mauannacreates

[mauannacreates]

Hey! I can give some of my experiences on themes.

For my current Work in Progress, Conjured Secrets, I didn't really get a theme in the first go. It's a bit like, what are some ideas that I can use to create that story, which then transpires to a theme over time.

Initially it was a bit like, there's a bushfire where the protagonist lives, go to the place where they hold all of the water and restore the world to equilibrium. (If there is a need of a summary.) of course, my idea of the story has changed a lot over the years, and I haven't really realized a theme back then. But as I keep on writing more and more of my story down, that's when I start to know little glimpses about my story on the themes that I could be conveying.

Some of them are the truths that I want to convey through my story. Others are more central to the story or the series I am writing about. I think as a writer, it's something that I constantly unravel day by day and that is the promise that I make with writing. Trying to find the themes I want to tell through my story, and speak it throughout my own voice, thoughts and feeling that I have experienced over time.

The themes that I seem to spot now, is with family, self-discovery and identity. But I think it also goes and delves deeper into the life that I currently have in some shape or form and it's like a little laboratory on where I can sort of figure out on how life could be like if there was these sorts of things happening to my characters.

But all in all, it's just something that I build and create with my story over time.

But to tell you the truth, if you look at it in a miniature theme sort of thing, I can realize some smaller themes, some that are a bit larger and even a main theme that could be told throughout the whole story and/ or series.

I would be lying if I said that I haven't really learnt anything about my themes, even after I've made five to six drafts of it, at least, I seem to be learning more about my story themes. Some that is related to the story, but others, is something that I may be wanting to write about in the long run.

So at least for me, it's just this gradual process of realization that constantly unravels day by day that work on my story.

ok writeblr i have a question and it does not matter if you answer re fanfic or original work:

do you nerds know what themes you intend to tackle in longer works before you start, or are the themes a fun little surprise you don't uncover until the nth draft?

#writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #writing community

[mauannacreates]

I swear. I feel like I am becoming crazy over one of my OCs.

I guess I am getting into one of these phases where I'm like, 'Oh my god! You are so cool, like what the hell!'

Well, I guess I'm going to fall down those rabbit holes at least once in my life with each of my characters.

#It really doesn't help when she's in every couple of scenes either #like why Valerie!? #writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #sorcerer of runes (sor) series #writing progress

[mauannacreates]

Yes, sometimes the stuff that's in there makes it look like nothing meaningful, but sometimes, you need the slow moments where it's as if nothing much is happening, yet at the same time, there's a lot that could be going on in that story, that really isn't filler, but makes it as if it is.

Like imagine that moment where the characters could be talking to each other after a long day of bustle and noise. Well, that scene could be one of the most meaningful parts of the story.

Just because it looks like nothing doesn't mean that it is nothing in hindsight. It could be something a lot deeper. So it's a great idea to look into it!

Filler??? In MY story?!

You'd better believe it. :)

Filling can have its own way of progressing the story -if not the plot, then the understanding of the characters when they're not buried in a plot-alanche.

Moments of rest are necessary for both the characters and the reader.

Moments of softness are necessary for both the characters and the reader.

Moments of 'slice of life' are necessary for both the characters and the reader.

It comes down to one simple to say, yet complicated piece of advice that I keep as a golden rule:

Bring it inward to make it bigger.

#writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #writing community

[mauannacreates]

Dear Beloveds (Writers),

Hello again. ~

I have a few things I would like to say to you... please take these messages to heart instead of arguing that they don't pertain to you because yes, yes they do. They pertain to every one of you.

1 - I don't care how impatient your readers get as you're taking your breaks, you deserve to have them. Not just because you're putting out writing, but because you exist. Even when you're not in the midst of writing, which can be a really draining activity of its own right, but because you exist, which can also be exhausting. Please take care of your mind. Your readers can wait.

2 - Quality over quantity. It's better to have fewer readers/followers but that respect you and your time and are patient and kind to you than to have thousands of them that have no respect for you. Choose quality over quantity every time. It's better for you and your mental health.

3 - Your mental health should always come first. Feel exhausted? Get rest. Feel burnt out? Take a break. A reader constantly bringing you down? Block them. It's okay. You'll have other readers. Your mental health comes first.

