Writing Roots

S18E5 – Pearls from the Masters: Aristotle

While Aristotle is more well-known for his philosophical ideas, he also has many memorable and applicable quotes to writing today. Storytelling in Greece during Aristotle’s time was largely done through theater. Modern patterns for tragedies, dramas, and comedies can all trace their roots to Greek theater. Aristotle helped define what makes a good play, from the plot to the characters.
Leigh and Ley discuss the advice and how it can still be useful in the modern world in this episode.
First aired January 18, 2020.
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S18E4 – Pearls from the Masters: Lee Child

No one is as economical with words quite like an action author. Among the best of them is Lee Child, known for his Jack Reacher series. His writing is succinct and straight forward even as he lays out a mystery and plot that can entice the readers. For this episode, we take a look at the advice he’s given and how it can be applied in our own writing.
First aired January 14, 2021.
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S18E3 – Pearls from the Masters: Neil Gaiman

One author with almost endless advice for those getting started in their writing careers is Neil Gaiman. Many of his books and other works are lauded for their creativity and humor, and many have been made into movies or shows as a result. Much of the advice he gives, though, is to encourage writers to embrace their craft, for there is always something important in storytelling, no matter the kind of story.
Listen to this episode to hear some pearls of wisdom from Neil Gaiman.
First aired January 11, 2021.
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S18E2 – Pearls from the Masters: John Green

Masters of the writing craft come in all forms and all genres. While much of his popularity was gained as a vlogger, John Green was first an award-winning author. His unique connection to a younger audience helped him gain popularity for his Young Adult fiction. Though he hasn’t published many books in total, his advice can be invaluable for all authors.
In this episode, we take a look at his advice regarding discouragement, what it takes to be a writer, and how to become better.
First aired January 7, 2021.
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S18E1 – Pearls from the Masters: Stephen King

When learning to write, one of the best ways to improve is to look to the ones who have gone before. Like an apprentice blacksmith, new writers can rely on the masters of the writing craft. One of the most common modern authors that has helped guide the apprentices is Stephen King. From finding influence in his own work to reading On Writing, hundreds of authors find his words of wisdom to be beacons in their writing journey for what can be considered good writing.
Throughout the month of January, we’ll be examining the advice from the masters of writing and storytelling. Listen to this episode to hear some of what Stephen King has to say about the process.
First aired January 4, 2021.
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S17E9 – How Do I Learn to Become a Better Writer?

There is so much advice out there for writers. Some of it is good, some of it is great, and some of it is terrible. However, not all advice can be applied across the board for every writer. There are style differences, genre expectations, and simple author quirks that make each author a unique being in how they go about writing. But while advice can’t be just applied at face value every time, there are still reasons to listen and contemplate the suggestions given.
First and foremost, listening and trying to apply advice in the best way possible will make you a better writer. We’re saying goodbye to 2020 by considering how we all can learn to become better at what we love. The goal is to prepare you for the start of the new year, when we talk about the advice given by well-known and respected authors.
First aired December 31, 2020.
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S17E8 – What Do I Need to Know to Start Writing My Book?

Starting is the hardest part about writing a novel. You have so many ideas swirling around in your head, but the question remains of how to even get those first words on the paper. The answer is different depending where you are in your own writing journey. From starting with nothing as a first-time author, to having the experience and knowledge of a five-time author.
We break down what you need to know in order to get started, no matter where you are in your process.
First aired December 28, 2020.
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S17 Bonus – How Do I Get Over Writer’s Block?

There are all kinds of things that can keep someone from writing. There’s not enough time. Other things need to take priority. Inspiration or the muses have not struck yet. The next scene is difficult. And the list goes on. Trust us, we know each of these from experience. Often times, though, we take all of things and lump them under the category of “writer’s block.”
In this episode, we explore different ways we’ve found to overcome writer’s block, along with other common hinderances to the writing process.
First aired December 26, 2020.
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S17E7 – Can I Mention Copyrighted or Trademarked Material?

Any book taking place in the real world – especially those in the modern era – will have mentions and references that anchor them into a timeline. That can be anything from mentioning the type of phone they’re using (is it a flip phone or a smart phone?) to dropping actual names of people or things. There is a common question we see a lot, especially from anyone wanting to start writing something like Ready Player One, which is chock full of so many references it has any nostalgic heart longing for the past.
What’s the line, though? What makes something fair use or a copyright infringement? Can an author mention someone else’s work without having to get a written, contractual permission? The short answer is yes, but with limitations. Listen to this episode for a break down of what does and does not apply under fair use laws in fiction.
First aired December 24, 2020.
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S17E6 – What Software is Good for Writing and Formatting?

There are so many answers to this frequently asked question. What software and which programs are the best for the different phases of writing and publishing? Unfortunately, there is no one right answer. At least not for authors as a whole.
Every writer will need to find what works best for them. Sometimes, it’ll be the free options. But as Benjamin Franklin said, there is a benefit to investing in the tools of trade. This is especially important when it comes to creating professional-level quality books. We break down different options for the writing and formatting phases in this episode.
First aired December 21, 2020.
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