Your Writing Goals

by Nancy

Use this page to introduce yourself and share your personal writing goals. Then check back to update us on your progress and to cheer on your classmates.

What is your current writing goal?

For example:


  • To write three times a week?

  • To start keeping a writers' journal?

  • To finish a draft of your story?


Let us know. We'll give you support and encouragement.

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Comments for Your Writing Goals

Click here to add your own comments

Oct 09, 2011
 Learning yo write
by: Elizabeth

I've always wanted to learn the basics of professional writing. I've read hundreds of books. I sell books on Amazon because I enjoy it, and the small income when I sell. From 11 years old to 21, I journaled my thoughts and life.
Afer 21, I wrote occasionally.
I hope to gain much knowledge and a place to start writing from his course, because I always wondered if I could do it.
Oct 09, 2011
 Learning yo write
by: Elizabeth

I've always wanted to learn the basics of professional writing. I've read hundreds of books. I sell books on Amazon because I enjoy it, and the small income when I sell. From 11 years old to 21, I journaled my thoughts and life.
Afer 21, I wrote occasionally.
I hope to gain much knowledge and a place to start writing from his course, because I always wondered if I could do it.
Jul 29, 2011
 writing goal
by: KB.

Hi all. My goal after this session and after the interaction here, I'm hoping to be a better writer for my blog. I write because I enjoy it.
Apr 29, 2011
 GOD BLESS AMERICA
by: Joseph F. Mazzaferro

I in titled it; Escape from tyranny.

AS I PICTURE A BAREFOOT MAN before him lying a field of broken glass that's moon light reflects like a beacon that beckons to him.

Just beyond that is a barbed wire fence to freedom. A path that many have travel before him and have died for.

What we here have taken for granted we forget the cost. Freedom is the glimmer of light that is extinguish by the darkness of tyranny.

Patric Henry said it best, "give me liberty or give me death". This is what I see from my heart, the American dream is freedom.

Written by Joseph F. Mazzaferro

Apr 29, 2011
 GOD BLESS AMERICA
by: Joseph F. Mazzaferro

I in titled it; Escape from tyranny.

AS I PICTURE A BAREFOOT MAN before him lying a field of broken glass that's moon light reflects like a beacon that beckons to him.

Just beyond that is a barbed wire fence to freedom. A path that many have travel before him and have died for.

What we here have taken for granted we forget the cost. Freedom is the glimmer of light that is extinguish by the darkness of tyranny.

Patric Henry said it best, "give me liberty or give me death". This is what I see from my heart, the American dream is freedom.

Written by Joseph F. Mazzaferro

Apr 29, 2011
 GOD BLESS AMERICA
by: Joseph F. Mazzaferro

I in titled it; Escape from tyranny.

AS I PICTURE A BAREFOOT MAN before him lying a field of broken glass that's moon light reflects like a beacon that beckons to him.

Just beyond that is a barbed wire fence to freedom. A path that many have travel before him and have died for.

What we here have taken for granted we forget the cost. Freedom is the glimmer of light that is extinguish by the darkness of tyranny.

Patric Henry said it best, "give me liberty or give me death". This is what I see from my heart, the American dream is freedom.

Written by Joseph F. Mazzaferro

Apr 24, 2011
 My Writing Goals
by: Margie5733

I would like to write down my writing goals.
1.) To publish a short story that I have written
2.) To publish a couple of poems that I have written.
3.) To publish a novel that I am working on.

To accomplish this, I have enrolled into your free class. I know that I will be able to write more stories and poems as well as finish my novel.
Apr 24, 2011
 My Writing Goals
by: Margie5733

I would like to write down my writing goals.
1.) To publish a short story that I have written
2.) To publish a couple of poems that I have written.
3.) To publish a novel that I am working on.

To accomplish this, I have enrolled into your free class. I know that I will be able to write more stories and poems as well as finish my novel.
Apr 24, 2011
 My Writing Goals
by: Margie5733

I would like to write down my writing goals.
1.) To publish a short story that I have written
2.) To publish a couple of poems that I have written.
3.) To publish a novel that I am working on.

To accomplish this, I have enrolled into your free class. I know that I will be able to write more stories and poems as well as finish my novel.
Apr 23, 2011
 I have no problem writing.
by: -JOE-

It sleeping at night. My best ideas come when I am having a attack of insomnia.
Apr 08, 2011
 INSPIRE ME!
by: Vicki

I want to learn how to find writing inspiration!
Apr 08, 2011
 INSPIRE ME!
by: Vicki

I want to learn how to find writing inspiration!
Feb 26, 2011
 To contain my anger
by: Anonymous

I would like to write making it possible to work through my anger.
Feb 26, 2011
 To contain my anger
by: Anonymous

I would like to write making it possible to work through my anger.
Feb 20, 2011
 Finish writing a novel
by: Anonymous

Hi everyone! I signed up for this course and I hope it helps me with my writing. I am currently wirting a novel. I'm a beginner and still a teen, so I know it's not going to be an exact 'bestseller'. I just hope finishing this novel helps me gain experience in writing.
Feb 20, 2011
 Finish writing a novel
by: Anonymous

Hi everyone! I signed up for this course and I hope it helps me with my writing. I am currently wirting a novel. I'm a beginner and still a teen, so I know it's not going to be an exact 'bestseller'. I just hope finishing this novel helps me gain experience in writing.
Feb 15, 2011
 want to write
by: tasha

My goal is to gain encouragement from this class
and help with learning different techniqes in writing especially with direct dialogues and to actually complete my current short story that im working
Feb 15, 2011
 want to write
by: tasha

My goal is to gain encouragement from this class
and help with learning different techniqes in writing especially with direct dialogues and to actually complete my current short story that im working
Feb 15, 2011
 want to write
by: tasha

My goal is to gain encouragement from this class
and help with learning different techniqes in writing especially with direct dialogues and to actually complete my current short story that im working
Feb 15, 2011
 want to write
by: tasha

My goal is to gain encouragement from this class
and help with learning different techniqes in writing especially with direct dialogues and to actually complete my current short story that im working
Feb 15, 2011
 want to write
by: tasha

My goal is to gain encouragement from this class
and help with learning different techniqes in writing especially with direct dialogues and to actually complete my current short story that im working
Feb 15, 2011
 want to write
by: tasha

My goal is to gain encouragement from this class
and help with learning different techniqes in writing especially with direct dialogues and to actually complete my current short story that im working
Jan 30, 2011
 writing
by: Anonymous

i want to get one of my stories published in print this year and maybe get paid. also i want to either start writing a good book or finish the poem book that i am trying to write in a month. if i finish the poem book i MIGHT try to publish it.
Jan 30, 2011
 writing
by: Anonymous

i want to get one of my stories published in print this year and maybe get paid. also i want to either start writing a good book or finish the poem book that i am trying to write in a month. if i finish the poem book i MIGHT try to publish it.
Jan 28, 2011
 my ideas
by: Hannah

My book i began writing has been put on hold for some time and now I think I am ready to begin it again.
Jan 28, 2011
 Hi!
by: Me

My current goal is to finish a story that I've been working on for close to 3 years. I have a hard time writing the "filler" between what I consider to be important "scenes". And when I get started on important dialogue, I have a tendency to just write pages and pages of straight dialogue like it's a scene in a movie and I don't include enough action/thoughts to make it a really interesting read. So I'm hoping I'll get enough inspiration here to help my story flow so I can complete the book!
Jan 24, 2011
 ...
by: dkrussell

I just want to write :)
Jan 23, 2011
 Want to Write
by: Anonymous

I have been spending time for the last five years of my life writing lots of random but according to my friends rather interesting stories. My problem is the same as many that I read. Simply put, I need to finish at least one of my stories and possibly publish it. So I joined this site because it is really interesting and its free so no damage done.
Jan 23, 2011
 Hello
by: MissWrite

Hello All,

Found this website while searching for writing prompts. I was so impressed with the prompts that I decided to join the class.

My ultimate goal is to be able to stick with a story and complete a novel/book. I have many ideas and quite a few beginnings, but lack the discipline to finish them.
Jan 23, 2011
 writing
by: IpodGuy

My writing goal for this class is to learn techniques of writing short stories and to jump start my learning of the craft.
Jan 23, 2011
 Welcome to India
by: Meher Ansari

Hi Sheskis and Anonymous,

I am in Mumbai. Do contact while you are here. My cell number is o9892910543
Jan 23, 2011
 Welcome to India
by: Meher Ansari

Hi Sheskis and Anonymous,

I am in Mumbai. Do contact while you are here. My cell number is o9892910543
Jan 23, 2011
 Welcome to India
by: Meher Ansari

Hi Sheskis and Anonymous,

I am in Mumbai. Do contact while you are here. My cell number is o9892910543
Jan 23, 2011
 Welcome to India
by: Meher Ansari

Hi Sheskis and Anonymous,

I am in Mumbai. Do contact while you are here. My cell number is o9892910543
Jan 23, 2011
 Welcome to India
by: Meher Ansari


Hi Sheskis and Anonymous,

I am in Mumbai. Do contact while you are here. My cell number is o9892910543
Jan 23, 2011
 Welcome to India
by: Meher Ansari


Hi Sheskis and Anonymous,

I am in Mumbai. Do contact while you are here. My cell number is o9892910543
Jan 23, 2011
 Welcome to India
by: Meher Ansari


Hi Sheskis and Anonymous,

I am in Mumbai. Do contact while you are here. My cell number is o9892910543
Jan 23, 2011
 Welcome to India
by: Meher Ansari


Hi Sheski and Annonymous,

Do contact while you are in India.

I am in Mumbai. My cell number is 09892910543
Jan 23, 2011
 Welcome to India
by: Meher Ansari


Hi Sheski and Annonymous,

Do contact while you are in India.

I am in Mumbai. My cell number is 09892910543
Jan 23, 2011
 Welcome to India
by: Meher Ansari


Hi Sheski and Annonymous,

Do contact while you are in India.

I am in Mumbai. My cell number is 09892910543
Jan 22, 2011
 India, here we come!
by: Sheskis

We won a trip to India and the sponsoring company wants us to keep a photo and written journal of our trip...
Jan 22, 2011
 India, here we come!
by: Anonymous

We won a trip to India and the sponsoring company wants us to keep a photo and written record of the trip. India, here we come!
Jan 22, 2011
 At Last
by: sharon

I am a procrastinator of the terminal kind (or so it seems) and I believe that it is time to write the stories , happenings and going ons that effect my life.
In general I feel it that needs to be recorded because it is too unblieveable to be true....
To be able to write verbalising the memories may be a way of understanding what happened.
If I don't then the stories are lost and who will pass them on then?
Jan 22, 2011
 At Last
by: sharon

I am a procrastinator of the terminal kind (or so it seems) and I believe that it is time to write the stories , happenings and going ons that effect my life.
In general I feel it that needs to be recorded because it is too unblieveable to be true....
To be able to write verbalising the memories may be a way of understanding what happened.
If I don't then the stories are lost and who will pass them on then?
Jan 22, 2011
 Hello Classmates
by: Tammy

Hello!! Ive been writing since the age of 11 (many yrs) for my own enjoyment. However, after life kicked me in the rear a few years ago I found that I had Lost my Voice/words. The Lord recently gave me my voice back and Im excited to start writing again......
Im looking forward to getting to know my classmates and bounce ideas off each other. Also, I want to encourage everyone to inspire the world with their "pen".
Im very grateful to have found a free class on writing, especially during a recession. Im currently a RN student because its "practical", but writing is my passion and always has been, I pray that its Gods will that I write what is in my heart, mind, and soul.
Tammy
Jan 22, 2011
 Wanna be writer
by: Sarah

I would love to see my novel/s on a shelf in the local bookstore. I have two complete novels I am in the process of editing. I am hoping this course will help me edit these to the best I can before sending to a publisher or an agent.

I love writing and I have more ideas than I will ever have time to write. My genre is YA romance. I just hope there is a place for me in the market.

I cannot thank this site for offering a free course to improve my writing.
Jan 22, 2011
 Thanks for your welcome.
by: Anonymous

Hi,everyone. I am just interested in creative writing as a hobby.Yes,yes,I 'm giving you front and really mean that I want to become a writer but this is the attitude with wich I'll begin this course.I have read the course information and I just want to follow it's advice and be patient.I just started to practice creative writing and the bug has bit me.I am obssesed(but in a healthy and positive way.)I have searched the internet for a week now looking for a FREE creative writing course that I would like and this seems to be the one.Thank you again for being.
Jan 21, 2011
 Thans for your welcome
by: Freddy

Hi,everyone.I am just intrested in creative writing as a hobby.Ofcourse I'm giving you a front and really mean that I want to become a writer but this is the attitude in which I'll begin this program.I've read the information on this course and I just want to follow it's advice and be patient.I have just started to practice creative writing and the bug has bit me.I am obsessed(but in a healthy and positive way.)I've searched the internet for a week now for a creative writing course that I think will be for me and maybe this is it.Thank you again for being!!
Jan 21, 2011
 Thans for your welcome
by: Freddy

Hi,everyone.I am just intrested in creative writing as a hobby.Ofcourse I'm giving you a front and really mean that I want to become a writer but this is the attitude in which I'll begin this program.I've read the information on this course and I just want to follow it's advice and be patient.I have just started to practice creative writing and the bug has bit me.I am obsessed(but in a healthy and positive way.)I've searched the internet for a week now for a creative writing course that I think will be for me and maybe this is it.Thank you again for being!!
Jan 21, 2011
 Thans for your welcome
by: Freddy

Hi,everyone.I am just intrested in creative writing as a hobby.Ofcourse I'm giving you a front and really mean that I want to become a writer but this is the attitude in which I'll begin this program.I've read the information on this course and I just want to follow it's advice and be patient.I have just started to practice creative writing and the bug has bit me.I am obsessed(but in a healthy and positive way.)I've searched the internet for a week now for a creative writing course that I think will be for me and maybe this is it.Thank you again for being!!
Jan 21, 2011
 Hello
by: Mel

Hi everyone!

I am new here. I just signed up tonight. Anyway, I am currently tring to work on my novel but I am having problelms with getting from A-B. I currently do a daily writing promt to keep my creative juices flowing.
Thanks,
Mel
Jan 21, 2011
 What are my writing goals
by: Linda (ArayaBlue)

First, thank you for providing a free course on Fiction writing. I look forward to learning much about the art of writing fiction. I am a poet and have self-published my own poetry book of my work. I love writing, but, I am not disciplined enough...my goal is to write everyday, even if its just a paragraph. I love to read. Reading has assisted me in becoming a better writer and I hope to develop my own writing style. My long term goal is to write a novel where my characters jump off the page and the plot grabs the readers attention. I want to become a professional writer and someday have my work published by a reputable publisher. Writing is one of my passions....I do foresee a bright future for me and my work!
Jan 21, 2011
 My goal in life
by: Olivia

Hi! My name is Olivia, I am just 12 years old turning 13 in 6 months. I have loved writing ever since I started writing. I just can't stop. My friends are all jealus of me because I can come up with a topic to write about any time. I think it's pretty awesome. I have started books but I could never come up with good endings. I guess that's why I'm using this website to help me.
Jan 21, 2011
 What I expect to take away from this course
by: Keenan

Hello my name is Keenan, but I go by Kee. I have always wanted to have a fluid medium in which to share my creativity as a way to perhaps get my ideas out into the world. I would use my imagination to compose short stories and possibly on to writing a novel that gets published. I am really interested in learning the process that would make this possible. Thank you for your time and input.

Kee
Jan 21, 2011
 newbie
by: Anonymous

hi my name is mel.i am 29 years old.i have been writing pretty much my whole life on and off.but its only just recently i have really wanted to take it further and and try and get published.am really hoping this course helps!!:-)xx
Jan 21, 2011
 newbie
by: Anonymous

hi my name is mel.i am 29 years old.i have been writing pretty much my whole life on and off.but its only just recently i have really wanted to take it further and and try and get published.am really hoping this course helps!!:-)xx
Jan 21, 2011
 Hiya
by: Brodi NAGiNi

Hallo!
I'm just fourteen years old but I'm writing the sixty-third chapter of my second full length novel! The first one is 315 pages and was accepted for publication by a subsidiary company, but the fee was way too high. I've been writing for as long as I can remember... but basically, my goal is to get published before I leave high school.
And not just magazine published or anything - because I was published for a little poem in The Magazine AND for a short story in my school's magazine - but legit published. I'm saving up for this company, so I'm hoping I can make it work.
Jan 21, 2011
 It's a craft, baby!
by: jojo

I've always wanted to write professionally but have never been disciplined enough to be faithful to honing this craft. My current goal is to finish a few short stories and submit them for publication this year. From there? Who knows, but I'd love to do this for a living and I know that, like anything, if a work hard enough, I'll find a way.
Jan 20, 2011
 Reunion
by: Meher Ansari

Hi,
I am Meher Ansari, (WOW!) Wise Old Woman of India
Since I want to be a fulltime writer I have decided to work on writing for 10 hours a day! Does that sound impossible? Why? Don’t we do it on a job for someone else? Then, why not for ourselves, to achieve our own goals? Well, I am going to do it. I am going to write for 4 hours, read and surf relevant material for 4 hours and be on email, facebook and marketing for 2 hours, sleep for 8 hours and give the remaining 6 hours to myself and family: household, self care, relatives, friends and fun. I am going to judge myself on weekly basis and also on completing weekly goals (that I have yet to set). That’s the way it has to be or I get distracted easily. I do not want to get time to see what wonderful worthwhile things are waiting to be done. Everything can wait till my novel is published.
Is it too much for a woman at 76! I have done many a thing in my long life but not what I always wanted to do: writing short stories and novels. I do have some short stories and many articles published but that’s not enough. Now I want to write a science fiction novel in one year. I do not know how to do this. That’s the reason why I have joined this class. I expect this course to help me write a really good Sci fi novel.
Jan 20, 2011
 Reunion
by: Meher Ansari

Hi,
I am Meher Ansari, (WOW!) Wise Old Woman of India
Since I want to be a fulltime writer I have decided to work on writing for 10 hours a day! Does that sound impossible? Why? Don’t we do it on a job for someone else? Then, why not for ourselves, to achieve our own goals? Well, I am going to do it. I am going to write for 4 hours, read and surf relevant material for 4 hours and be on email, facebook and marketing for 2 hours, sleep for 8 hours and give the remaining 6 hours to myself and family: household, self care, relatives, friends and fun. I am going to judge myself on weekly basis and also on completing weekly goals (that I have yet to set). That’s the way it has to be or I get distracted easily. I do not want to get time to see what wonderful worthwhile things are waiting to be done. Everything can wait till my novel is published.
Is it too much for a woman at 76! I have done many a thing in my long life but not what I always wanted to do: writing short stories and novels. I do have some short stories and many articles published but that’s not enough. Now I want to write a science fiction novel in one year. I do not know how to do this. That’s the reason why I have joined this class. I expect this course to help me write a really good Sci fi novel.
Jan 20, 2011
 Reunion
by: Meher Ansari

Hi,
I am Meher Ansari, (WOW!) Wise Old Woman of India
Since I want to be a fulltime writer I have decided to work on writing for 10 hours a day! Does that sound impossible? Why? Don’t we do it on a job for someone else? Then, why not for ourselves, to achieve our own goals? Well, I am going to do it. I am going to write for 4 hours, read and surf relevant material for 4 hours and be on email, facebook and marketing for 2 hours, sleep for 8 hours and give the remaining 6 hours to myself and family: household, self care, relatives, friends and fun. I am going to judge myself on weekly basis and also on completing weekly goals (that I have yet to set). That’s the way it has to be or I get distracted easily. I do not want to get time to see what wonderful worthwhile things are waiting to be done. Everything can wait till my novel is published.
Is it too much for a woman at 76! I have done many a thing in my long life but not what I always wanted to do: writing short stories and novels. I do have some short stories and many articles published but that’s not enough. Now I want to write a science fiction novel in one year. I do not know how to do this. That’s the reason why I have joined this class. I expect this course to help me write a really good Sci fi novel.
Jan 20, 2011
 Want to write as hobby
by: Jason

I have never become the writer that I dreamed of becoming as a kid, and don't ever plan to, but I have recently become interested in writing as a hobby. I've started to write a couple of times recently, but could never get anywhere. I'm hoping that if I do have any tallent for writing fiction, that this course will help me. Wish me luck and I wish all others here the same.

