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Let’s face it, if you’re a writer, then you likely have that crushing feeling of self-doubt that maybe your writing just isn’t good enough. In turn, maybe you abandon projects or give up.
Let me tell you a story that will help you see your writing for the amazing thing it is. I was writing a fantasy novel on one afternoon. The rain was pouring, I was stuck inside, and I was really into making the plot. Midway through the day, I go back and read some of my writing, and my heart dropped to my stomach. What kind of garbage is this? I kept thinking, eyebrows scrunched in disappointment. It was terrible. Absolutely and utterly awful. I shut down my computer just to hide the monstrosity away from the world. Who would read my book when it was this terrible? In fact, the more I thought about it, the more I realized how thin everything was. The plot, the characters, it was all so flat. So, on this rainy day, I closed the document and gave up on the whole project, moving onto something that I could write better because clearly fantasy wasn’t my thing. So, I went onto mysteries. A month later and 50,000 words in, I came to the same realization. What kind of garbage is this? Who would read my book when it was this terrible? I thought. Well, mystery clearly wasn’t my thing. I did this with project after project, leaving them all behind without so much as a second glance. Two years later, I opened the document to the original fantasy book that started this downward spiral. Frustrated and considering quitting writing, I wanted to try to remember the last book I truly enjoyed writing. I remembered what happened, but I didn’t really remember the plot too well. A lot happens in two years, honestly, and this book didn’t make the memory cut. I opened up the document and began reading. Ten minutes in, and with complete amnesia to what I wrote before, I was smiling. Smiling. I was smiling because my main character had a bonding moment with her mother and it was so, so sweet. Minutes pass, and I laugh at an old joke I made. Did I write that? I try to recall, because it wasn’t that bad at all. It was…good. I read all 40,000 words of the story. When I closed my laptop, I entered serious reflection. I was trying to recall why I hated the book so much. What was wrong with it again? I couldn’t remember! Thinking I was crazy, I showed a snippet to my brutally honest friend who had (rightfully) criticized my work for me in the past. To my surprise, she said, “It’s good! 40,000 words is a lot, too. How often do you write in it? Will it be done soon?” As it turns out, I became my own greatest critique. Looking back, there really was nothing wrong with the book. The only thing wrong in this situation was me. I was too critical and severe to the first 40,000 of my first draft. Sure, it needed polishing, but so does every other novel. At the end, I pushed aside my negative thoughts, and so many beautiful stories were born and finished. What I’ve been trying to get to is this: even if you have doubts about your writing, all you need to do is take a break, you don’t need to completely quit like I did. Don’t give up on your projects! Time reveals the true beauty hidden between the lines, and even if you can’t see it now, your story will soon come to life. Never give up and always have confident in your abilities! You are a writer, and your gift is the gift of pen (or a keyboard), and it’s time for you to step up and become confident in your gift! Happy writing everyone! This blog post was written by Ralia Farah.
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We live in an age of increasingly blurred lines, and the world of literature is no exception. Genre-bending books, those daring novels that seamlessly weave together elements of science fiction and fantasy, romance and mystery, or any other captivating combination, are captivating readers with their unique and unexpected experiences.
