Jane Doe Chronicles

On Writing for Hire: All Writers Write so What DifferentiatesThem?

JDC The Art of Writing:  Few people realize how badly they write according to author William Zinsser. 

Without impact, words by themselves are dead. So what differentiates a special kind of freelancer from the norm who can inject a little word-magic in any venue?  Editors state it is the rare committed person of passion who takes the time to learn the industry ropes and knows how to anticipate before asked.

A writer's focus is to breath life into a piece with a written notable persuasive slant that grabs the reader's attention within the first 30 seconds.  The lack of this ability is one major reason editors refuse to consider a piece. . .the writer hasn't stirred them to do so. 

Twenty years ago, "putting out a shingle" was enough.  Today's shingle is the art of power writing and in understanding an individual's writing needs and then professionally meeting them by keeping a reader emotionally connected while on the journey to a customer's goal.

Some have asked: Why is the reader captivated by some writing and promotional material and unmoved by others?  It's all in the way a writer delivers the "goods" using a focused structured style for a specific venue, coupled with knowledge of the subject, an accomplished writer is capable of arousing the senses through the manipulation of phraseology and a play on words, hopefully conjuring up a picture in the mind of the reader drawing him or her in; yearning to know more. 

A writer's computer is like a football playing field.  For football is won on the practice field in a grueling yet uplifting experience with each training session.

Anyone can pen the written word and subjectively consider it a success.  But. . .for the professional if a reader won't turn the page what is the benefit to the paying customer.  What happens to the credibility of the writer? 

The writing game is won in the difficult moments of development, research and repeated tweaking which becomes the grueling sessions and creative madness of the writer's playing field as one clicks across the keyboard with a writer's eye view of life and a customer's vision in mind.

Readers and buyers want to be satisfied.  An article's end-result should deliver a pleasurable read or one allowing the reader to justify taking a specific risk or action.  Information alone may not be enough.

This all doesn't just happen. Beyond the industry ground rules, top writers are dependable self-starters, honing their skills as experienced researchers and analysts.  Being an entrepreneur is a lifestyle bonus.

Through sweat-equity, or accredited training in the art of creative writing, coupled with a diversified work history of positive and negative experiences and interpersonal skills, a writer learns to mesh creative writing with work of imagination, incentive, credibility and the hard part, balance for a sparkling impact, and a happy client. 

The goldmine behind unusual information igniting a writer's content is a list of verifiable professional sources.  The frosting. . .is the labored research of little known facts distinguishing a writer's from all others.

All writers have only one chance to make an impression with a buyer, editor, or reader. . .and that is the first impression barr none.

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CeCe Day Hill, Copyright (c) 2012 - Jane Doe Chronicles, All Rights Reserved - Office: 349 West Circle Dr., New Lenox, IL 60451 - (815) 485-4871

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On Writing: How Efficient Use of Rhetoric Improves Content and a Writer's Voice-Style

JDC Art of Writing:  The strategy of using expressive rhetoric becomes the dance partner with the language in sentences for emotional effectiveness and hopefully a professional touch of elegance adjusted to any genre.

Why is the reader captivated by some writing and unmoved by others?  It is the way a sentence is put together arousing the sensibilities, where one is stimulated by the writer's selection of phrases, capable of conjuring a picture in ones mind, so as to be in the midst of the action accepting it or rejecting it, or yearning for more.

Just sentences?  No.  One has to do something with them for a particular purpose and effect.  Professor Brooks Landon, who served as chair of the Iowa English Department from 1999-2005, notes in his writing:  Building Great Sentences, ". . . sentences work like verbs, doing things, taking action, rather than like nouns that only name."  In other words, show through syntax (the way one styles a sentence); just don't tell or relate words. . .draw the reader in.

There are simple sentences of clarity with clean structure omitting the superfluous, and there are suspenseful elaborate masters in excess of 100 words minus the death-knoll of repetition. 

Elegance in writing is a matter of personal taste, efficiency and training; conveying meaning clearly; teasing at every turn of the page; establishing a connection with the reader, who wishes to be satisfied.

With each selected word the writer uses it changes the content through his or her adapted style garnishing a sentence so it delivers the goods for an exciting elegant flow and a reaction from the reader.

Note:  Which sentence would keep you reading?

1.  O.K. - Maggie bolted through the screen door eager to get out; oblivious of the red fox planted on the front lawn.

2.  Better - With three missing glass louvers, Maggie bolted against the black screen door as if she were shot out-of-a-cannon, something she hadn't done before, oblivious of the danger of sharp metal edges on the exterior, and the visitor planted on the front lawn, a handsome red fox, who know doubt would enjoy a five pound lunch.

Number One:  This sentence is grammatically clean with clarity, avoids needless words, but isn't one of high impact - it doesn't go anywhere.  It lacks the power to push a reader on to perhaps the next paragraph and a specific goal any writer may wish to impart, possibly leading to an unsatisfactory reading experience.

