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Writing Fiction

Writing Fiction Feature Writer: Suzanne Pitner

Welcome to Writing Fiction at Suite101.com - the dynamic resource for those who love to write poetry, short stories, and novels. Here is where you’ll get the nitty-gritty on all the latest information about writing fiction from a reliable source.

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Latest articles in Writing Fiction

Conflict Is Story
All interesting fiction relies on conflict or a problem that the protagonist must resolve.
A Dozen Prompts to Inspire Creative Writing Journal Entries
A journal can be an invaluable creative writing tool, but only if there is something written on the pages. Here are some prompts to help develop entries.
Writing Historical Fiction and the Serendipity in Research
Some historical fiction writers find it easier to do the research after the story has been written. The serendipity in research adds the flavoring.
Characterisation: Direct and Indirect Techniques
Developing a strong set of characters is vital to writing successful fiction. Here are a few pointers to get you on your way.
Creative Writing Exercises to Improve Fiction Skills
Creative writing exercises are a good way to develop right brain activity and to strenghen the imagination to develop strong characters and scenes.
What To Expect From An Online Writing Course
Coursework isn't the key to an online writuing course, its the quality of the tutor.
Word Choice in Writing
Some rules for word choice for beginner and intermediate fiction writers.
Let Structure Turn You Into A Professional Writer
Not understanding story structure can hold back the amatuer writer but it's simple to understand and easy to implement.
Advice on Dialogue Writing for the Novice Writer
Convincing dialogue trips up many new writers, yet we speak to each other daily. Why is dialogue which is written to be read or listened to so difficult?
Writing For The E-Book Reader
E-book readers, because of the strains placed on readers' eyes, require different writing techniques and methods from writers. But where will this lead?
Poetic Forms – The Villanelle
The Villanelle is a classic poetic form, started in France during the 18th century. It's rhyme/ flow have been replicated many times in various languages.
Writing Hits in the D's and C's: What Not to do Writing Fiction
There are many guidelines and concepts authors must consider when writing. The D's and C's described below are a twist on the golden rules of writing.
Writing Fiction: The Five S's of a Sensible Storyline
Writing fiction is indeed a creative process. A process deciphered in endless terms and conditions, books about elements, rules, guidelines, and advice.
Mary Shelley's 213th birthday celebrated by Spooky Google Doodle!
Hovering the mouse over the image brings up the words "Mary Shelley's 213th birthday", and clicking on the Doodle brings up the search page for Mary Shelley
Six-Year Old Lands 23 Book Contract; Too Good to Be True?
A six-year old writer landed a 23 book contract, but the publisher's business practices have been under close scrutiny.
Do Creative Writers Need Training?
The ability to write a grade school essay does not qualify you to enter the world of creative writing. It is a craft that has to be learned.
How to get Story Ideas
"Where do your get your ideas?" they ask. "Everywhere," is the answer.
The Difference Between the Amateur and Professional Writer
Amateur writers aspire to professional status but are often unwilling to put in the effort or face the criticism of showcasing their work.
Every Hero Needs a Sidekick
The sidekick, or secondary protagonist, offers much more that the ability to be a punchbag for the villain. Take Sherlock Holmes's Dr Watson for instance.
(SF v Fantasy) Know Your Genre
The dividing line between science fiction and fantasy is so thin that many writers and readers become confused. Here's some clarity.
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