Jason
Jan 20, 2011
 Want to write as hobby
by: Jason

I have never become the writer that I dreamed of becoming as a kid, and don't ever plan to, but I have recently become interested in writing as a hobby. I've started to write a couple of times recently, but could never get anywhere. I'm hoping that if I do have any tallent for writing fiction, that this course will help me. Wish me luck and I wish all others here the same.

Jason
Jan 20, 2011
 Want to write as hobby
by: Jason

I have never become the writer that I dreamed of becoming as a kid, and don't ever plan to, but I have recently become interested in writing as a hobby. I've started to write a couple of times recently, but could never get anywhere. I'm hoping that if I do have any tallent for writing fiction, that this course will help me. Wish me luck and I wish all others here the same.

Jason
Jan 20, 2011
 Want to write as hobby
by: Jason

I have never become the writer that I dreamed of becoming as a kid, and don't ever plan to, but I have recently become interested in writing as a hobby. I've started to write a couple of times recently, but could never get anywhere. I'm hoping that if I do have any tallent for writing fiction, that this course will help me. Wish me luck and I wish all others here the same.

Jason
Jan 20, 2011
 Want to write as hobby
by: Jason

I have never become the writer that I dreamed of becoming as a kid, and don't ever plan to, but I have recently become interested in writing as a hobby. I've started to write a couple of times recently, but could never get anywhere. I'm hoping that if I do have any tallent for writing fiction, that this course will help me. Wish me luck and I wish all others here the same.

Jason
Jan 19, 2011
 Lets Do it
by: Donnie Bailey

I have always had so many stories and ideas rolling around in my head. Now I have a forum and some structure...Thanks
Jan 19, 2011
 Lets Do it
by: Donnie Bailey

I have always had so many stories and ideas rolling around in my head. Now I have a forum and some structure...Thanks
Jan 19, 2011
 Lets Do it
by: Donnie Bailey

I have always had so many stories and ideas rolling around in my head. Now I have a forum and some structure...Thanks
Jan 19, 2011
 Learning story writing
by: Brian

I just want to learn how to write a gripping story. I have lots of good ideas that don't know how to put it together.

My goal is to be able to put together a story which is interesting to read with interesting characters and story line.
Jan 19, 2011
 Introduction
by: DeAnna Smith

Hello. My goals are to write successful stories for my family and friends to enjoy. I do not want to be a professional novelist but I do want to entertain the people I love.
Jan 19, 2011
 Excited
by: Donnie Bailey

I constantly have ideas rolling around in my head and now I have a place to use them...
Jan 19, 2011
 Excited
by: Donnie Bailey

I constantly have ideas rolling around in my head and now I have a place to use them...
Jan 19, 2011
 Excited
by: Donnie Bailey

I constantly have ideas rolling around in my head and now I have a place to use them...
Jan 19, 2011
 Excited
by: Donnie Bailey

I constantly have ideas rolling around in my head and need a way to express them. I am very excited about this course...Thank you....DB
Jan 19, 2011
 Excited
by: Donnie Bailey

I constantly have ideas rolling around in my head and need a way to express them. I am very excited about this course...Thank you....DB
Jan 19, 2011
 Excited
by: Donnie Bailey

I constantly have ideas rolling around in my head and need a way to express them. I am very excited about this course...Thank you....DB
Jan 19, 2011
 Introduction
by: DeAnna Smith

Hello my name is DeAnna Smith. My goals are to be able to write successful books that can be shared with family and friends. I do not want to be a novelist but I do want to entertain the people I love.
Jan 19, 2011
 Introduction
by: DeAnna Smith

Hello my name is DeAnna Smith. My goals are to be able to write successful books that can be shared with family and friends. I do not want to be a novelist but I do want to entertain the people I love.
Jan 19, 2011
 My goals
by: Angela Moore

I plan to become a succesful novelist. And hope to publish more poems as I already have one in print. And to teach Creative Writing someday too.
Jan 19, 2011
 My goals
by: Angela Moore

I plan to become a succesful novelist. And hope to publish more poems as I already have one in print. And to teach Creative Writing someday too.
Jan 19, 2011
 How I got here
by: Sammy

I used to read 2 books at once as a child a chapter of one then a chapter of another, if I look back on my childhood my most favourite place was the library and I remember the smell even to this day. I had a pony and would spend time writing books about the adventures of me and my pony ha ha so this has always been an ambition, over the years I have lead a very fun and interesting life and often thought there was a lot inspiration in my travels that I could put into a book, now my life has come to a cross roads I am thinking maybe now is the time to do some of the things I think of but never do, put the plans into action and take it from day dreams to reality....
Jan 18, 2011
 Goals
by: Heather

To see my writing in print someday would be a dream come true. I would love to write a novel that would be on the NY Times best sellers list. Even if it is just one book, I would be blessed. I have no idea what to write, how to start but I know that I have a goal and a dream and it starts with that!

Jan 18, 2011
 Goals
by: Heather

To see my writing in print someday would be a dream come true. I would love to write a novel that would be on the NY Times best sellers list. Even if it is just one book, I would be blessed. I have no idea what to write, how to start but I know that I have a goal and a dream and it starts with that!

Jan 18, 2011
 Goals
by: Heather

To see my writing in print someday would be a dream come true. I would love to write a novel that would be on the NY Times best sellers list. Even if it is just one book, I would be blessed. I have no idea what to write, how to start but I know that I have a goal and a dream and it starts with that!

Jan 18, 2011
 Learning where I'm going and how to get there
by: Toni

My goals are to hone my craft by writing at least a half hour a day and learning everything I can from this class.
Jan 18, 2011
 Writing
by: Yvonne

I love to write and even though I have never had anything published I would love to write a fiction book. I like Nora Roberts suspense novels and can't get enough of them. I would love to write something along that line with a Christian slant. I need direction on how to get started and embellish ideas. I look forward to working witht the group in hopes of finishing a great product.
Jan 18, 2011
 Lillian
by: Anonymous

I wrote a nonfiction book in 2009 concerning astral projection techniques. However, I've always wanted to get into fantasy writing especially "vamp writing": my favorite genre.

I look forward to learning and growing with the group.
Jan 18, 2011
 Lillian
by: Anonymous

I wrote a nonfiction book in 2009 concerning astral projection techniques. However, I've always wanted to get into fantasy writing especially "vamp writing": my favorite genre.

I look forward to learning and growing with the group.
Jan 18, 2011
 Hello, Everyone
by: **Aliksander

I like words. Yes. I like.

Good people, I see here - yes? Good night and good luck, Charlie, you say in English. No English man write here - no? I like English. I write English, good - yes?

Good luck and good night, Charlie. Now, I write.
Jan 17, 2011
 Surrender
by: Indiana

Hello!

Writing came to me right out of the blue. Traveling India a year and a half ago turned into non-stop writing no matter when and where. I do have a draft of fiction on hands but no idea of how the writing should be done. It happened that I do have a luxury of time as well as I quite the job to follow my husband on his assignment to China. Surrender to my destiny and making the ultimate goal to learn the rules and finish my book.

Let's see what we can do...
Jan 17, 2011
 Goals
by: Rockin Robin

I wrote a screenplay in 2007 but since then I've found it difficult to finish anything. I've got boxes full of half-baked ideas, outlines, character notes, but now I've actually got as far as writing a detailed treatment for a new screenplay. I'm taking a week off then I'm starting writing my first draft.
Jan 16, 2011
 Promises...
by: Moonlight Dancer

I'm turning 50 this May 24 and during a conversation with a friend about what big plans I had for this monumental occasion I began thinking about my bucket list and one thing stood out so clearly to me. I remembered my 14 year old self saying she wanted to be a writer and that by the time she was 50...eons and eons from that particular moment, lol, I would be all that and a bag of chips.

Then I remembered my 24 year old getting married self saying she still wanted to be a writer but it would have to wait just a little longer. After all, I still many moons to 50, right? Then at 30 when I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl I realized she took precedent over everything writing would definitely have to wait. Two years later her father passed away from cancer and the peaceful tapestry that was my life unraveled completely. It took awhile, but eventually I started putting it back together stitch by stitch and now with a healthy, balanced and courageous 20 year old about to head into Astro Physics and maybe even space on day, I hear that 14 year old talking to me again. And I smile at her enthusiasm and confidence in her belief that she, I, can do anything. And my anything is write. I play at it, I tease it, I chase it sometimes and friends are always pushing and encouraging me to 'just do it!' Now with 50 looming just around the corner, I want to keep that promise to my 14 year old self. I have the love of words, I have the passion for story telling and I even think I have the gift to make my dream come true. It would be such a shame to waste it.

So here I am looking for inspiration and motivation and I say, 14 or 50...believe you can do it and you will and don't you dare let anyone tell you otherwise!

Oceans of love and luck :)
Jan 16, 2011
 Promises...
by: Moonlight Dancer

I'm turning 50 this May 24 and during a conversation with a friend about what big plans I had for this monumental occasion I began thinking about my bucket list and one thing stood out so clearly to me. I remembered my 14 year old self saying she wanted to be a writer and that by the time I was 50...eons and eons from that particular moment, I would be.

Then I remembered my 24 year old getting married self saying she still wanted to be a writer but it had to wait a little longer. Then at 30 when I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl I realized she took precedent over everything else and that writing would have to wait. Two years later her father passed away from cancer and the peaceful tapestry that was my life unraveled completely. It took awhile, but eventually I started putting it back together stitch by stitch and now with a healthy, balanced and courageous 20 year old about to head into Astro Physics and maybe even space on day, I hear that 14 year old talking to me again. And I smile at her enthusiasm and confidence in her belief that she, I, can do anything. And my anything is write. I play at it, I tease it, friends always push me to 'just do it!' and now with 50 looming just around the corner, I want to keep that promise to my 14 year old self.

I have the love of words, I have the passion for story telling and I even think I have the gift to make my dream come true. It would be such a shame to waste it.

So here I am and I say, 14 or 50...believe you can do it and you will and don't you dare let anyone tell you otherwise!

Oceans of love and luck :)
Jan 14, 2011
 Well...
by: Anonymous

I write constantly. Always have.

The words need some place to go, or else they swirl in my mind and pile high like old newspapers in the corner of the room. Hmm. That was an interesting comparison. There are no old newspapers in the corner of any room I know of, but for some reason it seems like that's where they would be if there were newspapers piling up.

Anyway, I don't know what I want to achieve or what my goal is. I guess I'd like to write something that I'm proud of. Something that I can read and feel and lose myself in. Or maybe I'd just like something to show my parents and say, "See, this is what writing is".

Or maybe I just want to write.
Jan 13, 2011
 Goals
by: Carl Schoelkopf

Yes, Nancy, you are right, the three goals you set out will work...

Writing regularly, keeping a journal, and finishing a story.

Unfortunately, my writing has suffered due to laziness and disorganization. Therefore, while I have written many things, very little of it is finished. I hope that by attaching to your group, I my be encouraged to stick to a schedule. Carl.
Jan 13, 2011
 Hi
by: alicewhite

Its been a long time since I have written anything other than a grocery list. I have a half finished novel, and a notebook full of ideas, but so far nothing that has actually been finished.
Jan 13, 2011
 Hi
by: alicewhite

Its been a long time since I have written anything other than a grocery list. I have a half finished novel, and a notebook full of ideas, but so far nothing that has actually been finished.
Jan 13, 2011
 Hi
by: alicewhite

Its been a long time since I have written anything other than a grocery list. I have a half finished novel, and a notebook full of ideas, but so far nothing that has actually been finished.
Jan 13, 2011
 HI all!
by: silvahalo88

I'm a stay at home mom whose kids are all in school now so I've decided now is this perfect time to get back into writing. My goal is to write 500 words a day. Right now I'm focusing on short stories but would eventually like to write a novel. I love to read, in fact books are my air. I'm also a movie freak, love to see other peoples creative indeavors.
Jan 13, 2011
 Hello!!
by: always.write86

Hi everybody!! I'm from Hong Kong and right now I'm a stay at home mom. Super bored with my life right now and today I told myself: "I'm going to make a change right now!!" I've always had a passion for books, reading and writing stories all the time. My all time dream is to get my book in print and made into a movie!!! Hahahaha! I know that is still a long way ahead but I have to start somewhere right? A thousand miles started with one tiny step. I want to learn and improve, to be the best writer I possibly can be.
Jan 13, 2011
 Hello!!
by: always.write86

Hi everybody!! I'm from Hong Kong and right now I'm a stay at home mom. Super bored with my life right now and today I told myself: "I'm going to make a change right now!!" I've always had a passion for books, reading and writing stories all the time. My all time dream is to get my book in print and made into a movie!!! Hahahaha! I know that is still a long way ahead but I have to start somewhere right? A thousand miles started with one tiny step. I want to learn and improve, to be the best writer I possibly can be.
Jan 12, 2011
 Writing Goal
by: Becca

My writing goal is to become an even better writer than I am. I have taken a great interest in writing and I want to help myself get better, but lately I can start a story and I cannot finish it. Now though, I have writers block and hope to surpass it and be able to write fluently.
Jan 12, 2011
 My Writing Goals
by: Shay

I sometimes refer to myself as a "Jill of all trades" but a master of none. However writing has always been that one thing that I know for certain that I'm good at. I use to write all of the time when I was in high school. Words came to me effortlessly in so specific a form. But lately I have been doubting my writing and have done so, so much that I stopped writing completely. I fear failure more than anything and feared that maybe I was wrong all this time...maybe I'm not a good writer at all. This fear prevented me from writing being that I feared writing something that was no good or something that was just crap. But without my writing I feel like I have nothing. And so I am ready to overcome my fear and to not be afraid to write something that is "not good". My goal is to start writing again.
Jan 12, 2011
 Goals...
by: Patricia

My writing goals consist of broadening my imagination.
Jan 12, 2011
 love to write
by: esca

I am here to help myself become a better writer. I have always loved reading and writing. Now is my opportunity to better my writing.
Jan 12, 2011
 Goals
by: Zoey

I've always loved writing and want to use it in the future to expose people to issues I feel are important. I'm a social work and communication major, and I think creative writing can be used in awesome ways in these fields and in my future career. I hope to get in the habit of writing daily and eventually have work published.
Jan 12, 2011
 I'm here because......
by: Cosmo

I've always had a strong desire to write since I was a child. The idea of creating a story in my mind, then organizing those thoughts into words and finally committing them to paper intrigues me. Over the years, I have come up with several story ideas and in some cases even began the writing process. My problem has always been that somewhere along the way, I run into a creative wall in my mind. It's a mental roadblock that I just can't get around and allow my ideas to flow freely. Many refer to it as "Writer's Block". I call it frustration. That is why I am here. I want to learn how to get through that wall and allow the inner writer in me to come out. Once I get passed the wall, my hope is to hone any existing writing skills I have, learn the fundamentals of writing I don't know and ultimately become a good writer. To say I want to be published is putting the cart way before the horse right now. At the moment, I'm just trying to learn to walk as a writer. Hopefully someday I'll be able to run.
Jan 11, 2011
 Confidence
by: Blitzen

I have been writing most of my life, and most of my writing was used for an emotional release. I don't have much confidence in any of my writing and am hoping to get some feedback and hopefully learn to recognize what parts of my writing is good and what needs work...
Jan 11, 2011
 Righteous Consciousness
by: Anonymous

My goal is to use the skill I gain in writing to better help society find their way through the darkness of reality. I live in Watts, California so reality is far different from what it claims to be in the media and that is what people learn to be the truth. Worldwide unconsciously people as a society are looking at the media as reality when it is not so with the skill of writing I can write the truth and have people interested in the truth because they can relate with what is written. Basically sell the truth and who knows if society becomes interested I can give it to the community to sell and I claim 2% of the proceeds. Free Education the best education ever (^_^)
Jan 10, 2011
 finalyzing something
by: Anonymous

Hello my name is Theresa Grefer and I am currently going to Sinclair Community College. I have been a story-teller since I learned to speak and a creative writer since I first learned to create words with a pen in hand. I have been wanting to take a writing course for a really long time now but I couldn't take a writing course in college since I've been here.
My goal in this course is to be able to finalize something. I am really good at writing snippets of stories, short stories, journal entries and getting half-way through novels but I have never been able to successfully write out a complete series of stories or a novel that flows well and has a goal and complete thought in mind. I am also currently interested in writing a memoir of my life using the book "the power of memoir" but this is a scary thought because I barely know where to being, don't know if I'd be capable of finishing it and don't know if it's worth writing or if it's too horrifying to write.
Jan 10, 2011
 finalyzing something
by: Anonymous

Hello my name is Theresa Grefer and I am currently going to Sinclair Community College. I have been a story-teller since I learned to speak and a creative writer since I first learned to create words with a pen in hand. I have been wanting to take a writing course for a really long time now but I couldn't take a writing course in college since I've been here.
My goal in this course is to be able to finalize something. I am really good at writing snippets of stories, short stories, journal entries and getting half-way through novels but I have never been able to successfully write out a complete series of stories or a novel that flows well and has a goal and complete thought in mind. I am also currently interested in writing a memoir of my life using the book "the power of memoir" but this is a scary thought because I barely know where to being, don't know if I'd be capable of finishing it and don't know if it's worth writing or if it's too horrifying to write.
Jan 10, 2011
 finalyzing something
by: Anonymous

Hello my name is Theresa Grefer and I am currently going to Sinclair Community College. I have been a story-teller since I learned to speak and a creative writer since I first learned to create words with a pen in hand. I have been wanting to take a writing course for a really long time now but I couldn't take a writing course in college since I've been here.
My goal in this course is to be able to finalize something. I am really good at writing snippets of stories, short stories, journal entries and getting half-way through novels but I have never been able to successfully write out a complete series of stories or a novel that flows well and has a goal and complete thought in mind. I am also currently interested in writing a memoir of my life using the book "the power of memoir" but this is a scary thought because I barely know where to being, don't know if I'd be capable of finishing it and don't know if it's worth writing or if it's too horrifying to write.
Jan 10, 2011
 Hello Olivianonsensical
by: Jim Gilliam

I have been lucky enough to write and publish my first novel and I'm working on the sequel. I started working on it a couple of years ago while deployed to the Persian Gulf. Like you, I had to figure it out for myself. You have taken a great first step in joining this course. I would be more than happy to pass on any kernels of writing wisdom that I may have gleaned in my writing career thus far. My e-mail address is: jgill12775@optonline.net. Meanwhile, might I suggest that you obtain a copy of Strunk and White's style manual. It is a standard monograph that has stood the test of time. The desire to write and even talent is not enough; to be taken seriously by potential agents or editors you must first learn the craft of writing and strictly adhere to industry standards. Literary agents post on their websites that they are looking for new talent while at the same time looking for ways to reject you. You can't blame them; any given agent receives thousands of queries, and if they read them all they wouldn't have time to eat or sleep or anything else. So the bottom line is, while your writing may be fantastic no agent or editor will ever see it unless your query survives industry standards. That's for the future, for now start writing and learning the writer's craft. Joining this course gives you a leg up on a whole bunch of people out there.
Jan 10, 2011
 Hi
by: Cyndi

I'm here to make my writing better ... and it's also nice to meet new people.
Jan 08, 2011
 creativity flow.
by: olivianonsensical.

