Keep writing

Watched two really fabulous videos today. The first one is a hilarious account of cognitive illusion by Dan Ariely, the James B. Duke Professor of Behavioral Economics (Duke University). I love it when people explain complex processes through simple reference to every day situations, and then crack a few jokes along the way.

The second one is the "keep writing a lot" #1 tip from Amanda Hocking.

She is absolutely right and you cannot believe how much your writing improves through... well... more writing! I am used to academic writing but then again pulling together a novel is a completely different kettle of fish. It's more subtle, dynamic and experiential - a complete opposite to the boredom of the academic ink.

I just edited the first 150 pages, 100 to go so the progress is good and you know what, I actually like it. The hell with like, I love it, I love writing and editing my novel. I really love the story, I love my characters and I'm happy with the outcome. Ah, I look forward to my future writing adventures!

Title or something of that sort

That's it, I've revealed the title to my wife... ooooough, I can't believe it! Yes, the mistake is irreversible and I've been banging my head... Wait, shut up Mike, what are you talking about for crying out loud!? No, no, let me begin again! I've spelled out the title to her and I am the most grateful person on the planet. Why? Because she criticized my subtitle to smithereens with these exact words: "You include this subtitle and your target readers are never going to pick up your book, no matter how good it is!" and she is right (my ego was twisting in pain).

And the title iiiiiis? Devotion & Deception

Yeah, it pretty much reflects the plot and the epic struggle of my main character. Of course, I'm not going to tell you what subtitle I managed to ink down on a paper because the more I think about it the more I recognize a political commentator jumping out of my mouth and fingers for that matter.

I also have to tell you that I am on a break right now... finishing off my academic journal papers, reviewing 200+ pages of my students' theses and writing 30+ page proposal(s). Yeah,... I know... but then again, I'll be rich soon and then who'll be laughing...

Oh, yes, one more thing! I was on a look out for a good writing tips blog today (well, like 10 minutes ago) and I found the most hilarious blogger writing about novel writing tips out there. I mean, just look at what he's got to say about writers suffering from writing maladies. A stand-up comedy style of advice extraordinaire! Hey, that's an idea for a new type of seminars, workshops and other advice-giving gatherings - make it like a stand-up comedy. Bloody hell, I might actually try this!

Writing tips

Here we go, I kind of need to say something about that as well, don't you think? After all, I am writing a novel and should at least be aware of some tips and techniques floating in the virtual space (if not beyond). Yes, yes, I did say this already but I am still amazed at the amount of free information available online! First of all, I've got to mention Amanda's advice on removing as many variations of the verb "to be" as possible. That by itself made me much more imaginative with my sentences. You need to get used to a new writing style but overall it actually isn't that difficult.

Reading good books helps as well. Pride and Prejudice is free on Kindle but there is also James Joyce who invented completely new dimensions in language creativity. I know all this because I watched Stephen Fry last night where he in his renowned demeanor painted James's story around language and food for that matter.

But in addition to the above I guess it is worth mentioning a few incredible sites where an eye paying attention to little details can find all sorts of impressively helpful advice. The Daily Writings Tips is one such source and I'm really glad people are so willing to share their experience and ideas. My novel is getting better and better every day just because of such contributions. I totally enjoy writing it and cannot wait every night to sit in front of my laptop and so some proper writing. You'll see, you will like it!