I wrote my first Substack post about developing as a creative writer and how to walk the line between magic and realism to convey female experience

Good news mid dark times.

Figuring out back story vs main narrative for my protagonist, and how to use this advice from story supremo @johnyorkestory.bsky.social 'The less back story a character has, the more readily an audience is able to identify with [them].' I guess the important thing is *I* know their back story...

Bookshelf #ThisWritingLife

Have I moved somewhere where strangers really like to 'good morning' each other, OR am I now middle-aged enough to participate? Either way, here for it.

CRAB🦀✨

I thought a #creativewriting MA would mean using my brain, talking about ideas and making art. Turns out it's mostly managing other people's emotions and letting ourselves off the hook.

Your monthly reminder: Keep writing. When no one cares, persist. When things appear to be crumbling, keep at it. When it's difficult, push through. When you feel alone, listen to the stories in your blood. Just write. The world needs you to tell your truth through your words.

Spent the morning researching in a special archive collection where no pens are allowed #ThisWritingLife

Your context-free comic book panel of the day.

Finished my last memento from summer in Northumberland, on a gloomy winter's evening.

'Raven and Sparrows' - Kubo Shunman, ca. late 1700s - early 1800s, from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston collection. #JapaneseArt #ukiyoe #corvids

The challenge is working out what NOT to write about, because when it's too big, nothing gets written. Trying to chart a way through with lots of 'what if?' questions #ThisWritingLife

Buckle up. In research mode for a new project #booksky #folklore #thiswritinglife