I started high school this year, and I found that my school only offers one writing course; Journalism I. No two, three or four, just one. I've been feeling stifled lately. On top of that, there's quite alot of stress going on at home. I use my words as an escape and to expirence things without doing them. I also write to learn, about myself and other people, life in general.
Jan 08, 2011
 creativity flow.
by: olivianonsensical.

I started high school this year, and I found that my school only offers one writing course; Journalism I. No two, three or four, just one. I've been feeling stifled lately. On top of that, there's quite alot of stress going on at home. I use my words as an escape and to expirence things without doing them. I also write to learn, about myself and other people, life in general.
Jan 08, 2011
 beginner
by: akimboh

Hi everyone! I am new to this. An avid reader who craves writing but has never penned a phrase. I am African and would like my writing to be as earthy as possible. I need help!
Jan 08, 2011
 Junior Year
by: Amanda Rey

I want to finish my story "Junior Year". I just need to find a good climax.
Jan 08, 2011
 Junior Year
by: Amanda Rey

I want to finish my story "Junior Year". I just need to find a good climax.
Jan 08, 2011
 new year resolution
by: Belle

I want to write better for my travel journal.
Jan 07, 2011
 No stopping, I'll keep on writting
by: Deb

I don't want to start something that I never finish. I'm going to see this story through, no matter how long it takes me.
Jan 07, 2011
 first time
by: houda

hi
this is my first time making a serious move about me wanting a career in writing. i have so many ideas in my head but always find excuses to not put it down in words i hope that these courses will push me to be more serious about my wrting and to sharpen my skills.
thank you
Jan 07, 2011
 Goals for joining
by: DD

Feeling a need for self expression and to sharpen by writing skills. I am part of a group of dediated writers, the "Devilish Deva's and we're looking for some fresh insight into our stuff. Hope to get to know many of you through your writing. Looking forward to the collaboration and inspiration
Jan 07, 2011
 Goals for joining
by: DD

Feeling a need for self expression and to sharpen by writing skills. I am part of a group of dediated writers, the "Devilish Deva's and we're looking for some fresh insight into our stuff. Hope to get to know many of you through your writing. Looking forward to the collaboration and inspiration
Jan 06, 2011
 urgency to write
by: Precious

It’s first time I am joining a forum on the internet. Thanks for having me.
I always wanted to write for children, but I’ve been lazy to get to work. I have all
the ideas in my head but could never become disciplined to keep a date with writing.
This year, there is an urgency to achieve my writing dreams. So I’ve started with
Children’s stories, while simultaneously, I am striving to complete my book of poems
and my story of cancer. I am a cancer survivor and writing helps
me to deal with everything that comes with this major glitch in my life. I plan to
continue writing every day.
Jan 06, 2011
 urgency to write
by: Precious


It’s first time I am joining a forum on the internet. Thanks for having me.
I always wanted to write for children, but I’ve been lazy to get to work. I have all
the ideas in my head but could never become disciplined to keep a date with writing.
This year, there is an urgency to achieve my writing dreams. So I’ve started with
Children’s stories, while simultaneously, I am striving to complete my book of poems
and my story of cancer. I am a cancer survivor and writing helps me to deal with everything that comes with this major glitch in my life. I plan to
continue writing every day.
Jan 06, 2011
 Just now joining.
by: Pam

Hello,
I am wanting to learn how to put my novel together. I have the outline, the plot and its around 6000 words per chapter and on the ninth now. I see it have sequels, I have to learn to believe in myself more. My grammar sucks and I am looking for a class that I can take to learn Basic Novel writing and grammar 101. Its the fear of change, stepping out there and not wondering what to do but being able to have the feeling I KNOW AWHAT I AM DOING that I am learning. lol Don't we all. Any how I want to visit and get to know people and learn. Have a great day, and write, write, write.
Jan 06, 2011
 Just now joining.
by: Pam

Hello,
I am wanting to learn how to put my novel together. I have the outline, the plot and its around 6000 words per chapter and on the ninth now. I see it have sequels, I have to learn to believe in myself more. My grammar sucks and I am looking for a class that I can take to learn Basic Novel writing and grammar 101. Its the fear of change, stepping out there and not wondering what to do but being able to have the feeling I KNOW AWHAT I AM DOING that I am learning. lol Don't we all. Any how I want to visit and get to know people and learn. Have a great day, and write, write, write.
Jan 06, 2011
 Just now joining.
by: Pam

Hello,
I am wanting to learn how to put my novel together. I have the outline, the plot and its around 6000 words per chapter and on the ninth now. I see it have sequels, I have to learn to believe in myself more. My grammar sucks and I am looking for a class that I can take to learn Basic Novel writing and grammar 101. Its the fear of change, stepping out there and not wondering what to do but being able to have the feeling I KNOW AWHAT I AM DOING that I am learning. lol Don't we all. Any how I want to visit and get to know people and learn. Have a great day, and write, write, write.
Jan 06, 2011
 My Writing Goals
by: Karin

Hello,
I've been taking myself seriously as a writer for one year now. Yay!
Last year, I took many online courses in personal essay writing/autobiographical writing.
I discovered how thin the line can be between this format and fiction.
I have always wanted to write short stories, perhaps a novel, but have been daunted by the degree of difficulty.
Now, it's time to plunge in and just write.

Jan 05, 2011
 Writing Goal
by: Chloe

Hey everyone and a (late) Happy New Year!
I began GCSE coursework in September last year, and creative writing is one of my weaker points. I imagine loads of different scenarios in my head at night, but I can never seem to write them down! This year, I vow to write a series of short stories without giving up. I hope that I will be able to post in a few months to say that I have done so.
May you all have a wonderful year, and good luck with your writing!
Jan 05, 2011
 my goals
by: Chris

Back in high school I took a creative writing course and loved it. It's been awhile since I've done much with my writing, but I want to get back into the swing of things again. It's something that I enjoy and would like to do more of, maybe get something published someday.
Jan 05, 2011
 Year of change
by: Virginia Costeschi

I decided few days ago - on New Year's Eve, actually - to make dramatic changes in my life this year. First, to overcome all my fears and to fulfill at least one secret dream: to begin to write regularly. So, pretty soon, I will start to keep a writer's journal and I will write my first piece of fiction. Of course, with your help!
Jan 05, 2011
 Time to stop talking about it.
by: Sarah Hannah

2011 is going to be my year to make changes. I have spent far too long talking about writing. I am very busy running my own business but I know I can find the time to write every day. Writing for me is one of my favourite places to be. I am most relaxed and happiest when writing. So this year I WILL write every day and see where it goes.
Who knows maybe I can semi retire and change the work : Write ratio.

Feeling very excited to start my writing adventure!!
Jan 05, 2011
 My Writing Goal
by: Reira

My dream is to become a writer, but up until now all I have really learned is the basics of writing you use everyday and I want to improve, especially when it comes to character development.
Jan 05, 2011
 Just writing
by: Kara

I simply want to put all my ideas onto paper and see what's there. I want to help inspire and support others to do the same.
Jan 04, 2011
 My objective of taking up this course!
by: Ritzy

Hi Guys! I've been teaching for the past 6 years and now I wanna brush up my writing skills as I need to do a lot of creative writing. I need to learn how to write fiction and learn how to make kids think "out of the box" ! Hope this course helps me achieve what I'm looking for!
Jan 04, 2011
 My objective of taking up this course!
by: Ritzy

Hi Guys! I've been teaching for the past 6 years and now I wanna brush up my writing skills as I need to do a lot of creative writing. I need to learn how to write fiction and learn how to make kids think "out of the box" ! Hope this course helps me achieve what I'm looking for!
Jan 04, 2011
 My objective of taking up this course!
by: Ritzy

Hi Guys! I've been teaching for the past 6 years and now I wanna brush up my writing skills as I need to do a lot of creative writing. I need to learn how to write fiction and learn how to make kids think "out of the box" ! Hope this course helps me achieve what I'm looking for!
Jan 04, 2011
 My objective of taking up this course!
by: Ritzy

Hi Guys! I've been teaching for the past 6 years and now I wanna brush up my writing skills as I need to do a lot of creative writing. I need to learn how to write fiction and learn how to make kids think "out of the box" ! Hope this course helps me achieve what I'm looking for!
Jan 04, 2011
 My objective of taking up this course!
by: Ritzy

Hi Guys! I've been teaching for the past 6 years and now I wanna brush up my writing skills as I need to do a lot of creative writing. I need to learn how to write fiction and learn how to make kids think "out of the box" ! Hope this course helps me achieve what I'm looking for!
Jan 04, 2011
 My objective of taking up this course!
by: Ritzy

Hi Guys! I've been teaching for the past 6 years and now I wanna brush up my writing skills as I need to do a lot of creative writing. I need to learn how to write fiction and learn how to make kids think "out of the box" ! Hope this course helps me achieve what I'm looking for!
Jan 03, 2011
 My writing goals
by: Shanna

Hello everyone
I love writing but lack of opportunity to write professionally has made me give it up.I met someone recently who made me realise that one should not waste their talents.This coure for me is a window that will take me to the next level.
Jan 03, 2011
 New Adventure
by: Glenda

Excitied about this class! My first time to take any writing courses. No experiance ,just a desire to write and there are plots and characters that are waiting for me to learn how to let them OUT!
Jan 03, 2011
 Happy New Year Fellow Writers!
by: Nancy

I just wanted to stop in and say hello and share my intentions for the new year. I intend to write something daily. Even if only a couple paragraphs. That is one luxury I will allow myself to have every single day. Even if I have nothing to write I plan to scibble something on a page. I love to write but I let time slip by and lose the opportunity. But it changes as of today from here out. Happy writing and reading to all.
God Bless each of you!
Jan 03, 2011
 Goals of 2011
by: Jim Gilliam

Happy New Year everyone! This page is so appropriate for New Year's resolutions. My goal remains; to give back something to the craft I've become passionate about.

To be effective, a goal must reasonable, attainable and positive. As I look at some of the goals on this page I see some goals that while they meet the first two criteria tend to be more negative than positive. Words like try and hope, at least in my opinion, seem to be setting up an excuse for not attaining the stated goal. One of the best teachers I had in college hated the word try. To demonstrate this he would drop a pencil on the floor and then ask any student to come up and "try" and pick the pencil up. It was a trick question; if you picked the pencil up you were wrong and if you stopped short of picking the pencil up you were wrong. His point was that the goal was both realistic and attainable and you either did it or you didn't. So when you say, "I'll try to write an hour a day," or "I hope to write 300 words a day," what you might be saying is, "Writing daily might be unrealistic, but I've got that covered, since my goal was to try and write every day." Once you skip a day, skipping becomes easier. We all have things in our life that crop up suddenly that require our immediate attention, so a daily writing goal may not be realistic for some of us. Okay, here's a realistic writing goal, "I will write 2,100 words a week." 2,100 divided by seven is 300 words a day. I don't know anyone who just writes 300 words and stops. Fair enough, if you write 700 words per day for three days, that's 2,100 words, and that gives you four days of free time, and you'll probably feel so good about your progress that you'll write even more. Just remember, every seventh day recycles the clock to the 2,100 word goal.

Just something to think about.
Jan 03, 2011
 Writing goals
by: Linda

My goal is to write well.
Jan 03, 2011
 My Goal
by: Jill

Hi everyone. Happy New Year.
My goal this coming year is to become a better writer and hopefully get published.
I had a very dear friend pass away this holiday season. Even though she was hurting, she still found strength within herself to give me encouragment to continue with my passion.
I feel a need to honour her encouragement and continue to keep getting better. Practice, practice, practice.
Jan 02, 2011
 My goal
by: Anonymous

Happy New Year! My goal is to learn how to better my writing so I can help my children. I have 2 boys 11yrs. and 2yrs. I hope to do my best!
Jan 02, 2011
 My goal
by: Anonymous

Happy New Year! My goal is to learn how to better my writing so I can help my children. I have 2 boys 11yrs. and 2yrs. I hope to do my best!
Jan 02, 2011
 My goal
by: Anonymous

Happy New Year! My goal is to learn how to better my writing so I can help my children. I have 2 boys 11yrs. and 2yrs. I hope to do my best!
Jan 01, 2011
 My writing goals/intro
by: Lizardface

I greet you all. I intend to gain greater writing skills from this internet writing course. I may or may not post my 10-minute writing for the lessons, it depends on how confident I am in that piece. Expect many a dragon as I plan to add them into all the writing assignments that I complete and post in some shape or form.

---- Lizardface
Jan 01, 2011
 writing goal thingy
by: Awesome Kid

Sup ppl. My writing goal for the year (It IS New Years today after all) is to become way more expirenced, write for half an hour every day, and to finish writing my novel before the end of the year.
Jan 01, 2011
 This is the year
by: Val Pearson

Hi, my name is Val and I'm addicted to books! I am an avid reader and reviewer plus a single mom to three beautiful teenage girls and five precious dogs. OK, precious might be pushing it. One seems to be a demon dog since he gets in so much trouble. My goal for the New Year is to write one book to be published in 2011. I've watched from afar the process involved and I know I can do this. I look forward to this opportunity to develop the skills I have. It's nice to meet you all.
Jan 01, 2011
 Making Time
by: Robin

In order to be a writer, I must write. It seems everything squeezes out the time I have to write. This year my hope is to write daily. To make time to do what I love.
Dec 31, 2010
 Nearly 2011
by: Ann

It's 11.45pm on December 31st 2010. I am sat here at home alone, but not lonely. This is not just my New Years resolution, it is a promise. I am going to learn the craft. I am going to be the best writer that I can.
Dec 30, 2010
 Light at the end of the tunnel
by: Anonymous

I had an accident and now can only write a little but do nothing else.
My goals are to write memoirs of my experiences as I recovered and my goals for the future.
Dec 29, 2010
 Finally
by: Tracie

I have always dabbled with stories but found it frustrating when writers block kicks in. its very difficult to push through it when you want it so badly and nothing is happening. I am hoping that by the end of 2011 i will have my novel completed or at least 90% of it.
Dec 28, 2010
 Excited to learn
by: Marion

I have done the average writing assignments in college, but I don't have any real writing experience. My goals for this course are to pick up and sharpen skills and learn how to open up the route between my mind and my hands to be able to put all my thoughts into words. I have the beginnings of at least 5 different stories written. Peace and quiet is my biggest challenge. With 3 boys, it is hard to find the time to focus on writing. I am excited about this site and look forward to using the techniques taught here.
Dec 28, 2010
 Finish a draft of my novel!
by: Anonymous

I'm a novice, a beginner, a baby to writing novels. My goal in writing this year is to just WRITE and free the story baby that's living inside me, desperately wanting to see daylight!
So often I get hung up on the "he said," "she saids," that I can't even get through the first chapter, let alone the first draft.
My writing goals are to embrace the process. Love the imperfections. Grow as a writer -- by trial and error. Oh, and to finish the first draft!
Dec 28, 2010
 To finish my novel in 2011!
by: Tamara

I'm a full time freelance writer, so I get paid to write all the time. However, there's been a novel living in my head for a few years already, and I need to get it out!

After several false starts (one of which got me 30,000 words into the first draft) I think I'm finally ready to knuckle down and finish my novel in 2011!

Wish me luck!
Dec 28, 2010
 hello!
by: linda

i've written and published some of my write ups, but i'm not satisfied with my skill even if others who have taught it was good enough after some editing.
i feel i can do better and i need to make time and interest to write novels, stories and screenplays for movies.
i hope the lessons here will help me.

thank you.
Dec 28, 2010
 Getting started... seriously
by: World Wanderer

No more procrastination! My goal is to write for 1 hour three times a week.
I am going to write a short story of 5,000 words. I am going to spend one hour twice a week doing research on the story and spend one hour three times a week writing the story itself.
My goal is to finish the story, with revisions and corrections, on March 31 2011.
Dec 28, 2010
 My Goals
by: Anonymous

Hi everyone:

I guess like most people here I want to get serious about writing and begin to publish. I've been dabbling at writing since around 2004 but become easily frustrated and give up. My specific goals is to begin writing everyday come hell or high water. I hope to find a supportive community here that I can share this aspiration with. See ya round!
Dec 28, 2010
 My Goals
by: Anonymous

Hi everyone:

I guess like most people here I want to get serious about writing and begin to publish. I've been dabbling at writing since around 2004 but become easily frustrated and give up. My specific goals is to begin writing everyday come hell or high water. I hope to find a supportive community here that I can share this aspiration with. See ya round!
Dec 27, 2010
 HELLO ALL!!
by: Payge

Okay so I have been writing since I was in 7th grade and I'm not so sure my works are all that correct if that makes sense. Everyone who has read them say they are pretty good for my age. So I hope to learn the correct ways to write or just get some general tips. And maybe this will help me learn to start and finish something instead of start, stop for six months, then finish.
Dec 27, 2010
 Hello everyone!
by: Maddie

Ive been writing on and off for about six years, but I've never gotten very far in any of the books I've tried to write because I got bogged down with re-edits and then eventually just quit and started a new 'better' story. But now I've realized I just need to bear through the first draft and accept that it won't be perfect. So I have a great new story idea and I'm just going to write without looking back.
But so far, I'm afraid to start. I've been looking online for examples of 'showing instead of telling' and I saw this free online course and I joined immediately!
My goal for this course is to cut the purple prose out of my writing and to learn how to put the most relevant information possible into my writing.
Dec 26, 2010
 My goals
by: Laura

I would like to become a better writer, write at least once a day and have pieces that I am proud to share with others.
Dec 26, 2010
 better writer
by: adriana

My goal is to become a more experienced writer
To write atleast twice a day
Dec 25, 2010
 Introducing myself
by: Paula

Hello Everyone,

I just signed up for this course. I am interested in writing. I hope to learn new ways to wrote. I hope to be able to at least write a few times a day, more when I am able to.
Dec 23, 2010
 True Story Based Fiction
by: Brenda

Hello All, I have never taken any writing courses in my life. I've always liked the idea of writing stories and have always wanted to write about my mom's life. However, I'm unsure if I'm even gifted in this area so I thought this would be a great opportunity to find that out!

I am currently a singer and song writer, so do have some poetic background, but again, nothing that I actually trained for.

So...I'm looking forward to what the future might bring!

Merry Christmas everyone!
Dec 23, 2010
 True Story Based Fiction
by: Brenda

Hello All, I have never taken any writing courses in my life. I've always liked the idea of writing stories and have always wanted to write about my mom's life. However, I'm unsure if I'm even gifted in this area so I thought this would be a great opportunity to find that out!

I am currently a singer and song writer, so do have some poetic background, but again, nothing that I actually trained for.

So...I'm looking forward to what the future might bring!

Merry Christmas everyone!
Dec 23, 2010
 True Story Based Fiction
by: Brenda

Hello All, I have never taken any writing courses in my life. I've always liked the idea of writing stories and have always wanted to write about my mom's life. However, I'm unsure if I'm even gifted in this area so I thought this would be a great opportunity to find that out!

I am currently a singer and song writer, so do have some poetic background, but again, nothing that I actually trained for.

So...I'm looking forward to what the future might bring!

