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Rather than describing your setting, subtly layer it into the story. The house sat in a deep wood surrounded by… But a sure way to put readers to sleep is to promise a thrilling story on the cover-only to start with some variation of: The main course is the story.Īgents and acquisitions editors tell me one of the biggest mistakes beginning writers make is feeling they must begin by describing the setting. Thoroughly research details about your setting so it informs your writing, but use those details as seasoning, not the main course. Setting may include a location, time, or era, but it should also include how things look, smell, taste, feel, and sound. Much as in real life, the toughest challenges result in the most transformation. The more challenges your characters face, the more relatable they are. What or who is keeping them from getting it?.They think they’re right! A fully rounded bad guy is much more realistic and memorable.ĭepending on the length of your story, you may also need important orbital cast members. Make him a worthy foe by giving him motives for his actions. You also need an antagonist, the villain, who should be every bit as formidable and compelling as your hero.ĭon’t make your bad guy bad just because he’s the bad guy. (Even Indiana Jones suffered a snake phobia.) Resist the temptation to create a perfect lead. a character arc (he must be different, better, stronger by the end).potentially heroic qualities that emerge in the climax.In fiction, your main character is the protagonist, also known as the lead or hero/heroine. CharactersĮvery story needs believable characters who feel knowable. They may remember a great plot, but you want them thinking about your theme long after they’ve finished reading. Subtly weave your theme into the story and trust them to get it. Just tell the story, and let it make its own point. Resist the urge to explicitly state your theme. Theme is why it happens.īefore you begin writing, determine why you want to tell your story. Plot (more on that below) is what happens in a story. Most storytelling experts agree, these 7 key elements must exist in a story. You may have all the right tools and design ideas, but if your foundation isn’t solid, even the most beautiful structure won’t stand. Writing a story is much like building a house. It triggers the imagination and appeals to the heart. Journalistic, academic, technical writing relays facts.Ĭreative writing can also educate, but it’s best when it also entertains and emotionally moves the reader. It’s prose (fiction or nonfiction) that tells a story.

#Jerry jenkins create a blog for free download

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