Said and Read
Words fascinate me. Their origins, their meanings, their evolution — all of that interests me, and has for as long as I can remember. Words are the building blocks of thought, and the pathway to other minds. They give us a way to externalize the complex and ephemeral thoughts and feelings that make each of us unique in the history and future of the world. In this blog, I’ll share my exploration of (and enthusiasm for) words, language, and communication. I’ll try for a good mix in trivia, tips, and observations.
The Choice of Literacy
More and more, it’s possible to get everything done without bothering with that pesky business of reading and writing. It’s a loss.
New Year Goals and Guesses
This year, I’m staying focused on the feeling I want instead of making up a goal based on a guess about what will lead to satisfaction.
Magic Bookshelves
Bookshelves are where we find mirrors of the mind, reflecting our thoughts and moods. The meaning we find in what we read depends on the moment we’re in.
Why Being an Indie Author is Right for Me
A year and a half after publishing my first book on Amazon KDP, I have new perspective on the benefits of self-publishing.
Gen X Edits a Novel: Real Paper, Digital Scissors
Moving from analog to digital in my writing life hasn’t been a straight line. Seems I’m looking for the best of both worlds.
Hope for Humanity Despite AI
Generative AI may reduce our need to think for ourselves, but there will always be people who do things the hard way – and that gives me hope.
On Writing What You Know
If all writers took “write what you know” literally, would there be anything but autobiographical writing in the library?
Cold Weather Words
Weather words are among the oldest in English, because weather is one of humanity’s oldest conversation topics.
A Natural Name
Names are labels that help us keep track. In fiction, keeping identities clear when names can shift based on relationships is a challenge.
Real Life is Crowded
Keeping track of a large cast of characters in fiction can be a challenge, but there’s a really good reason why sometimes it’s worth the work.