Merry Christmas everyone!
Dec 23, 2010
 Goals
by: Jim Gilliam

Hi, my overall goals are twofold: become a better writer and give back something to the craft that I've become passionate about. My first novel Point Deception was released in Nov 2009. I thought it could be better and so I pulled it from circulation and completely rewrote it. It is much better now and available through BookLocker.com. The moral of that, I guess is: Nothing I write is carved in stone until you see it at your local bookstore, subject to change.

I've started the sequel to Point Deception and my goal is to have it out in about 3 months. The title is: The Campeche Reprisal. Here is the synopsis: SYNOPSIS: Undercover narcotics agent Tim Kelly is rescued after seven days of torture at the hands of the Campeche Drug Cartel; he plans to marry Brenda Conrad the love of his life. When Brenda and her best friend, the daughter of the Governor of Texas, are kidnapped by the Cartel and taken to a secret location in the jungles of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Tim recruits a local Mayan rebel leader to help him rescue the two women. Another goal is with your help, I hope to make the sequel better than the first novel.
Dec 22, 2010
 Goals
by: Cori L

My goals for this course are to get back into touch with creative writing and develope a story I've had in my head for a long time. Until recently I worked as a journalist, so I'm looking forward to getting back to writing, and being able to use exciting and descriptive words. No more CP stlye or news!
Dec 22, 2010
 Goals
by: Pike

My Goals from this course is to learn how to structure self help books and motivational books. I would also want to start creative journalling so will need help on how to go about it effectively.
Dec 22, 2010
 Writing Goals
by: Flo

I have written many stories which need plot and suspense. I've preferred to write poetry for the last year, and now I want to find my writing style by using techniques to free imagination and structure. Looking forward to it.
Dec 21, 2010
 Finally
by: Karel

I've always wanted to be able to get lessons in creative writing, because I've always been told that my writing has good structure, but is immature. Maybe I can finally achieve my dream of being a writer.
Dec 21, 2010
 in pursit of a long lost dream
by: amie

When I was a child I used to secretly borrow my aunt's Reader's Digest back editions, that was when I discovered the magical world hidden behind words. Then I dreamed of becoming a writer, but in my country (Philippines) English is just a second language and very few people appreciate or enjoy books. They'd rather watch the movies. Now that I have more free time to myself I decided to finally make my dream a reality. I thank you for all the help, guidance and info. I do hope I could make a career out of this, if not the additional knowledge won't hurt. I am enjoying the challenge of the exercises, I'm having a lot of fun! Thanks!
Dec 21, 2010
 Writing Goal.First Push
by: R.SRIDHAR

Dear Friends ,

Although I have many good stories coming to mind, i am unable to continue after first 30lines.page.My goal is to write a page every day.
Tell stories so unique that no one has told before.
Dec 20, 2010
 Writing Goals
by: Anonymous

I want to complete my novel within 6 months. I need to get over my writer's block and write more often and do it more efficiently.
Dec 20, 2010
 Finish everything I have begun.
by: Becky

I have several stories that are in the drawer. I hope that I can have them all polished and subimitted to a publisher before 2011 is done.
Dec 20, 2010
 Relieved!
by: Alice

hi everyone. i'm so relieved to have found this site. English is not my first language and i have always wanted to write stories. As a child, I was a dreamer. And as an adult and a mother of one now, i wanted to write even more...be it stories for children or adults, i just wanted to learn more about creative writing. but i find that my country is so lack of such courses and professionals to teach them. Hopefully, after going through the courses offered here, i'll be a changed person - with new found confidence and skills in writing!
Dec 20, 2010
 Change
by: Didi

My goal is to write a novel that would change the way of thinking at least of those readers who want to change. I want to publish a novel that would matter, and not write a book like every other, waiting in some hidden corner of a library for its first reader. And that's why I want to reach perfection, if it's possible.
Dec 19, 2010
 Top Drawer Thriller.
by: Chris

My ultimate goal is to write a top drawer thriller, taking the reader on a heart pounding roller coaster ride of adrenaline charge fear.
Dec 18, 2010
 Main Goals
by: Anonymous

My goal is to become a romantic writer. I would like for my characters to jump off the page. I want them to be characters that are remarkable and relatable. My goal is for the readers to be able to be inspired and feel as if they too can experience "True Love".
Dec 18, 2010
 My goal(s)
by: Digameesu

I'm a Hungarian girl, who's been told a few times that has a 'natural gift of writing' and learnt English by herself and hopes to improve both. I don't really write, only essays and sort of diary-like e-mails when I'm away. But that doesn't mean I wouldn't like to, so that's why I'm here.
Dec 18, 2010
 Something New
by: Carri

I want to write a romantic novel that is new and refreshing. I would like the heroines to look like every day women whose beauty is being reflected from their personal strength from within. I hope to accomplish this with insight from peers and techniques learned within this class.
Dec 17, 2010
 Hey
by: Anonymous

I want to know how to express my feelings in wiriting. I want to write a stories , novels , and monologues.
Dec 16, 2010
 GOAL
by: orange_robin

My goal is to start and compose properly and all of my ideas popping out in my head occasionally and be able to finish it too (which I usually don't even with other stuff.
Dec 16, 2010
 My goals
by: Tracey

Hello,
My goal is to get back into the habit of constantly writing and find ways to put the stories, characters, and worlds in my head onto paper.
Dec 16, 2010
 My goals
by: Tracey

Hello,
I have always loved writing. My goals are to get back into constantly writing novels and short stories and making the stories in my head materialize on paper.
Dec 16, 2010
 hey everyone.
by: Strawberry

Hey guys! My goal is to be able to write a complete story. It may not sound hard but, for me it is. I love writing but, as soon as I start writing a story down, I get another idea and get bored with the one I'm currently writing. My second goal is to not have such Marie-sue characters. I mean, ugh! but that's all I can seem to write! I've tried books and I'm taking a screen-play writing class and an honers english (i'm only in highschool) but none of it seems to actuall help me in actual fiction writing. So I signed on here to see if it'll help. Thanks for reading this and wish me luck!
Dec 16, 2010
 my goal thingy
by: Anonymous

Hi everyone who is reading this write now! I am an awesome writer...sorry. Anyway my goal is...drumroll...............(let me think a minute) to write 100 pages to my book that im writing in 4 weeks!!! No make it 3 weeks. That is one hard goal (at least for me, I get writers block about every five minutes)
Dec 16, 2010
 Hello.
by: Dragonstar

Ni. Name's Connie, but people call me Nyx. :) It's nice to meet everyone. My goal is to develop my writing skills and write stories. I hope to one day become an author, so my goal is to do whatever I can to reach that dream. :)
Dec 15, 2010
 Sirwan
by: Raven

Hi Sirwan,

I'm possibly interested in a collaboration.

Raven

phoenix (at) dreamteammedia.com
Dec 14, 2010
 Hooray
by: Elizabeth

Hooray, finally a place where I can let my inner writer free! I live in a small town and there isn't much in the area of writing or anything like that, but finally, here I have the chance! I can't saw how excited I am, especially since I've just started a YA novel. I've written stories before and submitted to literary journals, but the editing part takes me forever so I've never submitted anything to an agent. Hopefully with the tips from this course, I'll be able to get this novel written, revised and...of course Published!
Dec 14, 2010
 Hi Everyone, happy to read your thoughts & ideas
by: Bunny

Hi, I'm a writer and I just finished my first novel, but now it's in the editing process. In the meantime, I wanted to continue writing outside of the novel realm so that I can keep the momentum going. I highly recommend participating in Nanowrimo as well as Script Frenzy. Also, I've been writing for years but this is the first year that I made a huge commitment to beginning my first novel and sticking with it. I now have 40,000 words and a solid plot with lots of characters. In fact, I am trying to take some of the characters out since they seem to be cluttering up the subplot soup.
Anyway, thanks for listening and good luck in all your writing endeavors. :)
Dec 14, 2010
 Looking for collaboration
by: Sirwan

Finally this is the place where I was looking for.
I always was looking for a way so I can express myself freely like I do in my native language.
I am coming from north of Iraq, I had an extensive life full of adventure and drama because of all kind discrimination you may imagine. during my last 15 years far from stateless home, who here become closer friend and closer colleague have advised me to write down what I went through from childhood to migrating to Europe. I never wanted to write about me in detail because I thought I am not the only one from my stateless country who went through difficulties, also because I didn't want to feel sorry and wanted to live normal life here. there are millions who are still can't write, can't and speaks freely in their own language only with their family and at home. I am looking for some one who like to write my words and expression in English. and the book we produce will be publish by our names.
Dec 13, 2010
 healing sense of thera[y
by: Nancy

All my life I never considered myself to have any talents at all. All of my family members were gifted in so many areas. Creativity was their specialties. I tried everything from jewelry making, ceramics, this and that and nothing seemed to keep my interest and I thought perhaps God had not given me a talent. So at 42 I enrolled in a university and psychology was my major. I was scared to death but my favorite class was English composition and wow did I love it. I scored high on the entry exam and when I started writing my lowest grade was a 95. My first essay written my teacher said that he felt I had the ability to write professionally. I was thrilled and so surprised and it made me feel so good. I had written my essays from personal experiences and I wrote them with passion from my heart Hoping one day to share my story in the form of a published book. If it is God's will it will happen and if not I will continue to find a sense of comfort in my writing. It has become a healing sense of therapy for me. So that is why I want to write. I would love to make a living doing something that comes from the heart. So I pray that each of us will get to meet our hearts ambition when it comes to writing. God bless you all as we learn and write toether. Merry CHRISTmas!
Nancy
Dec 13, 2010
 My goal to write more
by: Anonymous

My name is Ange, and I'm on bed rest from a back injury, so no better time to be reunited with my love of writing. I do have a manuscript I've worked on for 6+ years now (one more edit, then it's off to an assessor I think!). I'm after inspiration, I want to both be reading and writing more than I have been over the last few years. Basically, for me, I want to give writing a higher priority in my life by focusing more of my time on it. I want to develop writing as a habit, rather than procrastinating while waiting for inspiration to hit, I want to be learn to be disciplined to write regardless of whether I 'feel' like it or not.
Dec 12, 2010
 Practice, Yes! But how?
by: Leandro

Many ideas float in my mind, sometimes is easier, sometimes is not. It is so much easier to dream than put it to words. I would like to achieve techniques to stay focused and keep the interest of the reader. Techniques that make me go further until I reach the end.

At this stage of my writing, starts are not the problem, but endings. I do many wrong turns, which I can't resolve. Some advise me to draft first, but the drafting leads me out of surprise.

My goal is to finish a story I like.
thanks
Dec 12, 2010
 My first novel
by: Nightchild

Novel writing has always been a dream of mine, its fun and one of the things I mostly enjoy. I have been doing research for my book for almost 2 years now, and believe me, that is exactly where my problem comes in. my head is so full of information about my novel, I know my characters intimately and I know exactly where I want to go and what I want to do with my novel. My only problem is putting pen to paper and actually getting my novel started. I know there are a lot of writers out there that can relate to my situation. Novel writing is not just some task that you do just to finish and hope its good, NO, novel writing is an art, a passion, its fun, and that’s exactly why I want to make a success out of my firs novel, not necessary just to get published, but to do it correctly and to enjoy every minute of it
Dec 11, 2010
 Improve my skills in writing
by: Ynava

I currently finished one novel draft and in process of revising another one. Problems that I found in my second draft were that the characters and the conflicts were not convincing enough, so I want to learn how to make it better by joining this course.
Dec 11, 2010
 Sharpening the tools in my shed.
by: Raven

I'm enlisting myself with this course as a means of enhancing my writing skills.
Dec 10, 2010
 Aspiring Writer
by: Anonymous

I've been writing for years, but I still need to correct some problems. Hopefully this course will help me. I haven't really had the inspiration or determination to finish anything I write. I start, but after a couple of pages I move on to something else. My goal is to write a short story and finish it with the guidance of this course.
Dec 10, 2010
 My goals are...
by: Anonymous

...to just be a better writer. I excelled in my English classes from 6th grade and on and still excel in my high school classes, but I'm still downgraded slightly for the way I write in general. Apparently it's not the "correct" style so I'm hoping to work on that.
Dec 09, 2010
 looking for writing career
by: tf

I have always desired writing and im finally taking the necessary steps to become a writer.
Dec 09, 2010
 hello
by: KK

Hello everyone. I am here for the same reason most of you probably are; to hone the skills necessary to effectively communicate via the written page. My life has been blessed with a multitude of adventurous moments, some even bordering on "high adventure". Some of the people I have met are characters almost beyond belief. With help,I hope I can learn to call on these people and events to create something worthy.
Dec 09, 2010
 Here goes...
by: JB

I've wanted to write fiction since I was a young boy and did so in primary school. Growing up kind of tired the idea out of me with secondary school killing my enthuesiasm for it and making literature a chore. As a young adult I started reading a lot more for my own pleaseure and particularly like contemporary Scottish literature such as work by Alasdair Gray, Irvin Welsh and Iain Banks.

I've been inspired to try myself in the past but know I need some kind of structure to maintain dicipline; hopefully I've found it! I need constructive critisism too so want to get involved in discussions with peers, hence taking the time to write something in this thread when it is something I would normally be quite cynical about.

Looking forward to seeing where this takes me!
Dec 09, 2010
 Nearly time for New Year resolutions!
by: Helen

Hello!

Every year I think to myself that I really must do more writing; I teach children how to write and love doing that, and have always toyed with the idea of writing as more than a hobby.

I have been reading a life coaching book which has finally encouraged me to take this course - so I can develop my skills and become more active towards achieving my goal.

Last year my husband, who would tell you himself that literacy is not his strength, had an idea for a story and within a few months had written a 100,000 word novel!

This, too, has inspired me!

I look forward to 'meeting' you all!
Dec 09, 2010
 Getting started
by: Rosemary

Hi, I have always had stories in my head but have never been able to get them down and when I do, and read them back, they always sound so silly. I have not written anything seriously in many years. My husband has now decided that I should take it up again, and has been very supportive. So here I am - getting started. I would love to be able to sit down with my writing every day (even if I just stare at the screen - I was always taught just showing up was half the battle). And to publish an original story (whether in book form or electronic).

Here goes nothing...
Dec 08, 2010
 Why I am here
by:

HI I'm Deborah and I want to learn to write better stories. I am undergoing a bachelors degree in English. I write small stuff right now, but want to go on to be a better writer.
Dec 08, 2010
 Writing for improvement
by: Crystal Van Ross

I want to take advantage of the free writing course so that I can improve my writing.
Dec 07, 2010
 writing for children
by: MB

Currently doing a course to write Children's books. Came upon your site which was very informative and helped me with my assignments.
User friendly and hope to meet others who are interested in children writing.
Dec 07, 2010
 my personal cure for writers block
by: jill

I have found that if I read my writing out loud to someone or just to myself, I want to write more. I start thinking of more ideas.
I'm not really sure why this works for me but it does. Does this make sense?
Dec 07, 2010
 :)
by: Mrs. Barrett

I've been writing since I was about five. (I would dictate teh stories to my mother and she would write them for me.) I just want to be the ebst writer I can possibly be, that's why I'm taking this course.
Dec 07, 2010
 Goal
by: A.Y

I have been writing since I was 12. Love writing and never really stopped. Would like to pick it up again with a better and firmer grasp on what I love the most.

My goal would be to write a story that I would continue, not leave it halfway hanging. May we all get through our ever lingering writer's block.
Dec 07, 2010
 My writing goals
by: Anonymous

I am interested in this course as a means of improving my writing skills, especially with reagrds to the form and structure that is required for writing captivating stories.
Dec 06, 2010
 My goals
by: J Eve

The urge to express the things I've seen and heard,to unlease the inner voice of experience, the on going refelections of life.
Dec 06, 2010
 my writing goals
by: Anonymous

to improve my writing skill.
Dec 06, 2010
 My Goal
by: Helga

Simply to gain the courage to start writing. :)
Dec 05, 2010
 Interesting
by: Omari Jackson

I just stumbled on your site and am tempted to join this course. I have been considering taking a creative writing class, and I think this can serve as a start for many wonderful things to come.
Dec 05, 2010
 My Goals
by: Kelli L

My goal is to practice writing poetry and short stories and gain some feedback. And write for 20 minutes three times a week which is a stretch for me as a single mom
Dec 05, 2010
 Goals
by: Rain

Hi, all.
I joined the course for structure and mentoring. I have good technical writing skills, and I have had poetry published, but I would like to better my abilities in the fiction realm.

I am trying to write at least 4 days a week, at least 15 minutes (usually I go for at least half an hour once I get started).

I wrote some stories for friends' children years ago, and am reworking those, hoping to get published in that field. I am also developing new ideas and researching potential topics.

I am very impressed by the goals and efforts of past course members, and I am looking forward to interacting with other class members.
Dec 05, 2010
 Goal
by: Chris

My biggest writing goal is to learn how to write to move people. That's it.
Dec 05, 2010
 my writing goals
by: Kate

My writing goals are pretty much to be able to be a more descriptive writer, because I kinda suck at it.
Dec 04, 2010
 my goal
by: Jill

My goal is to complete a story, short or otherwise. I just want to complete the darned thing. I need to find out for myself if I can write or not. I really feel that I can, I always have. But I need to know I can.

I've known since I was 10 yrs. old that I wanted to write. Unfortuneately, I shared this info with someone I thought had my best interest at heart and I could trust. WRONG!

Since then, until recently, that is, I felt I had to keep my writing a secret and looking back now, I was right to do that. I find it hard to share with other's because I'm afraid of being judged. I guess it's another 'shell I have to break'. I want to thank you guys (and gals) out there for sharing your comments because it helps me. You've given me a tool I can use to 'break the shell' I need to break in order to give myself 'a break'. Sounds like a commercial, doesn't it?

I write every day, except for the last couple of days. I just can't seem to get into it right now. I think it's just the time of year; the hussel & bussel bla, bla, bla. I think I need to sit down and write until I feel like writing and then I think, I hope, the words will come out and flow.

I recently 'allowed' my partner to read part of a story I have written but yet to complete and I know he would, without hesitation, tell me the truth if it was good or not. And he did and I was pleased as punch. But by the same token, he doesn't read much. So, you see my dilemma?

Thanks for listening and essentially, reading.
Dec 03, 2010
 New Bee
by: Anonymous

Although I am a beginner I have always been intrigued by a great story. Since I was a preteen I remember pouring over comic books, science fiction fantasy novels and period pieces. I always wanted to write but I was terribly afraid of starting only to find out I wasn't really good at it. Fears now put aside, I’m ready to delve into this secret passion and see where it takes me.
Dec 02, 2010
 My goals
by: Jac H

Hi, I'm Jac. I'm currently working on a manuscript for a YA book but I'd really get back into short stories. So my goals is to write at least 3 good short stories in 2011.
Dec 02, 2010
 How to get started writing
by: William B.

I am a retired banker and consultant who is not ready for prime time retirement. I have always enjoyed reading and decided to see if I could write.

I know there must be certain steps taken in order to put together a good and clear story. Would like some ideas on what those would be. Then there must be some inspiration on what to write about. And finally, where do you find the material to support your ideas, once you have them.

Thanks, W. B.
Dec 01, 2010
 What I'm looking for...
by: Susan

I have been writing non-fiction for years, and selling it to blogs and magazines. I used to write short stories, and I would like to get back to doing that. I'm looking for inspiration and networking through this course to keep me going.

