Tag Archives: poetry

editorial

Is Writing An Art?

Pencilsby Catherine L. Tully

Here’s a question for you–is writing an art?

My take? Sometimes. At least–I think so. OK. I’m not really sure.

For example…I think poetry is an art, as well as writing a novel, short story, or other type of fiction. The creative process there can’t be denied. But non-fiction? Is that an art too?

Hmmm. I see no clear-cut answer to that question. Do you? Writing non-fiction definitely demands creativity (most of the time, anyway), but I see it more like putting together a puzzle than painting a picture. Articles (and non-fiction books) have structure, should be logical or practical (or both) and the goal is usually to communicate something to the reader that is based in fact.

Still…I do feel that artistic surge when I craft a travel piece, or try to describe a fabulous restaurant so that the reader really gets the picture.

So what does that mean, exactly?

I guess for me, the jury is still out on that question. I’m not entirely sure where to place the type of writing I do on the spectrum. What do you think?

advice, editorial

5 Ways To Improve Your Writing

5

I think it is important to always be on the lookout for ways to improve your writing skills. Here are five things you can do that can help you polish your craft:

  1. Volunteer. Become a writing tutor somewhere and help others learn how to write well. It will help you brush up on your skills and remind you of the basics.
  2. Teach. If you have to break things down for others, it will make you think them through.
  3. Take a class. Look at your local community college and see if they have something interesting. Take a poetry class. Try a grammar course. Learn about language.
  4. Read a book. What is your weakest area? Find a book on it and get to work. You get as much out of writing as you put into it. Hone your skills.
  5. Add to your knowledge. Learn ten new vocabulary words a month. Save magazine articles you enjoyed and study them to figure out what the author did to draw you in.

You can do any of these–or all of them. The more you work at becoming a good writer, the better the chance you have of getting published and making a living doing what you love. Simply put–you can’t know too much!

reading

Poet’s Market 2008

poets-market-2008.jpg

While it’s true that the typical Freelance-Zone reader is probably much more in tune with writing articles and other non-poetry work, we’re guessing that just about everybody knows someone who could use this book. In your circle of writer friends, who’s the poet? The 2008 Poet’s Market is a very thoughtful gift, and you might just decide to take a crack at some verse yourself after having a browse through this handy guide. Like any other writer’s market publication advises, it’s best to use this book as jumping off point. Always research your market before submitting! The price on this one is definitely right for gift-giving, even if it’s a present to yourself.

Buy the 2008 Poet’s Market guide for $17.81