The beauty of genre blending lies in its ability to subvert expectations. When you pick up a book labeled "romance," you anticipate a certain trajectory – a blossoming love story, perhaps with some obstacles along the way. But what if that romance unfolds against the backdrop of a dystopian future, where forbidden love blooms in a world on the brink of collapse? This unexpected twist elevates the narrative, offering a fresh perspective on familiar tropes. Furthermore, genre blending allows authors to explore complex themes with greater depth. A fantasy novel infused with elements of social commentary can delve into issues of power, inequality, and prejudice with greater subtlety and nuance. Similarly, a sci-fi thriller laced with romantic tension can explore the human condition – love, loss, and the search for meaning – within the context of a thrilling and thought-provoking narrative. The result? A reading experience that is both exhilarating and enriching. Genre-bending books challenge our preconceived notions, expand our horizons, and leave us pondering the complexities of the human experience long after we've turned the final page. So, the next time you're looking for a captivating read, consider venturing beyond the familiar and embracing the magic of genre-blended books. You might just discover your new favorite story. This blog post was written by Isha Popat. There’s something magical about picking up a book you’ve already read. At first, it might seem like flipping through familiar territory. The ending is no longer a mystery, and you know where the story twists and turns. So why reread? The answer lies in the fact that we, as readers, are constantly changing. When I first read The Great Gatsby as a teenager, it was simply the story of a doomed romance. I breezed through the book, pausing only to roll my eyes at Gatsby’s obsessive hope. But years later, I picked it up again, and it was as if someone had slipped in a new story. Suddenly, I saw Gatsby’s fragility, Daisy’s quiet desperation, and Nick’s subtle complicity. The same words, but a completely different experience. That’s the beauty of rereading. You bring your current self to the pages—your new experiences, perspectives, and even scars. Books remain constant, but you don’t.
A speech that felt forgettable in high school might hit like a thunderclap years later when you’ve lived through the lesson it conveys. Rereading also reminds us that meaning in art isn’t fixed. It grows with us. Maybe the first read is about plot and characters, but the second, third, or even tenth read unlocks subtleties in the language, hidden themes, and new layers of emotion. Beyond that, rereading is a form of comfort. It’s like visiting an old friend—someone who knows you and asks for nothing but your attention. It’s not about discovery but reconnection. So don’t hesitate to return to the books you once loved. You might not just find the story waiting for you—you might rediscover yourself in its pages. And that’s the journey of reading again and again. This blog post was written by Isha Popat. Hey, there, fellow wordsmiths! As we step into a brand-new year, it’s the perfect time to take a deep breath, reflect on the past, and gear up for all the possibilities that lie ahead. If writing fills your heart with joy (or even just a little spark), now is the moment to grab your notebook, your favorite pen, and get those creative juices flowing! Let’s talk about how we can tap into our motivation and make 2025 our most inspired year yet.
1. Set Your Intentions, Not Just Resolutions We all know the drill: New Year’s resolutions often fizzle out by February. Instead of forcing yourself into rigid goals like "write a novel this year," think about setting intentions. What do you want to explore or achieve in your writing? Maybe it’s developing a daily habit of writing for 15 minutes, brainstorming ideas for a short story, or diving into poetry. Whatever it is, keep it flexible and personal to you! 2. Create a Writing Space Your environment can greatly influence your creativity. Make a cozy writing corner that feels like a haven for your thoughts. Fill it with things you love—photos, art supplies, or your favorite books. If you can, make it tech-free, or at least minimize distractions. Being in a space where you feel comfortable and inspired will help you get into the zone! 3. Dive into Writing Prompts Sometimes, all it takes to get the words flowing is a little nudge from a writing prompt. Search for prompts online or grab a writing prompt book from your local library. Let your imagination run wild! Here are a few starter prompts to spark your creativity: - Write a letter to your future self about your hopes for the next year. - Describe your ideal day in vivid detail. - Invent a character who can only speak in questions—what’s their story? 4. Join a Community Writing doesn’t have to be a lonely endeavor! Seek out fellow young writers in your school or online. Join a writing club, participate in workshops, or follow writing challenges on social media. Sharing your work with others not only helps you hone your skills but also builds a supportive network that can keep you motivated. 5. Embrace the Messiness of Creativity One of the most crucial lessons in writing is to allow yourself to be imperfect. You don’t have to produce a masterpiece every time you sit down to write. Give yourself permission to write a “bad” first draft. Remember, revising is where the magic happens. So just get those words on the page and worry about polishing later! 6. Read Widely and Wisely Reading is an incredible source of inspiration. Explore different genres, styles, and authors—get out of your comfort zone! Notice how other writers construct their narratives and develop characters. This will not only enhance your appreciation for the art of writing but may also spark ideas for your projects. 