saraswritingtipps

[saraswritingtipps]

halloween flash prompts

a failing witch apprentice & abandoned turtle meet in a bar

13 short stories from different perspectives of the same scene

the scene starts in a claw-foot bathtub

frosted glass and red cheeks stained with chocolate

the wind howling through the chimney as you put on your favourite movie

waking up in a pile of candy wrappers

ghosts are people who've died before their soulmate; they follow them around until they are joined in death

the more powerful your familiar is, the more powerful you are as a witch. an enormous black cat has begun following around a witch who cannot do magic.

you're the fate who decides where people go after death

a child shows up at your door, but their costume moves

enchanted candies that make funky things happen

you go door to door giving candy rather than receiving it

trick or treating as Santa Claus

a town is stuck in eternal Halloween; one day a child arrives, gift-wrapped in red and green

you command the clouds that shroud the night during Halloween; one day, your counterpart, the one who commands the stars, betrays you. this Halloween is the night for revenge.

[saraswritingtipps]

How do i Plot a Book?

1. Start with an Idea:

Begin with a clear idea or concept for your story. This could be a theme, a character, a setting, or a unique scenario.

2. Outline Your Plot Structure:

- Introduction: Set the stage by introducing your main character, the setting, and the initial situation.

- Inciting Incident: Present a problem or event that disrupts the status quo and sets the story in motion.

- Rising Action: Develop the plot by introducing conflicts, challenges, and obstacles that the protagonist faces.

- Climax: Reach the story's highest point of tension and conflict where the protagonist confronts the main challenge.

- Falling Action: Address the aftermath of the climax, tying up loose ends and resolving subplots.

- Conclusion: Provide a resolution to the main conflict, wrap up the story, and show the character's growth or change.

3. Create Well-Defined Characters:

- Develop your main character (protagonist) with clear goals, motivations, and flaws.

- Introduce supporting characters with distinct personalities and roles in the story.

4. World-Building:

If your story is set in a unique or fictional world, develop the setting, rules, and details necessary for readers to understand the environment.

5. Conflict and Stakes:

Ensure that your story has compelling conflicts that drive the plot forward. Make the stakes clear to the reader.

6. Subplots:

Develop subplots that add depth and complexity to your story and intersect with the main plot at various points.

7. Foreshadowing:

Use foreshadowing to hint at future events and create suspense.

8. Pacing:

Balance action, dialogue, and introspection to control the pace of your story. Speed up or slow down as needed for dramatic effect.

9. Themes and Messages:

Consider the themes or messages you want to convey through your story and how the plot can reflect them.

10. Outline Chapter by Chapter:

Create a chapter-by-chapter outline that details what will happen in each section of your book. This doesn't need to be overly detailed, but it can serve as a roadmap.

11. Writing and Revising:

Start writing your book based on your outline. Be open to changes and revisions as your story develops.

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help

[saraswritingtipps]

Types of laughter/smiles

*Laughter*

1. Genuine Laughter: This is a natural, spontaneous laugh that occurs when something is truly funny or joyous.

2. Nervous Laughter: People may laugh nervously when they are anxious or uncomfortable, often as a defense mechanism.

3. Polite Laughter: This is a courteous laugh in response to a joke or situation, even if it's not genuinely funny.

4. Contagious Laughter: When one person's laughter triggers laughter in others, often in a group setting.

5. Hysterical Laughter: Uncontrollable, often excessive laughter, typically associated with extreme joy or a situation that becomes overwhelmingly funny.

*Smiles*

1. Genuine Smile: Also known as a "Duchenne smile," it involves both the mouth and eyes, indicating true happiness or amusement.

2. Polite Smile: A courteous smile used in social situations, even if one isn't genuinely happy or amused.

3. Sarcastic Smile: A smile that conveys insincerity or mockery, often with a hint of cynicism.

4. Forced Smile: A smile that doesn't reach the eyes, often used when someone is concealing negative emotions.

5. Contented Smile: A calm and satisfied smile, often in moments of tranquility or comfort.

6. Mischevious Smile: A sly or mischievous grin that suggests playful or devious intent.

7. Sympathetic Smile: A compassionate smile used to express understanding or empathy for someone's situation.

8. Enigmatic Smile: A mysterious or cryptic smile, often leaving others curious about the person's thoughts or intentions.

