Category Archives: writing

Camping out at my keyboard

Posted on May 24, 2012 by Erin

I was going to do a big post about Camp NaNoWriMo, but Nicki wrote about it so much better already: Off to Camp. This post, then, simply serves to say that I am joining in the fun this summer; I’ve … Continue reading →

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Defining the genres: Urban fantasy

Posted on April 6, 2012 by Erin

(If you’re here for the A to Z blog challenge, scroll down for today’s post. This post is one in an on-going series on genres.) I touched on this when I discussed fantasy a few weeks back. I gave some … Continue reading →

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Defining the genres: Mystery

Posted on March 30, 2012 by Erin

I did have one request for a definition of cozy mysteries, so I’m going into mystery subgenres today. Next month, I’ll probably focus more specifically on the fantasy subgenres.

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Defining the genres: the edges of science-fiction and fantasy

Posted on March 24, 2012 by Erin

I meant to write and post this yesterday. I didn’t get to it because I was finishing up a work deadline — updating an index I’d worked on a few years ago. I was really happy to get the index … Continue reading →

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Defining the genres: Science fiction

Posted on March 16, 2012 by Erin

Guess what? Just like fantasy, science fiction can be divided into types. Again, dividing lines can be age, plot elements, theme, or setting. SF can also be defined by the rigor with which science is addressed.

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Defining the genres: Fantasy

Posted on March 9, 2012 by Erin

Fantasy can be divided into subgenres based on theme, setting, plot elements, intended audience, or some combination of the above. (Reminder: these are how I use these terms, and you will find others who don’t agree.)

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On being a neopro

Posted on March 7, 2012 by Erin

What’s the difference between being an amateur and being a pro? There are all sorts of definitions. From most permissive to least: The Olympic Standard: You have been paid for your work, so you’re a pro. Breaking Through: You got … Continue reading →

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Defining the genres (introduction)

Posted on March 2, 2012 by Erin

Both when I’m talking about what I’m writing and when I’m talking about my reading, I use terms to describe books — space opera, epic fantasy, hard SF, cozy mystery, middle-grade, and so forth. You may know these terms; you … Continue reading →

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An interview of me

Posted on February 26, 2012 by Erin

Scarlett Archer edited a lovely book, 1,001 First Lines, and she asked my thoughts on first lines. Check out the interview over on the book’s site. Come back here later this week for my review of the book and my … Continue reading →

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Revising my opinion

Posted on October 2, 2011 by Erin

One thing I’ve learned over the past several years of writing is that the way I write doesn’t stay the same, nor does the way I edit. Nor, fortunately, has my attitude about what I already know.

Posted in editing, Merry-Go-Round Blog Tour, writing | Tagged | 6 Comments