by Jim
I have wondered this myself, as my novel is set in real places in Colorado… I do have a question along the same lines: How important in fiction-dystopian writing is geographical accuracy and specificity? People living here would know the difference and could be distracted by inaccuracies. People that are not familiar with the area may get lost in the details. And maybe the … Read More Writing Reality
by Jim
Hi Jim, I wanted to ask you about writing about tragic events. Example, let’s say you’re writing a story that’s taking place in the modern day and then something happens, does that alter your writing? Let me give you an example… Part of one of my stories is set in Berkeley California. There was a major riot out here and part of the area … Read More Too Soon Tragedy
by Jim
This beautiful power ballad brings a tear to my eye every time. It has everything an 80s hair metal band would have and more. Definitely one of the band’s stronger songs. When to Listen: Eh… I mean there are two places I suppose you could. One could make the argument that this could be a song for a romantic or intimate scene, but I … Read More From My Writing Playlist
by Jim
Yeah this little gem is a little-known song from the D2 Mighty Ducks soundtracks. I honestly feel bad for this song. It’s a really adrenaline-pumping theme that came out a few years too late. This is a song that belonged in the 1980s and I get what they were trying to do here, given that the original came out right at the ass … Read More From My Writing Playlist
+ advice, Author, Fiction, literature, Opinion, Uncategorized, Writing
by Jim
I’ve got a question about writing. I’ve currently got a novel in the works but I am currently finding it hard to continue. How do you power through the finishing stories? -Bahanehm Hi Bahanehm, Good question. I actually get asked this one quite a bit. Its a little hard to answer without knowing exactly what’s stopping you, so I’ll try to give a few … Read More Powering Through!
by Jim
Okay… You would think that such a post would be unnecessary, you would think that people would understand why a universal right to express your opinion is so vital to a free society… nay one of its truest cornerstones. Once again, you would be going backrupt on your estimation of societal intelligence. Don’t get me wrong, the majority of people out there are fairly … Read More The Importance of Freedom of Speech
by Jim
Yeah, this one may come as a surprise, but I actually liked Rihanna before she was almost literally driven into the ground by her record label. ‘Finally a pop star I can get behind.’ I thought… boy was I wrong… but anyway. Her early stuff is still good. When to listen: Writing suspense? Thriller? Horror? Here you go! Readers, Do you have a question about … Read More From My Writing Playlist…
by Jim
I can’t believe I’m doing this… You’re a stronger person than I am if you can watch this video and still take this band seriously.All I’m going to say… When to listen: DON’T!!!! Hahahaha Just kidding. This is a psych out song. Don’t listen to it while writing. You kind of have to watch the video to really get the full effect. It’s sort … Read More Off My Writing Playlist
+ advice, fantasy, Fiction, Inspiration, Music, Uncategorized, Writing
by Jim
Got a request to recommend a good ‘rock opera’ song. Really it doesn’t get any better than Avantasia and in particular this song! The Great Mystery has everything; chorus, amazing instrumentals, guest performance by metal legend Bob Catley from Magnum… oh yeah! This has to be on my list! When to listen: I’ll give you a hint, skip to 9:19. Then picture your favorite Disney … Read More From My Writing Playlist
by Jim
Yeah, don’t look at me like that. No, I don’t speak Spanish, but I love the mix of U2, one of my guilty pleasures, and a Latino twist. When to Listen: … Standard playlist. It’s upbeat and fun. So whenever. . Readers, Do you have a question about writing, publishing, my stories, etc? Please feel free to post a comment or email me. jimthewritingwizard@gmail.com I’ll … Read More From My Writing Playlist
+ advice, books, Fiction, non-fiction, Opinion, Uncategorized, Writing
by Jim
So I’ve gotten this question a lot ever since I posted my piece of how to handle criticism. From people wondering how to write criticism without insulting the creator or their work. The best I can offer in the way of advice is to just be respectful, be constructive, and avoid hyperbole. For example: “This book sucks!” <This is not constructive. “I didn’t care for … Read More Levying Criticism
+ advice, fantasy, Fiction, Inspiration, Metal, Uncategorized, Writing
by Jim
Avantasia Runaway Train: I’ve been dying to post another Avantasia song. I love this musical collaboration. Each CD is a story written by Edguy’s lead, Tobias Sammet… the Mozart of Modern Metal (Sorry, it’s true). The song is a rollercoaster ride. sad and reflective to upbeat and fast back to reflective. When to listen: This is a brainstorming song. Listen to it before writing when … Read More From My Writing Playlist
James Harringtons Creative Work 