I would like to write three times a week.
Dec 01, 2010
 About me
by: Helen Howell

I started writing just over two years ago and I have recently submitted my first fantasy fiction (children's 9yrs -adults) to a publisher. It has been two years in the making. One year to write, one year to do all the rewrites. I also have a writing blog called helen-scribbles.com—where I show case a lot of my flash fiction, poems etc.

I have never done a writing course before and thought it would be a good experience. I have had one non fiction article on tarot published last year and two poems published this year.

I try to write at least 5 times a week, even if it is only editing something else I have already written. Recently I did a series of exercises where I took longer short stories I had written around 2-3000 word mark and reduced them to under 1000 as pieces of flash fiction. This I found a most beneficial exercise, as it teaches one to be economical with words and yet not loose the impact of the story.

I am looking forward to participating in this course and the discussions that may ensue.
Dec 01, 2010
 Why I'm here!
by: Tracie Sutton

I like quite a few of my family members are advid story tellers, i have so many stories screaming to get out of my head! im currently writing a story named RED SILK its coming along great i will post it up soon. I just thought i finished it to have my editor tell me some fantastis twists so now im adding more see you soon!!!
Nov 30, 2010
 My writing
by: Tonya

I started writing my novel. I've thought of writing one for a few years but was never sure of what angle to take. It always amazed me how someone could take a concept and twist it into their own.

A few weeks ago, an idea happened to come to me and I started writing. I am now 143 pages into it and have written about 34,000 words.

I've gotten lots of advice and great ideas from well-known authors. If you're familiar with Kim Harrison who writes the Hollow series, she posts how she writes on her blog.

I've used some of her ideas, including the character grid. It is an Excel spreadsheet and I used hers as a guide and made my own. It's wonderful in that it lets you see what characters are in each scene/chapter, how many scenes/chapters are for each day, etc.

When I started writing, I had a general idea of the storyline which has evolved since I first started. Last night I finally got the storyline where I want it and finished my outline. I have 60 scenes outlined and know the ending for this novel, which is the first of three. During outlining, I even outlined some scenes for books 2 and 3.

I've also found that when researching info for one thing, I'll find something else that fits perfectly into my story.

Another thing I do (and this is just me) is I'm not worrying about the details right now. I just write. When I write dialog, I write really fast between characters, so I don't worry about the details such as body language, etc. When I get to the end, then I will go over the details. Also, there are times when I want a particular scene in a specific place. If I'm not ready to write that scene out yet, I just put a note there like (insert fight here). When I'm ready to add details, then I'll do that scene.
Nov 30, 2010
 My goals
by: Chel

Since I could hold a pen I have wanted to write.

I have written a few short stoeies and started but never finished more than I could ever count.

So I guess my goal is to finish what I start. Yet more offen than not something goes wrong along the way and the story looses it's energy and becomes a dull rambling.

I am hoping this course will be able to help me keep the life in my stories to the very end.
Nov 30, 2010
 Why I;'m Here
by: Mary

I want to be a far more better writer than I am today. In the past, I have written some non-fiction articles, and have had them published.

However. at this time, I would like to learn to write fiction, and short stories.
Nov 30, 2010
 Finding My Feet
by: Carri-Ann

Hi. I'm Carri.

I've been writing fan fiction for about 2 and a half years. But now my goals are to write publishable fiction and get myself either an agent or a publisher. I need to find my feet in the writing community and completing a few courses, getting some advice, meeting fellow writers and perhaps winning a contest of two can only help me on my road to accomplishing my goals.
Nov 29, 2010
 Starting My Goal
by: F. Hughbanks

My goal is to become a better writer. Not only just a better writer but also learn new ways to express what I want to say on paper. I hope to learn how to write to draw readers as well as influence others. I am going to try to start a writing journal and begin to write in it at least 2- 3 times a week. I also hope to overcome writer's block with any ideas I can find through these courses.

F. Hughbanks
Nov 29, 2010
 Writing goals
by: Theresa

I helped my sister a lot this semester with her writing class and I realized that I like writing and I've developed a few pieces that I am proud of. I've decided I want to try my hand as a writer and see if it is something I could make a career out of. I like fiction writing best so I'm going to start there. I have a hard time writing lengthy pieces. I would like to learn how to extend my stories and give them more depth.
Nov 29, 2010
 Hard to share
by: Jill

I've been writing secretly for some years now. I have never had the confidence to allow anyone to read my writings for fear of rejection and success. I try to come to the salon as often as I can but I find I am afraid to share because I still carry the fear that 'someone else will know.' I know it sounds like I'm stabbing myself in the foot.
I really love reading what others have said and I can't help thinking how wonderful it must be to be able to share things from your heart. I so badly want to be able to do just that.
That is why I joined this writing class to hopefully get over these issues or just quiet them down to a dull roar and hopefully my writing,in the very least, will prove to be good enough for others to read.

Thank you.
Nov 28, 2010
 writing goal
by: Syed

Hi,

I want to be able to write in a clear and simple way about some of my observations about life. It should be interesting, easy to understand and not boring. So hopefully this course will give me the confidence to do just that.
Nov 28, 2010
 Intro
by: Karyn

Hi all,

My main goal in signing up in to try and get my writing journal up and running on a regular basis. I have written sparodically for many years and would like to make it a more common passtime. Hopefully I will find lots of inspiration on this site.
Nov 28, 2010
 1st attempt
by: Shawna

My goal right now is just to complete this course. I've always wanted to write but I've never really had the confidence to do it seriously. I'm hoping this course will help me change that.
Nov 27, 2010
 Un-burnt dumplings.
by: Al

My current goal is to write this without burning the supper.
I'm not sure I should really be embarking on this course for a couple of reasons. (i) I wasn't thinking 'fundamentals' when I signed in - I have been happily writing short stories for over a decade now. No that's not quite right unless I emphasis the 'happily' aspect of my writing.
(ii) The 'weekly' thing about the course is a bit impractical for me. I spend weeks on end beyond reach of the inter-web.
But, hey. Let's see where it goes, and now how black the supper is!
Nov 27, 2010
 my goal
by: Anonymous

I would like to learn to write short stories and craft them in a compelling manner.
Nov 25, 2010
 Concrete goals
by: Glenda

My earlier comment outlined the generic longer term goals - I posted it before talking about specific NOW goals.
I've always journalled each day, but from now on, I would also like to write 3 scenes each week - that way I'm starting to practice the craft of fiction writing...
Nov 25, 2010
 my goals
by: Glenda

I do lots of technical writing in my day job - boring!!!!
I love reading and would like to learn how to write fiction - short stories to begin with, and perhaps managing something longer once I've grasped the basics of fiction writing.
Nov 24, 2010
 Writing ideas
by: Anonymous

Hello,

I am a French speaker and I really love writing but sometimes I run out of ideas therefore, I would like to learn more about being creative in writing.
I hope this course will help me achieve my dream in being a perfect writer. Thank you so much for this opportunity.

Many regards,

Irene Oula
Nov 24, 2010
 Writing Goals
by: Robert

I want to learn to express myself in a non-waffling way that people can relate to.
Nov 24, 2010
 learning creative writing
by: vijay

Hi,

I would like to learn how to write better stories. I have had enough with formal kind of writing.
Right now, i only have a very simple target. That is to write one story a week.
I'll see what i can do.
Adios!
Nov 24, 2010
 REASONS
by: Anonymous

Hi,

I joined this class in order to learn how to write a short story and the essentials of good writing.

I'm also hoping to get my writing career officially started.

Thank you
Nov 22, 2010
 Writing Goals
by: Erica

Hi,

My name is Erica and my writing goals are to keep a writing schedule of at least 2,000 words a week to start. My long-term goal is to write a children's book.
Nov 22, 2010
 Introduction
by: Ruth

My goal in undertaking this eight week course is to enhance the writing skills I already have, and to learn new ones. I would like to learn more about what to do once the story is finished.
Nov 22, 2010
 Intoduction
by: Anonymous

My name is Mike and i am here to learn creative writing hopefully learn to write novels
Nov 21, 2010
 My name is Kristina
by: Kristina

Hello I'm Kristina. I love to read books, and like to write stories. Someday I would like to publish a book. I first would like to know how to get people to read my stories and want to keep reading. I have story ideas run through my mind everything it quiet. Sometimes I have to write them down to get them out.
Nov 21, 2010
 Im excited and happy!
by: Gilaine

Hi, Im glad I found such helpful site as this one is. Im looking forward to finishing my stories drafts which i have now around 2-3. But im mostly focusing on one story now. Which im planning over ahead to make a movie out of it. Filmmaking is my most wants dreams and as well is my biggest passion! Hopefully this site will help me achieve the things im passionate about and want along with my passion. Thank you all!
Nov 21, 2010
 writing goals
by: Pamela

Well, my goal right now is to get what I see in my mind on paper. That's my biggest fall back. I've never written anything before, besides the usual college papers. I plagiarized my english 4 paper in high school that got me a 97 in the course. Eight years later I'm kicking myself for ignoring the topics she went over about "character building, showing vs. telling, scene descriptions.... etc." I was reading something a few weeks ago when a lightbulb went off in my head. I'm a huge fan of the fantasy/romance books. Especially the twilight series, the host, and wicked. What i was reading was not a novel, it was not even fiction. Yet an idea was formed in my mind of two characters, and the unfortunate circumstance they meet and the problems they encounter. I didn't have to think about it, it just came to me. Now comes the hard part. Getting it on paper and writing exactly what I see. I've been writing and re-writing the same scene everyday. The showing vs. telling and descriptions are not being written the way I see it. Do I use first person point of view (which I want to do, but I'm nothing like the character so it's hard to make her real through me)or do I tell the story in third person, or narrator? Never thought it would be this hard!! But I can do it, and we all can do it. We need to lean on each other however, and give eachother a kick in the ass when needed.
Nov 21, 2010
 Creative Writing
by: Marian

Hi

I am Marian and my aim is to be able to write short stories, which I hope this course will assist me with.

I look forward to learning about plot, character and setting, amongst other things.
Nov 20, 2010
 Hello
by: Anonymous

Hi,I'm Sermantha. I have been writing stories since I was a kid. Always loved the novels I read and dreamed of being able to write like the authors of those books. I'm looking forward to becoming more creative and learning the nuts and bolts of writing.

Nov 20, 2010
 Hello!
by: Connie

Hello! New here. I have been writing stories since i was a kid. I always dreamed of being a writer. I want to learn to write novels, stories, and how i can be more creative while writing. I would also like to learn creative journaling. Thanks!
Nov 20, 2010
 hi
by: Mike

Hi,

My name is Mike and I'm retired. I've been writing short stories for a few years and it is something I very much enjoy doing. Early on I attempted to get some published but became a rejection slip collector!

I derive immense satisfaction in producing a piece of fiction and managing to finish it, although I am the first to agree that perhaps it really isn't that good. For me publication is not my only goal but obviously it would be lovely to see one's efforts in print and possibly to receive some income for that effort.

I have also written a novel (80,000 words) which again was immense fun to work with but once again I do not believe has the necessary pull to make it a seller. I did approach one agent but was turned down.

So, I believe I still have a lot to learn about plotting and characterisation, let alone about ways to improve the imaginary process. I hope to gain some of that valuable experience here. Certainly, a lot of what I have already read has made me feel quite inferior.

Thank you for allowing my input
Nov 19, 2010
 B LOCKED
by: Shannon

I am new. I have wrote short stories all my life but I have not ever had writers block this bad for so long. I dont really think I will ever make anything from my stories but its my creative expression. :)
Nov 18, 2010
 Breaking the block
by: sharon

Hi,
I'm Sharon and I love to write and I have a dream of publishing something someday. I have a lot of the story in my head but can't seem to get it started without hating it! I think about writing and publishing a book constantly, a dream that will be unattainable unless I just start it and keep going! I'm hoping this class will give me tips and feedback on how to move beyond the story in my head and get it on paper! I'm 48 years old and I'm running out of procrastination time. i look forward to giving this my best attempt and seeing where this road will lead. Good luck to everyone!
Nov 18, 2010
 Hey!
by: Amy

Hey! My name is Amy. I'm nearly 28 years old. I have been writing since I was 5 but nothing too serious until about a year ago. That is when I started my novel. I currently have 5900 words written. I am looking to at least quadruple that within the next few months! My current novel is for young adults and I am actually quite fond of it. I was skeptical about sharing it with anyone but I let my sister read it. Now this sister is not a reader. She hates reading. BUT she told me that what she read made her want to read this story! SCORE!
Nov 18, 2010
 Hey!
by: Carolyn Diamond

My name is Carolyn, I'm a girl. I love fictional stories, and I would love to write one of my own!
Nov 18, 2010
 Why i want to write (^_^)
by: Hymki

Hey, I'm Hymki. I am a girl.
My goal is to finish at least one story/novel. I keep starting stories and never get them finished. I would love to learn more on story crafting and stuff like that. Hope to learn alot in this course.

Cya,
Hymki
Nov 16, 2010
 heya
by: brittany

hi, im new i started writing right after my uncle died and i feel in love with it. i wanna get better with my short stories and make them seem real to everybody. my stories always connect to my life in one way or another. so if you want to help thanks.
Nov 16, 2010
 think about it
by: Anonymous

Hi,
I have been thinking about short story writing for a while now and happened upon this web-site. I'm looking very much to learning how to go about writing. Who knows, maybe I'll end up with a novel!
Nov 16, 2010
 Love to write
by: Andrew

I have been working on a novel for the past few years, and have hit a dead-end. Hoping something in the lessons will create some sort of spark.
Nov 14, 2010
 !!!
by: Anonymous

Hey guys! My name is Alexis. I'm so very excited to get started with the course, and a special thank you to the instructor for taking the time out of his schedule to teach us all.

I'm an active roleplayer, which means I collaboratively write stories with other people on web-forums. I have Aphasia, which means I don't grasp the concept of grammar and other things very well, so I'm hoping taking this class will improve my ability. Furthermore, I'm looking to pare down my verbose style and develop into a more "mature" style, using less adjectives and more.. oh, I don't know yet. We'll see. (:

Good to meet you all. If anybody would like to talk or give pointers, totally hit me up via email! chelrbat@gmail.com

Nov 14, 2010
 i want to write because
by: rina-g

my name is korrina but please call me rina...lol

i am here because i have been trying for 7 years to write my book...every time i start it my mind goes blank or the story looks boring.

my learning goal is to beable to finish my story
Nov 12, 2010
 GOAL
by: Dakini

To have my memoirs ready for publication by 11.11.11
Nov 12, 2010
 my memoirs
by: Dakini

Hello,
I was searching for some guidance on how to write my memoirs and came upon this site. I have started writing a blog, but need some help in getting the stories organized. Thought that this course might help.
Nov 12, 2010
 Sigh....
by: Alexis

I am Alexis, i have been planning to write my novel since i was 12, well i have a few unfinished story's..., most of them just end up boring so i stop and get another idea, recently i have a great novel idea, i want to know how to keep working on this novel so i don't have to stack another novel on top of the other Gazillion unfinished ones, my house is always busy and loud so at times it is very difficult to write, sigh....

Alexis 13 yrs old female,
LOST...
Nov 12, 2010
 Book
by: Katie

I am Katie, and I really want to finish my novel, but I seem stuck, even though I know what I want to write. It sounds confusing, but it happens to me all the time. I like to learn more on wrting. Every little bit counts!!
Nov 11, 2010
 Hello
by: Mary Ann

I am a self-published novelist and have had a short story published in a compilation of short stories.

I am taking this course because I still feel I need to know more about creative writing, especially show vs tell.

I want to my second novel, that I am currently writing, to have more of a chance to interest a traditional publisher.

I am writing Christian Fiction - Biblical.
Nov 11, 2010
 Finish a story
by: Brittany

Hi I'm Brittany and I'm 18 years old and I started my creative writing when I was 12, and I haven't finished even a short story. I have so many ideas in my head, but I can't sort them out very well. When I read a good book I find myself in another world and sometimes I don't hear my mom calling me. My mom encourages me to write, but its harder than it looks. I love to write. Creative writing is more fun than essays and reports.
Nov 11, 2010
 I just want some attention!
by: Joanna

Hi there, my name is Joanna and I'm 17 years old. I have always enjoyed reading books and writing, often hearing my mum complain about how much time I spend on reading, even though she was the one who always encouraged me to do so when I was little. She says that when I have a book in my hand it's like I forget about the world and my surroundings, which can be a little annoying if someone is talking to me and I don't even seem to notice! Anyway, I want to improve my writing skills and learn a thing or two. Then my ambition is to get noticed and publish my own book someday. Also, I would like to see if I'm actually able to perform well in English, which is not my first language. Well, we will see!
Nov 09, 2010
 My Writing Goals
by: Alicia

Hello I am Alicia, I graduated high school a couple of months ago and kind of miss my creative writing club and felt that this would fun to do. My writing goals are:
-Sharpen writing skills
-build writing/writer confidence(be more confident)



Alicia
Nov 09, 2010
 Procrastinator too
by: Natasha

I am also a procrastinator so I wish you luck on your writing goals. I've been writing for what seems like forever but get it together and take it to the next step is where I fall short. I am 38 years old now and still have many years ahead of me but I think we all need to kill off the procrastinator in us. I know we will be happier for doing so.
Nov 08, 2010
 Start writing again
by: Laura

I am the great procrastinator. I would like to finish the short story I'm working on now and eventually complete a collection of short stories. I'm hoping the course will get me back into the habit of writing. Thank you for this opportunity!
Nov 07, 2010
 Can't stop writing
by: Natasha

I have never been able to stop writing. I write mostly journals but inside my journal are short stories. I have stories wrote from 25 years ago. I thought instead of keeping it all to myself I should put something out there. I have been working on a novel for quite awhile. Short stories come to me alot but I'm looking for the challenege. I'm hoping with this course and practice I can improve my confidence to eventually get published. My 11 year son is a published poet. Why not me? Wish me luck and please comment. I will do the same. Feedback is one of the main keys to writing.
Nov 06, 2010
 I want to improve
by: Haley Bothwell

I am a young writer, and I have been told I do well when I write about things. I love to describe things, and I enjoy pretending alot.It seems like I always have my head in a book, so I must conclude I have a good vocabulary. I don't exactly know for sure if I am a good writer, but I am hoping so. If I am a good writer, my goal is to become an even better one. I believe in myself, that i can be a wonderful writer.
Nov 06, 2010
 I want to improve
by: Haley Bothwell

I am a young writer, and I have been told I do well when I write about things. I love to describe things, and I enjoy pretending alot.It seems like I always have my head in a book, so I must conclude I have a good vocabulary. I don't exactly know for sure if I am a good writer, but I am hoping so. If I am a good writer, my goal is to become an even better one. I believe in myself, that i can be a wonderful writer.
Nov 06, 2010
 discover a talent, or not
by: karin

I want to see if I have the talent for writing, especially in English which is not my first language.
I look forward to the critique of my fellow students and also look forward to reading your assignments.
I can't believe this course is free, so I am still a bit skeptic.
Nov 05, 2010
 To Write
by: Sandi

I am a published author I have four books in circulation right now, however, I haven't written a book in over 4-5 years. I don't know if it's writer's block or just not taking the time to do what real writers do WRITE. All of my previous books have been written in the genre of poetry, I want to venture out and have a fiction book published. I joined this site in hopes to prompt me to take time out again to do what I enjoy doing - Writing. Wish me the best on my new journey.
Nov 04, 2010
 to revise / flesh out my characters
by: eden

I have a completed ms that is actually out on submission right now...a couple of fulls and one partial. But I'm not happy with it and I know it needs more characterization and depth. Also, I want to change it from adult to YA, which won't be difficult since it started as YA and I have a lot of scenes to use/merge.
The main thing is really to develop the story and characters more to suck the reader in and *make* them care. So they won't be able to stop reading.
I'm happy with the story, but it just needs more before I'm ready to query to YA agents after the holidays and this is the perfect opportunity to learn!
Also, I'm starting the sequel as soon as I finish the first, so what I learn will definitely help me in the long run, as I plan to make this a trilogy, plus I have other novels to write.
Nov 04, 2010
 different but better
by: Molly

I have learned so much from this class. I have not finalized assignments 6 and 7 because I have been pretty sick and also working on having my first short story published. Let me know if any of you want too see a draft. It still needs alot of work in my mind. The reminder of tonight and all day are dedicated to my lessons
Nov 04, 2010
 different but better
by: Molly

I have learned so much from this class. I have not finalized assignments 6 and 7 because I have been pretty sick and also working on having my first short story published. Let me know if any of you want too see a draft. It still needs alot of work in my mind. The reminder of tonight and all day are dedicated to my lessons
Nov 04, 2010
 different but better
by: Molly

I have learned so much from this class. I have not finalized assignments 6 and 7 because I have been pretty sick and also working on having my first short story published. Let me know if any of you want too see a draft. It still needs alot of work in my mind. The reminder of tonight and all day are dedicated to my lessons
Nov 04, 2010
 What I hope to achieve
by: Lala

I suffer from writers block and procrastination all the time. I hope to finish writing a novel this month (since it is Nanowrimo), even if it is just a firstt draft.
Nov 04, 2010
 write
by: Anonymous

I just want to be able to write properly. To learn how to think and then express myself properly.
Nov 03, 2010
 what id like to achieve
by: Jude

I've always loved reading and have always wanted to write a book. I have a vivid imagination and some good ideas in my head I just find it hard to write them down I'm hoping this might give me the help I need to get started.
Nov 03, 2010
 To finish a book
by: Jade

I have loads of goals, but my main is to complete a whole novel before I'm eighteen... so I have abot three years left! I also want to be able to go three months writing said novel without getting frustrated and deleting it!

