandpa lived here--where he went to school, played 

games, and maybe gave a wink to a pretty girl now and then. Maybe some of these shops were the same ones where his mother sent him on errands.

Each day, we thought of Grandpa as a little boy, a teen, and then a young man. In this clean, working man’s town, he learned values and formed opinions that lasted a lifetime. His cheerful outlook on life had been cultivated here on these streets. Every letter we’d received from him in our early married years began,“I am fine and dandy. How are you?” 

We did venture to the surrounding area each day, visiting the Black Forest region and crossing the border into Strasbourg, France. After one of these daylong excursions, Ken went out for a walk by himself. He seemed a bit surprised that he felt so much emotion while visiting his grandfather’s hometown. He wanted to see as much of it as possible in the time we had, and he snapped myriad pictures to show his brothers when we returned home. 

 

Wilhelm Kopf moved away from Lahr at age twenty to try his luck in America. He left mother, father, and baby brother as well as friends. More than fifty years later, he returned for a three-week visit telling Ken’s family in Illinois that he’d see them soon. Three months passed before he journeyed to America again. I have a feeling long-buried memories flooded back as he walked his boyhood paths and visited family and friends. He must have been reluctant to let them go again. But the pull of his family in America proved great enough to make him return.

Our visit to Lahr touched Ken deeply. Even more than a century after his birth, this was still Grandpa’s town, and a part of his own heritage. Ken’s connection may have once been a fragile thread, but by the time we left, it had strengthened considerably and had drawn me in, as well. 

 

Writers--Dump Those Passive Verbs

 

Our poster for today is one you might find in a primary grade class. Verb Flash Cards. Still pertinent for writers today. What is the common denominator in run, walk, smile? Action. 

Every writing reference book will have a section on active vs passive verbs. The passive verbs are forms of the verb 'to be.' Words like was, is, are, were, am, been, being, and will be are links to the object in the sentence, but they are weak and kind of blah. They land with a dull thud.

Action verbs bring the sentence to life. They give the reader a clear picture of what is occurring. Even the three simple action verbs in our poster let us see what is going on. They show us while the passive verbs are all about telling. 

When you are editing your drafts, do a word check on those passive verbs. When you look for the word 'was' and click on the Find button in Word or whatever program you use, you might be shocked at how many times it pops up in your entire story or essay. Do another check for the word 'is' and one for 'are' and others. One of the women in my online writing group often includes this kind of check in her critique. I have a feeling the person who subbed the piece gets a bit of a shock when she sees all those passive verbs.

So, why do we use them? They're easy! To find an active verb takes a little more thought, maybe even a glance at a thesaurus on occasion. We use a lot of the passive verbs in our everyday conversation. When we see the great many passive verbs, we need to change as many as possible. You'll still use some of the passives now and then. Your aim is to change those you can. In the end, you're going to have a much more interesting story or essay. 

You might need to change the order of your sentence when correcting a passive verb and making it active. It's fine to do that. The original meaning will stay the same. 

For an exercise, look at these sentences which all have passive verbs. Rewrite the sentence using an action verb.:

A.  Johnny was on his way to the park.

B.  She was at the circus tent. 

C.  He was going to be in the school play. 

D.  The flat tire was changed by Pete.

E.  The song was written by Sam in one day.

F.  That song is enjoyed by the high school chorus.

When you edit your work, make looking for passive verbs high on your checklist.

Cutting Words in Your Writing

 

Slash! Cut! Snip! Ax! Clip!  All those words relate to our poster quote today. Stephen King's advice is always right on. We should heed his words since he has written so many successful novels and a wonderful reference book for writers titled "On Writing." 

I am in agreement with him about cutting the excess fat. Last night, I wrote a first draft of a story to submit to Chicken Soup for the Soul whose guidelines state no more than 1200 words. And they mean 1200 words. My draft was 1244, but I've done the cutting exercise so many times that I feel confident I can cut those 44 extra words, and maybe more, to make my story stronger and more concise. 

Most writers don't like to cut words they have written. They are precious, but if your story can be made better by cutting, then go for it. It's not as difficult a task as some think. And, as I said earlier, the more often you do the slashing words exercise, the better you become. A master slasher! (That phrase 'as I said earlier' could be cut without losing meaning in the sentence.)