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #creative writing #writersociety

[saraswritingtipps]

Body language that conveys embarrassment

1. Avoiding Eye Contact: People who are embarrassed may avoid making eye contact with others.

2. Self-Touching: They might fidget, touch their face, or adjust their clothing as a nervous habit.

3. Nervous Laughter: Some people may giggle or laugh nervously in an attempt to downplay their embarrassment.

4. Shifting Weight: Shifting weight from one foot to another or crossing and uncrossing legs can be a sign of discomfort.

5. Covering the Face: Using their hands to cover their face or mouth can be a subconscious attempt to hide embarrassment.

6. Reduced Speech: Embarrassed individuals may become more reserved and speak less.

7. Lowering Head or Hunched Shoulders: This can signify a desire to make themselves appear smaller or less noticeable.

8. Prolonged Silence: People may become unusually quiet when they feel embarrassed.

It's important to remember that these cues can vary from person to person, and not everyone will exhibit the same body language when embarrassed.

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #creative writing #creative writers

[saraswritingtipps]

Subtle character actions

- He traced the rim of his coffee cup with his finger, lost in thought.

- She tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear, her eyes avoiding direct contact.

- He absentmindedly twisted the ring on his finger, a silent habit he'd had for years.

- She sighed almost imperceptibly, a sign of her hidden frustration.

- He raised an eyebrow, a subtle signal of skepticism.

- She adjusted her glasses, a small gesture that indicated her nervousness.

- He tapped his fingers on the table, creating a quiet rhythm only he understood.

- She let out a soft, barely audible chuckle, a sign of her amusement.

- He folded the corner of a page in the book he was reading, a secret way of marking his favorite passages.

- She shifted her weight from one foot to the other, revealing her discomfort in the situation.

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #character action #writeblr #writing inspiration

[saraswritingtipps]

Dialogue response to „ have you ever loved me?“

"I've always loved you."

"I'm not sure. Maybe in my own way."

"I thought I did, but it's complicated."

"I wish I could say yes."

"In my own imperfect way, yes."

"It's not that simple."

"Maybe I did, but things change."

"I can't deny that I did once."

"I've tried to forget, but I did."

"It's a question I've been avoiding."

"I can't erase the memories."

"I have, but it's different now."

"I wanted to, but I couldn't."

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #hurt dialogues #dialogue prompt #dialogue ideas

[saraswritingtipps]

Types of side characters

1. Foil Characters: These side characters are designed to contrast with the main character, highlighting their qualities or flaws. Foil characters can provide a different perspective and challenge the main character's beliefs or actions.

2. Mentors or Guides: These side characters serve as mentors or guides to the main character, providing wisdom, guidance, and support. They often have more experience or knowledge in a specific area and help the main character navigate challenges or learn important lessons.

3. Comic Relief Characters: These side characters bring humor and levity to the story. They provide comedic relief during intense or serious moments and can help balance the overall tone of the narrative. Their wit, clumsiness, or unique personality traits make them enjoyable and entertaining.

4. Love Interests: Love interests are side characters who are romantically involved with the main character. They add a romantic subplot to the story and can contribute to the main character's personal growth and development. Love interests can be supportive, challenging, or even create conflict within the narrative.

5. Antagonists or Villains: Side characters can also take on the role of antagonists or villains. They oppose the main character's goals and create conflict and tension in the story. Antagonists can have their own motivations, complexities, and backstories, making them more than just one-dimensional obstacles.

6. Friends or Allies: These side characters are the main character's companions, friends, or allies. They provide emotional support, camaraderie, and assistance throughout the story. Friends or allies often share common goals and values, and their relationships can help showcase the main character's growth and strengths.

7. Family Members: Side characters who are family members of the main character can play significant roles in shaping their identity and backstory. They can provide emotional connections, conflict, and a sense of history within the narrative.

8. Background Characters: While not all side characters have to be highly developed, background characters help create a sense of realism and immersion in the story. They populate the world and add depth to the setting, even if they have minimal impact on the main plot.

9. Rivals or Competitors: These side characters compete with the main character, pushing them to improve, overcome obstacles, or achieve their goals. Rivals or competitors can be a source of conflict, motivation, and personal growth for the main character.

10. Witnesses or Observers: These side characters serve as witnesses or observers of the main events in the story. They may provide insights, commentary, or serve as a narrative device to convey information to the reader.

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #creative writing #side characters

[saraswritingtipps]

Strategies for creating conflicts between the protagonist and the antagonist that drive the story forward.

