Tools of the Writing Trade
Have you ever wondered what are some of the most important tools that the writer uses?
Of course the pen, pencil, or typewriter/ computer are a must. With two of my stories I’ve used the pencil and reams of yellow ledgers to write the first draft. I used them for “Just Claire” and now the sequel, “Sincerely Claire”.
Are you wondering why I use yellow ledgers instead of white? An author once wrote that the color yellow allows the creative side of the brain to open up even more and flow. It sure has worked for me.
For my other three books, “God’s Mercies after Suicide”, “Road Trip of Delusion”, and “A Pocket Full of Memories”, I drafted them on the computer in Word.
When it comes to preferring pens or pencils when I hand write, I use a pencil. And I do like the old-fashioned wooden pencil with a large eraser handy for first drafts on ledgers. But, for any other need for a pencil, I use the 0.7 mechanical pencil.
As I write this, it seems odd for me to be so picky about what type of pencils I use for when. I wonder if in drafting the story on yellow ledgers, if I’m taking myself back to the English classroom with Mrs. Byrnes. Because my love of writing began with her. We read poetry in class, and I would go home at nights, get out my number 2 pencil and create my own poetry.
Other very important tools probably go without saying: A hand-held Webster’s Dictionary, using the dictionary and thesaurus in Word is a must. I use the thesaurus a lot, especially when I notice I’m overusing a word and need to find a new word to express myself. I also use it to make sure it is the word I mean to use in the sentence.
Last but not least, other tools, as I’ll call them, is for me to continue reading about the craft of writing. Like any calling, I need to continue to learn. And also, reading about how to promote my books is another area that is no fun for me, but a must. I do lack in this area. Thanks goes to my publicist, Reda Redding, for believing in me and helping me to have more time to write.
Tools of the Writing Trade
I write a lot on the computer but I really love pencil and paper. Thanks for sharing!
This is fun! I hope that others can identify with much of what I write. And thank you to all who have subscribed to my newsletter! I hope you have a blessed week!