IWSG JANUARY 2, 2019 I’d Rather Not Say… #IWSG
IWSG JANUARY 2, 2019
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OPTIONAL IWSG Day Question:
What are your favorite and least favorite questions people ask you about your writing?
MY ANSWER:
Favorite statement question: Ask when they already know the answer but it is not really a question, yet it is: It starts I love that story. Hurry up write some more. I want to know what happens.
Least favorite conversation set: I say, I’m a writer. Oh, you wrote a book? Hmm, no, I am still writing it.
How long have you been writing it? Well, 3 to 7 years between 4 different books. To which they exclaim Four?
Are you ever gonna finish your book? Well, I hope so.
Why is it taking you so long? There is no good answer for this one that they will understand or that satisfies me when I say it. BUT, standard answer: Life got in the way a few times. I wrote my character into a corner. Now I have to figure out how to write them out of it.
About that: I am finding my way out of the corner by immersing myself in the in-depth study of story structure. Story structure is one of the few areas I already had confidence in. Yet, I am having a few epiphanies that are triggering my subconscious.
I have read so many great books about the subject. *I plan to create a list of those books in the future.* However, it is these 3 techniques that really triggered me in a subconscious way, when I really started using them with purpose not just reading about them.
I broke my stories down and pinpointed the key elements. My Muse has handed me 3 complete story outlines in beats with the elements off the top of my head, so now I have more books to write.
I also now believe I can and will finish my novel. This understanding is helping me manage my Muse bomb fights while writing cause she can get me so off track with several great epiphanies until I’m lost. Muse lives for the bomb fights of complication. 5 Plot Points – Using the 7 Point Plot Structure – 10 Key Scenes – 7POINT – 7 POINTS
So when will you publish your book? (Old answer: Soon. These things take time, or I’m getting close.) New answer: I plan to publish one or more books in 2019.
I am also co-editor with Vanessa Wells in an upcoming anthology Grumpy Old Gods, title and cover tentative, that will publish in March 2019. Check out the call for submissions below. Deadline Jan.13th, 2019. 😉 Shameless plug I know. I am still writing on my story for Grumpy Old Gods, so don’t think it is too late if you want to be part of this. I’ve barely started, lol.
I have hopes of 2 to 3 more projects in the works that are still being discussed for 2019.
ANGST: The Gutenberg WordPress Editor
This dang WordPress new block editing format has forced me to learn how to set my post up again. This is as close to the old format as I can get, plus one of the plugins I used no longer works with the update. At least it left the old post intact that used that plugin.
I am learning the new editor but it makes me growl.
Tip: If you want to add a paragraph within the block you are writing in without creating a new block when you hit enter. Hold down “shift” and hit Enter. It will add space without creating a new block.
Okay, there are some features I like about it. It is just frustrating because some things are not always obvious in how they work or where to find them. Plus it takes time away from writing to learn this because it takes longer to setup post starting out. I could switch back to the old editor but eventually, they will stop supporting the old editor so may as well do it now.
UPDATED ADDED: I am a paid writer. I posted behind the Medium paywall for the first time in December
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IWSG Goodreads Book Club Selection: DECEMBER/JANUARY IS:
BIG MAGIC: CREATIVE LIVING BEYOND FEAR
BY ELIZABETH GILBERT
This one is for CREATIVE LIVING BEYOND FEAR. The discussion will start on January 23rd and will go to the end of the month, but it will be up indefinitely, so you can hop in whenever you’re able. Join Us.
DISCUSSION
January 23rd, Join Us Here.
This prompt came up as a contest winner generated by the IWSG gang – we chose the winner from a whole bunch of creative ideas! Congratulations to long-time WEP participant, Toinette Thomas.
Incorporate 28 days in your entry. It can be the time limit for a task or a challenge. The quantum of growth, a journey, a change, and/or healing that happens in 28 days. Come in with a werewolf entry. Or don’t. Tell us about some other moon phase-based folklore instead. Fashion an epistolary flash as a series of 28 diary entries or postcards. Mainstream, fantasy, romance, travel – all wide open. A lot of things can happen in 28 days!
