Archive

  • Finding the Right Words

    Finding the Right Words

    Sometimes I wish there was a checklist for writing the perfect story. If I had a step-by-step guide that included everything I needed to put into a book to make it a guaranteed success, it would make life so much easier. All I would have to do is check off each step, and bam, instant Read more

  • Heroes: Why Do We Have Them? Why Do We Need Them?

    Heroes: Why Do We Have Them? Why Do We Need Them?

    Some stories just stick around forever, don’t they? Wherever you go, there they are. A whole bunch of archetypes filling up the library. Some narratives have that special something we call “universal appeal.” They don’t fade away, they never become dated, they just multiply and assume new incarnations for every generation. There’s a broad appeal Read more

  • Happy Birthday, Ray Harryhausen!

    Happy Birthday, Ray Harryhausen!

    Today marks the 103rd birthday of cinema legend Ray Harryhausen. Whether you grew up with his films or have never heard of him, chances are that you’re familiar with his work, especially if you’re a fan of movie monsters like I am. Never seen The 7th Voyage of Sinbad or Jason and the Argonauts? Don’t Read more

  • What is a Trickster?

    The Trickster is an ancient archetype in storytelling. You’re probably very familiar with it. The Trickster is the cunning mischief maker who can be a force for good or for evil. Whether he follows a moral code or just does whatever depending on his mood, he can be heroic, villainous, chaotic, comforting, terrifying, and anything Read more

  • Pace Yourself! What Can Make or Break a Story

    Pace Yourself! What Can Make or Break a Story

    You start reading a book, or watching a movie, and the beginning is a banger. You’re hooked. The characters are great, the story is enthralling, and the action is incredible. The first act is a masterclass in storytelling. As you continue, though, you feel a nagging sensation that something has gone wrong. You aren’t gripped Read more

  • The Importance of Silence

    The Importance of Silence

    I’ve been thinking lately on how important silence is. We need to embrace quietness every once in a while. I don’t mean locking ourselves in a noise-proofed room. I mean just taking time to not do anything for a few minutes. A few minutes of getting away from the hustle and the bustle and the Read more