Saw This On Twitter. What 3 Potions Would You Drink?

Unfortunately, the real world isn't the same as a fairytale.

Well, that's why we're here! To make it better.

But...life isn't like a fairytale...

That's right! It's up to you to make things better...

Isn't it?

Claudia

Claudia

Oiga volteé en esa esquina donde dice Laurel, por favor dijo Claudia.

Es usted tan viejito que no alcanza a ver los rótulos de las calles y le tienen qué anticipar las vueltas… Por qué no usa lentes?…

Y Claudia soltó la carcajada.

Cada vez que podía, Claudia echaba en cara su juventud contra mi supuesta vejez, pero era su forma de divertirse conmigo, y admito, a costa mía.

No me importaba ni tenia un conflicto con la edad, de hecho la disfrutaba, al encontrar cosas que en otros tiempos me detenían de ser realmente lo que era: único, especial, con una personalidad que me encantaba. Y debo decir que los temas favoritos de Claudia y Jessica era la juventud y la vejez, cuando podían y sobre todo cuando ambas se juntaban a hacer equipo.

Si los dinosaurios existeieran le dirían… Amigo cómo estás? decía Claudia y si las montañas hablaran dirían pies que por aquí te vieron pasar, secundaba Jessica; si las estrellas se contaran a sí mismas, remataba Claudia, le preguntarían la última cuenta…

Por qué?

Porque antes de las estrellas ya estaba usted!!!!

Jajajajajajaja…

Muy graciosa, muy graciosa…

-Ah, Ya vamos a prosopopeyas?

-Whhhhhat?, exclamaba consternada Claudia

-La suya!!!! gritaba Jessica… Ay por si…

-Jessica te pasaste, reclamaba Claudia, te pasaste…

Muy graciosa, muy graciosa, prorrumpía yo.

Yaya?

Ya le he dicho que no me llame Yaya, decía Claudia.

Yaya porque te dicen Yaya en tu casa?

Ya sé. Porque tanto desesperabas a tu mamá en la cocina que te decía… Ya! Ya! y te aventaba el palote, o sería por eso que cuenta Jessica que te juntaba jugar karate con los hombres y movidas tus manos en posición de karate y decías IA! IA! IA! IA!; o porque tu mamá cuando estabas a punto de nacer decía cansada y con las últimas ganas y en desesperación… ya! ya!

Eres un fastidio y dolor para hombres y mujeres… Algún día cambiarás, hija mía? Te quieres confesar?

- De padre usted no tiene nada! refunfuñaba Claudia

- Lo soy y de dos hijos muy bonitos, hechos con Herdez

- Herdez?

-Hechos cooon amoorr, con toda confianza es Herdezzzz- Usted está loco!

- De poeta y loco todos tenemos un poco

- Usted nunca pierde, verdad?

- Todo lo aprendí de tíiiiiii (puedo cantar?) Todo lo aprendí de tíiii

- Ehe esa es una canción de Ana Barbara!!! Esa es un canción de Ana Bárbara! gritaba exaltada Jessica

-Ay la baba! Este no es el concurso de Adivina por los 64 mil… jugaba Claudia…. Y todos nos poníamos a reír. Jajjajajajaa

Así pasaban la bromas, por momentos, de entre las innumerables del día, multiplicados por mil doscientas lunas que eran tres años, tres meses.

Ese era el juego preferido, ver quién tenía más astucia para hacer va mal al otro, entre el cariño, el afecto y el trabajo.

WEBSITES FOR WRITERS {masterpost}

E.A. Deverell - FREE worksheets (characters, world building, narrator, etc.) and paid courses;

NotionByRach - FREEBIES (workbook, notion template, games, challenges, etc.);

Hiveword - Helps to research any topic to write about (has other resources, too);

BetaBooks - Share your draft with your beta reader (can be more than one), and see where they stopped reading, their comments, etc.;

Charlotte Dillon - Research links;

Writing realistic injuries - The title is pretty self-explanatory: while writing about an injury, take a look at this useful website;

One Stop for Writers - You guys... this website has literally everything we need: a) Description thesaurus collection, b) Character builder, c) Story maps, d) Scene maps & timelines, e) World building surveys, f) Worksheets, f) Tutorials, and much more! Although it has a paid plan ($90/year | $50/6 months | $9/month), you can still get a 2-week FREE trial;

One Stop for Writers Roadmap - It has many tips for you, divided into three different topics: a) How to plan a story, b) How to write a story, c) How to revise a story. The best thing about this? It's FREE!

