Each verb tense is composed of a time frame (past, present, future) and an aspect (simple, progressive, perfect, perfect progressive). Together, the time frame and the aspect make up the complete verb tense (past progressive, future perfect, etc . . .). Time Frames Past, present and future are the three time frames that are used […]
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By David Corbett The source and exact nature of the curious phenomena we refer to as characters remains something of a mystery, but the craft of characterization is not. Although it’s clearly a cause for celebration—or at least relief—when a character appears in the mind’s eye fully formed, the reality is that for most of
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By Phillip Lewis The first and most critical step in making your fiction writing original is to find your true voice—a voice that is unique to you. Of course, this is easier said than done. Most writers read a lot, and if you’re not careful, you’ll find yourself inadvertently emulating the style of someone whose
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There are many celebrated writers in this world, but few ever reach the rockstar-level status of dark fantasy author Neil Gaiman. Fans stand in line for hours at his book signings, only to faint when they finally meet him (or ask him to sign their body so they can get his signature tattooed). His beloved
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The Main Character of a story does not have to fundamentally change their point-of-view. Some grow by maintaining their resolve against all odds. When asked to define character arc, most people think it has something to do with how the Main Character changes within a story. While in some respect this is correct, it is inaccurate
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