Good luck to everyone on their goals!
Nov 03, 2010
 To Be Positive
by: Andy

My goals are to take my writing to a new level, away from the stuff that I would normally write about. To be spontaneous....
Nov 02, 2010
 From Miniscule to Short
by: Pauline

I've just begun writing fiction and poetry under the name PF Palm. I can write a decent story in a paragraph, but can't seem to flesh it out to the length magazines prefer without ruining the continuity. My current goal is to practice writing and fleshing out my stories until I have gone from miniscule (flash fiction?) to short in the hope that I will eventually be able to write a decent story in 10 pages.
Nov 02, 2010
 What I hope to achieve
by: Anonymous

I have always enjoyed writing but have never got around to actually putting something on paper. I often have lots of ideas which I have trouble developing and would like some guidance and support with that.
Nov 02, 2010
 What I hope to achieve
by: Anonymous

I have always enjoyed writing but have never got around to actually putting something on paper. I often have lots of ideas which I have trouble developing and would like some guidance and support with that.
Nov 01, 2010
 My goals
by: Jennifer

I've always loved to read and write.To break down a novel after reading it. My goals are to be able to write better. I have so many story idea's of my own. Just needing a little help on putting them on paper.My dream is to write a novel that people will enjoy /love to read over and over.
I'm a stay at home mom who lives in Kansas. I have 3 great kids and a wonderful husband who has been telling me to write my book. I tell him my idea's and he likes them.
Nov 01, 2010
 DREAM
by: Jennifer

I've always loved to read and write. I love to break down my favorite novel into sections.My goal is to able to write better. I have so many idea's in my mind for my story. I just need a little help putting them all together on paper. My dream is to write a novel and have it published.I am a stay at home mom and I live in kansas.
Nov 01, 2010
 GAOL AND DREAM
by: Jennifer

I've always loved to read and write. I love to break down my favorite novel into sections.My goal is to able to write better. I have so many idea's in my mind for my story. I just need a little help putting them all together on paper. My dream is to write a novel and have it published.I am a stay at home mom and I live in kansas.
Nov 01, 2010
 My Writing Goals
by: Anonymous

I've always loved to write but i'm very scatter brained and getting from point A to point B without a ton of mindless rambling and sensless garbage that has nothing to do with what i'm writting about is where i would like to start and then grow from there.
Nov 01, 2010
 My Writing Goals
by: Anonymous

I've always loved to write but i'm very scatter brained and getting from point A to point B without a ton of mindless rambling and sensless garbage that has nothing to do with what i'm writting about is where i would like to start and then grow from there.
Nov 01, 2010
 Goals
by: Kimber

Ive always written, wether its a short story, a poem, or some mindless rambling..Being able to FINISH something, and get from point A to point B would be a start..Im hoping this course will set me upon my path...
Nov 01, 2010
 My Goal
by: Farisa

Hi everyone, my goal is to be able to write better and finish writing all the short stories that i have started writing.
Oct 31, 2010
 Just another introduction
by: John

I am trying to write a short story, but need help with starting and also being able to "show" instead of "telling" a story. I am hoping I can get some tips by taking this course.
Oct 31, 2010
 My Goals
by: Anonymous

Hi - I just signed up for this course. My goal is to write a polished 10 page story that is both satisfying for me to write and able to hold the interest of readers. Having it published would be a bonus.
Oct 30, 2010
 Excited to take the course
by: Mike

Hi everyone, my name's Mike and I just recently signed up for the course. Really excited to try some fictional writing. I really enjoy reading and have some story ideas of my own, but need to learn how to put them on paper. Would eventually like to write scripts for plays and screen cause that's where my interest lies
Oct 29, 2010
 My Writing Goals
by: Mrs. Smith

I would like to write a romance novel, BUT I would like to get into the habit of writing as a regular routine. Currently, I am very busy with 11 college credits, but there is ALWAYS time for 30 minutes worth of writing every day.

I am going to participate in NaNoWriMo. We'll see how THAT goes!
Oct 29, 2010
 Deciding on a Masters
by: Heather

I would really like to get my MFA in fiction writing. I want to test the waters of taking a writing course before I actually immerse myself in the program. I really enjoy writing but find that I lack inspiration lately.
Oct 29, 2010
 my goal
by: jaspreet

My goal is to use words to give my thoughts tangibility.I studied Mass Communication but never ended up writing.Life came along and entangled me in a normal but wonderful way .Marriage and babies came.Raising a family was a full time preoccupation but now that part is over and I have time to indulge in things I love to do.I think writing could be one of 'those things'.I use to be very good at expressing myself on paper.I topped my university and always won accolades for my writing at college.
I could have kept up with writing but somehow my thoughts at the time always hovered around safety pins and nappies...perhaps I should have just gone ahead and written about those.
As a little girl I spent a lot of time with my grandmother and the stories she told me are a precious storehouse of memories waiting to get released from my mind onto paper.The whole thing just needs a trigger and maybe this course would achieve that.
Talent has to have that booster shot of confidence and exposure in order to blossom so hopefully a whole lot of writng will help me overcome any latent inhibitions and get on with what i think I am meant to do.
So can we get started please.
Oct 28, 2010
 My Goal
by: Anonymous

I want to rekindle my first love writing. Ever since I was little I wanted to be a writer. I want to start keeping journals everyday or free write at least three times a week. Then one day start writing books.
Oct 28, 2010
 Finishing the work!
by: Laure

My goal is to learn how to keep the project alive long enough to finish it. I think I get bored before the end, and if I'm bored, how can I ever expect the reader won't be?
Oct 27, 2010
 Hii
by: Eli

My name is Eli, and my goal is to write a complicated thriller novel.
Oct 26, 2010
 Writing Goals
by: Sharon

It has been so long since I have written anything. I think my goal is to write three days a week. I want to start with story starters and character building.
Oct 26, 2010
 I want to be able to write a story
by: Anonymous

i would really like to be able to write an acutal story. I have written one but it definetly did not equal anything brilliant
Oct 25, 2010
 I want to learn somethig new.
by: Anonymous

I have always wanted to write, and would like to get a few tips!!
Oct 25, 2010
 Hi there!
by: Shana

Hello everyone,

My name is Shana. I want to write every other day for an hour. I have just drafted the first chapter of my novel and am kind of lost. I hope these lessons will help boost my thoughts.
Oct 24, 2010
 Introduction
by: Donna

Hi everyone. I am here because I am stuck in the middle of the first draft of my novel (historical). How do I know I'm stuck? Lately when I sit down to write I check email, go over bank statements, look up writer sites....

My goal is to write almost every day for 1/2 hour.

I'm grateful to the creators of this site and the free course. This is the push I need.

Happy writing.
Oct 24, 2010
 georgina
by: Anonymous

hello, i go by "dreamsearcher" here on this site. if you would be interested in some possible writer links, i have a bunch of them. i have, or rather, had, four self published books, one of which was canceled by a corrupt publisher and the other three which i pulled and canceled three weeks ago due to the publisher lying to me. i now have the copyrights back and am going to rewrite them and send them to an agent. if you would like to contact me, you may do so to words2ponder@gmail.com. i look forward to comparing notes with you.

dreamsearcher
Oct 24, 2010
 Introduction
by: Georgina

Hi,

My name is Georgina. I work full time and go to university one day a week, so I am pretty busy, but I love writing and have been writing since I was about 13. My goal is to improve my current draft of a story and to find a way of developing all my ideas into something useful.

I will definately be keeping a writers' journal.

I would also like to make friends with other writers.

Thanks,
G
Oct 22, 2010
 Sophia's Goal
by: Anonymous

I would like to practise 3times a week for an hour each time, i qwould like to become an original and creative writer :))))
Oct 22, 2010
 Intro
by: Lisa

Hi,
I'm Lisa and I really enjoy writting.
My goal is to keep a writting journal where I can write whatever is popping in my head. Everyday I've tons of ideas but I never develope them so I'm reall looking forward to do taht.
Oct 21, 2010
 Happy and Grateful
by: Molly

All,

I wanted to say thanks to all of you fo so many things. I have been dealing with breast cancer since 1999 and have always worked outside of the home. In 2009 I was involved in a horrible auto accident which caused me to begin having seizures. Enough about that. I have always dreamed of becoming a writer. And right now there is a lot of doubt as to whether I will ever work as a tax director again. I believe that things happen for a reason and I was struggling I found you.

I can't thank you enough.
Oct 21, 2010
 Express yourself
by: Rutherford

I have a good skill in writing but needs to be develop and this is why I am here. Please help me develop this wonderful skill to enable me to write down my ideas. It is good to write what you know so that it can benefit others. THANKS
Oct 20, 2010
 My Goals
by: Triina

Always on the fast track with school and career, I have ignored my passion for writing for too long! I have this wonderful life opportunity to take time off from my official career that left me burned out and exhausted, to finally do something with the passion I played around with all my life. I'm spending most of my days working on the manuscript for my first novel, researching, reading, blogging, and learning all I can about fine tuning this craft.
Oct 20, 2010
 Writing goal!
by: Ruchi

Hi everyone, my name is Ruchi. My writing goal is quite simple - I want to complete all of these stories that I have started, but got stuck with. I also want to make writing a regular habit so that I can finally have a few good stories in hand and not just a dozen 'brilliant!' ideas floating around everywhere!
Oct 20, 2010
 No-thing to Lose..
by: Anonymous

Read and write more but ..Plain and simple.. To get to the place where I feel like I have no-thing to lose.. Can you imagine the possibilities of what happens when people feel like they have nothing to lose.. ;o) 'Stay and Be Blessed
Oct 19, 2010
 Is it too late?
by: Chrisanth

I have been writing poetry for a few years now and have only tried to write a few stories. I would like to enter Flash Fiction contests. I belong to a writers group but mostly we all write poetry because we have got in a rut.
I keep putting off starting to write fiction on my own because I need some kind of deadline to keep me going. This free course is just the temptation I need.
Oct 18, 2010
 Show vs tell
by: Anonymous

I want to write the last two pages of my novel and learn how to effectively use language and to show not tell when I do the re-write of the first draft. Two chapters to go, and I want this baby published
Oct 16, 2010
 My goal is...
by: Anonymous

simply to become a writer. I have had so many stories rolling around in my head. Only recently have I had the heart to put them on paper. I have created short stories and I'm currently developing characters for others and I really enjoy writing dialogue. Fiction writing is what I enjoy most, but I am also interested in writing non fiction for publication. I would like to be published by next year on either a website or an OA journal.
Oct 16, 2010
 Wow :)
by: Marsanne

I certainly didn't expect to sign up for this course and find that several other people had signed up on the same day!

I love to write, but have found that if I am not able to complete the story in one sitting, I lose the end of it. As in, I can't figure out where it was going when I stopped.

I do creative writing/fiction and non-fiction. My non-fiction focuses on history and interior decorating, which is kind of an odd combination.

I am currently working on two major projects. One is a novel in progress, sort of a chick-lit book. The second is a non-fiction book dealing with historical travel in Florida. After completing a bit of both, I have found myself stalled and hope to gain momentum again.

Thanks for offering this course for free; not many places do these days!
Oct 16, 2010
 Hi
by: Carol

Hi.My name is Carol. I am a wife, mother and grandmother, and I wish to become a better writer. I write poetry for which I receive good reviews, but my stories are not so well received. I would like to be able to write better stories, and maybe even a novel, eventually, if that's not too ambitious. I have joined this course so that I can hopefully learn how to do this, and I would welcome any feedback that anyone wishes to give. Writing is my one great love.
Oct 16, 2010
 Where to begin?
by: Anonymous

I have started writing articles for the web. I write poetry, short stories (well somewhere between short stories and flash fiction - I'm not really sure). I am in a band and write songs. I also have a wife, two kids and a house to look after. Oh, and I have a full time job :)

I want to write a novel, or at the least, a collection of short stories or novellas. I would like to write every day as a maximum, but being realistic, if I could work on a creative piece for 10 hours a week I would pleased with myself.
Oct 16, 2010
 We need more writing of hummor
by: Anonymous

Good Medicine my weekly dose of humor.

The History of Politics and humor going back to Lenny Bruce.

Political Humor.

I remember watching the Smoother's Brothers Comedy Hour T.V. shows.
Dick & Tommy Smoother's.

One of my favorite routines; When both Brothers had a discussion on stage.

(The funny one) Would say, "I have a theory just who was running our government, was it the rich peopl or the poor ones?"

(The straight brother) "How can you tell one from the other"?

(The funny one) "By the amount of cloth's they were wearing".

(The straight one) "Thats amazing".

(The funny one) Would say, "The ones who wore more was the Rich ones and the ones who wore less the poor".

(The straight one) Asked, "O K whose running our goverment the ones wearing less or more"?

(The funny ones) Responce, "Its the morons who are running it".
Oct 15, 2010
 Writing
by: Mark

I would like to write on a more regular basis. I have a full time job and kids so I find this very challenging. As for writing, I am still looking for a niche. Some areas I am trying to write in are non-fiction artcles, screenwriting and fiction.
Oct 15, 2010
 'bout me and me goals.
by: Nathaniella-Arissa.

Me sister "Vikki-Livola" said I should check out this page. She has just signed in herself :P

Me and me sister both want the same thing: publishing a book series. But both need inspiration and hope to find it here.

Me myself I'm into supernatural books, like horror. Reading a book and feeling that strong fear and then read that the "hero" survives over and over somehow keeps me going in my life. Sounds fraky, but it is kind of strongening to read stpry like that and just say "Hey, think is ghost really exist and someone has survived a meeting with them. Then I can do what I want to, without being afraid".
- N.A

Yeh, know I don't write proper english so good, but I'm used to writing slang and didn't pay much attention in school. I'm currently living in norway, where I do not need much english. so sorry if you do not understand..
Oct 14, 2010
 Hello!
by: JoniB

My goal is quite simple: write. I need something to prod & poke me into keeping my butt in the chair and my fingers moving. I've signed up for my 5th year of NaNoWriMo (I crossed the finish line only once) and I thought this might give me the inspiration to carry on & through.

Publishing is not on my radar and may never be. I'm not much of a "fighter" but I'm a huge daydreamer. And I write for ME.

Thank you for offering this program! Our economy has prevented me from taking any classes that demand payment.
Oct 14, 2010
 My writing goals
by: Anonymous

Hello:
My writing goals is
--To write a short story and have it published by the end of November, 2010.
--To write a novel by the end of 2011.
Even though, I have never published an article or short story. I realize that rejections are a way of life; however, I am hoping that there won't be too many rejections.

I am in the process of going to a creative writing class on Tuesday evenings. I have always wanted to write a short story or a novel and now believe that I am ready to do this.
Oct 14, 2010
 My writing goals
by: Anonymous

Hello:
My writing goals is
--To write a short story and have it published by the end of November, 2010.
--To write a novel by the end of 2011.
Even though, I have never published an article or short story. I realize that rejections are a way of life; however, I am hoping that there won't be too many rejections.

I am in the process of going to a creative writing class on Tuesday evenings. I have always wanted to write a short story or a novel and now believe that I am ready to do this.
Oct 14, 2010
 My writing goals
by: Anonymous

Hello:
My writing goals is
--To write a short story and have it published by the end of November, 2010.
--To write a novel by the end of 2011.
Even though, I have never published an article or short story. I realize that rejections are a way of life; however, I am hoping that there won't be too many rejections.

I am in the process of going to a creative writing class on Tuesday evenings. I have always wanted to write a short story or a novel and now believe that I am ready to do this.
Oct 14, 2010
 About me and my goals...
by: Pinar

Hi,
I am not a native speaker but I started learning English when I was very young, like 4 years old or so. I studied in the American College Institute in my own country for four years and studied the last year of high school in the United States.
But that was long ago. Now I am a 31-year-old psychologist who has worked with neurology patients and women experiencing or experinced domestic violence. I got so tired of the burden my job brought in the last ten years, I quit my job at the medical school and decided to start a whole new career.
I have always been a person with lots of stories to tell, even as a child. Most nights, I dream of different existences and strange beings. Most of those ideas vanish in time but some stay with me for years or even decades and enrich, refusing to diminish. Now, I feel that it is time to appreciate that creativity and start writing.
Because I don't have any formal training on writing, I wanted to start with an online course to learn the basics first. So I am here and greeting eveyone!
I hope my English will be sufficient for I haven't been writing in or speaking English for the last ten years.
Oct 13, 2010
 writing goals--
by: Barbara

my goal is to be the best writer i can be and maybe someday write a book of my own.
Oct 13, 2010
 My Into
by: The Truth

Hello My name is Ericka, but I go be the author name the The Truth because that's what my books are about. I am a Urban- Fiction writer who has been writing for 9 yrs. Although not published as of yet I have completed 2 short stories. I compare my writing style to Donald Goines. My books are hard core to the point about everyday street living.
Oct 12, 2010
 Just another introduction.
by: Vikki

My goals is to publish a book series in the fantasy genre. I've always been into writing, and publishing a book is my big dream! :)
Oct 12, 2010
 My goals
by: Toni

I would love to be able to put all my ideas down on paper and create a series of short stories or even a novel. Lets hope that all goes to plan.
Oct 11, 2010
 Introducing myself
by: DREAMSEARCHER

Hello. I will call myself DREAMSEARCHER for that is what I am, if truth be told. I am attempting to gain knowledge in how to make three stories that I have already completed polished enough to send them to an agent for consideration. I am fifty two years of age at the time of this writing. I would like to find someone who either is a writer of the Fantasy genre in around the 11 and up range or that at least likes Fantasy to read two of the three stories and let me know where I might need to make changes to polish them.