Creating conflicts between the protagonist and the antagonist is vital for driving the story forward and engaging readers. Here are some strategies to help you craft compelling conflicts:

1. Goals and Motivations: Establish clear and conflicting goals and motivations for both the protagonist and antagonist. Make sure their objectives are mutually exclusive or directly opposed to each other, creating inherent conflict.

2. Personal Stakes: Make the conflict personal for both the protagonist and antagonist. Connect their goals to their personal desires, values, or relationships. When something deeply important is at stake, the conflict becomes more intense and emotionally charged.

3. Ideological Differences: Explore ideological differences between the protagonist and antagonist. Present opposing beliefs, philosophies, or worldviews that clash throughout the story. This can lead to profound debates and arguments, driving the conflict forward.

4. Obstacles and Challenges: Introduce obstacles and challenges that stand in the way of both the protagonist and antagonist achieving their goals. These obstacles can be physical, emotional, or psychological, forcing them to confront each other in a series of conflicts.

5. Strategies and Tactics: Allow the protagonist and antagonist to employ different strategies and tactics in pursuit of their goals. Show how their contrasting approaches intensify the conflict and force them to outwit each other.

6. Reversals and Setbacks: Incorporate reversals and setbacks for both the protagonist and antagonist. Just when one gains an advantage, have the other seize an unexpected opportunity or achieve a significant breakthrough. This keeps the conflict dynamic and unpredictable.

7. Emotional Confrontations: Create moments of emotional confrontation between the protagonist and antagonist. Explore their personal histories, traumas, or vulnerabilities, and bring them to the surface during pivotal confrontations. This adds depth to the conflict and raises the emotional stakes.

8. Physical Confrontations: Include intense physical confrontations between the protagonist and antagonist. These can be action sequences, battles, or confrontations that test their strength, skills, and determination. Use these moments to escalate the conflict and heighten tension.

9. Psychological Warfare: Incorporate psychological warfare between the protagonist and antagonist. Show how they manipulate, deceive, or psychologically torment each other to gain the upper hand. This adds layers to the conflict and tests their mental fortitude.

10. Moral Dilemmas: Present moral dilemmas that force the protagonist to make difficult choices and challenge their values. Allow the antagonist to exploit these dilemmas, further fueling the conflict and testing the protagonist's resolve.

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #creative writing

[saraswritingtipps]

list of common cute things or traits for your original character (OC)

1. Big, Expressive Eyes: Large, expressive eyes can give your OC an innocent and cute appearance.

2. Unique Hairstyle: A distinct or quirky hairstyle can add a touch of charm.

3. Shyness or Bashfulness: A bit of shyness or bashfulness can make your OC seem sweet and approachable.

4. Love for Animals: Having a soft spot for animals, particularly small and fluffy ones, can be adorable.

5. Childlike Enthusiasm: A boundless, childlike enthusiasm for simple things can be endearing.

6. Giggles and Laughter: Frequent giggles or infectious laughter can make your OC likable.

7. Awkwardness: A charming level of social awkwardness can be endearing.

8. Clumsiness: A propensity for stumbling or being clumsy in a cute way can add to their charm.

9. Favorite Comfort Food: Giving your OC a favorite comfort food or snack can create relatable moments.

10. Caring Nature: A character who cares deeply for their friends or family is inherently cute.

11. Doodles and Sketches: The habit of doodling or sketching cute and whimsical drawings can be charming.

12. Adoration of Nature: A love for nature, flowers, or starry nights can make your OC more endearing.

13. Quirky Habits: Unique and charming habits or quirks can set your OC apart.

14. Childhood Nostalgia: Relatable nostalgia for childhood toys, games, or TV shows can be cute.

15. Warm Smile: A warm, inviting smile is always charming.

16. Politeness and Manners: Good manners and politeness are universally appealing.

17. Innocent Curiosity: A genuine and innocent curiosity about the world can be adorable.

18. Playfulness: A playful and carefree nature can make your OC lovable.

19. Emotional Vulnerability: Showing moments of vulnerability or genuine emotion can endear your OC to readers.

20. Wearing Glasses: If it fits your character, glasses can add a cute and intelligent vibe.

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #writersociety #writing inspiration #character traits

[saraswritingtipps]

Crafting Compelling Villains

1. The "Evil for the Sake of Being Evil" Villain:

This type of villain lacks depth and clear motivations. They simply exist to be wicked and cause chaos without any believable reason or backstory.