Here there is content that can be easily developed into a strong voice-style (the way a writer puts his thoughts and information down for a specific result). 

Depending on a particular use and need, this sentence will work.  Yet many writers have found the magic in writing and the fun is the attention-getter, a longer, tightly controlled piece of effective writing, especially desirable in business sales.

Number Two:  Here there is content, information, style and there is a suspenseful and unexpected outcome.

The difference between one and two, is how the writer presents and unfolds ideas by pacing, adding not just the grammar, but the rhetoric of careful embellishment with several turns in phrasing.  Dense emotional energy grows, flowing as if in motion to the most important end (the goal), bringing the writer and the reader to one mind.

Professor Landon challenges the writer to change the taught collegiate manner of writing, as reflected in William Strunk, Jr. and E.B. White's writing guide, The Elements of Style, not to eliminate its wisdom, but to approach the use of "style" as a "garnish for the meat of prose."

Sentences shouldn't come across as just words, for words in themselves are dead!  The madness of the contender who writes is to choose the strategy which channels from the mind to the fingers clicking across the keyboard to shape ideas; understood, both for its content of information and a sentence style in voice equally as important. . .intriguing, entertaining and persuading.

"Whether short or long . . .this is what I mean when I call myself a writer," writes novelist Don DeLillo, "I construct sentences."

So what might be the magic in the writing craft of success?  Consider one of the biggies, more control over the value of extraordinary density in phraseology while always paying attention to the effect of delivery; tweaking until you believe each paragraph is simmering, even pulsating beckoning the reader to continue on.  

According to one psychologist, people want to be sold.  Use the creative writing process to give them the pleasure they seek or one that allows them to justify a reason for taking a specific risk or action.

Reading Material:

Strunk Jr., William, and E.B. White The Elements of Style. 4th ed., with a forward by Roger Angell, New York: Longman, 2000 - Still used in the collegiate field; still indispensable

Trimble, John R. Writing With Style: Conversations on the Art of Writing.  Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall, 1975 - A good read for one serious about their writing

Zinsser, William. On Writing Well: An Informal Guide to Writing New York: Harper & Row 1976 - Solid, good advice, no frills.  Used in Creative Writing Accredited Courses

Style: An Anti-Textbook, New Haven: Yale University Press, 1974.  This is author Richard A. Lanham's argument that the stress on clarity in American writing instruction has largely worked to banish pleasure from writing.

Don DeLillo: Noted American novelist whose 15 books include White Noise, and Underworld

References provided by Professor Brooks Landon, The University of Iowa: Building Great Sentences: Exploring the Writer's Craft 2008, and The Teaching Company - Chantilly, Va

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CeCe Day Hill, copyright 2011, Jane Doe Chronicles, All Rights Reserved - Ofice: 349 West Circle Dr., New Lenox, IL 60451 - (815) 485-4871

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Art of Writing: Can a Pacified Writer Find Success?

JDC Art of Writing: No, says the professional - Yes says the layman.

There are no short-cuts on the roller coaster ride to the title: author and writer. Those who believe so, are doomed in the world of the literary.

To be a successful Writer one must feel the call from within and be willing to pay the price to succeed in a competitive industry where few attain the status with the big bucks.

The desire to write, auspiciously rises from the soul's depths, ever unyielding, throbbing, a disguised yearning to create from the avenues and crossroads called life; from the mind's dark side, to angelic reaches beyond, to produce its own brand of success...be it minuscule, be it great.

If not for the love of writing, blank pages would be no more than a mirrored reflection of nothingness, unrecorded events of man's existence and the external wonderment of an ever diagnostic world laying open vast secrets to be discovered and challenged.

The many faces of beauty and its emotional moments of excitement, happiness, laughter, and hopes would never have touched man's heart...if it weren't for one human, like a painter, clicking out words,  strokes of imagination, with a play on words, and a fountain of endless thought, feeling, emotion and quests into the unknown.

Many writers believe pacifying oneself is a "pity party" keeping a writer in a limbo of non-productive days. Using the art of excuse to avoid steps of growth in the learning process, the creation of ideas or just getting started. This state of procrastination is the writer's worst enemy

Anyone can pen the written word and find they enjoy it. To whip across the keyboard, in a blazing flame of creativity and intrigue capable of attracting and keeping a reader's attention...requires knowing how to get from A to Z and then some.

The prize goes to the one who has the guts to learn what it means to be a writer, what it takes to be able to open the door to the editor's office of publication - and then, d*** it, do it! Prioritize...

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CeCe Day Hill, copyright 2011 - Jane Doe Chronicles, All Rights Reserved - Office: 349 West Circle Dr., New Lenox, IL 60451 - (815) 485-4871

To view other articles: http://www.janedoechronicles.typepad.com

Art of Writing: Why the Query Letter Can Make or Break a Writer's Career

Art of Writing:  Between Dear Editor and Sincerely, you're up-to-bat.  Can you hit a home-run?

