Tag: advice

The First Story You Finish Will Change You – Celebrating the Importance of Finishing, Not Perfection

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment

Every writer has scraps of stories lying around. Half-started drafts, notebooks full of beginnings, that one chapter you wrote years ago that you still kind of like. I’ve got folders of the stuff. Ideas that caught fire for a few days and then fizzled. Stories that seemed like the best thing I’d ever come up … Continue reading The First Story You Finish Will Change You – Celebrating the Importance of Finishing, Not Perfection

The Art of Writing Without Overthinking: Discovery Writing and Trusting Your Instincts

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment

There’s a particular kind of paralysis that creeps in when you stare at a blank page for too long. You’ve got the idea. You’ve got the characters (or at least a whisper of them). You’ve got the mood, the spark, the itch to write. But then your brain, ever so kindly, decides to intervene: “Hang … Continue reading The Art of Writing Without Overthinking: Discovery Writing and Trusting Your Instincts

Navigating the Anxiety of Returning to University for Final Year as a Mature Student

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment

As summer draws to a close, the anticipation of returning to university stirs a familiar sense of anxiety. But this year feels different—it’s the final year. For many, including myself as a mature student, this year holds even more significance. The journey has been longer, the stakes feel higher, and the hope of transitioning into … Continue reading Navigating the Anxiety of Returning to University for Final Year as a Mature Student

Writing Dialogue that Feels Real: Techniques for Natural, Believable Conversations

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment

Dialogue is the heartbeat of a story. It reveals character, advances the plot, and immerses the reader in the world you've created. Writing dialogue that feels real and believable is an art, one that can significantly enhance your storytelling. Here are some techniques to help you craft dialogue that resonates with authenticity.1. Know Your CharactersBefore … Continue reading Writing Dialogue that Feels Real: Techniques for Natural, Believable Conversations

Writing for Different Audiences: Adapting Your Voice and Style

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment

Writing is a versatile craft that requires adapting your voice and style to suit different audiences. Whether you're writing for children, adults, casual readers, or academic audiences, understanding the unique needs and preferences of each group is essential. My journey through various university modules has significantly helped me evolve as a writer, allowing me to … Continue reading Writing for Different Audiences: Adapting Your Voice and Style

Exploring New Horizons: My Journey of Posting Short Stories on TikTok

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment

With my writing journey in full flow and five books under my belt, I'm always on the lookout for fresh, innovative ways to tell my stories. Recently, I discovered an unexpected but ideal platform to share my work: TikTok. Now, I know what you're thinking—TikTok is for teenagers, dance challenges, and lip-syncing. Well, not entirely. … Continue reading Exploring New Horizons: My Journey of Posting Short Stories on TikTok