How do you cut words? Read through the entire draft first, then go back and look at it paragraph by paragraph. You might be surprised by the number of times you repeat a word that isn't necessary. Let's look at several ways you can cut words.

A. Word Repetition:  You might find a section like this:  Alice drove to the beach with tears streaming. She'd go to the beach to forget him. She loved the beach.  20 words. Rewrite it like this:  Tears streaming, Alice drove to her beloved beach to forget him. 11 words. 

B.  Idea Repetition: Some writers fear that readers will not 'get' a point they are making, so they repeat the same idea in the next paragraph. You don't need to do this. Say it once and be done. Readers are capable of 'getting it' the first time. Another possibility is the writer is not sure what to write next, so the easy way out is to repeat the same idea using different words. All it does is add to the word count.

C.  Unnecessary words: When we talk or write, we tend to toss in many unnecessary words. They are words that have no bearing on the meaning, words that, when cut, do nothing harmful to the sentence. Words like 'just, very, really, usually, that, rather, quite, and probably' can be eliminated without losing meaning in the sentence. Google 'unnecessary words in writing' to read more.

D.  Dump the word 'the' in some places: We tend to use 'the' in many places where it is not necessary. The following sentence can be shortened. We use the recipe books and the hand-written ones from our mothers. Rewrite as: We use recipe books and hand-written ones from our mothers. You've cut two words and left the meaning. When you edit, look for places where 'the' can be dropped.

E. Eliminate 'that' when possible: In this sentence, We know that Paul will be late and that he will laugh about it. The word 'that' can be cut without losing any meaning. It would read: We know Paul will be late and he will laugh about it. 

F.  Cut adverbs and adjectives:  These are modifiers and are not always needed. Some writers think if one adjective is good, use two or three. That's overkill. One is fine, and most adverbs can be cut, too. Adverbs lead you into the trap of telling rather than showing.

G.  Conjunctions:  You can eliminate the 'and, but, or' words when you are writing a lengthy sentence. Instead, cut the conjunction and create two separate sentences. Do it in many places, and the number of words cut adds up.

H.  Lengthy sentences: Some writers love long sentences. Not only can they be divided into two sentences, but also lose some words. Read a very long sentence and note ways it can be trimmed.

If you can cut words without losing meaning, go ahead and ax them. The more you work on cutting words, the easier it becomes. You train your editing eye to look for places to cut. 

Endings in Your Stories

I pretty much agree with our quote today by none other than Plato. I would add that the ending is a very important part of a book or short story, as well. 

Yesterday, the ladies in my Book Club were discussing a book we'd read and enjoyed, but every person said they were disappointed with the way it ended. The reader is kind of left hanging with many questions yet to be answered. 

I've read other books or stories that have a less than satisfying ending. I always feel like the author was really done with writing and wanted it to be finished. Get it over. I've had it! What a disappointment for readers who have stayed with the full reading only to be shaking their head at the ending or still filled with questions. We want the loose ends neatly tied up. 

We know we should have strong beginnings, but the endings need to be strong, as well. There are also different kinds of endings. Everybody is happy, a lesson learned, a surprise, a cliffhanger, and more. You might google 'writing endings' and read a few articles about the importance and how-to of bringing a story to a conclusion. 

Some authors use an epilogue to let the reader know a bit more as to how the characters fared after the ending of the story. As a reader, I like them since I often wonder what happens to the characters next. 

When writing a personal essay, the ending should offer the reader the universal truth or lesson learned from all that precedes the final paragraphs. It can also be written in another part of the essay, but most often, we find this universal truth or lesson in the last paragraph or two. It's the reason you wrote the essay in the first place. It's the golden nugget you're offering your readers. 

Nancy Kress is a science fiction writer who wrote a book for the Elements of Fiction series. The title is Beginnings, Middles, and Ends. I read it many years ago when I was a newbie writer. I found it to be a clear and concise reference book. The book is still in print, hardcover, paperback and ebook. It's lasted these many years because it is well done and still relevant for the writers of today. Your library might have it, or look at your favorite bookseller website to find it. It receives 4.5 stars. We're discussing endings today, but Ms, Kress has good advice for the beginning and the middle of your story, too.

For the writer, endings can be difficult. He/she has worked hard to bring a story to the readers in the best way they know. He/she doesn't want to let the reader down with a weak ending. When editing the final draft, ask yourself if the ending is of the same caliber as the rest of the book. Ask yourself if you hurried up and ended the story, or did you put a lot of thought and planning into it?