Don't sabotage a writing project.  Like a job interview it is a writer's first contact with a new boss called an editor, and, as one unknown writer wrote, "It's your handshake to success."  Amazingly, too many writers do not view it that way, since the majority of arduous efforts end up in the "slush" pile - file "13," according to various editors.

When the query is plagued with unprofessional mannerisms including self-indulgent writing, an editor may assume the article will be the same.  There are no short cuts for training and experience.  To knock an editor's socks off with a high-impact pitched idea, conquer the art of query.

The one thing about editors is they are forever on a daily roller coaster ride shuffling through mounds of manuscripts and proposals well into the night slumped on the sofa.  This fallible human being's sanity is held together by a cup of coffee or a gooey candy bar, hoping, one well-presented idea will nudge their curiosity and tug at their sleeve.

Whether in the office or at home these weary souls are ravaged by mediocre attempts from writers who don't have the basic rules of the query letter down pat.  Give the editor the thing he or she wants most...a reason to read beyond the first paragraph.

The query is a sales tool to sell your work, as well as to save time, energy and money in breaking into print.  The two biggest reasons one makes no headway is " . . . tired ideas and an unprofessional approach" according to the Long Ridge Writers editors.

Editor, author and publisher Valerie Harms believes the opening paragraph in a query is the most important; well worth the effort to make the pitch a blockbuster.  Success starts and stops with the first or second paragraph.  The following tips may help a writer to become part of the editor's winning team.  Good editors know how to make a talented writer, great.

Due to time restraints these scribes of the written word can't read all of what comes across the desk.  Therefore, a writer needs to capture their interest within 30 seconds.  How?  Captivate with a creative focused emotionally charged and dramatic use of words.  Develop a fresh slant--in voice (style) keyed to the interests of the publication or literary agent's needs.  Editors want a clear picture of what is being offered.

Literary agent Alice Orr states: "Nothing turns an editor on more than to recognize the flash of talent on a page. . .I can tell you from personal experience that she wants and needs to be surprised."  So, next time surprise one of these species of English Grammar and the lexicon.

You can't tick-off Mother Nature, and you don't want  to tick-off an editor by rambling on.  It's the "kiss of death."  The debate goes on as to whether a writer should submit a one or two page introduction - one seems to be the preferred.  Get to the meat of the issue, make every word count.  A business format with the appropriate basic information for contact purposes on old-fashioned white paper is expected.

There are many ways to present an intriguing pitch.  Present what they haven't heard.  Wow with word-magic.  Let the editor know why you believe your manuscript is appropriate to their magazine.

Action word-verbs help to facilitate the art of better writing in creating stronger sentences, and in eliminating repetition and the use of the superfluous.

Grab the editor's attention by asking a question, use an anecdote, offbeat facts, humor or describe a place, thing or person by anchoring the editor to the subject with a lively description. 

Credibility is a big issue.  Briefly show through your ability to manipulate words, what the editor can expect to receive.  They like to know where your information came from.  Include any research and interviews supporting the article plus the title and the word count.  Don't go off on a tangent.  Everything should be pertinent to the lead.  When based on personal experience, all-the-better. 

With the advancement of computer software, it's almost impossible to not provide a clean copy of a query to meet any editor's needs.

One of my all-time favorite leads was by an experienced writer named Zipora Ford.  The first paragraph line reads: "Did you know that this summer more than 45,000 kids--and lots of grown ups too--wished they were an Oscar Mayer wiener?  The title was "Joy-Riding in a Wienermobile:  The Story of the Fastest Hot Dog on Wheels."  I chuckled, then laughed and wanted to know more.

This "did you know," is an attention-getter.  It took all of about 10 seconds to read and decide I've got to read more.  I indeed learned something from her pristine layout of substance and form.

Before the close, humbly list any writing credentials and anything that may further peek the editor's interest.  Editors instinctively know by the approach, the level of writing expertise they are dealing with.  Submitting a couple of writing samples or published clips pertinent to the area of query will help.  Enclose a SASE for the convenience of a response, or don't expect a reply.

Keep in mind ten editors may view the same information and come up with different reasons to reject a piece from it's not a good fit for the publication, won't fit into print scheduling or the topic may have recently been done in recent months, and of course, you didn't do the job right. If your fortunate enough to receive some commentary don't ignore it.  Re-evaluate your piece and send it out again. 

We writers learn every day, when we dare to dream and click across the computer keyboard in search of our version of success.  Becoming an editor's preferred writer is part of the publication journey.  The query is the road we all have to take to reach that incredible place called "In Print."  And, that's the way it is.

Two Sidebar Treasures:  The Writer's Digest Guide to Query Letters by Wendy Burt-Thomas has more than 25 sample letters featuring do's and don'ts.  For the novel enthusiast, Writer's Digest offers the 3rd edition of How to Write a Book Proposal by Michael Larsen.

