Living Life Twice

  We can use our Writer's Notebook in an infinite number of ways to collect limitless entries. Once collected these entries can be used to inform writing projects we wish to pursue -now and in the future.  Here are some random entries from some of my notebooks to highlight the range of entries I gather from my various worlds. Some have been gathered from the physical world. Some are observational,  while others are personal reflections. Inexperienced writers need to be shown all the places a more experienced writer goes in order to add notebook entries. Remember, a writer's process is important.  The question might be pondered after reading such entries-  Why did the writer choose to gather this particular entry in their notebook, and how might it be used later ? I’ve decided I would never make a good pirate, despite my illusions. For a start I possess the buoyancy of a boulder and the thought of climbing up to the crow’s nest gives me nose bleed and wobbly legs...

   My involvement in presenting the Young Writer's Program in conjunction with P.E.T.A.A. (Primary English Teacher's Association of Australia) and the Victorian Government over the last two years has enabled me to share a range of writing ideas to support the continuing development of enthusiastic young writers.       These student writers have demonstrated an aptitude and interest in writing and have participated with much enthusiasm in these two day workshops.       For more information regarding this program, contact PETAA.    *  Many of the recurring messages shared with these young writers are applicable to all writers, so I happily share them now: You need a good pen or pencil with you at all times. It should feel balanced and comfortable in your hand when you write.  It is an advantage to carry a writer's notebook at all times. A notebook that suits your particular needs as a writer. A notebook that is not just...

  Some writers are known for their unusual story lines and their edgy, unconventional characters. Often these characters are hard to forget, such is their unforgettable image planted in the mind of the reader.  Writers also use tension and suspense to maintain a reader's interest. Writers use imagery and fine details to engage the reader and often throw in something quite unexpected to ensure the reader stays engaged.  Encourage student writers to create a list (in their writer's notebooks) of unexpected or unusual events that have taken place across the course of their lives. Think about a surprising turn of events, or a mysterious or inexplicable occurrence.  Remind them they can use these listed events to create a piece of writing. They can apply an unexpected event to themselves, or link it to a character of their choosing. They can place the event anywhere they like and have it happen at the time that suits the story they wish to tell. Alert them to the mood and...

   W riters choose to write about those matters that possess meaning for them. They write about things that deliver excitement, enrich them or inspire them. Through their writing, readers gain insight to what the author found meaningful and the reason why that matter is important to write about.       By choosing to write about topics and ideas that have personal connections, the author's task is made easier. The task of engaging the reader also becomes easier.       When writers choose to write about familiar things and things critical to them, they tend to include specific detail and vivid imagery to assist the reader to understand the true significance of the writing. This increased care frequently leads to the writing being elevated well above the ordinary.      Being aware of this critical consideration is invaluable to inexperienced writers. If they choose topics with which they have a strong connection, then they wi...

Curiosity Writers are well served by the presence of natural curiosity. Curiosity about a wide range of things. The great thing about curiosity is that once it takes hold, there is no cure. A curious writer is never in danger of becoming bored.  At least that's how it has always been for this curious learner... Curiosity frequently leads me to writing. It is a natural form of learning and helps us to become more attuned to observation. By becoming a collector of information-whether trivial or significant, I can apply the findings to my writing projects. Writing provides a powerful outlet for the learning and observation we have acquired. Writers learn to observe closely the world around them. They read books, watch news and current affairs programs, they do a lot of people watching and examine things within their daily lives. They also ask themselves lots of questions about the things they've seen. Furthermore, they jot down their observations and then use their notes to help t...

  Writers  Collect Writing They Admire   Writers need to read extensively. They often read a wide variety of things and are frequently drawn to words and ideas written in particular genres, styles and forms according to their individual interests and writing projects. Writers frequently collect different kinds of writing. Why? They harvest these extracts, quotes, words and works for amusement, inspiration curiosity and fascination. Writers often closely study such pieces in order to develop their own writing; their own technique and ideas. The point I’m making here is that it is quite legitimate to collect such words in your own writer’s notebook. By doing this, you allow yourself and your words to be guided and inspired by writers you admire. Hopefully the words nestling beside your words encourage you to strive to emulate your writing mentors. For many young writers, the thought of collecting examples from writers they admire might never have crossed their minds. ...