I don't write a lot of fiction, and when I do, it's usually a story for 9-12 year olds. I often have trouble when it comes to finding a satisfying ending for the story. I don't want it to be a dull thud kind of ending, but sometimes it feels that way to me. That's when I go back and do a rewrite, and maybe another one, until I  am satisfied.

Plato's point about beginnings should be heeded, but I'd like to think he would have put as much importance on the endings, as well. I hope you will, too.

 

Write about Sad Times, Too

 Amongst all the enjoyable early fall activities this weekend, we mark the 20th anniversary of 9-11. Certainly the most somber part of our weekend and a tragedy we must never forget. Yet, today, I saw college students being interviewed saying they didn't want to hear the gruesome details nor did they want to be told who was responsible. Have the children today been so protected that they cannot stand to learn of tragic happenings in our history? If so, that's sad. All the tragedies America has experienced through the years have a bearing on what our life is like today. I feel strongly that children, at a proper age, need to learn what happened.

In that same respect, today[s post is centered on writing about the sad or tragic happenings in your life. Many memoirs center on sad lives and how certain experiences influenced the rest of a person's life. These memoirs sell. Readers seem drawn to reading about the difficult times in a person's life. Maybe because they can relate to it, or maybe to learn from what was written. 

As my regular readers know, I am a big proponent of writing family stories. Many who take up this task write about the happy times, the laughing times, the warm family gatherings. That's great, but every family has sad happenings, too. Some are even tragic. We need to write about them, as well.

Maybe an uncle went to jail for theft. His situation affects the other people in the family. Some will be angry while others may be sympathetic. Some may want to cover it up, keep the incarceration a secret, which is pretty hard to accomplish. Some family members will be heartbroken, some will feel ashamed. It's a part of your family history so don't hesitate to write about it. Write about it, but don't judge. 

Perhaps, a member of your family died in battle in the military. Definitely nothing to be ashamed of but not easy to write about either. Gold Star families take great pride in the service their loved one gave. Again, write about it and how it affected different family members. 

There are many other tragic happenings in our lives--a jilted bride or groom, the loss of an infant or a small child, the loss of a teen, loss of a spouse, dealing with dementia.. Writing about these sad times can be one step in the healing process. Not a cure, but one step in healing. People who live with issues like this have so much hurt welled up inside. Writing about what happened or is still happening is a kind of release. Even a little of that can be helpful.

Chicken Soup for the Soul has a call for stories for a new book on grieving and how a person overcame it or found some peace. I am working on a story for that book. The deadline to submit is September 30th. Read the guidelines and tips here. You might have a story to write and submit for this book. Or you may write the story to include in your family stories. You can also write it only for yourself, and that is perfectly fine. We're all different people and have various feelings on this subject. 

Mark the 9-11 anniversary in whatever way feels right to you--on your own or with your family. I wish those young people who didn't want to hear about the gruesome details or hear who did it will be willing to listen. Most of all, I'd like them to learn of the tremendous outpouring of love people gave to the families of the victims. I'd like them to know how our country pulled together. We were all Americans, not of one political party or the other, not of this religion or that one, nor of any specific racial group. We grieved together. That, too, is an important part of our history.

Be An Adventurous Writer

 

As a writer, do you like to stay in your comfort zone or set off on a new adventure? Writers can choose either group. If you've had success in one genre, it's reasonable that you'll continue writing in that same vein. It may be reasonable, but how exhilarating, is it? 

We can have adventures in our writing world by trying to write in a different genre than we normally do. If we are personal essay writers, and we make a stab at writing fiction, we might leave our comfort zone in a hurry. All of a sudden, we have new questions. We realize this fiction writing is kind of tough. We have to plot and plan involving several characters, adding a sense of place and time, making sure to have sensory details and to show, not tell. Whew! Yes, you do some of that in the personal essays, but in fiction it may be more intense. Might be a little hard, but it could also be fun to step outside the lines you've drawn around your writing life. It could be quite satisfying.

What if you usually write fiction, both short stories and books, but you move away for a short time and try your hand at poetry? One of two things can happen. You enjoy being a poet or you realize this is not for you. Even so, you had a bit of adventure. Prose or poetry--both are a matter of words being put together to convey something. 