2. The One-Dimensional Bully:

This villain is characterized solely by their physical strength or intimidating presence. They lack complexity, depth, and fail to challenge the protagonist on an intellectual or emotional level.

3. The Overpowered and Unbeatable Villain:

This villain is excessively powerful with no apparent weaknesses or vulnerabilities. They pose no real threat to the protagonist, as their defeat seems implausible or impossible.

4. The Expository Villain:

This villain constantly explains their evil plans and motivations without any subtlety or nuance. Their dialogues become monotonous and predictable, diminishing the impact of their character.

5. T The Forgettable Villain:

This villain lacks distinct traits, memorable characteristics, or a unique presence. They fail to leave a lasting impression on readers and are easily overshadowed by other elements of the story

6. The Plot Device Villain:

This villain exists solely to advance the plot without any independent goals or desires. They lack agency and depth, merely serving as a convenient obstacle for the protagonist to overcome.

7. The Unrelatable Monster:

This villain is completely devoid of humanity or relatable qualities. They are monstrous in every sense, lacking any redeeming or understandable characteristics that could engage the audience emotionally.

8. The Placeholder Villain:

This villain is introduced briefly and abruptly, without any significant development or impact on the story. They serve as a mere distraction or temporary obstacle, leaving readers feeling unsatisfied.

9. The Inconsistent Motivations:

This villain's motivations and actions are erratic and inconsistent, making it difficult for readers to understand their choices. Their lack of clear direction undermines the credibility and coherence of their character.

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #writing villains #write villain

[saraswritingtipps]

old money and new tragedies

[saraswritingtipps]

Writing Child or Teenage Characters:

Writing child or teenage characters requires an understanding of their unique perspectives, thoughts, and behaviors at various stages of development. Here are some tips to help you capture the essence of child or teenage characters realistically:

1. Research Developmental Stages: Familiarize yourself with the developmental stages of children and teenagers. Understand the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes that typically occur during these periods. This knowledge will help you depict characters at appropriate stages of maturity.

2. Voice and Dialogue: Pay attention to the language and vocabulary used by child or teenage characters. Their speech patterns, sentence structure, and word choices may differ from adult characters. Reflect their age and level of education in their dialogue to make it authentic and relatable.

3. Emotional Authenticity: Children and teenagers experience a wide range of emotions, and their emotional responses can be intense and sometimes unpredictable. Show their emotions through their actions, reactions, and internal thoughts. Be mindful of age-appropriate emotional depth and understanding.

4. Observational Perspective: Child and teenage characters often notice and interpret the world differently than adults. Highlight their unique observations, curiosity, and innocence. Allow them to have a fresh perspective that can bring a sense of wonder or discovery to the story.

5. Growth and Development: Portray child or teenage characters as evolving and growing individuals. Show their learning experiences, mistakes, and the lessons they learn along the way. Capture their gradual understanding of the world and their evolving sense of identity.

6. Relationships and Peer Dynamics: Explore the dynamics of friendships, peer pressure, and social hierarchies that are prevalent during childhood and adolescence. Show the influence of friends, family, and mentors on their thoughts and behaviors. Highlight the importance of relationships in their lives.

7. Hobbies and Interests: Reflect the passions, hobbies, and interests that are common among children and teenagers. These activities can shape their identities and provide opportunities for self-expression. Incorporate their hobbies into the narrative to add depth and authenticity.

8. Growth of Independence: As children and teenagers mature, they seek more independence and autonomy. Depict their struggles with authority figures, their desire for freedom, and their exploration of boundaries. Balance their growing independence with their need for guidance and support.

9. Challenges and Coming of Age: Explore the challenges and rites of passage that child and teenage characters face. Address issues such as identity formation, peer pressure, academic stress, bullying, first love, and self-discovery. Treat these themes with sensitivity and avoid trivializing or dismissing their experiences.

10. Evolving Relationships with Adults: Capture the evolving relationships between child or teenage characters and the adults in their lives. Show the shifting dynamics, conflicts, and moments of connection. Avoid portraying adults as one-dimensional authority figures or overly understanding mentors.

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #creative writing

[saraswritingtipps]

Exploring Character Backstory

1. Start with the essentials: Begin by outlining the basic information about your character's past, such as their family background, upbringing, education, and early experiences. Consider their cultural, social, and economic background, as these factors can shape their worldview and values.