7. Celebrate Your Wins No matter how small, take time to celebrate your writing achievements. Finished a paragraph? Gold star! Wrote for three days in a row? Treat yourself! Acknowledging your progress will keep you motivated and remind you that every word counts on your journey as a writer. Conclusion: Make 2025 Your Year of Writing Remember that this new year is an open book waiting for your words to fill its pages. Whether you aim to pen poetry, develop storylines, or explore new narratives, every word you write is a step toward honing your craft. So, take a deep breath, grab your writing tools, and dive into a year brimming with creativity and inspiration. You’ve got this! Happy Writing, and here’s to a fabulous 2025 filled with new words and adventures! This blog post was written by Ralia Farah. Oftentimes teens need an escape from the world that they live in. Whether it is the pressure of school, or the social drama, an escape gives solace to teens. Teenagers are often drawn to fantasy literature because it offers escapism and empowerment. The time period of being a teen, also known as adolescence, is marked by a search for identity affiliated with a desire for independence, and all this together makes for an overwhelming life. Fantasy allows teens to find peace and reconnect with their childhood in many different ways.
Additionally, fantasy literature offers teens an opportunity to explore their own sense of power. They get the ability to feel in control of a universe which is a rootedness needed in a world of uncertainty. Teens gain the ability to strengthen their power and self courage through characters and they get to determine their own ending. At the same time this literary world allows for teens to go through worlds that might not exist in real life. They get the opportunity to explore themes such as injustice and loss alongside happiness and peace. This gives them a headstart among their peers as they are able to understand complex emotions and situations which might not be possible in other ways. These benefits make it clear that teens have a certain direction towards these sorts of novels and fiction. This literature acts as both a way to leave their own lives alongside a way to gain new skills and tendencies which would otherwise go unnoticed. This getaway is of utmost importance in the development of adolescence into adults. Overall, the strongest reason why teens are drawn into fantasy is its ability to soothe and allocate power amongst young teenagers who are growing up in a world full of uncertainty and the promise of change. This blog post was written by Isha Popat. Hey, writers, let’s face it: we all know that familiar tug of procrastination. It lurks in the corners of our creative spaces, whispering sweet nothings of distraction while we wrestle with that formidable blank page. Yet, as maddening as it can be, there’s an undeniable rhythm to this dance between intention and avoidance. For many of us, it becomes a curious partner in our creative process, providing both frustration and inspiration in equal measure.
Procrastination is often viewed as the villain in the narrative of productivity. We’ve all heard the advice: “Just sit down and write!” Yet, in the chaos of our minds, taking that step can often feel monumental. So, we scroll through endless social media feeds, reorganize our bookshelves by color, or find ourselves down the rabbit hole of documentary binges (we’re all guilty of something). However, each detour, while seemingly unproductive, holds potential. Sometimes, we stumble upon a thought or idea that we wouldn’t have formed in a more regimented state. There’s something almost poetic about these moments of diversion. In sinking our teeth into a new hobby or indulging in a random burst of experimentation, we often unearth fragments of inspiration that can blend seamlessly into our narratives. Procrastination, when embraced, can foster unexpected connections and expand our horizons as creators. A fleeting thought while washing dishes might evolve into an entirely new character; an afternoon spent gardening could lead to the perfect metaphor for growth. Moreover, this tendency to delay can be a calling card of the over-thinker. The incessant mental chatter, the agonizing contemplation of every word and sentence, can lead to paralysis. Ironically, through our avoidance, we might discover what’s truly holding us back: fear of imperfection, pressure to conform, or simply the weight of expectation. Recognizing procrastination as a revealing insight can shift its power from an adversary to a friend. The key lies in finding balance. Allow yourself those moments of retreat, but don’t let them consume you. Set aside blocks of time where you commit to just five minutes of writing. You may be surprised at how the initial resistance melts away, revealing a surge of words that had been waiting, buried beneath layers of distraction. In the end, procrastination might not be the nasty inconvenience we often perceive, but rather a necessary part of our artistic journey. It invites us to slow down and reflect, allowing for spontaneity and creativity to flourish in unexpected ways. So, the next time you find yourself dodging the page, welcome the distraction, but remember to return to your craft. After all, the beauty of writing lies not only in the act itself, but in the myriad experiences that color our words. Embrace the messiness of it all, for within lies the essence of your unique voice. Happy reading and writing! This blog post was written by Ralia Farah. Everyone once in a while, people need a haven. A world where they can let loose and be happy. Fantasy is a type of genre in which people have the opportunity to find strength, courage, and love. Stories have a way of being able to make things which one wants to be true, to actually be true. It offers an escape. A place of empowerment. A place which one can call their own.