Call for Submissions
Grumpy Old Gods Anthology
Deadline: January 13th, 2019
Grumpy Old Gods: Seeking
We’re looking for stories about mythical Gods who are waning, reborn, retired, or otherwise AWOL from their assigned post.
We invite you to re-imagine old myths, mine your local retirement home for things that tickle your fancy, and invite your Muse to go wild. The only requirement is that the god or goddess in question (or whole pantheon if you so choose) must be retired, retiring, waning in power, or ignoring their responsibilities. Bonus points for good humor.
Genre: Speculative Fiction.
What is Speculative Fiction? Well, Wikipedia says… “It encompasses the genres of science fiction, fantasy, science fantasy, horror, alternative history, and magic realism.”
Words: 3000-4000
Rating: PG13-PG17
Deadline for Submissions: January 13th, 2019
Submission Format: Word Doc or PDF (No Google Docs please, but we’re willing to work with you if you need to submit in a different format, just contact us!)
Publication: March 2019
What rights are we asking for? We’re asking for the right to print the stories in the anthology, but the writers will retain everything else.
Payment: All authors who participate in the collection will receive an equal portion of the profit, paid quarterly via paypal. None of the startup costs for the book (book cover, formatting, etc…) will be deducted from the proceeds.
Submit to: grumpyanthology@gmail.com
Editors: Vanessa Wells and Juneta Key.
Who we are:
~ Juneta Key: You know her as the woman who puts together the Storytime Blog posts. The social media skills are strong with this one.
~ Vanessa Wells: Self-professed short story junkie and editor of two previous anthologies Spirit and Trick or Treat.
SOME QUESTION THAT OTHERS HAVE ASKED:
- Yes, you can create your own god. Made up welcomed.
- Any mythology or pantheon gods okay as long as it is not in violation of any copyright laws e.g. copyrights expired and it is considered part of the public domain.
- A character must somehow interact with grumpy gods (e.g an immortal character but all depends on if your story fits the theme of the anthology. Read seeking above, still unsure, email us. We are open and willing to consider other POV’s. Originality always welcomed.)
- Yes, we will consider reprints. We prefer first-run rights, but we will consider reprints.
- If you have an idea you think fits the theme but is not outlined or a question email us at grumpyanthology@gmail.com
WANT TO STAY-UP-TO-DATE WITH GRUMPY ANTHOLOGY? SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER. SIGN UP HERE Will be used for updates, information on current and future anthologies or changes in the current project.
Writer’s Gambit December Author Spotlights
A SEARCH FOR TRUE HOME Me on Medium
January 15, 2019 @ 17:16
I’m late getting here but grats on being a paid writer! And the new editor had me so annoyed (since I do all my posts in the HTML view), that I installed the plugin to give me the old WordPress editor back.
I’ve always found structure interesting, and I can usually understand it, but I never know how to apply it to my books. I write in multiple POVs, and I’m never sure how structure is supposed to work when I’ve got four intertwining subplots. *sigh*
January 8, 2019 @ 22:24
Man, people ask some insensitive questions! Asking a struggling writer if they’ll ever finish the book is ill-advised, to say the least. I wonder if people in other industries have to deal with this kind of thing?
In any case, I have faith that you will finish the book, Juneta. Wishing you a happy and productive 2019!
January 8, 2019 @ 22:25
Thank you. You have been an inspiration. I really enjoy visiting your blog.
January 8, 2019 @ 14:57
Happy 2019! 🙂 Wonderful that you will be publishing one or more things this year. I will always be happy to have you guest post on my blog when you’d like.
January 8, 2019 @ 22:24
Ah, thank you. I may be hitting you up for that. LOL.
January 5, 2019 @ 18:13
Happy New Year, Juneta, and thanks bunches for stopping by my blog.