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CeCe Day Hill (c) 2010 - Jane Doe Chronicles, All Rights Reserved - 349 West Circle Dr. - New Lenox, IL 60451 - Office: (815) 485-4871 - E-mail: janedoechronicles@comcast.net

View other articles at: http://www.janedoechronicles.typepad.com

Art of Writing: "How Do You Invite the Reader into Your Story So They Can Experience the Virtual Environment Completely?"

JDC Art of Writing:  Fuzzy and weedy writing will never create winning formulas to draw a reader in, for words by themselves in dull prose is dead.

The road to nowhere is vast for the uneducated writer.  Honed writing skills, becoming an accomplished researcher, and experience will determine whether a proseman will be able to influence any readership to forge on.  The reader wants to know, "How will you satisfy my expectations?"  How does a writer take the reader through the portal of the language of words into a world as it is, desires it to be or in which one can dream treasures of "make believe."? 

First, start with what you know, have encountered and lived through.  Add the heart and frosting of labored research to add depth and credibility.  Entice and intrigue with creative emotional energy in a strong recognizable angle that distinguishes the lead from the masses of other slants, and then make sure it grabs the reader's attention within the first 30 seconds.

Understand what you want to say or what action is desired and then create the moment and mood by giving it "life."  Anticipate your reader's questions and needs, and penetrate the visual senses by the way you passionately present the descriptive written word on paper. . .make them feel it from the top of their head down to the tingling in their toes.

Grab with pulsating interest.  Note this excerpt from Margo Kaufman's article "Money, Honey," Los Angeles Times Magazine: "We need to talk about money," says my husband.  "I clench my fists and begin to hyperventilate.  Duke and I have a modern attitude about finances.  We don't trust each other."

Here is a narrative style, dialogue and voice of human-interest, touching on personal experiences, finance, and relationships with a How-to around the corner.  Drawn into a hot topic with emotional drama and action a reader is able to envision easily through the description of clenching fists, apparent anger and gasping of the hyperventilating process.  Interest is piqued to read on with an honest statement, why neither trusts the other.  The reader has been drawn into experiencing the virtual environment through the opening allure of the beginning transitional paragraph.

A tightly written dynamic lead of a good protagonist and antagonist with differing views presents a potent story people can identify with in:

1.  The framework for a problem, the story beginning

2.  The complication, the story middle

3.  The solution, the story end

Incidents are a slice of life; they happen.  Fleshing out an incident is adding emotion of believable detail making your reader care as in the Harry Potter series.  Researched information and facts will breath life into your characters and backdrop.  Using verbs more than adjectives forces writing to become tight and targeted, not fuzzy and weedy; the reason readers and editors are stopped dead in their tracks.  It's all in the packaging pizazz that leaves a memorable impression.

Milo Ogden Frank a nationally acclaimed authority on communication skills and strategies writes: It is ". . . what allures, entices, tempts, tantalizes, fascinates, captivates, enchants, attracts, bewitches, catches, hypnotizes - that makes you remember and gets you to keep reading."  So, hook with the magic of the best words.  The better writing is in the way it is presented, the more successful a writer will be. 

Note the following examples from the Long Ridge Writer's Group training manual:

(T)elling: "I'll never forget the car accident it was just awful."

(S)howing is story: "The baby shrieking in the car seat, the air bag exploding in my face, the mini van flipping through the air once, twice, three times--oh yes, I remember the car accident"  The  "T" can lose the reader. . .the "S" keeps them involved turning pages. 

From out of the writer's watershed of tested moments, the power of enhanced prose and play-on words can turn a dull description into a masterful characterization.  Style up a bit of writing magic with simple ideas, excitement, expectations and clarity and build on that, keeping in mind. . .90 percent of essays and manuscripts end up in an editor's slush pile of rejection, because of the lack of it.

One little treasure, Word Magic for Writers by Cindy Rogers reveals proven language devices that will help lure readers and win over audiences.  It is a tool that clearly shows why most writers fail to get it right in an authorcraft of lonely moments and tough competition.

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CeCe Day Hill, Copyright (c) 2009 - Jane Doe Chronicles, All Rights Reserved - 349 West Circle Dr., New Lenox, IL 60451 - (815) 485-4871 - E-mail:  janedoechronicles@comcast.net

To view other articles and author profile visit: http://www.janedoechronicles.typepad.com

Writing: Anatomy of an Enigmatic Writer

JDC Art of Writing:  Individuals write for varied reasons as numerous as the stars in the heavens.  One thing they all have in common is to be read and acknowledged as an accomplished penman.  How would you evaluate what it takes to become a successful writer?  How do your talents stack up to the book most read?

Millions of talented writers and authors create work in every genre each year.  How many can attain that wondrous flow of eloquence?  Rarely do we have the opportunity to know them as a person.  It is the superficial charm on a book cover we note: their writing that must speak for itself.

