Friday, January 2, 2009

Setting the Scene

Setting the Scene
by Lynn Tincher

In doing research regarding setting the scene in writing,
I found some inspiration to write. One mistake writers
make is leaving the scene too much to the reader's imagination.
The story can become more engaging to the reader if the
scene is set properly.

Being an avid reader, I depend on the scene's to take me
away to lands and situations unknown to me. I love being
able to step into someone else's life for a while. Setting the
scene is critical for me to be able to experience those things.

One way to set the scene is to include the weather. Even
when we are not thinking about it, the weather has an almost
constant effect on us and so it should our characters. If the
weather is cold and rainy, it would help the character feel sad.

Consider the location. If your characters are in the middle of the
desert, make sure they are unbearable hot. Likewise, if they are
in Alaska, bury them in the snow.

How do your characters move? If Pirate Pete has a peg leg,
have him limp across the floor with a loud clank with every other step.

Consider adding drawings or photography to your writing to help
visually set the scene. This is particularly helpful if you are writing
non-fiction.

How do your characters feel in certain situations? Describe the
feeling as well as their appropriate reactions.

Do you remember your creative writing days when you were
given a location, some props, a character or a word then told
to GO? Try using that technique to help develop the scene.
You will be amazed at the results. This will sometimes help with
writers block as well.

I've found a few great website articles to share with you. Do your
research to find others. There's plenty of inspiration to be found.
Happy writing!

http://writingfiction.suite101.com/article.cfm/setting_the_scene_in...

http://www.writing-world.com/fiction/weather.shtml

http://www.writingclasses.com/

Copyright 2008 - Lynn Tincher

Tracking Fans

Tracking your fans can be an easy task if you follow a few simple rules.

Always take a sign up sheet with you to all of your appearances. This will give your readers a chance to sign up to hear from you. Collect as much personal information as you can, especially email addresses. Email is the fastest and easiest way to connect with your readers and keep them informed.

Add a sign up link on your website and anyplace you have electronic information. This way, the information can be sent directly to a database for collection.

Use iFanz, Constant Contact or other email database companies to help you collect and maintain your mailing lists as well as the emails you send to your readers. Constant Contact, for example, is the program I use. I can send emails to different groups of readers depending on the type of information I need to have sent. Plus this is a great way to store your information remotely instead of using your own computer. This will lesson the risk of losing your information.

Do your research and find out the method that works best for you and good luck!

www.ifanz.com
www.constantcontact.com

Copyright 2008 - Lynn Tincher

Creating a Space to Write

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Delete Discussion While speaking at the Casey County Library, someone in the audience asked me if I had a routine that I go through before I write. My answer to her was a simple "no". Then when I sat down to write this article, it hit me that in some small ways I do. My life is a bit hectic. I have to have every task for the home complete before I can sit down and relax enough to write. I have two computer monitors that I use and I make sure that what I'm writing is on the right monitor while email and research is on the left one. I also have to have my comfies on. I've read where some writers have their notes on the left, an ash tray on the right, and their favorite beverage at hand. I'm not that structured in my writing habits. Although, if I can create some habits, it may be beneficial.

Comfort is a big factor for me. I recently bought a new office chair. I'm so glad I did. Now I'm not shifting around on the pillow or towel that I was using to add extra padding to the seat. Now, I can concentrate more without the sore bum distraction.

I have also created an area of the house where I have my office with a bathroom just out of reach. I have actually thought of buying a small refrigerator to put next to the desk as well. Sometimes writing on location is a great inspiration. I've taken two vacations dedicated to writing with amazing results.

Some writers like to write at their favorite coffee shops. I haven't tried that yet. However, I can see the benefits. While writing, you can have someone bring you drinks and food as needed plus the crowd will help provide inspiration. Their conversations could help spur along writers block.

The important thing is to find what works for you. Once you do that, you can create a creative writing atmosphere.


Copyright 2008 - Lynn Tincher

About Me

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The Literary Lynnch Pen is a weekly newsletter published by Lynn Tincher. About Lynn: Lynn was born in the small town of La Grange, Kentucky and grew up in Goshen. Lynn studied Theater Arts in College in hopes of becoming a Drama/English teacher. She has written articles in local newspapers and travel brochures. Now, she is focused on writing novels, short stories and poems. The second edition of her book "Afterthoughts" will be released in April of 2009 with the sequel "Left in the Dark" to be released on October of 2009. She also manages Artist Corner, an artist social website dedicated to help all artists become successful. Her eZine and website provides helpful tips and information. Lynn also provides email list management services. She has partnered with Constant Contact to help provide authors, artists, and small businesses the services to manage their email lists and marketing strategies, eZines, electronic newsletters, coupons and bulletins. Please visit: www.lynntincher.com artistcorner.ning.com www.myspace.com/lynntincher lynntincher.blogspot.com

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