Metro Review

Writing is no longer an occupation for those who exclusively appreciate things like good penmanship, as even many prolific authors no longer use the traditional paper-based approach. It’s probably not long before books are written in their entirety with little more than wireless internet service and a mobile device, as software can now easily allow you to type, edit and take notes on a manuscript all while an unspecified number of trees continue to grow undisturbed. Not to mention, as eReaders continue to move off shelves, perhaps a book’s entire life cycle can exist purely in virtual space. Alas, while many writers long for a simpler time and romanticize the hand-written page, the comparative ease with which a writer can practice his or her craft is indisputably improved. There are advantages, mind you to writing to the fight in this ever-changing new age of technology. eBooks offer high profit margins and can be produced with relative ease, with or without the backing of a publishing company, due to comparatively low production costs and the resulting increase in profit margins. Yes, it is tough to sell your own eBook or create any sort of buzz for an author without an established name or the inherent credibility from a past string of sellers, but if you have the time and desire, writing specifically for the eBook market can be financially rewarding. A few things to keep in mind:Know who you’re writing for eBooks are often extremely targeted, focusing more on niche markets than at-large readerships. As a result, it is necessary to do the research and get to know your audience as intimately as possible. (more…)

Even great writers aren’t great all the time; we all have our on and off days. Have you ever sat back and read something you’ve written, literally struggling to turn the page out of sheer boredom? Granted sometimes people have interests or assignments that cater more towards an encyclopedia than the best seller list; still, just because something is accurate and informative doesn’t mean it has to read like an obituary. For those who struggle to naturally think outside the box, rarely incorporating a whimsical allusion or descriptively quirky adjective, here are a few tips to help uncork your creative juices and spice up your everyday writing.Mind-mapping Mind mapping is common practice among creatives in the field of advertising, the root of some of the most memorable, off-the-wall commercials that have ever graced the television set. The process starts with the central product and maybe an attribute or two you are trying to emphasize. (more…)

No matter how technically proficient your grammar skills may be or how succinctly and poignantly you can convey information, the greatest influence on good writing is inspiration. Whether fiction or non-fiction, long form or short form, inspired writing simply makes for better reading. However, even the most creative word wizards in the world can suffer from writer’s block from time to time, making it difficult to put pen to paper. Here are a few tips to help out when all of a sudden your narrative voice is rendered speechless.Write something No, this isn’t intended to make light of your extended brain freeze. The advice is simple; write something, literally anything. Keep a running diary of your mundane daily tasks, transcribe conversations you’re having with friends and family, finally get started on that never-to-be-seen love letter to the ex-girlfriend you’re not allowed to talk to. A working connection between your writing hand and whatever form of self-monologue monitors your decision making process is an integral part of the writing process. (more…)