2. Identify key events and milestones: Determine significant events or milestones in your character's life that have had a profound impact on them. These could include positive or negative experiences, such as the loss of a loved one, a major achievement, a traumatic incident, or a life-changing decision. These events help shape your character's personality, fears, and aspirations.

3. Examine formative relationships: Explore the relationships your character has had with their family, friends, mentors, or romantic partners. How have these relationships influenced them? What role models or influences have shaped their values, beliefs, and behavior? Relationships can provide insight into your character's vulnerabilities, strengths, and emotional attachments.

4. Dig into their beliefs and values: Understand what your character believes in and values. Examine their moral compass, political views, religious beliefs, or philosophical outlook. Consider how their beliefs might clash or align with the conflicts they encounter in the story. This will create depth and authenticity in their character development.

5. Uncover secrets and hidden aspects: Delve into your character's secrets, hidden desires, or aspects of their past that they prefer to keep hidden. Secrets can create internal conflicts, fuel character growth, and add intrigue to the story. They can also reveal vulnerabilities or flaws that make your character more relatable and complex.

6. Consider the impact of societal factors: Explore how societal factors such as gender, race, class, or historical context have influenced your character's experiences and identity. These factors can shape their struggles, opportunities, and perspectives. Understanding the societal context in which your character exists adds layers of depth to their backstory.

7. Connect the backstory to the main story: Once you have explored the character's backstory, identify how it relates to the main story. Determine how their past experiences, relationships, or traumas influence their present motivations, conflicts, and goals. This connection will ensure that the backstory serves a purpose in the narrative and contributes to the character's growth.

8. Use backstory selectively: While backstory is essential for understanding your character, avoid excessive exposition or information dumping. Introduce elements of the backstory gradually, through dialogue, memories, or subtle hints. This helps maintain reader interest and allows the character's past to unfold organically throughout the story.

Remember, not all aspects of the character's backstory need to be explicitly mentioned in the narrative. It's important to choose and reveal elements that have the most significant impact on the character's present circumstances and development.

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #character backstory

[saraswritingtipps]

list of romantic things that can make you feel like falling in love

- Heartfelt love letters

- Surprise date nights

- Slow dancing together

- Stargazing under a clear night sky

- A gentle forehead kiss

- Whispered "I love you"

- Handwritten love notes

- A cozy cuddle on a rainy day

- Breakfast in bed

- Watching a sunrise or sunset together

- Holding hands while taking a walk

- A surprise bouquet of favorite flowers

- Sharing inside jokes and laughter

- An unexpected, affectionate text message

- A heartfelt compliment

- A loving embrace

- Preparing a favorite meal together

- Writing a love poem or song

- A surprise romantic gesture

- A thoughtful, personalized gift

- Moments of pure, genuine connection

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #writing prompts #writing romance #romance prompts

[saraswritingtipps]

List of affectionate things that can make someone fall in love

- Genuine Smiles

- Kindness

- Active Listening

- Thoughtful Gestures

- Supportive Words

- Shared Laughter

- Affectionate Touch

- Emotional Vulnerability

- Remembering Details

- Respect

- Spending Quality Time

- Apologizing and Forgiving

- Acts of Service

- Encouragement

- Expressing Love

- Shared Experiences

- Affectionate Nicknames

- Embracing Imperfections

- Protectiveness

- Unconditional Love

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #creative writing #write #writers on tumblr #novel writing #oc ideas

[saraswritingtipps]

Writing is a Skill, Not a Talent

Writing is a skill that can be developed with practice and dedication. Talent plays a role, but consistent effort and a commitment to improvement are equally, if not more, important.

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #writersociety #creative writing

[saraswritingtipps]

Some Dialogue Responses for this? ✨

„I'm not the right one for you, you deserve someone better than me, someone who can protect you and not a monster like me…“

Sure!!!!🤍

"Monsters have hearts too, and I've seen yours."

"Maybe I don't want to be protected, I want to be loved."

"You're not a monster, you're the one who makes my heart beat."

"We're all a little bit 'monstrous' in our own way."

"The heart wants what it wants, and mine wants you."

"I don't need saving, I just need you."

"I don't want someone 'better', I want someone real."

"You're not a monster, you're the love of my life."

#writing #writer on tumblr #writerscommunity #writing tips #character development #writer tumblr #writblr #writing advice #oc character #writing help #dialogue ideas #dialogue prompt #creative writing