It is important for individuals to have this safe place where they can be themselves and feel comfort in a world full of change and inconsistency. As long as individuals are able to separate their fantasies and real life, they can have their own secret world, and still be good human beings. It is of great importance that the line here does not get blurred as that is something which could cause many problems. Now let’s focus on fantasy's role in empowerment. Fantasy has the ability to push for reforms once thought impossible. They can jumpstart movements with power that then guid people to work together. Fantasies can build communities. They can build love. And empowerment. Empowerment should come from the people, therefore books written by the people on strong opinions that they hold, have the power to transform, and create. With the known socioeconomic disparities and the inequalities across the globe, these stories can create communities which give strength and maybe just the right amount of power to have people continue their lives, as all they need is to feel a sense of connection with another individual. The people's voices are important. They must be heard. They must be followed. They must be kept safe. And worlds have the power to do so. They can keep people inspired, loved, and remembered. This blog post was written by Isha Popat. Learning From Literature: Why Reading Other Authors Transform Your Writing – Written by Ralia Farah12/6/2024 In an age where the written word is more accessible than ever, the act of reading remains a timeless rite of passage for aspiring writers. There’s an undeniable magic in a well-crafted sentence, a rhythm that dances across the mind and touches the heart. Yet, for many burgeoning authors, the question looms: why should we invest time in reading the work of others? The answer is simple yet profound: reading is not merely a pastime, but a powerful catalyst for growth in our own writing.
The Foundation of Craft By immersing ourselves in the works of esteemed authors—be they the classics or contemporary voices—we absorb the nuances of language, structure, and style. Each book is a masterclass in its own right, offering lessons in character development, plot pacing, and emotional resonance. We learn what works and what doesn’t, what evokes a gasp or a tear, what sends chills down spines or makes hearts swell. By analyzing other’s techniques, we can glean insights into our own writing. Reading becomes an apprenticeship; every word we devour hones our instincts, informs our choices, and refines our voice. A Window into Diverse Perspectives Reading widely opens the door to perspectives we may not encounter in our day-to-day lives. It stirs empathy within us, allowing us to inhabit the consciousness of characters from backgrounds vastly different from our own. Whether it’s the suffocating desolation in a dystopian novel or the tender joys found in a coming-of-age story, these narratives expand our understanding of the human experience. As writers, we are tasked with the responsibility to convey complex truths about our world. To do that effectively, we must first listen to the voices that enrich our literary landscape. Engaging with diverse authors fosters a deeper appreciation for the tapestry of experiences that shape our society, prompting us to ask: how can my writing contribute to this collective dialogue? Inspiration and Creativity Sometimes, there is no better muse than the work of other authors. A beautifully written passage can ignite a spark of creativity, leading to unexpected avenues of thought and expression. When we encounter a narrative that resonates with us, it beckons us to explore our own stories, pushing us to delve deeper into our emotions and experiences. Instead of viewing other writers as competitors, we should embrace them as collaborators in a larger conversation about storytelling. Each book we read can inspire us to rearrange the building blocks of our creativity, leading to fresh ideas and unique narratives that reflect our distinct voices. The Art of Revision Reading also teaches us the value of revision—a cornerstone of both literature and writing. Observing the seamless flow of a novel reminds us that behind every polished piece is an arduous process of rewriting and editing. When we read, we witness firsthand the beauty of revision in action. We can appreciate the meticulous choices that shape a sentence, the deliberate pacing that builds tension, and the careful selection of words that evoke emotion. This understanding empowers us to embrace our own writing process with a mindset of patience and perseverance. Conclusion: Weaving Our Narratives As writers, we are part