4 - FANFICTION IS REAL WRITING. They're putting in the time. They're putting in the research, the effort, the blood sweat and tears. They're doing all the same work original fic writers are. Sometimes even more, so respect them as writers. Support them. Love them and appreciate them. Stop being elitist about writing. We all struggle, stop making it worse for them.

5 - Thank you. You are wonderful and deserve so much love and support for what you do. Remember that you are appreciated, even if it doesn't feel like it. You are loved and appreciated.

#writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #writing community #Yes!

[mauannacreates]

Can you please share some words to use instead of "Look", I really struggle with that, it's always "She looked at him in shock" or "He looked at her with a smile". I know there's "Gazed" and "Glanced" but I wanted some advice to use "Look" less

Words To Use Instead of "Look"

Words Closest in Meaning (w diff connotations!):

stare

eye

study

behold

glimpse

peek

glance

notice

observe

inspect

regarding

view

review

look-see

get an eyeful

peer

give the eye

eyeball

size up

size up

check out

examine

contemplate

scan

recognize

sweep

once-over

judge

watch

glare

consider

spot

scrunitize

gaze

gander

ogle

yawp

Other (more fancy) words:

glimmer

sntach

zero in

take stock of

poke into

mope

glaze

grope

rummage

frisk

probe

rivet

distinguish

witness

explore

gloat

scowl

have a gander

comb

detect

surveillance

squint

keeping watch

rubberneck

pout

bore

slant

ignore

audit

pipe

search

note

speculation

simper

#writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #writing community

[mauannacreates]

20 Emotional Wounds in Fiction That Make Readers Root for the Character

Abandonment: Characters who have been abandoned by loved ones or caregivers can evoke sympathy from readers.

Betrayal: Being betrayed by someone close can create deep emotional wounds that make readers empathize with the character.

Loss of a Loved One: Whether through death or separation, the loss of a loved one can be a powerful emotional wound.

Rejection: Characters who experience rejection, whether in relationships or by society, can be relatable and evoke empathy.

Abuse: Physical, emotional, or psychological abuse can create complex wounds that shape a character's personality and behavior.

Neglect: Characters who have been neglected, especially in childhood, can evoke sympathy from readers.

Failure: Experiencing a significant failure or loss can create emotional wounds that make characters more relatable.

Guilt: Characters who carry guilt for past actions or decisions can be compelling and evoke empathy from readers.

Shame: Feelings of shame can create internal conflict and make characters more relatable and sympathetic.

Injustice: Characters who have experienced injustice or unfair treatment can evoke strong emotions from readers.

Trauma: Characters who have experienced traumatic events, such as war or natural disasters, can be sympathetic and relatable.

Loneliness: Characters who feel lonely or isolated can evoke empathy from readers who have experienced similar feelings.

Fear: Characters who face their fears or struggle with phobias can be relatable and evoke empathy from readers.

Self-doubt: Characters who struggle with self-doubt or low self-esteem can be relatable and evoke sympathy.

Identity Crisis: Characters who are grappling with questions of identity or struggling to find their place in the world can be sympathetic.

Addiction: Characters who struggle with addiction can be complex and evoke empathy from readers.

Betrayal of Trust: Characters who have had their trust betrayed can be sympathetic and relatable.

Unrequited Love: Characters who experience unrequited love can be sympathetic and evoke empathy from readers.

Isolation: Characters who feel isolated or disconnected from others can be relatable and evoke sympathy.

Fear of Failure: Characters who struggle with a fear of failure can be relatable and evoke empathy from readers.

#writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #writing community

[mauannacreates]

Story Student: issue 3.

This topic was interesting, I am exploring characters perspective throughout my WIP, and I find it to be an interesting topic on how the structure of my story changes with each new Work in Progress I create. Find out more about my thoughts below!

#mauanna #writing progress #Story Student #writing #character perspectives

[mauannacreates]

Writing a story, it's almost as if each day you dedicate yourself to writing, you're walking with a blindfold, while you're holding onto a hand. It's someone that you barely know, yet know quite a bit about.

"Where are you going to take me today?" I would ask, and this person would be holding my hand gently, as I can feel their hand taking me through the long vegetation that grazes across my legs.

"Somewhere special." And all I can do, is trust this voice the best I can.

#writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #writing community

[mauannacreates]

This is so relatable. Especially when you decide to change a character, a place or any element of your story in some way, there's just something so gratifying yet confusing when you have that wrecking ball in your hand and it makes your story get slammed, dropped and scattered all across the floor, then you'll find out and decide on how it gets changed.

