by Amy McElroy Certain writers possess a power to weave a story like a tapestry with the perfectly arcing plot, just the right amount of narration lacing the edges, and life-like dialogue. Readers dive in to meet the characters as if they are long-lost friends—or enemies. Every scene takes place down some familiar trail that […]
By Amy McElroy For this woman who can offer detailed commentary on character development, sensory description, and use of dialogue in a manuscript, but who didn’t know web code from content, thought Glimmer Train sounded like a glam rock writer’s conference, and spends most days ready to throw her computer out the window, it takes […]
by Amy McElroy On the reality show “Survivor,” contestants are voted off with the ceremonial snuffing out of their torches, and host Jeff Probst’s constant reminder that, “In this game, fire represents your life.” There’s something primal to that metaphor, something deeper than a reality show gimmick, as I’ve learned over the past month. First, […]
PHOTO CREDIT: “Marwari Stallion #1” by Tom Chambers, http://www.tomchambersphoto.com At this time of year when tradition dictates we consider resolutions for the future, I—everthe planner, the worrier, the what-if or could-be dreamer find myself staunchly resisting. While my toes grip the metaphorical sand, my knuckles clutch the all-too-real yellow counter in Nana’s kitchen, and the unscratched, shiny, […]
I grew up in the thick of the South, left with hazy memories of my uncle’s rare visits. But, I found myself missing a warm glow when he was gone. During my thirties, I’ve revisited that whispering connection. After my uncle’s 1950’s and 60’s childhood filled him with the gospel of Southern Wonderbread, he fled—like […]