Those are some tuff questions. I’m glad to see you have a plan for publication in 2019.
I love the sound of your anthology. Wish I had a story for it, not sure I could whip up anything good in such a short amount of time. Every time I come here, I keep saying I need to check out medium. I’m going to do it this time.
Looking forward to what this year has in store for you.
January 8, 2019 @ 22:23
Medium is an interesting platform. I am enjoying it.
January 5, 2019 @ 13:55
Good luck with your writing this year and getting something published. =)
January 8, 2019 @ 22:22
Thank you. Same to you.
January 5, 2019 @ 11:11
I rarely tell anyone I’m a writer. It’s too complicated. Lol. You have a lot in the works, Juneta, and one day you are going to flood the market! Well done!
January 8, 2019 @ 22:22
I do so hope you are right. Thank you.
January 5, 2019 @ 03:40
oh my gosh, I’ve heard those questions too. Now I don’t tell people I’m a writer–unless I have something specific I want to share 😉
January 8, 2019 @ 22:21
LOL, I’m not so quick to tell either.
January 4, 2019 @ 20:22
Hi, Juneta! Believing you can and will finish you book is an important milestone to reach! I’m approaching that point on the journey, but I’m not quite there yet. I keep thinking if I’m acting like I’m going to get there, and taking the necessary steps, I’ll get there. So keep on keeping on and don’t let any pesky questions discourage you. I’ve taken to saying “I find writing challenging, and I’m a slow writer, but I’ll get there!” All the best to you as you pursue your writing goals!
January 8, 2019 @ 22:20
LOL, yes believing is a milestone. I’m already wavering lol. The angst of a writer. Wishing you lots of success and progress in 2019.
January 4, 2019 @ 16:38
I hate questions that lead to when a book will be out. Most of the time, I just don’t know. Life finds a way to butt in when it’s least wanted.
Happy New Year!
January 4, 2019 @ 17:37
LOL, Happy New Year!
January 4, 2019 @ 16:01
I hate technology some days. I have the hardest time adjusting to new formats. I get so mad when my writing or blogging time gets eaten up by something as stupid as trying to figure out how to post a picture.
Congrats on the paycheck. That’s pretty sweet!
January 4, 2019 @ 17:36
Thank you. Yeah, that irritates the crap out of me too.
January 4, 2019 @ 13:16
I don’t mind what people ask about my writing – I’m just pleased they’re showing an interest.
January 4, 2019 @ 13:29
Normally I don’t mind either but that particular conversation was NOT born out of genuine interest in my writing because they wanted to read it. It was to hammer home another point without getting ugly about it. The conversation was still disrespectful if not ugly. So I probably was not clear why I illustrated that one but that was why. Disrespect acting like being nice—ah not.
January 3, 2019 @ 17:33
Why is it taking so long? That isn’t a question. That’s a condemnation. Have they ever tried their hand at writing a book? If not, I’d tell them take a shot and see what it’s like.
I wish WP would take a page out of Mail Chimps book and make their program intuitive. I’m still hunting for the READ MORE link in this new iteration. Have you found that yet?
January 3, 2019 @ 19:51
You are so right. Gear specifically to make you feel your goals are unrealistic and a pipe dream.
An intuitive WP now that would be cool.
As matter of fact, when you are in edit mode. In the upper left-hand corner, there is a + sign, the backward and forward button, content button and navigation block. Click on the + and then scroll down to layout elements, click that open, and “more” they took the word read out of it but does the same thing. It is in the middle of the list.
And thank you for asking because in rechecking where I had seen that I looked some more and found my tweet widget so it is still there.
January 3, 2019 @ 15:14
People have no clue when they ask such things. And usually they are the same people that have no chance of writing one indeed.
January 3, 2019 @ 19:43
So true. They also are trying to make you feel bad about not having published several books or making living publishing books if you have not reached that point.
January 3, 2019 @ 10:26
Congrats on publishing behind the pay wall – that had to feel great! And best of luck with finishing the book in 2019. I’ve no doubt you’ll do it!