I knew some things would change when I decided to totally redo celestes story but I didn't expect the entire beginning to be different...

Guys what are we doing. Why are my characters making me write a tarot reading. Heather, you of all people should know how annoying that is to write. Claire sweetie you're doing great you're perfect but now people are gonna think it's a romance story when it's not because your lonely ass just had to ask for a love reading. Yall were just supposed to watch a shitty horror movie in a back room of a library you snuck into where you would then find some magic book or whatever that tells you how to go to a whole other world why are we in the WOODS

#writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #writing community

[mauannacreates]

Could I ask for tips on how to write kisses?

Writing The Perfect Kiss Scene

#1 Find the RIGHT moment

We all know what I mean! The "zing" when the character's faces are get close enough must come unexpected (but) when both of them are looking for romance/comfort.

For example:

Tripping over each other in the hallway

Person A covering their face with their hands and Person B prying them off, their eyes meeting...

Sitting next to each other in the library, elbows touching, and they happen to turn around to face each other...

Find a natural way to bring your characters the romantic atmosphere!

#2 Noticing the Other Person

It's natural to to see someone in a different way when there's romantic vibe pulsating in the air. Maybe your character notices that their crush has a speck of green in their eyes they didn't notice before.

#3 Build Ups

Describe how the characters feel moments before their lips touch. This includes things like racing hearts, sweaty palms, unsteady breathing. etc.

#4 Feeling all Self-Conscious

If you're writing a first-person POV or want to portray the nervous excitement of kissing a love interest for the first time, you can afford to have your character be distracted by how they feel inside, or worrying about how they smell/look, etc.

Maybe they feel like it's too early in the relationship to kiss

They're still thinking about that annoying math problem

Did I apply my new cherry-flavored chapstick? etc.

This should come in the same beat as the "notice the other person", heightening the romance tension between the characters.

Once they get closer and the kiss actually happens, these worries will melt away!

#4 Describing the Details

In most cases, it's best to keep things understated (especially in regards to tongues)

tongues cannot "tangle" or "battle" or "swish around"...please, no.

Focus on the lips and how the characters move (like hugging, pushing the other against a wall, breathing, etc.), adding the tongue as an afterthought.

Don't get too exicted about taste.

No, her tongue didn't taste like fresh roses and peaches, unless she was eating peach candy right before the kiss.

Focus on other sensations other than taste: especially touch, heat. the tickle of his breath on her cheekc, etc. Or even the smell of shampoo.

#5 The Pullaway + Reaction

Does the kiss end naturally, or does something else interrupt them?

How do the characters react: do they blush, say something, hug he other person, or run away with a deep blush? For couples, they can even tease the other.

If you like my blog, buy me a coffee☕ and find me on instagram! 📸

#writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #writing community

[mauannacreates]

put those words down on the page, you may not think they're good enough, but they're your own creation and that makes it important.

#Yes! #This is the single most important thing! #writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr

[mauannacreates]

This is so relatable. The plot is something that you have to tread through unknowingly. Meanwhile, the synonyms... That is probably the most useful thing for a writer to have. 😉 Especially if you have a character that speaks with complex yet strangely specific words.

#writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #writing community

[mauannacreates]

Writing is such a messy craft. Planning and redoing your work, over and over again until you're proud of it.

The character, the places and ideas evolve a little bit more each time I enter their space.

And to find such peace with it as I go through the process whenever I can.

It's a really nice feeling.

#writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #writing community

[mauannacreates]

I’ve seen your kiss scene and fight scene vocab posts and was wondering if you could do one about some things characters may do when they are nervous, or there is awkward tension — not necessarily romantic but just awkward.

Nervous Tension Vocab

Physical Reactions

have sweat beading/breaking out on one's forehead

have one's heart in one's mouth (or throat)

have one's heart pounding (or pulse racing)

butterflies in one's stomach

hand feeling clammy

knees bouncing

pacing back and forth

tearing up due to embarassment (wanting to cry)