The poet should give prose a try now and then. Be adventurous. Oh, the writer might think, there are so many words in prose. True, but there might also be an adventure for the poet in writing a personal essay or a memoir piece. With the poet's command of language, their prose could be quite beautiful. 

If you like to read fantasy or sci-fi or horror stories but have never written any. Go ahead and make an attempt. You already have the background knowledge of these kinds of stories. Start a new adventrure.

Articles abound telling us we should try new things to keep our brains active. They suggest doing puzzles, playing card games and reading. All three are fine, but the writer who writes in a new genre is going to give his/her brain a workout, too. 

Next week, I am the featured reader at one of my Kansas Authors Club district meetings, via zoom.. I plan to read a variety of the writing I have done--a children's story, a memoir piece, a travel story, a personal essay. I'd like to show those writers who attend that every writer can write in several different veins. For me, it's satisfying to write in more than one category. It's also an adventure to branch out. 

If you are one of the writers who prefer to stay in your comfort zone when you write, why not be a bit adventurous and try something new? It doesn't mean you have to stay with that kind of writing. You can go back to what you feel is your niche, but now and then, venture forth into new territory. 

7 Ways to Sell Yourself to Readers

A few writers I know have been doing readings and book signings to promote their latest books. While visiting with one recently, we discussed the fact that many writers don't realize that the actual writing is only part of the writing world. The article below was published on a writing website and then posted here. I'm repeating it today to give you some things to think about. 

Writers know that the first person in line, we need to impress is an editor. Without her, our work never sees the light of day. But selling what you’ve written is only one step to being a successful writer. You also need to sell yourself to readers. They’re the ones who will come back for a second helping if they like what they read the first time.

It’s not easy to constantly promote yourself, especially if you don’t have a balloon-like ego. Quiet, introverted writers find it difficult to sing their own praises, but it’s almost a necessity if you want to make it in the writing world. Even social extroverts aren’t always aware of what they can do to make readers seek them out, nor are they completely comfortable in doing so.

Maybe you’re a writer who prefers solitary confinement, spending your time doing what you do best—writing. There comes a time when you need to raise your head and make a concerted effort to promoting yourself. You’ll see results, although they may not be immediate. So, what can you do to sell yourself as a writer?

Share Your Published Work

When you have an article or story published, don’t hesitate to send it to all your friends and family. They, in turn, will probably share it with others, and your work and your name spread to untold places around the globe. I had a hard time doing this in the early days of my writing life. I feared that people who meant something to me would look at me as a braggart, but I’ve learned that it is a benefit to me and truly liked by many of those recipients. I try to add an out for them by saying they should hit the delete button if they have no interest. That makes it guilt-free for any who aren’t interested.

Submit to Ezines As Well As Print Publications

There are benefits when you submit your work to ezines, better described as online magazines. They can reach many thousands of people while a print magazine may only have a circulation of 5 or 6,000. There’s value in keeping your name in the cyberspace of the writing world regularly, as readers begin to recognize your name.  Print magazines are normally published in one country, but ezines reach across the seven seas to multiple countries.

Capitalize On the Electronic World

What better way to plug your work than on Facebook and Twitter? I have a Facebook account which I use for social networking, but also to let others know when I’ve had something published or when I have a blog posting that might be of interest to writers and also non-writers. I post the same information on my state authors’ organization Facebook page. Consider a personal website. You may need to hire someone to help you design and set it up, but it’s probably money well spent. Like all things, you can start with something basic or go for the Cadillac right away.  Leave comments on other websites and blogs with your website/blog address. Curious readers click on links.

Join Local, State and National Writers’ Groups

Become active in writers’ groups, the face to face kind. I’ve entered my state authors club contest ever since becoming a member ten years ago, and I’ve placed many times. More than once, when I’ve introduced myself at a state convention, someone will say, “Oh, I’ve seen your name before.” It works in small groups or large. Make your work visible in every way you can, and your name becomes recognizable. If the group has a newsletter with writer news, make sure you send in your publishing successes. Let your name appear as often as possible.

