Sit to Write... Make it Right

Things new writers must know

** None of the following is fictional or exaggerated. These are all the things that I've personally encountered while working on my debut novel...


1. Avoid using unnecessary adjectives - ominous, ill-fated, calamitous world... I know, I know the world is indeed a bad place... anything else????

2. Stop using anthropomorphisms and I really mean it since you tend to do this especially if you're a new Indian writer. Fate was giving a vicious smile? Who told you that Fate is a woman and can smile!!?

3. Dialogues should sound real. Read them and read them again. Use I've instead of I have and the likes.

4. It is always better if Harry says than Harry remarks, answers, questions, etc... New writers, note it down.

5. Don't tell that Robin was angry. Instead, show how his face gradually turned red before he tightened his jaws.

6. Shelly was gullible? I don't believe you. Bring this out in a series of dialogues.

7. First time novelist? Don't get over ambitious with your first novel even if it is a bitter experience you're writing about from your life. Be polite, use your brains.

8. Don't leave loop holes in between your story line. Readers are lazy asses and they just hate to guess.

9. Don't put an abrupt ending. They never work. Bring out a clear conclusion.

10.  Using overwrought language? You've got hold of the wrong end of the stick. Be simple and correct.

11. And do not repeat words... The old man remembered the old custom and remembered the old saying... The old man remembered the antique custom and recalled the ancient saying. Which one sounds better?

12. Think of a title... make sure that it is subjected to change. This will have a magical effect. You'll see how you get more responsible and committed towards it.

Good writing is concise, clear and economical. Bad writing is obscure, muddled, long winded and full of adjectives with disconnected flights of fancy.

*** Becca, thanks for teaching these.