Shift their weight from one foot to the other

Sway slightly where they are standing

Fidget with their hair, clothes, nails, or something they’re holding

Glance around the room or refuse to make eye contact with someone

Chew on their lips or nails

Hum quietly to themself

Tap their fingers on their arm, the wall, or a table

Wrap their arms around themself

Cross their arms or legs while seated

Pick at their lips or cover their mouth

Rub their own neck or shoulder

Sigh often

Sit with their knees up near their chest, or lay in the fetal position

Look stiff and uncomfortable

Check over their shoulder often, or glance around the room

Cough or clear their throat often

A pounding heartbeat, or the feeling that their heartbeat is in their head

Accelerated or heavy breathing

A tingling sensation in their fingers, hands, or legs

A rush of energy (which would suddenly leave them afterward, making them even more tired than usual)

Dizziness

Tightened muscles

Descriptors

fumbled

blushed

winced

fidgeted

cringed

stuttered

giggled

afluttered

agitated

robotic

hesitant

bothered

distracted

edgy

clumsily

awkwardly

distractedly

flustered

frantically

frayed

hypertense

nervy

jittery

jumpy

intimidated

paranoid

perturbed

rattled

queasiness

restive

restless

skittery

shudder

skittish

strung up

tenterhooks

tight

stressy

uneasy

unquiet

twitchy

unsettled

uptight

unrelaxed

Idioms

be at your wit's ends

be bricking it

be ill at ease

be on pins and needles

be under the gun

get in a sweat

have all the cares of the world on your shoulders

have kittens

like a cat on a hot tin roof

sweat bullets

If you like my blog, buy me a coffee☕ and find me on instagram! 📸

#writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #writing community

[mauannacreates]

how do you write a liar?

How to Write Liars Believably

Language

The motive of every goal is the make the lie seem plausible while taking blame off the speaker, so liars will often project what they say to a third party: "Katie said that..."

Referring to third parties as "they" rather than he or she

In the case of a deliberate lie prepped beforehand, there will be an overuse of specific names (rather than pronouns) as the speaker tries to get the details right.

Overuse of non-committal words like "something may have happened"

Masking or obscuring facts like "to the best of my knowledge" and “it is extremely unlikely," etc.

Avoiding answers to specific, pressing questions

Voice

There's isn't a set tone/speed/style of speaking, but your character's speech patten will differ from his normal one.

People tend to speak faster when they're nervous and are not used to lying.

Body Language

Covering their mouth

Constantly touching their nose

fidgeting, squirming or breaking eye contact

turning away, blinking faster, or clutching a comfort object like a cushion as they speak

nostril flaring, rapid shallow breathing or slow deep breaths, lip biting, contracting, sitting on your hands, or drumming your fingers. 

Highly-trained liars have mastered the art of compensation by freezing their bodies and looking at you straight in the eye.

Trained liars can also be experts in the art of looking relaxed. They sit back, put their feet up on the table and hands behind their head.

For deliberate lies, the character may even carefully control his body language, as though his is actually putting on a show

The Four Types of Liars

Deceitful: those who lie to others about facts

2. Delusional: those who lie to themselves about facts

3. Duplicitious: those who lie to others about their values

Lying about values can be even more corrosive to relationships than lying about facts. 

4. Demoralized: those who lie to themselves about their values

Additional Notes

Genuine smiles or laughs are hard to fake

Exaggerations of words (that would normally not be emphasized) or exaggerated body language

Many savvy detectives ask suspects to tell the story in reverse or non-linear fashion to expose a lie. They often ask unexpected, or seemingly irrelevant questions to throw suspects off track. 

#writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #writing community

[mauannacreates]

Oh wow!

So this is my 2000th post...!? Well, not really. But with how much reblogs I do to hopefully help you guys out to become better writers with the occasional meme or two.

Thanks for the support with not just with what I have create, but also the other writers have done. I hope you'll continue to support me and the local writers with the content that's produced!

#writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #writing community

[mauannacreates]

Name transformations of characters.

It's so interesting to see how much a name can change a character, for the better, or for the worse.

Choose a name that is suitable to your character, while trying to gauge on whether that name fits your character. Because I find that names can influence a character in a way that I wouldn't anticipate. And when you listen to that voice that says that something isn't right, then it's better to review it and know your characters that little bit better.

I am currently looking at Valerie, who I've changed her name a month or something ago now, and throughout this time she's showing dresses to Lucie, spinning and dancing around and she's... Seriously, there's something adoring about seeing Valerie who seems more into herself. And to learn something new about her each time you dig that bit deeper as I go and write more and more about her.

It's a wonderful feeling.

#writing #writeblr #writers of tumblr #creative writing #writing community