How many manuscripts have been tossed aside never to be part of the print world of publication?  How many of us follow a dream to become the writer's writer?  To walk in through the portal of the magical tool of language, into a world as we see it, desire to see it, or one we can dream treasures of "make believe."  There exists one distinctive writer of all time . . . the ultimate author who has sold tens of millions of copies. 

His books and inspired talents issue forth on everyday subjects we yearn to read about.  The stories and examples span time and are of an impeccable nature.  We are met with a mystical phraseology of words.  Like a modern day mystery novel, we are enticed to read on to unearth a book's hidden secrets.

Just as the Kentucky Colonel, he is old; it is written: "The hair on his head is like clean wool. . .his clothing white like snow and his voice a deep pitch of thundering."  He is more than a modern day Mark Twain.

He can always be counted on to gain one's attention through dramatic expression of what he wants his reader to understand about times, people, situations and life in general.  His understanding of subject matter coupled with an authoritative vast knowledge base is mind-boggling.

As a practical writer of wisdom, he emancipates, astute in the harmonious and accuracy of his chosen topic and words.  Words come alive and power is exerted within the writing that is sharper than any two-edge sword.

He does what most writers desire to do:  "grab the reader's attention connecting them emotionally, creatively revealing true thought and deep feelings of the heart.  In a way that most of us as writers would give of our soul. . .to be so dynamically written, read and well published."  -- It is more than a matter of well written copy that whets the appetite.  It is greatness of the written word by the Ancient of Ancients.

From a writer's viewpoint, have you ever analyzed the way God the author did his thing?  Imagine, He was free from the wheeling pressure experienced in the literary market and news media.  In the authorship of the Bible, He didn't have to go to school, or struggle - He didn't have to pay off student loans - He didn't have to prove himself equal to the challenges that are demanded in the birth of a writer and in the development of skills.

By our writing standards He is an enigma: possessing the ability to intentionally create obscure statements in riddle or complex metaphor. . .then depends on the full comprehension and alertness of the hearer or reader, to search out meaning as if on a quest for the most precious pearl. 

What a brilliant novelist, of mystery and life's unsolved problems.  Of explicable circumstance, event and occurrence of human reason and history.  -- His words glean leaving bare the answers to our questions . . . ironically at times read and accepted, other times discarded as garbage.

Amazingly, every element of grammar, style and writing persuasion one struggles with is found within the pages of the Bible.  A writer does not have to believe in the Good Book, but can any writer deny, there is none greater than the ultimate writer's writer?  A being of enigmatic dimensions, real to some and fictitious to others.  A divine wordsmith and creator of the first How-To training manual, and the most widely read manuscripts in the world.  He just had it!  What so many of us wish we had, phenomenal talent.

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By: CeCe Day Hill, Copyright 2005-2008 (RR 09/29/07), Jane Doe Chronicles, All Rights Reserved - 349 West Circle Dr., New Lenox, IL 60451 - (815) 485-4871 - Email: janedoechronicles@comcast.net

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"Billionaire J.K. Rowling Holding Back Tears in Federal Court?"

JDC Art of Writing:  "Somehow a distraught J.K. Rowling has lost her creativity for writing.  Is it permanent writer's block, or is it sentimentality about losing out on the sought after almighty dollar?"

Today in Federal Court Ms. J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter book series appeared in a dignified suit, a simple coiffure, and a pouting somber look, to take the stand in her lawsuit against a man who is one of her biggest fans.  So much so, he started a Website: an on-line lexicon of information covering the genre on Harry Potter, which was the basis for his "published version, sure to be a money-maker."

According to Fox News: Warner Brothers, who built its treasure trove of four billion dollars from the movie versions, and Ms. Rowling, who sold four hundred million Potter books have combined efforts to block the dictionary version  from hitting the market.

As a writer myself, the issue of copyright infringement is a noteworthy protective point.  Ms. Rowling has spent 17 years of her time in the process of creating from "the flow of the juices of thought," in nimble finger computer time  something of eminent value within the halls of writing, entertainment and the financial realm.

Taking words that: by themselves are "dead," giving them "life" in a content with a breath of color and play-on words of a non-existent world of magical wizardry; creating a new lexicon of words.  She penned a mystifying, memorable content that reels itself into a dreamy fun state of excitement that draws the reader in.

As a writer, I question the point of: the loss of her creativity?  Now, if I were in her shoes, my  thought processes might be:  Anger,  bitterness; the pain of a hurt heart that someone is going to make big money on a book I contemplated, yet never got around to producing. . .the final book - a dictionary compilation of everything Harry Potter.

As the smoke poured out of my ears, my eyes, might then shed a waterfall of pained wetness.  "After all my hard work, I can't believe this is happening! . . . some little twit is going to benefit from my struggles."