If any here write in that genre, I would be glad to read in exchange, though I do not critique, except on simple, basic things, as I am still learning what to watch out for myself. Being as I am disabled, live alone, and really don't have much to fill my time, I have more time to search for totally cool little "writer's helper" sites (yup! Just like this one!) and I would be glad to share the rewards of my cyber journeys with any who might be interested.

I will start by sharing the titles of four writing guidance books that were sent to me as a gift by a friend who knows of my goal to be published. All four of these books are good guides.

The books are:

William Strunk Jr. and E. B. White THE ELEMENTS OF WRITING

Ray Bradbury ZEN IN THE ART OF WRITING

Sol Stein STEIN ON WRITING

and Evan Marshall THE MARSHALL PLAN FOR WRITING

I hope that will help another writer as much as they are helping me.

Well, I don't want to bore all of you, so I guess I will, as my grandmother use to say, "quit ma yakkin' and git ta trakkin'!"

Blessings to all,

Dreamsearcher
Oct 11, 2010
 Writing Goals
by: Jana

I want to commit to using the tools here to learn how to write a story or an outline.
Oct 11, 2010
 help needed
by: peggy

To finish the only long length novel started around 15 years ago
put away often to start another short story.
I need to learn how to SHOW not TELL and to discover the correct way to write a tale in the third person
Oct 11, 2010
 My writing goals
by: Kony

(1) Write in my journal at least 4x per week.
(2) Produce a story a week. They don't have to be "good."
(3) Stop self-editing as I write. Regain the fearless fluency I enjoyed before grad school.
Oct 10, 2010
 My goal
by: Dee

To fine time without falling asleep or rushing every morning and get back in the habit of writting everyday
Oct 10, 2010
 Edit and Revise Memoir
by: Flory

For the past two years, I have read about memoir, I've read several memoirs, and I have written the first draft of my memoir. I started working with an editor, and while I have good writing skills, a good story, and interesting characters, my story needs structure. I am hoping to learn some of fiction writing techniques I can incorporate into my memoir.
Oct 10, 2010
 Retracing my steps...
by: Joyce

For years, I’ve always thought that writing is the only thing I want to do and know how to do well. That’s why I took up Journalism as my undergraduate degree and went to graduate school for a year to pursue Literature. But somehow along the way, I lost my mojo, my passion for the craft…and I used to blame my previous job for that. I was a writer of test preparatory books for standardized English tests like TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, etc., and I suppose I let all the stuff about grammar and syntax squash my creativity to the point that I had trouble starting a sentence because I want it to be grammatically and syntactically correct.

But those days are no more. By signing up for this course, I hope to be able to recapture that “thing” that made me love writing and literature in the first place. I’ve always thought that being around like-minded people will reinforce one’s individual strengths, and that’s one of the things I’m looking forward to here. Lastly, while I am aware that developing my own writing style takes time, I likewise firmly believe that I first need to learn the conventions of my craft before I can unlearn and relearn them in order to create a voice that is uniquely my own.
Oct 10, 2010
 Aspirations...
by: Lindsay

Instead of low-hanging clouds over mountains, I see the heavens meeting the earth. I stand in the infinite place where water meets land and feel the ebb and flow of time and matter...

I hope to elevate thoughts such as these to fiction, and thereby contribute to, instead of rabidly partake from, the literary realm.


Oct 10, 2010
 here to learn how to be more expressive with my writing
by: Kyra

I am not very good at writing poems or stories, I for one know I am not a creative person. I feel like if I expressive my feelings through writing, maybe one day I can express it verbally. I recently broke up with a guy I have fallen in love for two years. I have lost my self esteem to believe what others tells me. I've lost my trust. Last of all I've lost my feeling of love toward others. I think it's now time to build that back up into my life.. and I don't know how to. So i'm going to try it with writing. I hope this is beneficial
Oct 09, 2010
 MY writing goals
by: Nelson Muntz

well, because I want to keep blogging, and write a novel.
Oct 09, 2010
 MY writing goals
by: Nelson Muntz

well, because I want to keep blogging, and write a novel.
Oct 09, 2010
 MY writing goals
by: Nelson Muntz

well, because I want to keep blogging, and write a novel.
Oct 09, 2010
 to
by: catiadavis

finish a short story.
Oct 09, 2010
 Goals
by: Anonymous

To write three pages a day for editing
Oct 09, 2010
 Goals
by: Anonymous

To write three pages a day for editing
Oct 09, 2010
 My passion... my dream...
by: Anuya

I am a software engineer by profession but writing has always been my passion. Now I want to get my life on track again. As we should never stop believing in our dreams, I decided to take advantage of this opportunity.
Oct 09, 2010
 Speak into Existence
by: Eboney Bell

Hi, my name is Eboney Bell,I've written all my life,and has been driven to write for absolutely no reason at all,just the love and passion for books and wordplay, I want to see where I can take my words with some organization. I have an idea for a book that has been playing in my mind for years. I'm ready!
Oct 09, 2010
 Spinning a yarn
by: E. K. Ludwig

I'm a writer from the UK and I have worked in both journalism and education since I graduated with a History degree.

Like you all- I love reading. Nothing can fully capture the odd magic of well-spun words and I hope by doing this course, I will become a better story-teller.

I am currently working on a non-fiction book. I've written a children's book and I'm hoping it will be picked up and I'm forever scribbling any idea that pops into my head.

It's really lovely to be part of a writer's community.
Oct 08, 2010
 About the ending a work list!
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

1. Satisfies Answer a narrative question honestly, fairly and never cheat or frustrate (as life often does.)

2. Fit the mood and subject-matter and inspire a specific emotional reaction from your reader.

3. Pack a surprise of some kind. Think of your story as a grab-bag.

Your reader must be amazed-usually delighted with what he pulls out of it.

The gee-gaw may be tiny or huge but it must contain a twist which the reader couldn't foresee.

4. Its logical even if the solution is a complete surprise it must be credible and convincing.
Oct 08, 2010
 About Endings-poor endings can kill your story!
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

Writing Goals
by: Josh

I've been trying to write fiction for years and have a lot of beginnings to stories written. Unfortunately, I have not one single story actually finished. I always get stuck and then end up abandoning it before anything in the story actually happens. My goal is to be able to get from the idea stage to the actual finished story. I am wondering if anybody else has ever experienced this and how they got past it. Thanks.

To avoid this finale-fizzle many successful writers have been using the write it backwards method.

This is what I learned from Poe.

The one sure way to crack up anything is not to know where your going to land.

So be sure to plan your destination,the best route,and all the necessary detours,as soon as you get the idea for a story.
Oct 08, 2010
 Guidence and further education.
by: Cheryl

I have 2 incredible minature poodles and I have been kicking around this idea of a kids sitcom.I finally found this site and now I am inspired to see what is to come out of this.
Oct 08, 2010
 Welcome, everyone!
by:

A big welcome to everyone who has joined our group over the past few days. It's wonderful to read your goals and to get to know more about you. I'm so happy to have you here!

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Oct 08, 2010
 learn writing skills
by: SHK

Iam working for firm where it is required to write the Technical News letters to introduce products in various applications. For this iam intrested in learning these skills. Looking forward for your great help.
Oct 07, 2010
 Getting Started
by: Trena

My name is Trena and I'm a 25yr. old single mother from southern California. About 6 years I was taking a Literature class at a community college to satisfy my humanities general education credit. Our final assignment of the year was to write the next chapter in the book we were reading that semester which was "The Tortilla Curtain". I got a 115 out of 120 (I lost 5 points for grammar mistakes). I had forgotten all about the assignment until recently when I was going through some old paperwork and found the story. I read the instructors comments and she said that I "have a way with words." I read the paper that I wrote and I was surprised that it was actually my work. At the time all I wanted to do was become a Social Worker. However things changed and time passed. I took a break from college after the birth of my son and I don't want to be a Social Worker anymore. I want to go back to school and become a writer. Unfortunately my work and income are in conflict with my educatinal goals at the moment and that's why this on line course is just perfect. Re-reading my story gave me an incredible feeling and sense of freedom and I want to experience more of that. My goals are to.... (1) Write something everyday (2) Let at least one person read or listen to what I've written (3) Improve my grammar
Oct 07, 2010
 Check out lesson three
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

Sounds like you will benefit from lesson #3
Plotting!

Writing Goals
by: Josh

I've been trying to write fiction for years and have a lot of beginnings to stories written. Unfortunately, I have not one single story actually finished. I always get stuck and then end up abandoning it before anything in the story actually happens. My goal is to be able to get from the idea stage to the actual finished story. I am wondering if anybody else has ever experienced this and how they got past it. Thanks.
Oct 07, 2010
 Writing Goals
by: Josh

I've been trying to write fiction for years and have a lot of beginnings to stories written. Unfortunately, I have not one single story actually finished. I always get stuck and then end up abandoning it before anything in the story actually happens. My goal is to be able to get from the idea stage to the actual finished story. I am wondering if anybody else has ever experienced this and how they got past it. Thanks.
Oct 07, 2010
 Want to Publish Short Stories
by: Lauren

I've had a African-American short story collection kicking around in my head for over 15 years. Not sure why NOW has happened, but it did. I've been over in the theNextBigWriters forum and the critique I've gotten is good, but I know I need a course in order to get stronger with settings and character development. Sometimes I feel as though I have no imagination because I'm too busy moving the story forward to create vivid scenes that a reader can feel present in. So that's what I want to learn. Wish me luck!
Oct 06, 2010
 Creative Discipline
by: Morgan

I have been in process with my first novel for a year and a half, but tend to get distracted and caught up in day to day real life with a toddler at home. I have a lot of ideas, but am looking for the discipline needed to be consistent and follow through on my dream of being a published author.
Oct 06, 2010
 Storytelling
by: Chris

Writing is something that truly thrills me. I've been concentrating on journalism over the past four years, but I've been itching to get back to writing fiction, too. My goal is to broaden my writing and storytelling skills.
Oct 06, 2010
 Writing to me is ...
by: Jenny

Writing to me is something I was born to do. I don't know how I could cope, communicate, or be emotionally healthy if I didn't have words and know how to use them. I'm a big fan of journaling and I hope to write my first novel this year during NaNoWriMo.
Oct 05, 2010
 How to say it
by: Tee

Writing for me has always been a struggle, I usely know what I want to say, but dont know how to say it. I want to learn to write effortlessly.
Oct 05, 2010
 love to write
by: alam

I love to write novel or any thing creative I have ideas and imagination but I can’t express that I want to express that so I join
Oct 05, 2010
 moving forward
by: imogen

I would love to start writing again and get the courage to submit my articles to magazines again. I have a lot of ideas that are just stuck in my head. I need to try to get them flowing again.
Oct 05, 2010
 It's my passion
by: Inu

I have always been dreaming of becoming a writer.I won many prizes during univercity and college period.Then got married, shifted establishmet, started my own tutorial classees for math and science for secondary/higher secondary students,started student councelling....I lost my passion for writing somewhere finding life!now again I have started it. I do write for some online publications and on my own blug. Again trying to fly with my dreams, again gathering my inner soul in little installments, again stretching my hand to touch the horizon..again wish to treasure those tear drops which still denying to drop on the ground....but this time till death....
Oct 05, 2010
 My goal
by: Liz

My goal is to finish the 5th draft of my novel and be a lot more organized when I write the next one.
Oct 04, 2010
 me
by: scott

my goal is to put on paper whats in my head its all a little mixed up and jumbled so am hoping this will give me some guidance and let me put my imagination to use
Oct 04, 2010
 Storyteller
by: Danny Garant

I want to improve my scripts and characters for role playing game sessions.
Oct 04, 2010
 My goal is:
by: Schiltax

To have some semblance of family history and a personal journal to leave for my children.
Oct 04, 2010
 My goal is:
by: Schiltax

To have some semblance of family history and a personal journal to leave for my children.
Oct 04, 2010
 very happy
by: JAMAL RAASHI

After read first lesson, I hope I can get lot more info about how to write by join this course.Best wishs to all.
Oct 03, 2010
 Goals
by: JaymeeA

I really hope to improve my thoughts when writing first person and being able to stick to a story.
Oct 03, 2010
 Goals
by: JaymeeA

I really hope to improve my thoughts when writing first person and being able to stick to a story.
Oct 03, 2010
 Writing Goal
by: Chiaki

Just to improve. Of course, I eventually want to write a novel, but in order to do that, I need to be good first.
Oct 03, 2010
 Writing goals
by: Julie

By taking the courses, I hope to learn how to write a great story! My main goal is to write a novel but I'm not sure how to start this great project. I'm so glad that I found a website that offer free courses! My main language is french and I didn't found this type of info in french. Thanks again for offering free courses!
Oct 03, 2010
 Time to get with the program
by: Deanna Schrayer

Hello everyone. I’m joining the group in order to force a schedule upon myself, and share the joy, and the pain, of the writing life with like-minded folks. Six months ago I began a novel, after having written short stories, (nonfiction and fiction), and flash for the past couple of years. Though I’ve had several of those stories accepted for publication, and enjoy writing them, I’ve decided it’s time to set those aside and finish that novel, (that has sat unloved for the past three months). I’m hopeful this endeavor will teach me to maintain that schedule and, within the year, reach “the end”.

It’s nice to meet you all and I look forward to getting to know you.
Oct 03, 2010
 SAD NEWS
by: Anonymous

ONE ITEM ON A SAD NOTE, the news on saturday oct,2010's Daily News by David
Hinckley.

One of our favorite serie's creators died yesterday.
David Hinckley talked about the life and death of a man who was 69 years old.
Had 14 best seller's, created about 40 T.V. shows over his career.

He died yesterday at his Pasadena Calif.,home from complication of melanoma.
Whose logo was an old typewriter with him typing away at the keys. GOODNIGHT
MR. WALTERS.

IN MEMORIE OF STEPHAN J. CANNELL

Anonymous
Oct 03, 2010
 WHY I JOINED THIS GROUP
by: Maria Luisa

Hello:

My name is Maria Luisa. I have written through all my life. I have the main body of a novel, using many personal and familial experiences.
I have problems organizing everything I want to include and being disciplined enough to reserve a specific time just for writing.

Goals; TO WRITE 3 TIMES PER WEEK AS I LEARN YOUR LESSONS.

I am looking forward to be a part of your group and receive feedback.

Oct 02, 2010
 Totally Title-less
by: Magstar

Which is a little ironic, actually, because I was going to say that normally I get very good ideas for a book, but I never finish - even a short story - and really what it comes down to is all I come up with is a great eye catching title. So, if you want to buy a bunch of empty books with great titles on the spine, i'm your girl.
i'm taking this course in hopes of finding something in myself to finish a story. Whenever we did an assignment in school - where certain guidelines were laid out - I could always deliver, every time, a fabulous story. But left to my own devices...
Oct 02, 2010
 Want to write. Don't kow how.
by: Mahima

Reading novels, watching brilliantly written movies and plays have given me this urge to write. But i really don't know how to get started.
I can never finish a story. Somehow i can only imagine the starting. Plots are also a problem.
I hope this course gives me the guideline to finish at least one good story. Short or a novel. :)
Sep 30, 2010
 Hi Everyone
by: Said

A looong, long time ago, when i was young and time felt infinite, i dreamed i could one day be a famous writer.
Today, unlike the shepherd boy in Cuelho's Alchemist, i have wandered so far from and buried my dreams so deeply, it feels as though they are from a past life.
Often, while cleaning out my room, i come across pieces of unfinished novels, short stories.
I haven't written anything new in about 10 years. Last week i decided to do something about that. What with the internet and all the resources it offers... i find myself short of excuses.
Perhaps, rubbing the old grey pen with real serious writers near and far, I might find my muse back.
Sep 30, 2010
 oops, not anonymous
by: serene

Just like in first grade, the teacher always had to remind me to put my name at the top of the page.
My story is the one about the homeless lady.
Sep 30, 2010
 Welcome: Vijay, Patrick, Lost in Translation, WriteRight, Lingga, Akahana, Melissa, Rucker, Serene, Tonya, and Lorraine
by:

Vijay -- Congratulations on completing your novel -- that's a huge accomplishment.

Patrick -- Congratulations on finding a potential publisher, and I hope you find a solution soon for the ending of your book.

Lost in Translation and WriteRight -- Those are wonderful goals.

Lingga and Akahana and Melissa -- Sometimes when you're not sure how to get your ideas down on paper, the best thing to do is just to start writing, experimenting, playing... often the hardest part is just getting past the intimidation of the blank page.

Rucker -- I'm not sure this course will actually help you build your legal case. But maybe your legal case could be interesting material for a fictional story.

Serene and Elle -- I love your passion for writing -- keep at it!

Tonya - What a gift to your daughters to have instilled in them your love of reading and writing. If you like urban fantasy, you might be interested in the interview with Nicole Peeler that was just published on our website blog. You can read it here.

Lorraine -- Discipline is so important to writing. A lot of writers find it helpful to have a regular writing schedule, the same time every day, even if it is only 15 minutes in the morning 5 days a week when you sit down at your desk no matter what and just get some words down on the page.

Welcome, everyone!

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Sep 30, 2010
 Discipline
by: Lorraine

Hey everyone,

Very excited to be here. I've been writing for...well, there are too many years to count. I think it all started back in Elementary school. I'm here to learn, to be with other like-minded people who share the same dream, and most of all, to force some sort of writing discipline unto myself. I have a tendency to procrastinate alot so I'm hoping that by setting goals and having people to turn to about my writing on a regular basis will help me on my way to finally finishing my novel.

Cheers!
Sep 30, 2010
 Discipline
by: Anonymous

Hey everyone,

Very excited to be here. I've been writing for...well, there are too many years to count. I think it all started back in Elementary school. I'm here to learn, to be with other like-minded people who share the same dream, and most of all, to force some sort of writing discipline unto myself. I have a tendency to procrastinate alot so I'm hoping that by setting goals and having people to turn to about my writing on a regular basis will help me on my way to finally finishing my novel.

Cheers!
Sep 29, 2010
 Future novelist
by: Tonya

I have been a voracious reader for many years but never really thought about writing. It wasn't until the last few years that I've thought more about it, and recently I've decided I'm going to give it a try. I love the urban fantasy genre and feel this is a good time to get into that field. I love how a good book can put you in a different world...how you can feel so close to the characters--see what they see, feel what they feel, and in some cases, even become emotionally attached to them and use their lessons in your own life.

I gave my love of reading to my daughters. They both love to read, and my youngest started writing and illustrating at the age of 3! She is now almost 9 years old and already her goal in life is to be a New York Times Bestseller! My 11-year-old daughter also loves to write.

My goal is to become a successful, published author, and to show my daughters that with hard work, perseverance, and a really good imagination, they too can reach their goals and dreams.
Sep 29, 2010
 Introducing an authoress
by: Elle

Hello everyone..... I am new to the group but i must say that I trilled. I have always had a love for expressing myself with written words. I have been writing most of my life and have been told to go for it. well, i am, I am two days away from finishing my first book. I gave myself a deadline (because i started it over two years ago)

My goals are to get back to writing daily, in my journal or starting another book or a poem, whatever. I love to create and i am letting things steal that passion away from me. So that is a goal of mine to write daily.

Also to get my book published and have a wonderful audience that understands my work. I am not difficult people are around me or just not on my level of understanding.