Story Structure Database - The Story Structure Database is an archive of books and movies, recording all their major plot points;

National Centre for Writing - FREE worksheets and writing courses. Has also paid courses;

Penguin Random House - Has some writing contests and great opportunities;

Crime Reads - Get inspired before writing a crime scene;

The Creative Academy for Writers - "Writers helping writers along every step of the path to publication." It's FREE and has ZOOM writing rooms;

Reedsy - "A trusted place to learn how to successfully publish your book" It has many tips, and tools (generators), contests, prompts lists, etc. FREE;

QueryTracker - Find agents for your books (personally, I've never used this before, but I thought I should feature it here);

Pacemaker - Track your goals (example: Write 50K words - then, everytime you write, you track the number of the words, and it will make a graphic for you with your progress). It's FREE but has a paid plan;

Save the Cat! - The blog of the most known storytelling method. You can find posts, sheets, a software (student discount - 70%), and other things;

I hope this is helpful for you!

☕️ buy me a coffee! ☕️

The Ultimate Guide to Writing Persuasive Arguments

Within the vast landscape of written expression, where words hold the potential to shape opinions and ignite change, the art of crafting compelling arguments stands as a formidable force. As an author, I recognize the tremendous opportunity we possess to harness this power and leave an indelible mark on our readers.

I was recently asked to write a blog about creating argumentative scenes, I found the topic quite interesting as arguments and persuasion are something authors of all genres can find themselves writing. Anger is a very raw emotion that authors often feel the need to perfect, I hope this guide on how to write persuasive arguments can help you reach that point of perfection. 

Understanding the Power of Persuasion in Fiction

Persuasion in fiction goes beyond convincing readers of a particular argument or viewpoint. It involves crafting narratives that engage readers on multiple levels, influencing their emotions, thoughts, and even actions. Just like skilled orators sway their audiences, we can use the tools of persuasion to captivate readers, immerse them in our stories, and make them feel deeply connected to our characters and themes.

By masterfully crafting persuasive narratives, we can make readers question their assumptions, reconsider their beliefs, and view the world through a new lens.

However, it's important to note that persuasion in fiction doesn't mean manipulating or forcing readers to adopt specific viewpoints. Instead, it's about presenting compelling arguments within the context of our stories and allowing readers to engage with them organically. Through our characters' journeys, conflicts, and personal growth, we can subtly challenge readers' perspectives, encourage empathy, and foster critical thinking.

Your character doesn’t have to necessarily be wrong or right and it is important to remember your readers can always have a viewpoint completely different from your opinion of your character and that scene. 

Developing Convincing Characters and Narratives

Captivating characters possess the power to sway readers' hearts and minds. They are multidimensional, relatable, and possess qualities that make their actions and beliefs compelling. By carefully sculpting our characters, we can infuse them with the ability to embody persuasive arguments and engage readers in thought-provoking ways.

To create convincing characters, we must delve into their backgrounds, motivations, and desires. What drives them? What are their core values? Understanding their unique perspectives allows us to shape their beliefs and opinions, providing a foundation for persuasive storytelling. When our characters' convictions align with the arguments we wish to convey, their authenticity and passion become catalysts for reader engagement.

Character Examples 

In Angie Thomas' powerful novel, "The Hate U Give," the protagonist, Starr Carter, serves as a compelling argumentative character.  

Through authentic dialogue and poignant internal monologues, Starr articulates her experiences, frustrations, and desires for a more just society. Her arguments against racial profiling, police brutality, and the need for equality are rooted in her personal journey, allowing readers to empathize with her and reflect on their own biases and prejudices.

By skillfully intertwining character development with persuasive arguments, Angie Thomas creates a protagonist whose voice and convictions leave a lasting impact. Starr's transformation from a reluctant witness to a courageous advocate exemplifies the power of persuasive storytelling, inspiring readers to challenge injustice, examine their own beliefs, and work towards a more equitable world.

Crafting Engaging Dialogue

When it comes to persuasive writing, crafting engaging dialogue is a powerful tool that allows us to convey arguments, challenge beliefs, and captivate readers. Effective dialogue not only propels the plot forward but also serves as a vehicle for persuasion.

To craft engaging dialogue with persuasive impact, consider the following techniques:

Character Voice: Each character should have a distinct voice that reflects their personality, background, and beliefs. Whether it's through word choice, dialect, or speech patterns, make sure their dialogue is authentic and consistent. This authenticity lends credibility to their arguments and makes them more compelling.

Conflict and Tension: Engaging dialogue often thrives on conflict. Introduce opposing viewpoints and create tension between characters with differing opinions. These clashes of ideology can spark thought-provoking debates and allow readers to see multiple sides of an argument.

Subtext and Nuance: Effective dialogue often goes beyond surface-level conversations. Include subtext and underlying emotions to add depth to your characters' interactions. What remains unsaid can be just as powerful as what is spoken, allowing readers to infer hidden motives and subtle persuasions.