of an intricate tapestry of voices that weave together our cultural narrative. Each book we read adds another thread to our understanding of storytelling, enriching our craft with new insights and inspirations. So, as you pursue your writing journey, let the works of others guide you, challenge you, and ignite your passion. In the end, reading is not just about escaping into new worlds; it is about finding our own place within them. By embracing the wisdom of those who came before us, we open the doors to our own potential, crafting stories that resonate long after the last page is turned. So, pick up a book, dive in, and let the alchemy of words transform you. Your voice is waiting to be discovered, and the world is eager to hear your story. This blog post was written by Ralia Farah. It sure is a difficult task, trying to figure out who you are, and not just on the surface level, but really as a person. What do you want to be in life? What do you want to leave behind? Who is your role model? These are all important questions that one must answer as they embark on the path of figuring out who it is that they are, and what it is that one will do in their beautiful life that they can only live once.
One of the best ways to understand your perspective is by exploring different styles of writing and understanding what fits best with you. As you read and explore, take note of what it is that sticks with you, and what it is that motivates you. Then you must experiment with different writing techniques and see what really expresses who you are as a person, as you want this to be very authentic and original. Don’t be afraid to be different, as oftentimes the best authors are those who step outside the normal and into the abnormal. If it is really difficult for you to find your voice, start by imitating the voice of the authors that you admire, one will surely stick with you then, and you can then flourish from that starting point. Feedback is also of great importance, once you think that your writing is set, make sure that you get multiple perspectives on your work, so that you can make sure that your work really is the best. Don’t be disappointed when you receive constructive criticism and at the same time don’t immediately listen to others' ideas. Take the perspectives in, and then make the final decision yourself, as you know your writing, and you know what will truly be beneficial. Now without further thinking, go out there and figure out who you are, because I am sure that you will be the next great success in the literary world. This blog post was written by Isha Popat. Building a personal brand as a writer is essential, especially for those who are aiming to stand out in today’s competitive literary environment. And the author's brand goes beyond just writing good stories. It is about creating a memorable, authentic persona that resonates with readers. Every writer has a unique voice which is reflected by their own personal life experiences. Identifying what it is that makes YOU unique is key to finding your own voice. Writers should only consider writing on topics which create a drive in them, and a passion for more. Selecting a topic that one thinks that others will like reading about, destroys their own ability to flourish as a creative writer. You must only write about what sparks a passion inside you, and that is something that only you can find on your own. Having a distinctive and creative writing style makes it easy for readers to recognize and connect with your work.
You must identify who your target audience is. This helps you figure out how to develop your ideas and how to present it all to the media. You must also know who it is that you are marketing to, especially in this industry where marketing will play a key role in your success. This is why you must, regardless of your beliefs, develop a professional online presence, introducing yourself to the web. This is where readers and publishers can get in touch with you and can help jumpstart your career. You must keep in mind that it is of great importance that you engage authentically with your followers and not in a simple way that you have seen constantly online. Now although this all seems to be very intimidating and might deter you from continuing your journey, just keep in mind that this IS your passion and that you must work through difficulties to reach your goal. It is all about the journey, and the way you come out of difficult situations, that will make you the great author that you are meant to be. This blog post was written by Isha Popat. |
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April 2025
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