Accept Speaking Engagements

If you have an opportunity to speak to a small group at your church or a civic organization, accept it. It can be nerve-wracking at first, but it gets easier each time and more people in your community will label you a writer whenever they see you. One appearance may lead to more invitations to share your work. And again, your name becomes familiar. People in your community and surrounding area will soon know that you write great science fiction stories or that your travel articles contain insight and humor. They’ll remember you when seeking a program for some other organization. It’s not necessary to wait until asked either. There’s nothing wrong in letting groups know you would be willing to speak. Don’t do it meekly either. Tell them you would love to speak at one of the meetings, that you have a couple terrific programs that would be informative and entertaining. Sell yourself to get your foot in that first door.

Be A Blogger

Another way to sell yourself is to become a blogger. Starting a blog connected to your writing is not enough. You need to let people know about your blog. Leave comments at other blogs and sign with your blog address. Use your blog address as a set signature on all your e-mails. Advertise your blog on Facebook and Twitter. Add as many labels at the bottom of your blog as possible. The more keywords you have, the better your chances of a search engine zeroing in on your blog. Take time to study all the gadgets and stat tracking that your blog host offers. The more extras you use, the more visible you’ll become.

Take Advantage of Publisher’s Press Releases

Publishers often send press releases to TV and radio stations in your area, also newspapers. I’ve appeared on an afternoon TV show several times because of press releases sent by the Chicken Soup for the Soul publishers.  I’ll admit the initial appearance gave me butterflies in my stomach all day long, but the host of the show put me at ease once we were on the air as he interviewed me and discussed the process of getting a story into an anthology. I’ve read several of my stories from other Chicken Soup books on this same show, and now I enjoy doing so. No more butterflies. I’m helping the publishers, but I’m also selling myself. If you receive an invitation to do something similar, remember that it’s up to you to accept, and it’s a terrific way to become known to the reading public. Don’t pass up a golden opportunity like this.

At this point, you may be thinking that selling yourself amounts to bragging. You might remember your mother teaching you to be humble, to not blow your own horn. That’s still true in some instances, but when your writing career is the subject, it’s more than okay. Go right ahead and inform the world about you and your writing. No one can do it better than you. Believe in yourself and go for it!

  

Book Review--Never Waste Dreams

 

Gloria Zachgo's newest book is a sequel to her award winning Never Waste Tears, historical fiction at its best. The sequel is titled Never Waste Dreams. It continues the story of the Carters and Taylors who homesteaded on the Kansas prairie in the 1870s. 

Though a sequel, Never Waste Dreams can stand on its own as the author does a fine job in bringing in information from the story in the first book. Once you read the second book, you may be moved to backtrack and read the first one. 

It is obvious that Ms Zachgo did a great deal of research to make her book authentic to the time period. Nathan and Sarah live in a sod hut, commonly called a 'soddy' quite close to Carl and Hannah. The women are twin sisters, alike in looks but not necessarily in temperament. Even so, there is a strong bond between them. When one or the other needs help, they bang on a washtub to alert the other sister. 

The reader experiences the joys and the heartbreaks of each couple as they work to achieve their dreams of owning the land they farm, of building a real house, and of creating a good life in this place so different from their homes back east. 

Nathan's brother, Will, and his wife, Martha, move to the area bringing Will and Nathan's mother with them. Unlike his brother, Will settles in Lincoln, the nearest town. Anna, his mother, makes her home with Will's family, but spends time with Nathan and Sarah, too. Happy to be with her sons and their family, she continues to worry about her husband back east who deserted her. 

Carl and Hannah have no children, but Carl finds a young boy alone on the prairie, abandoned by his mother. Carl and his wife offer a home to the boy who is scarred, frightened and unable to speak. The marred child becomes a normal boy as he responds to family life with Carl and Hannah.

A horrific tragedy of nature affects everyone in the area, farmers and town folk alike. It left this reader impressed with the strength of humans who can pick up and go on with faith and strength, their dreams feeding on both.

One of the things I especially liked is that the author kept true to the dialect of the people in that era. I also admired the method in which Ms Zachgo told her story. We see the story unfold through each of the main character's point of view. There is a section headed Nathan or Sarah, Carl or Hannah, and Martha. Their names are in bold so you know who is continuing to tell the story. Each one adds to the story as they see it. It's a more unique way to relate a tale than to have an omniscient narrator 'tell' the story. 

One of the things I enjoy about historical fiction is that I am learning history in such a pleasant way, and this book teaches a great deal about the area and the time frame in which the story takes place.

I highly recommend you read Never Waste Dreams, especially if you have read the first book. I'm hoping for a third one in the future.