Relevance to the Plot: Ensure that your dialogue serves a purpose within the larger narrative. Use it to advance the story, develop characters, or explore thematic elements. When dialogue aligns with the overall arc of the narrative, it becomes an integral part of the persuasive storytelling process.

Emotional Impact: Infuse your dialogue with emotion to create a deeper connection with readers. Engage their empathy, evoke their curiosity, or stir their passion through the heartfelt words exchanged between characters. Emotional resonance enhances the persuasive power of your arguments.

Utilizing Descriptive Language and Imagery

By skillfully utilizing descriptive language and imagery, we can immerse our audience in the world of our story and strengthen the persuasive nature of our arguments.

Appeal to the Senses: Engage readers on a sensory level by incorporating descriptive details that evoke sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell. By immersing readers in the sensory experience of a scene, you can make your arguments more tangible and relatable.

Paint Vivid Settings: Transport readers to vibrant and immersive settings that act as a backdrop for your arguments. By creating a rich visual landscape, you can enhance the persuasive impact of your words and immerse readers in the world of your story.

Evoke Emotions: Harness the power of emotion to make your arguments resonate deeply with readers. Use descriptive language that elicits a range of feelings, whether it's anger, empathy, awe, or hope. Connect with readers on an emotional level, and they will be more likely to embrace your persuasive message.

Plotting and Structuring Persuasive Storylines

Crafting persuasive storylines requires careful plotting and effective structuring to engage readers and convey your arguments in a compelling manner. By strategically organizing your narrative elements, you can captivate your audience, build tension, and ultimately deliver persuasive messages that resonate long after the final page. Here are key considerations for plotting and structuring persuasive storylines:

Establish Clear Goals: Define the central objectives of your narrative, both in terms of the overall story and the persuasive arguments you aim to convey. What do you want readers to understand or believe? Set clear goals to guide your storytelling, ensuring every plot point and character arc serves the purpose of advancing your persuasive message.

Build Rising Tension: Structure your storyline to escalate tension and keep readers invested in the outcome of your persuasive arguments. Craft each plot twist and revelation to heighten the stakes, gradually intensifying the conflict and presenting new challenges that test characters' convictions.

Use Narrative Devices: Employ narrative devices such as foreshadowing, flashbacks, and dramatic irony to enhance the persuasive impact of your storylines. These devices can provide deeper insight into characters' motivations, reveal hidden truths, and strengthen the arguments you present.

Balance Pace and Reflection: Find a balance between fast-paced action and reflective moments to allow readers to digest and connect with your persuasive messages. Provide opportunities for characters to contemplate their beliefs, engage in meaningful conversations, and undergo personal growth, which reinforces the authenticity and impact of their arguments.

Editing and Polishing Your Argument

Editing is the key to refining and enhancing the persuasive impact of your writing. As you revisit your work, focus on clarity, coherence, and compelling language. Here are essential editing steps to maximize the persuasive power of your piece:

Streamline Your Argument: Trim unnecessary details and tighten your arguments. Ensure each sentence and paragraph contributes to the central message, eliminating any tangents that may dilute the persuasive impact.

Enhance Clarity: Clarify your ideas by simplifying complex concepts and using concise language. Avoid jargon or technical terms that may alienate or confuse your readers. Opt for clarity over complexity.

Strengthen Structure: Check the flow of your piece, ensuring a logical progression of ideas. Arrange your arguments in a coherent manner, guiding readers from one point to the next with clarity and coherence.

Choose Compelling Language: Use powerful and evocative language to captivate readers. Employ vivid verbs, descriptive adjectives, and figurative language to engage their senses and emotions, heightening the persuasive impact of your words.

Proofread for Errors: Eliminate grammatical, punctuation, and spelling errors that can distract readers from your persuasive message. A polished and error-free piece lends credibility and professionalism to your arguments.

I hope this blog on the ultimate guide to writing persuasive arguments will help you in your writing journey. Be sure to comment any tips of your own to help your fellow authors prosper, and follow my blog for new blog updates every Monday and Thursday.  

Looking For More Writing Tips And Tricks? 

Are you an author looking for writing tips and tricks to better your manuscript? Or do you want to learn about how to get a literary agent, get published and properly market your book? Consider checking out the rest of Haya’s book blog where I post writing and marketing tools for authors every Monday and Thursday

can you give tips on how to change up character dialogue? all of my characters end up sounding the same and i'm not sure how to fix it

How to Write Unique Voices for Characters in Fiction

When it comes to writing fiction, creating unique and believable characters is absolutely essential. One important aspect of character development is crafting unique voices that reflect each character’s personality and background.

Understand your characters

Before you can write distinct voices for your characters, it’s important to understand who they are. Building out a solid foundation and developing compelling backstories is one of the best ways to ensure they always have unique voices. Here are some tips for getting to know your characters:

Write character sketches that detail their backgrounds, personalities, goals, and motivations.