Yes, being a writer is a blast in a half.  One never knows what pestilence might spew venom off a page, in the media or in the course of wordsmithing, leading one up the stairs to the gavel and desk of a Federal Court judge of Copyright Law.

A Court as it should, will decide such issues as: Ms. Rowling's claim of loss of creativity, whether the reference lexicon is an academic educational tool of "fair use."  Whether its author, in penning references in his own words, has the right to publish a hard copy and make money off of Ms. Rowling's sweat-equity?

Not so surprising is Ms. Rowling's  knowledge and acceptance of the existing website of her best "fan," even linking back to his.   A clear two-way street: a prestigious pat on the back for him; a plethora of adoring readers for her . . . so long as a hard copy doesn't pop up like the magic "p-o-o-f" of a wizard's wand.

No writer wants to be taken advantage of.  I can only surmise Ms. Rowling is a professional of the ilk and girth that will not stop her momentum, keeping her from "getting back on the horse and riding into the sunset."

As for the rest of us . . . Are you a candidate for a lawsuit?  Are you taking your Internet found writing freedom for granted, not understanding what "fair use" is?  Are you pushing the envelope, hoping no one will notice - at least for now?

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About the Author:  CeCe Day Hill has writing experience spanning 18 years.  To review detailed Author profile - creative article writing - services available visit:  www.janedoechronicles.typepad.com

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                                            CeCe Day Hill  Copyright (c) 2005-2008
                                          Jane Doe Chronicles - All Rights Reserved 
                         349 West Circle Dr., New Lenox, IL 60451-9731- 1.815.485.4871
                                           Email:  janedoechronicles.typepad.com

Review on Writing Books: A Lay Person's Mini MFA in the Art of Writing

JDC Art of Writing - There is a bounty of information written about the writing field.  A bounty of  misinformation.  A bounty of subjective thought.  So, where does one go to get it right?

To those who have asked: what I have in my library of references, the following selections should provide a good starting point for the beginning writer and those serious about their craft.    Find intriguing reads on the beating pulse of the writing industry as a whole.  Providing information to help evaluate, answer questions and assist in whatever decision process one must make, into their purpose, desire or need to write.

Understanding the industry helps one find out if they possess the heart of a writer.   The ability to not just write, but to penetrate the senses, and develop emotions on paper with a play-on words, so the reader becomes responsive to the visual picture through creative wit and poignancy of meaning.

Writers who know their craft combine the best possible use of words in clarity with pristine grammar.  Copy gleaned to a specific topic and audience with the ability to whet the appetite, question-the-heart, inform and relate hope of sustenance, of all that is, can and will be.

Understand the world of writing and what is expected, and you will know if you want to become a writer.  You'll feel it from within.  You'll just know . . .  this is where I want to be.

GREAT DESKTOP BOOKS OF REFERENCE:

Writer's Encyclopedia:  "A comprehensive, one volume  reference - an overview of the entire world of writing."   - (edited by Kirk Polking, Joan Bloss and Colleen Cannon) - Writer's Digest Books, 532 pages,  ISBN 0-89879-103-0

From the dust jacket design by Charleen Carr:  "You'll gain insight into the history of the writing field and the wide range of opportunities it offers.  You'll also find legal and ethical guidelines, ways to improve your writing, and business tips."

"No matter what your question or area of interest you'll find your answer."

This encyclopedia is but an arms-length from my computer.  I refer to it regularly and have found it indispensable.  It has help me to become a better writer and reminds me correctly when I forget.

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The Elements of Style:  Acclaimed by The Boston Globe . . . "No book in shorter space, with fewer words, will help any writer more than this persistent little volume."  (by William Strunk, Jr. and E.B. White, revisions by E.B. White)  ISBN 0-02-4I8I90-0 and ISBN 0-02-4I8200-I pbk - Macmillan Publishing Co., Inc.

William Strunk's little book of treasures in wisdom and humor in writing is 92 pages of quick reading and has become an inanimate ally of mine in the daily effort to "prune the deadwood" and "omit needless words!"  It is a written gem that is tattered from whipping through the pages to remind myself what I should not be doing.  Resounding its information in my brain to edit for clarity and effective expression, and coaching so my subject matter doesn't possess the stumbling of disjointed character and rambling  . . .  so every word tells.

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Author Law A - Z:  A Desktop Guide to Writers' Rights and Responsibilities - Capital Books, Inc. - (by Sallie G.  Randolph -  Stacy Davis - Anthony Elia - Karen Dustman) -  ISB 1-931868-26-3

Commentary from the cover design by Leslie Taylor:  "Owning Author Law A to Z is like having a team of straight-talking and brainy lawyers always at your side and on your side."  Jack El-Hai, president, American Society of Journalists and Authors.

This is an important legal guide to rights and responsibilities that writers can easily understand to protect their creative works in addition to qualifying legally a plethora of writing terms, "tales from the trenches," tips and tools on issues of being a writer.

