How to Start a Story

One of the questions I hear frequently from aspiring writers is, “How do I start a story?” Even seasoned writers have days when the story won’t come. Talking to a reporter for Interview Magazine in 1995, Martin Amis said of novel-writing, “If I...
How to Publish My First Book

How to Publish My First Book

Share One of the questions I hear most often from aspiring writers is, “How do I publish my first book?” While there’s no easy path to publication, with a good story, a very thick skin, and  a great deal of patience, you can get there. I began...
How to Submit Stories for Publication

How to Submit Stories for Publication

So you’ve written a story, revised it, and are ready to send it out. Here are a few pointers on how to submit stories for publication: • Until recently, submitting to literary journals meant buying loads of stamps, weighing your manila envelopes at the post...
The noun’s the thing

The noun’s the thing

Back in July of 2011, WORD magazine remembered John Carter, songwriter, producer, and A&R man extraordinaire, who “was instrumental in the careers of and a passionate supporter of Bob Seger, The Motels, Sammy Hagar, Melissa Etheridge, Tori Amos, David and David,...

I want to be a writer…how do I start?

One question I often from high school studentsis this: “I want to be a writer. How do I start?” Begin by being a good reader. Read widely and well: fiction, poetry, memoir. To get a great idea of the possibilities of fiction, get a copy of The Scriber...