Conduct interviews with your characters as if they were real people, asking them about their likes and dislikes, fears, goals, and more (the Proust questionnaire is a popular way to do this).

Imagine how your characters’ past experiences will change how they speak in different situations and when experiencing varied emotions.

Use description to enhance your characters’ voices

Descriptions can be just as important as dialogue when it comes to creating character voices. Here are some tips for using descriptions to enhance your characters’ personalities:

Use specific details to create vivid descriptions of each character’s body language, mannerisms, and behaviour.

Consider how each character’s mannerisms might influence their speech patterns. For example, a character who is shy might be hesitant to speak or repeat themselves frequently.

Pay attention to how your characters interact with their environment. Do they use their hands a lot when they speak? Do they pace around the room or sit still?

Use sensory details to create immersion. For example, a character who is nervous might sweat profusely or fidget with their jewellery.

Avoid stereotypes and clichés

When writing unique voices for characters, it’s important to avoid falling back on stereotypes or clichés. Here are some tips for creating characters that feel fresh and authentic:

Avoid using dialects or accents. Not only do these often rely on stereotypes, but they also break reader immersion unless authenticity is absolutely essential to the type of book you are writing.

Consider how each character’s background and experiences might influence their beliefs and values. One-dimensional characters built on clichés won’t have unique voices.

Think outside of the box when it comes to creating distinct voices. Instead of relying on traditional archetypes, consider combining traits from multiple sources to create something new.

How to craft unique dialogue

With the basics in place, how do we convert unique character voices into dialogue? Here are some tips for writing dialogue that feels authentic and unique to each character:

Read your dialogue out loud to hear how it sounds, and make sure it’s true to how you imagine your character to be.

Give your characters a unique conversational quirk that feels natural. An example could be that they call everyone “love.”

Vary the length and complexity of sentences to reflect each character’s personality and background.

Consider how each character’s education and experiences might influence their vocabulary and sentence structure.

Use dialogue tags sparingly to avoid detracting from the actual words being spoken.

Avoid using too much exposition or explaining too much in dialogue. Instead, let the characters speak when it serves your story.

By understanding your characters, crafting unique dialogue, using descriptions to enhance character voices, and avoiding stereotypes and clichés, you can create vibrant, engaging characters that will keep readers hooked from start to finish.

This is a logo designed for  What' Up San Antonio. A radio news program that will be reaching the youth in San Antonio, Texas. The tagline has been changed to "News from a Young Perspective". The people in that background represent young people gathering in a certain place to have fun and "do their own stuff", even though they are quite different, and involved in contrasting activities. Everything in that picture denotes life and movement as a youth icon.

The word "What's Up" is a young slang that represents  "Hello, how you are doing",  and San Antonio is the place where the news for youth are being delivered. According to Laura Ries to brand a product we need an image and a few words, and that image should have emotional power and should be your visual hammer. Our image includes youth playing in a background, and the words are "What's Up San Antonio", which is the name of the radio program.

Another aspect about branding is the Name of the product, and the Logo that identifies the brand as "unique". Name and Logo ideally should answer three questions: What exactly you do, who your customers are, and how you are going to be unique. When branding, all of the elements should be coherent, and gladly all of these three questions are accomplished in our product by the name of the radio program, the logo, and its tagline: What's Up San Antonio is a radio program (who are you?) reaching the youth (who are your customers?) and we are delivering "News from a Young Perspective" (How are you going to be unique?).

According to the Law of Color, red is the color of energy and excitement, and blue is peaceful and tranquil. We included those colors into our logo to denote that passion and that peacefulness in that specific background. (The 22 immutable laws of branding. Al Ries and Laura Ries).

How to Find Your Own Writing Style

Tropes and cliches can be hard to avoid, especially when you’re working within specialized genres or categories. Tom Siddell, creator of the webcomic Gunnerkrigg Court, reminds us why it’s so important to write for yourself:

Sci-fi stories don’t always need spaceships, just like fantasy stories don’t always need swords and sorcery. In fact, relying on popular tropes might be off-putting to readers who already are not fans of a particular genre.

Keeping that in mind, I took elements of sci-fi and fantasy that I enjoyed and tried to present them in original and interesting ways when I started working on the story for my comic. I wanted to explore some of the fun, more obscure European myths, and I introduced those creatures irreverently. In contrast, the robots that inhabit the world of my comic have very spiritual personalities, and live strange, searching, solemn lives. I thought this was an interesting play on typical fantasy and sci-fi conventions.

Don’t go for style in your work, go for substance.

Keep reading

A positive message: joy, laughter, scenes from real life (the real thing), kindness, generosity, heroes involved, peace. Coca Cola relates the story in a simple way: keep it pure, keep it simple, according to The Brand Gap.