Studies show that writing helps process emotions. Troubling thoughts can circle round the mind, taking on a magnitude all their own, and leave us feeling exhausted, and helpless. Those thoughts, if they stay in the brain and don’t find an … Read More
Ever fancied writing a novel but don’t know where to start? Are you a novice writer with an idea for a story but struggle to get your ideas on paper? This blog is a whistle-stop tour of all the elements … Read More
In the UK we have a roadmap for returning to normality, the hope being that this lockdown will be the last. On Monday, the ‘stay at home’ edict will lift, allowing travel and some outdoor socialising. Soon we’ll be able … Read More
There are two things that keep writers awake. One is the fear monster that rears its head in the small hours of the night, the other is the creative brain going into overdrive. Both are sleep-slayers. For both, there’s an … Read More
Christmas provides a rich seam for writers to draw on. Most years, Christmas movies gross billions at the box office. Some authors bring out a Christmas book a year. And festive family feuds are gold dust for script writers. Where … Read More
After a last blast of summer, autumn is upon us. With its natural beauty, its distinct scents, its crisp air as temperatures drop, and all its associated emotions, it’s a season that has inspired writers throughout time. Today we are … Read More
September marks a new season in what has certainly been one of the strangest years in recent history For me, it brings with it another tentative step towards what we consider ‘normal.’ Last week I packed up my home office ready … Read More
I had a week off work recently and was lucky enough to go up to Whitby again. Although we only stayed for a day, it felt good to breathe the sea air and walk on the sand. There were little … Read More
For some, lockdown’s provided an opportunity to have a clear-out and I for one have started sorting out boxes etc that have been hanging around for so long I’ve forgotten what’s in them. Some of what I’ve unearthed has been … Read More
Maggie’s Creative Writing Group: – Virtual Workshop 2 While the group I run at Maggie’s isn’t meeting, we are having virtual sessions instead, and I’m posting the exercises here for others to join in. Here’s today’s session. Exercise 1: A … Read More