Category Archives: Writer’s Hint

Forming Characters

by Leonard Bishop Fiction writers are alchemists. They draw together scraps of illusion and transform them into readable realities. Major characters must have size. Great ambitions, exaggerated passions, fascinating minds, superhuman capacities for love and hate, and monumental capabilities. If … Continue reading

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“Writing” is a Partial Solution

by Leonard Bishop I’m going to view what I write now, through a long-standing memory. Some will be about myself, some about what I have learned. Until I was 18 years old I was just a street punk who only … Continue reading

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Write A Novel? Get Emotional

by Leonard Bishop Writers are considered ‘intellectuals’ when, in reality, and they are ‘emotionalists.’ Intellectualism is provocative, but emotions are dramatic. Thought is a result of feeling. If someone flings the torch into your filled gasoline can, you do not … Continue reading

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Aggression, Cynicism and Great Writing

by Leonard Bishop What I intend to say, and how I say it, are not always the same. I received a letter from a Mr. D. of Manhattan. He stated that my attitudes to “being a writer” were aggressive and … Continue reading

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Deep Down, Even the Dull are Delightful

by Leonard Bishop Is your life dull, because you are a dullard? Are your days one drab dragging into another drab? Do you avoid standing against the gray wall in fear you will not be noticed? When invited to a … Continue reading

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Writer’s Hint: Characterization

From Leonard Bishop, Author of Dare To Be a Great Writer Let characters live in a constant state of “Scream!”  (2/12/98)

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Writer’s Hint: Truth

From Leonard Bishop, Author of Dare To Be a Great Writer The first thing that gets sacrificed in the interest of good writing is the truth (2/26/98) ©Leonard Bishop

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Start Placing Your Orders

by Leonard Bishop, Author of Dare To Be A Great Writer This is an” advertisement for myself.” It is directed to those people who are interested in improving their writing abilities and becoming professional writers. I cannot be falsely modest … Continue reading

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Answers to Writing Questions

by Leonard Bishop, Author of Dare To Be A Great Writer Before addressing myself to letters I have received about questions on writing, I will first state my attitude. I read each letter carefully and regard each letter seriously. I’m … Continue reading

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The Characters Don’t Write The Book

by Leonard Bishop  When speaking before groups who are interested in writing–or a classroom of students–there are two questions I am always asked. Here are the questions, and my answers. “Is the hallmark of a genuine writing talent only when … Continue reading

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