Lilly Maytree: February 2014

(just for Lilly Maytree)

Many thanks to Delia Latham for coming up with this wonderful idea of sharing our own "10 commandments of writing" today. I'm looking forward to blog-hopping around to the rest of the participants, so I can learn a few tips from my colleagues!

NOTE: I added examples to mine, so for readers in a hurry (aren't we all?) just stick with the bold print.

1. Have something of value to share

"The secret ingredient had been passed down through her family for generations…"

2. It must be entertaining

"Stella made his favorite breakfast that morning, because she knew he would hit the roof when he heard heard what she had to say…"

3. It must be complete in itself (with a beginning, middle, and end), even if part of a series

"Are we happy, dear?"

"Oh, yes. Extremely happy," she replied, unable to take her eyes off the neatly stacked gold coins that made up her very own half of the treasure. "At least, for now."

4. It must be realistic, and not cross readers' "willing suspension of disbelief"

Mildred had a close call that morning on the way to work, and thanked heaven she could still make herself invisible whenever she heard sirens. (Um… no. Not for me)

5. It must have engaging characters

Most of the passengers moving slowly up the ramp, gasped when they saw the little girl fall, and stood frozen. As if some giant director-voice had suddenly yelled, "Cut!" But not Stella. She jumped into the icy water, fully-clothed, in spite of her sixty-one years, and the Gucci purse that had cost a quarter of her monthly allotment.

6. It must have believable conflict

She wanted to be a movie director. And--to be truly happy--she would have to win an Academy Award… even though she was only sixteen. (Um… not unless her grandfather was Frank Capra)

7. It must have a universal message "threaded in" throughout the fabric of the story, that brings the reader to that conclusion, without having to actually state it in the narrative.

Martin wrestled with demons, last night (oh--did he ever!), and wouldn't be surprised if a few weren't still clinging to his clothes on the way to the store. He would put back every one of the items he hid behind shelves for that ridiculous "escape" they had been planning. Start dealing with the crisis like normal people.

"Choices, Marty," he reminded himself as he pushed through the double doors without even stopping to talk to Sam. "From now on, there will be no such thing as a new normal. Not for me!"

8. It must have rising action (or tension) from beginning to end

(I am in favor of the "one darn thing after another" method… yes, indeed!)

9. Must have a clear conclusion, preferably with a believable twist.

"If I thought I could get away with it," said the Professor, "I'd run off."

"I'd go with you," said Harriet.

Which was why the entire dismal little group rose up from the bench, with one accord, and followed the familiar figure, like robots, when--to their amazement-- he suddenly passed by. So. He hadn't gone on alone, after all!

"Did they confiscate your ark, Gordie? Is that why you're still here?"

"Not on your life, Harriet. Implemented a slight modification on Noah's method, and that made all the difference."

"What sort of modification could you make on an outlawed vehicle that wouldn't be considered against the law?" asked the Professor.

"Well, since I never felt called to preach, I decided not to build it under everyone's noses. To the wilderness, dear friends--our carriage awaits!"

10. I must love the idea enough to spend the time it takes to succeed in all the above points

(which happens to be a LOT of love, let me tell you)

Click cover to download

Thanks so much for stopping by my blog today! In honor of the subject, I dragged out one of my notebook studies on the writing craft (from the days when I had enough time to do such things!). Feel free to download the PDF, here.

Meanwhile, I'm heading over to enjoy all these other wonderful blogs, and learn something new today...