This reference becomes invaluable in Cyberspace with the increase of lawsuits by individuals and companies against infringement of copyright and speech issues wherever the written word is penned, and anonymity is no longer a protection.   

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How to Get Your Point Across in 30 Seconds - Or Less:  Simon and Schuster, Inc. (by Milo Ogden Frank the nationally acclaimed authority on communications skills and strategies) -  0-671-52492-5 Communication in management HF5718.F74 1986  658.4'5  85-27822

Commentary from the Cover Design by Iring Perkins Associates:  "This book taught me not only how to get my point across in 30 seconds, but also what my point is, or ought to be, and how to find it.  It can help any one . . . ."  Bill Woods, V.P. External Affairs AT&T

I found it helps, to focus on one's thinking and how to effectively get a point across in writing, speaking and in the search for an article title.  To get the reader to pay attention to the opening of any written piece in any venue.   Its a gutsy book of 120 pages teaching: you have only one chance to make an impression . . . and that is the first impression - now!   

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Word Magic for Writers:  "Your Source for Powerful Language That Enchants, Convinces, and Wins Readers (by author Cindy Rogers) "A way to boost the success potential of your writing projects"  ISBN 1-889715-24-7 - 272 pages, Writer's Institute Publications

To me this is a dynamite rendering that will get your writing juices flowing and "tickle your heart getting your imagination dancing with great expressions" and keep you challenging yourself to "enrich your work and ultimately delight your reader," impress an editor and gain a following as a published writer. 

These selections give you a lifetime of learning and the inherited experience of others, with little expense, and the needed support in growing yourself as a writer without having to be degreed.  America was built on the self-made efforts of so many; so too you can take advantage of these books and stepping stones to becoming a self-made writer.

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About the Author:   CeCe Day Hill has writing experience spanning 18 years.  To review detailed Author profile - creative article writing - services available visit: www.janedoechronicles.typepad.com
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                                        CeCe Day Hill  Copyright (c) 2005-2008
                                      Jane Doe Chronicles - All Rights Reserved
                         349 West Circle Dr., New Lenox, IL 60451 - 1.815.485.4871         
                                           Email:  janedoechronicles@comcast.net                        

                                  

Bloggers and Message Posters, are You a Candidate for a Law Suit?

JDC Commentary-Art of Writing:  The First Amendment protects free speech...not careless Bloggers and message posters.  -- Beware!

Lawsuits are growing with the times, especially for companies looking to shut down or seek out the competition or the careless...  The law firm of Powell Goldstein LLP sued on behalf of itself against five unknown John Doe Bloggers in malicious communications against the firm.

"Larry Street, an Internet attorney with Morris, Manning and Martin LLP, said: 'cases increasingly are finding their way to judges, with the companies looking to force message board operators and others, to give up the identities of "incognito posters.'"

*  It doesn't matter whether you're involved in a dedicated Web Site, a message posting, Web Log or something else.  If it's in writing, one better go back to the rules of discriminatory writing and common sense. You can say anything you want even if you appear a fool...it is the manner in which you say it that can get you in trouble.  There is always a professional way to critique a negative.

Lawsuits of this nature were unheard of five years ago.  Attorney Larry Street concurs, that: "a very important part of free speech is the right to speak anonymously.  But, at the same time, you have people out there hurting companies."  ...  It becomes thievery in the technical, product and business development, and the world of writing.

"Apple Computer sued 20 John Doe publishers of Mac Blogs for their posting on future products."  --  Bloggers must understand, in their desire to scoop someone else, individuals and companies have the right to not have an enterprising blogger "reveal proprietary information and hence damage the bottom line." 

It matters if your marketing crosses the line or the truth in an attempt to push the envelope against your competition, or if you're a company selling a product or an individual unloading frustration in some message board or directory group.

Those who choose to sit down at the computer and write, have a responsibility to know the rules of the game on copyright...  Just because it is the Internet, one is not free to just say anything.  -- The slander-mongers are growing with each day, and so are the attorney's taking them down and setting legal precedent in an Internet world everyone believed to be untouchable.

Make sure your sources are reliable, and that you legally "dot the i's and cross the t's" to keep you from a lawsuit of "false and malicious communications."

* Remember: others have the right to the protection by copyright law and in the protection of electronic rights.  --  So if your desire is to blow off some steam or a case of written revenge ... when you write an article or enter a message board, make your point, but in a way that doesn't leave you legally liable personally or business-wise.

