CREATIVE WRITING
I am passionate about the craft of creative writing. Whilst clearly some people have more of a natural talent for writing than others, there is much that can be learned to improve and hone your work and with time, attention and love that is possible for everyone at any level. I really enjoy teaching creative writing. I teach it for the Open University at both introductory and advanced level and also run a number of workshops around the country and in schools. Here I share just a few thoughts on the craft of writing and the funny old business of being a writer...
Why write historical fiction?
Why write historical fiction? All my life I’ve been fascinated by the past. I remember as a child visiting Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh and standing over the (presumably re-touched) bloodstain where David Rizzio was murdered by Lord Darnley and being forcibly struck by the reality of standing on the same spot – the very same…
The joys and pains of reader feedback
The joys and pains of reader feedback. Having just finished my first draft of ‘The Constant Queen’ (Book 2 of my Queens of the Conquest trilogy) I am now at the tricky stage of asking people for feedback. This is an exercise fraught with danger especially when you choose, as I have perhaps recklessly done,…
Alternate Realities
Alternate Realities. I sometimes wonder what it must be like to live only one life – very relaxing I suspect. I, however, find that I’m often existing in at least two, switching between them like Mr Ben in his magic changing room, though not always as good-naturedly. When I spent a lot of time writing…
Being ‘a writer’…
Being a Writer. People sometimes ask me on courses ‘when can I call myself a writer’ and I always say – and very firmly believe – that the moment you write something you are a writer. Some people, after all, are happy just to write for themselves or for close friends/family and why not? The…
Rejection…
Rejection. I am an expert at being rejected. I’m a top reject. As a short story writer I’ve long learned to accept that you’re lucky if you sell even half of what you write and if there was a ‘most rejected’ prize I’d win it. It seems, though, that if there was a ‘get up…
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Hope to see you soon - Joanna