Happy New Year!
January 3, 2019 @ 19:42
Thank you. I hope so. Happy New Year to you too.
January 3, 2019 @ 10:23
“Oh, you wrote a book?” I love this. You’re a writer and all writers write books. No, I haven’t written a “book” yet either, Juneta. I am still writing it. But I have published short stories. It’s a shame that not many people feel this is writing. Nor do they feel online writing or editing or marketing part of being a writer. Sorry, Juneta. Once I get started…
Great post! All success to you in 2019.
January 3, 2019 @ 19:41
Yes, short stories I have published too. No worries. I get it. Wishing you much success too in 2019.
January 3, 2019 @ 07:35
Your mind must be constantly working and creating stories. Looking forward to hearing what you publish in 2019 and beyond!
January 3, 2019 @ 19:40
Thank you. Me too, lol, just kidding. Happy IWSG!
January 3, 2019 @ 02:11
WordPress is finicky for sure. I love the, “Only four?” response. People hear of others writing books over a weekend – which is inhuman – and have misconceptions on how long it truly takes. Happy IWSG Day!
January 3, 2019 @ 19:38
Yeah, lots of misconceptions out there and judgments regarding people who not known authors in the Stephen King category.
I gripe about WP but I have not found anything I like better for my requirements and as low cost.
January 2, 2019 @ 21:57
I have a WP site, but hosted by WP, not self-hosted, so no plug-ins are allowed. My site is pretty simple and easy to post and do most things I want. Also, I try to avoid switching to ‘new editor’ or ‘new experience’ or anything like that. They sometimes offer, but I consistently resist the temptation. If the old things work, why risk spoiling them?
January 2, 2019 @ 22:18
I host with tigertech.com and use WP.org because I don’t want to lose my content in case WP decides the change all the rules like Amazon is always doing. This way I own my content and I am the one who decides what comes down. However, WP widgets working with WP updates is another matter which forces you to change the way you do things but does not affect my content on my website being available. I am working on my brand and don’t want to have to switch either. I also if I want to do affiliate I cannot do it on free WP, so there is that too.
If you are happy with what you have I definitely agree. I do like mine so although frustrated with the editor thing I still like my what I have and WP has one of the best layouts and option using WP.org.
January 2, 2019 @ 21:55
Sounds like you have plenty to keep you busy this year. Good luck. And four years to write a story sounds pretty natural to me. Then again, I am a slow writer, so what do I know?
I’m thinking of changing from Blogger to WordPress sometime in the future. Stories like yours makes me wonder if I really want to do this or not.
Have a great 2019!
January 2, 2019 @ 22:22
I want to get faster so I can put a two to three books a year if I want to. I am hoping after completing the first one I will know more about how I operate to manage a better prolific schedule.
I like WP despite my frustration with the editor right now. I resist change. It really is not all that bad there is a lot of cool stuff with the new editor too. You can get a widget that allows you to use the old editor, but I would rather learn the new one. Despite the frustration, I like learning new things.
January 2, 2019 @ 21:19
Argh, Gutenberg! I feel your pain there, Juneta. I found a plug-in that allows for changing the colors of inline text. Word by word, rather than entire paragraphs by default: Advanced Rich Text Tools for Gutenberg by Ella Van Durpe.
PS: I love story structure. One of my favorite parts of writing fiction is assembling the bones.
January 2, 2019 @ 21:38
Thanks for the tip. I will check it out.
Yeah, I have learned to love story structure. Who have thought this panster would say that. I found by knowing the 5 plot points it helps get over the humps as I figure out where I need to go without knowing the story until I write it. So panster is still happy.
January 2, 2019 @ 18:03
PAID for writing! Woo hoo! Love the dancing Skelator (or whoever he is – probably showing my age).
So yes, this writing stuff takes awhile. Non-writers don’t have a clue. Good for you on publishing this year – I am going to finish the novel I am working on right now (I also have some others tucked away). Wishing you a productive 2019!