One of the best quick studies for any person dabbling in writing is "10 Big Myths About Copyright Explained, by Brad Templeton. You will get a liberal education to help you stay out of trouble.  Permission rights are given so one can download a very interesting and necessary topic if you write.  Visit:  www.templetons.com/brad/copymyths.html

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About the Author:  CeCe Day Hill has writing experience spanning 17 years, and is an entrepreneur.  To  review detailed Author profile - creative article writing - copywriting services visit:  www.janedoechronicles.typepad.com 
________________________________________________________________________________________

                                   Jane Doe Chronicles - All Rights Reserved
                                    CeCe Day Hill Copyright (c) 2005-2007
                   349 West Circle Dr., New Lenox, IL 60451  -  1.815.485.4871
                                   Email: janedoechronicles@comcast.net
                  
________________________________________________________________________________________

• References:
• Rubner, Justine - Atlanta Business  Chronicle, 15 July 2005 - Law firm targets bloggers with rare lawsuit

Art of Writing: "Understanding How To Write Successful Mystifying Content"

JDC Art of Writing -  "In response to your many emails expressing your frustration and confusion of what content is...I hope the following will provided valuable answers and encourage some outstanding writing..."

What composes content - the essence of writing? -- Over the years I have learned it's the words and subject matter richly applied. Let the words sing out to the reader entrancing, enticing and giving one a reason to read-on.  It's word magic.

I have found content to be those selective thought-provoking words, written with profuse expression and style, that leads to penning with clarity and heartfelt emotional content.  Those sentences should leave a positive lasting impression even when dealing with negative issues.  -- The selection of words should always elevate writing above others, showing the professional one is or can be.

Words by themselves are dead. If you use them masterfully, bring them alive with a breath of color and play-on words, they are the magic, adding value, making for memorable and desired reading drawing the reader in. Anticipate your reader's questions and needs; then keep them turning pages. Get them to connect visually to the drama, wanting more.

 I try not to forget, writing content is the ability to satisfy the reader's expectations by design.  The frosting...is the labored research of topics, ideas, and facts that adds depth and credibility, and can add emotion and energy.

Be exact.  ... Less actually does become more in terms of quality!  -- Eliminate unnecessary words and phrases.  Use words that remain true to the direction and ultimate end result being sought...A pleasurable read.   

How does that mystifying content emerge?  It may start from the unexpected process of a couple of ideas, words, sentences, or can explode out of the subconscious in paragraph form.  There are times of confusion where thoughts are vague needing to be deciphered, as the subconscious does not always relay its message in an easily identifiable form.  You may have to work for it.  -- The exciting part of that struggle is:  the wonderment your creative juices can come up with!

Some of the best content reels itself when least expected, suddenly awakening like a sleeping giant.  Keep pencil and paper handy in several places, to capture from the moment, that treasure of future composition.

Mark Twain once said:  "The difference between the right word and almost the right word is the difference between 'lightning' and 'lightning bug.'"  Writing content goes beyond grammatically correct sentences.  You are constructing meaning to words leaving the reader with the ability to interpret and connect as if playing an active role, mentally envisioning. 

I keep a framed card on my desk ... "The devil is in the details."  The quote reminds me how important it is to pay attention to the process and content of what I am doing and to not worry about what I don't need to add, such as careless repetitions.  It helps me to discipline myself not to rush an article, so there are no surprises that may make the article less then it can be. For it is the reader I wish to impress.  Not myself.

Milo Ogden Frank a nationally acclaimed authority on communication skills and strategies writes:  It is: "what allures, entices, tempts, tantalizes, fascinates, captivates, enchants, attracts, bewitches, catches, hypnotizes - that makes you remember and gets you to keep reading."  ... So, hook with the magic of the best words.  The better your article in the way you present it, the more successful you will be.

Part of creating mystifying copy is learning to have disciplined fun with challenges of editing. The more you tweak the more powerful end result you will have. If you reach the point of madness, when the rage of a roaring lion emerges, stop, you are going nowhere. Walk away for a day or two. When you return, you'll be re-energized and back on track. 

All good writers share a key ability:  They present themselves and their ideas effectively weeding out unnecessary words.  Challenge yourself the next time you sit down at the computer.  Don't rush - look at how much you can tweak the original draft.  Eliminate less significant words and phrases, playing up the powerful.  -- Polish it with researched information, and put it aside and continue fine-tuning for however long it takes.  You may just be surprised at the mystifying winner you see before you.  A diamond carved out from the rough of the keyboard by A WRITER!

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About the Author:  CeCe Day Hill has writing experience spanning 17 years, and is an entrepreneur.  To review detailed Author profile - creative article writing - copywriting services visit:  www.janedoechronicles.typepad.com

Free Reprint:  This article may be reproduced in all venues so long as the content and byline are reprinted intact and any and all links are set live.
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                                          CeCe Day Hill  Copyright (c) 2005-2007   
                                        Jane Doe Chronicles - All Rights Reserved
                          349 West Circle Dr., New Lenox, IL 60451 - 1.815.485.4871
                                          Email: janedoechronicles@comcast.net
_______________________________________________________________________________________                               

• References: (*)
• Frank, Milo O. - How to Get Your Point Across in 30 Seconds or Less, Simon and Schuster 1986, Chapter 5, pg 40 - 1. Communication in management HF5718.F74, 1986  658.4'5  85-2782