Here I am facing another Wednesday and time to publish a new post. I’ve written about writing fiction and nonfiction. I’ve looked at the way authors develop their characters and come up with character names. I’ve examined the pros and cons for pantser styles and outliner styles. I’ve looked at grammar issues and non issues.
As for readers, I’ve explored reader styles and habits. We’ve looked at the pros and cons for reading paper books or e-books, the value of writing reviews and the way we find our reading material. I’ve posted reviews of the books I’ve read to give my readers a clue about what I like and dislike.
And here it is Wednesday again and I’ve got to think of some new angle that might engage my readers. Here are some tips for what to do when you run out of things to say.
Look at the different angles they take and see if that sparks something for you. Comment on their posts to get you started on developing ideas for your post.
Imagine what they want to read about today. What do the current tensions in the world suggest? Once you put yourself in their skin, start writing. You could even try to do so from the point of view of your reader.
If you posted on the value of writing outlines, post a new article of how to write without outlines. If you posted on the importance of showing and not telling, write a new article of the value of telling. Guess what, there is value in telling–just not too much of it. For example, at some point I can turn this post upside down and write one on what to do when you’ve got too much to say.
. The next time you go to your book club, ask members some questions. Develop a short questionnaire ahead of time with things like, 1) When do you find time to read 2) How much time a day do you read for pleasure 3) What’s your favorite format for pleasure reading 4) What types of books to you tend to enjoy the most 5) What hooks you in a book 6) What makes you stop reading a book. These are some examples, but from the responses, you could blog for decades!
Put questions out there on Twitter and Facebook. See what kind of answers you get. You may have to beg them to respond, but the responses will set you up for lots of new posts.
Maybe it’s time for a break. Take that break. Let your readers know you’re on a short holiday and when you’re rested, come on back.
What tips do you have when you’ve run out of things to say?
Check out my exciting #booktrailer for The Clock Strikes Midnight.
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