January 2, 2019 @ 18:57
Cheers to you too and finishing. Thank you.
January 2, 2019 @ 15:58
Good luck with the Anthology! It sounds like a great idea. I’m with you on questions that don’t really understand the time frame involved in writing and publishing a book. (Although I do think they’re well-meaning for the most part.) Happy New Year!
January 2, 2019 @ 19:00
Thank you. Yeah, if you don’t get it, you don’t get it. Happy New Year.
January 2, 2019 @ 13:23
Oh, my head is spinning with all your plans and activities. I tried WP and Blogger when first blogging and blogger won out. Perhaps it’s not as classy as WP, but it made more sense to me in 2011. Grumpy Gods sounds like a fun one to put together. I look forward to reading it.
JQ Rose
January 2, 2019 @ 19:01
I have looked at Blogger but I have had WP, geesh, way back when before it was the thing, so was more used to it. I had yahoo before that.
January 2, 2019 @ 12:51
I thought I was tough, but you hanging in there (four years) and still plugging away has set the best example. We write for the love of writing. Not everyone gets it. But you do.
I hope 2019 brings your all that you deserve. 🙂
Anna from elements of emaginette
January 2, 2019 @ 19:03
Honestly, it is more than 4 years but seriously moving that direction for four, even if slowly. Yeah, I write for love. Started with Star Wars fanfic.
Wishing the same for you. HUGS 😉
January 2, 2019 @ 11:21
Sorry WordPress is frustrating you,
There is no good answer for why it takes so long…
January 2, 2019 @ 19:04
It is what it is with WP but it is the one I know so stick with it.
January 2, 2019 @ 08:51
How awesome that you’re co-authoring a book that is being published in a few months. Let me know when it happens and I can mention it in Follower News on my blog. Happy New Year!
January 2, 2019 @ 19:04
Thank you. I will definitely let you know. Happy New Year.
January 2, 2019 @ 08:05
People ask some of the most negative questions when you say you’re a writer.
January 2, 2019 @ 19:05
Yeah, but one day. I’ll be smiling. I hope.
January 2, 2019 @ 07:16
Happy New Year!
Had to laugh about the question about people asking you are you still working on the same book. I will have been working on the first book in my serial for ten years November 2019. It’s not that I haven’t written other things. In fact, I’ve written the fourth drafts of the first three books, but people are always amazed. Many think writing a book is an overnight thing.n
Wishing you much success for 2019.
Shalom aleichem,
Pat G @ EverythingMustChange
January 2, 2019 @ 19:07
hey, that is the love of the story. Truth is it has been longer if count some other things in. Dang girl you go. If I’d just completely finish one draft I’d be really happy, well, for a short while.
January 2, 2019 @ 04:28
When I’m stuck, I definitely try to figure out what’s making me feel that way, and often, it’s that I feel I need to know more about something. We’re on the same page! I really, really, really love this series on structuring story, and several of my talented author friends also refer to it when writing: https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/secrets-story-structure-complete-series/
January 2, 2019 @ 19:09
Yeah, that is a good series. I am one of her Wordplayers on FB. I own the books, workbook, and software. I do better with the shorter stuff like 5 plot points, 7 points because I am a panster. I get overwhelmed with all that other although I love her stuff and many others. Read them all. Try to learn what I can.
January 2, 2019 @ 02:40
Good luck with your writing goals for 2019!
I still have to read this month’s book 😉 But I will be ready for the discussion date… I hope.
Yeah, the new WordPress editor is a bit tricky to get the hang off — but I have found a couple of excellent features in it 🙂
Happy New Year!
Ronel visiting on IWSG day 2019 Goals, Resolutions and Questions
January 2, 2019 @ 19:12
Thank you. You too.
I am rereading to refresh my mind.
Yeah, there a few things to like and I am getting better at it. But can’t figure out how to get the twitter plugin for a tweet to work and another one.
Happy New Year.