Love ya
Sep 29, 2010
 Reading/writing/arithmetic. uh... no arithmetic
by: Serene

I have been writing all my life. I wrote my first play in 5th grade and my class performed it for the school. Was that the hook? Maybe, but it could be the tons of books that I have read. I write fictional short stories. I need to fine tune my writing. I have no shortage of ideas, they hit about every 5 minutes. I am happy to be here, learning and sharing with the rest of you.
Sep 29, 2010
 Fear go writing
by: Rucker

Greeting all,
I have had to defend criminal charges in court. After engaging solicitors & barristers to loss my case I was forced to seek a retrial in a higher court but was broke so ended up doing it myself. With time and pain I won the defence but lost a large sum of money. So now I have go back through the courts to recover loses.

I have started by reading about advocacy and litigation cases on the web and it is very clear that if you can write a story first then structure you legal plan around the story it is less boring for the judge and poor me, so I am signed in and look forward to testing the theory above.
Sep 28, 2010
 hello
by: melissa

I have lots of ideas in my head but not the first clue how to put them on paper as a mother i dont have time to learn outside of the home as my youngest child is waiting for heart surgery i need to be availabe at home i really hope this course will teach me all i need to know to write my stories!!
Sep 28, 2010
 Hello, All.
by: Akahana

I'm here to improve my writing skills so I can start writing all the stories and plots I have and weave them innto works of literary art. :)
Sep 28, 2010
 my mind needs to be written
by: lingga

so many ideas
but i don't know how to write them
i hope by joining this course i can write them well.. :)
Sep 26, 2010
 Thank You
by: Molly

Hello everyone,

After 2 lessons I can tell writing will be challenging for me. I really think I will enjoy it and feel that it will brighten my life.
Sep 26, 2010
 WriteRight!!
by: WriteRight!!

Hello to one and all.

The company is awesome.

I have decided to become a novice writer by dumping all previous manuscripts overboard and starting afresh with new books, quills and notepads. My goal is to read for understanding three stories a week, write daily, compose a journal and complete a story by the eight week.

I have a good feeling about this site and am confident of success.

Here we go ....... !!!
Sep 26, 2010
 Lost in Translation...okay, so not that creative
by:

I've recently come back to writing after having put it aside for many (too many to say) years. Presently I'm working on a number of short stories and have been submitting them to contests.
Wouldn't it be wonderful to write the great Canadian novel? Sure it would! I've ideas in my mind and notes on paper...perhaps one day when I've gotten my grove back I'll write it. Until then, pen to paper (well actually fingers to keyboard) and writing as much as I can.
Sep 26, 2010
 My first sci.fi./how to ending my story ?
by: Patrick

I'm French (53 old)living in Malaysia,I've writing my first Sci.fi >this is a sequel of 6 books.I've a potential publisher too,he want I rewrite some part of my manuscript.The ending is a cold pizza he said.
I've spending a lot of time for understand about the monomyth,red earing and clock ticking.
Right now I'm staring at my manuscript without clue how to repair my story.
I hope this writing course will help me to get my publisher's approval.
Sep 26, 2010
 Starting off
by: Vijay

You won't believe it, but I've completed my first novel - and I am not even a literature student.

Being an Indian, English is not my mother-tongue.

Everybody who read samples from my novel said that the prose is great, but I have problems with things like the narrative voice, pace and structure and the like.

I am in my forties and have a day job - therefore I cannot enroll as a regular student.

I sincerely wish to learn to write creatively and that has brought me here.

Vijay
Sep 26, 2010
 @ TMcC
by:

Welcome to the course! Although writing critical essays might not directly help you with writing fiction, your knowledge of literature and the critical reading skills you have developed will be important assets to you as a fiction writer.

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Sep 25, 2010
 Writing Goal
by: TMcC

Hi,

My goal is to write more instead of just thinking about it. I am a literature student, but writing essays doesn't seem to be helping with the creative side of things.
Sep 24, 2010
 Welcome Molly and Rhonda
by:

It's wonderful to have you here!

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Sep 24, 2010
 Hello
by: Rhonda

Thank you for this website. I am looking forward to putting my thoughts to paper. I also have spritual writings from my mother. She passed in 1990 and it has taken me 20 years to get these writings out of the trunk. These writings are very compelling and I am determined to publish them.
Sep 22, 2010
 My dream
by: Molly

after 11 years of cancer I just want to become a great writer
Sep 22, 2010
 Welcome: Lindsay, Lucky-Marie, Anshenise, Beth, and Harmony
by:

Beth - I'm so happy about finding your wonderful blog and having the chance to meet you over the Internet -- it is such a pleasure.

Lindsay and Lucky-Marie - Often, the best way to get stories finished is just to push through and finish them, even if you're not sure where you'll end up. You can go back and fix things afterward, and it's easier once you have something on paper to work with.

Anshenise - That's great that you maintain a daily writing schedule. Writing skills are like muscles, and daily practice keeps you in shape.

Harmony - Congratulations on making the decision to get serious about writing! Hopefully, you'll find it an enjoyable journey.

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)

Sep 22, 2010
 @ Angelo
by:

Congratulations on finishing your novel draft! That's a huge accomplishment.

It's really nice to hear from you -- please do stay in touch.

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Sep 22, 2010
 Hey everyone!!!
by: Harmony Robison

First time seriously writing and i'm hoping this website will help me get through some rough patches as I go along. :)
Sep 22, 2010
 Hey everyone!!!
by: Harmony Robison

First time seriously writing and i'm hoping this website will help me get through some rough patches as I go along. :)
Sep 21, 2010
 Hi Nancy and everyone,
by: Elizabeth Westmark

Just a few words to introduce myself and say hi. I am grateful to Nancy for providing this forum and the Essentials of Fiction class for us all. I am a creative nonfiction writer and blogger in the midst of trying to transition to fiction, so for Nancy and my paths to cross just at this moment is the best kind of serendipity.

It's sleepy time now, here in the panhandle of Florida, so I'll say goodnight. I'll be back after I read Lesson 1 and complete the assignment, and have a chance to read your work.

Sweet dreams,
Beth
Sep 20, 2010
 Novel finished, now for editing
by: Angelo

Hello Nancy and friends,
After I completed the creative writing I knuckled down and finished the last chapter. Now I have finished, it gives a sense of satisfaction that I have done it. I still need to review and edit but that sense of achievement of actually doing it is great. Many thanks for your guidance and I keep in touch.
Sep 20, 2010
 Love to write:)
by: Anshenise

I just love to read and write fiction. I write everyday. I want to be able to write good enough to publish a book.
Sep 19, 2010
 My Writing Goal
by: Lucky-Marie

I absolutely LOVE to write. Except, every time I have a hopeful idea and start on it, I start to play around with it. Then I get bored, abandon the idea, and get a new one. The process continues on and on...

Well, my goal is to complete a story without abandoning it.
Sep 19, 2010
 My goal
by: Lindsay

I am wanting to learn how to write creatively. I have a dream of having a full completed book one day. I have started many stories and never got them finished. Hope fully this course will give me the right pointers i need to write creatively and effectively as i have had no previous teachings.
Sep 19, 2010
 Welcome: Sam, Cecil, and Leslie
by:

Sam - I hope you'll find what you're looking for here.

Cecil Joel David - Congratulations on launching your blogs.

Leslie - Congratulations on completing your novel manuscript.

Welcome!

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Sep 17, 2010
 Leslie
by: Joseph F. Mazzaferro

I also look forward to your articulate comments and show man ship.
Sep 17, 2010
 My goals
by: Leslie

Hello All,

I decided that I wanted to really persue writing and quit messing around with it. Last year i completed NaNoWriMo and now I know I can pound out a lengthy manusript. My goal from this class is to gain some polish and hopefully turn this year's NaNo project into a publisable manuscript.

I look forward to working with you all! :)
Sep 17, 2010
 My Writing Goals
by: Cecil Joel David

Hi All You People,

First of all I just didn't expect to find so many of you interested in writing and I sure am happy to have such fabulous company.

I am from India. I have finally managed to get a couple of blogs off the block and it's loads of writing for me to stack them up with small little pieces of my mind.

I write more often then not but it's mostly about life, self growth, sales management and the likes and hence 'my writing goal' for this course is to understand the finer points of writing fiction which I've previously never done.

Looking forward to a great 8 weeks and numerous life long friends from amongst all of you.


Sep 17, 2010
 Hello
by: Anonymous

Hi Every,

Just registered for this course with the aim of gaining the skills essential for bringing writing to life and also to make new friends!

Sam
Sep 17, 2010
 Welcome: Jeff, Cari, and Anonymous
by:

Those are all excellent goals! Welcome to the course.

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Sep 15, 2010
 Hi! Everyone.
by: Jeff

I have wanted to get into writing for a few years. I write for a while and quit, write for a while and quit. So is the pattern, however I can't seem to stop. Now I have decided I am going to do this. I want to learn all I can about it. Someday I would love to write a novel.

My goals for now? To write everyday, take this class, and learn all I can about the craft of writing. I know now is the time to turn the writer inside loose.
Sep 15, 2010
 My Writing Goals
by: Cari

Hello everyone!
I was excited to find this free course. My main goal is to brush up on my writing skills.
Sep 15, 2010
 Hi
by: Anonymous

I have always been writing and now that I have decided to write my Romance novel, I need all the help I can get. I hope to learn the intricacies of fiction writing and write a good story. Thank you
Sep 14, 2010
 To Vonetta
by: Carolann

Hey, Vonetta!
I just wanted to say, as one who ENJOYS writing in a journal daily, I'm so glad to hear that's what you do.
I strongly hope this isn't becoming a lost art.
And welcome to the club!! =D
-Carolann
Sep 14, 2010
 HI
by: Vonetta

Hi. Im joining this class because I really do want to learn how to write well. I've always wanted to learn how to write short stories..and even learn how to make my journals better. I hope to learn everything I can to be able to write and be pleased with my writing.
Sep 14, 2010
 Welcome: Gloria, Ekram, Vivek, Laura, Angela, Amy, and Anonymous
by:

Gloria: Welcome, and congratulations on your online publications.

Ekram: Enjoy the change from journalism to fiction writing. You can also find some ideas for journaling here.

Vivek: That's great! Reading detective novels is the best way to learn about the form.

Laura: I hope the course will get you back into the habit of writing, and that you'll have fun doing it.

Angela: It's wonderful to see your passion. And I completely agree with you about the importance of characters.

Amy: I hope the course will make you feel energized to keep moving forward.

Great to have you here, everyone!

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Sep 13, 2010
 Goals
by: Anonymous

Hi everyone,

I just finised writing my first fictional story, now on to the editing part. I am hoping this course can help me get the book in order so that I can find someone to publish it.
Sep 13, 2010
 New
by: Amy

Hello everyone,
I am excited and anxious about joining the class. I hope that this will keep me accountable and moving forward with my writing. I am looking forward to learning and growing with you.
Amy
Sep 13, 2010
 Wow! This is awesome!
by: Angela

Hi everybody!

I'm so glad to join this exciting group.I love fiction and am so passionate about creative writing, and this is a quality website I'm really lucky to have come across.

I look forward to learning all I can especially on character development , because I believe characters are central to any story and should have impact.

I trust that we all share a mutual desire to learn how this magical fiction world works.Let's all have fun!
Sep 13, 2010
 Research here is help .
by: Anonymous

dictionary.reference.com/writing/styleguide/

Here is a resource I use all the time.

The only thing that is written in stone and don't need editing is mentioned in the bible
(The Commandments) As for the rest of us we use white out erasers.

My writing never happens in one sitting.
Sep 13, 2010
 GOAL
by: Anonymous

I wish to write a book
Sep 12, 2010
 free membership a group in yahoo.
by: Anonymous

vivek if anyone is interested Subscribe: mysterywritersclub-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
Unsubscribe: mysterywritersclub-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
List owner: mysterywritersclub-owner@yahoogroups.com

Sep 12, 2010
 intro
by: Laura

Hi everyone,
I'm a writer for performance, based in England, and I'm looking at improving my prose style by doing this course. After not writing for 8 weeks now, because of school holidays, I'm also hoping the course will get me back into writing regularly. And it's always great to say hello to other writers.
Speak to you all again soon!
Laura
Sep 11, 2010
 making notes and ideas everyday
by: vivek

hi there,
i'm writing a novel about a detective. for this i'm reading the adventures of sherlock Holmes and noting down ideas and points regarding mystery novel.
Sep 11, 2010
 so excited to be here!
by: Ekram

Hello everyone,

Am a junior journalist, i have wanted all my life to take creative writing courses because journalism is a passion to me rather than a profession. i wish i could keep a daily journal by now.
Sep 10, 2010
 newbie
by: gloria

Hi, a newbie to this course but I've been writing short stories and poetry for some time and many are published on-line. Currently writing a novel, slow progress, so I'm hoping to lean more as I work through the course lessons -
Sep 10, 2010
 @ Natasha
by:

Welcome, Natasha! It's wonderful to have you here.

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Sep 09, 2010
 Hello Everyone
by: Natasha

Hi Guys! I am new to this course but I am so excited. I have been writing a lot when I was young. I miss it so much. Now that I am laid off I figured this is the perfect time to get it back in my life and work on that story for publication. I am aiming high for my goals. I think I just need some refreshers to get going. It has been awhile.
I want to write fiction and some non-fiction. I have a few stories I have started but not sure where to go with them. I am very excited to be here.
Sep 09, 2010
 Welcome: Saba, idontdocutexox, James, Pam, Christel, Stormy
by:

Saba - I'm so glad you decided to try this course. I hope your first experience with an e-course will be a positive one.

idontdocutexox - Congratulations on completing a book at eighteen. I like your pen name!

James - I hope you'll find this course useful for your writing. For more information about publishing, you could check out the Poet & Writers publishing FAQ.

Pam - Thanks a lot for stopping by! It's so nice to see a friend here. (Everyone: Pam is an experienced professional writer).

Christel - The "blank canvas" stage of writing can be exciting and intimidating. The great thing is that when you start writing, you don't actually have to commit to anything. You can experiment -- play -- and try out different possibilities until you find one you want to spend some time with. The writing exercises in this course might give you some ideas.

Stormy - It sounds like you have a wide range of experience. Great to have you in the course.

Welcome!

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Sep 08, 2010
 Goals
by: Stormy

I am a freelance writer, editor, reviewer, and marketer. I have a non fiction book in the works and a fiction in the beginning stages. I hope this course will aid in my ability to create a quality book and help my writing overall.
Sep 08, 2010
 frozen
by: Christel

I'm keen to write fiction eventually- currently I'm immobilized in the way one is facing a blank canvas. Committing to an idea or theme is getting in the way of writing anything at all. I feel some writing exercises could cure my current impasse!
Sep 07, 2010
 More a non-fiction writer
by: GentleWind

I agree with you Pam. I am not really a fiction writer either. I mostly write poetry and non-fiction and I edit some material. I am wanting to increase my creative flow for non-fiction articles and children stories.
Sep 07, 2010
 Writing goals
by: Pam Houghton

I'm not a fiction writer, but I do think the story-telling process in fiction can be applied to other types of writing to get the point across. So maybe I'm looking for useful story-telling ideas - and then it will be up to me to apply it to creative non-fiction, copy writing, blogging and other types of online writing.
Sep 06, 2010
 Introducing Myself
by: James Ouma

I just joined today, though I have been writing. I hope to learn more, especially how to package my writing for publishing.
Sep 05, 2010
 For: idontdocutexox
by: Carolann

Hey, you're in my prayers. Could you tell me what your book is called and what it's about? That would be cool. I'd like to hear about it. BTW: I'm just a couple years younger than you--16.
Sep 05, 2010
 My Gold
by: Joseph F. Mazzaferro

Creative Writing is an art form, that of crafting words and phrases that is portrayed in the minds of the readers. As I take my readers on an adventure.

The more I practice my craft the better my skills of show becomes.

If I am performing my skills correctly, then my readers benefit by seeing themselves as one of the characters living my stories.

That is my Gold, to have my reader identify with my characters.

J.F.M.
Sep 04, 2010
 teenage dream
by: idontdocutexox

18 year old already have a book. Always wanted to be a writer. Out on my own. No parents to help me. Looking forward to starting this, get my life on track. ;)
Sep 04, 2010
 Looking to improve
by: Saba

HI, I'm Saba and I'm looking forward to taking the next step in my career as a writer. I've never taken an e-course so this will be new for me, but I'm looking for to it!
Sep 04, 2010
 Welcome: Toni, Nathan, Rodney, GentleWind, Milla, WilAhugh, Rachel, and Carolann
by:

Thanks for sharing your goals! It's wonderful to meet you and to have you in the course.

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Sep 03, 2010
 Hello from a young author
by: Carolann

Hey, I signed up for this writing course a few days ago and I'm really enjoying it. Ever since I learned to write, it's been my favorite pastimes. I write in my journal everyday, I enjoy writing fictional short stories, and often I will be inspired by random things to write a story. For example: the short story I am currently writing was inspired by a mailbox.
My goal is to eventually be published. I would love for others to read my writing and to have my pieces of work in a tangible book to read over and over.
Hopefully soon you will see my name on the cover of a book!
Sep 03, 2010
 New Here
by: Rachel

hey everybody! im new to this creative writing deal. ive always been a great writer and i want to one day publish something worth reading. haha. my goal is to learn to be more creative.
Sep 03, 2010
 Hello everyone
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

Hi mila your nabor from across the bridge Brooklyn N.Y.
by: Joseph F. Mazzaferro

What genre is your writing? I am mystery and Horror drama's.
My gold is to someday submit my writing some where for publication, until I am ready to send it into a publisher or self publish I keep writing.

J.F.M.

I am 66 years old in April I will be 67. I am a grandpa, my wife and I baby sit our grandchildren.
Sep 02, 2010
 need refresher
by: wilAhugh

I'm from Moline,IL and what to start sending short stories to sci-fi magazines and having self doubt about the structure of my stories. I really want to accomplish this without wasting the editors time with simple high school mistakes.
Sep 02, 2010
 To Improve
by: Milla

i am from atlantic city,nj and my goal is to improve and finish this story i recently started.
Sep 02, 2010
 My Goals
by: GentleWind

Hello everyone.I am from the Gulf Coast of FL. My goals are to learn how to write fiction stories for adults and children. I write mostly poetry now, but I've always wanted to learn how to write good fiction. Hopefully, with the help of this class, I can!
Sep 01, 2010
 Goals
by: RodneyJ

I want to get started on a draft of a fantasy novel that's been growing in my mind for the past few years.
Sep 01, 2010
 To see my stuff
by: Nathan

Since I was a kid, I had hoped to write something that people would respect and want to read again. I've been writing fiction and poetry off and on (mostly off) for the last 15 years and don't know how to gauge myself.

Can I write? If so, what should I be writing? Who would read my stuff?

I would like to start writing seriously 4x per week outside of my work. My writing journal is mostly empty - a fact I'm keen to fix.
Sep 01, 2010
 Objectives
by: Toni Falade

Hello, i am Toni from Nigeria and my main aim of writing is to set my thoughts free through the redemptive power of words and the pen.

To express myself better through words and to communicate better through my writings.

Writing for me is something that comes naturally, but i know i need to sharpen it up to be well accepted. And i hope this platform gives me an avenue to allow my writings to be rated and published.
Aug 31, 2010
 Welcome: Judy, Cindy, Johanne-dana, Megan, Samuel, and Victoria
by:

Judy: A fun-to-read writing style is a great asset.

Cindy: How wonderful that you have novels playing in your head like movies! It should be fun to get them onto paper where other people can enjoy them too.

Johanne-dana, Megan, and Samuel: Those are all excellent goals.

Victoria: It sounds like you have a rich source of material from which to draw in your fiction.

Welcome, everyone.

Nancy (Creative Writing Now).
Aug 31, 2010
 Goals
by: Victoria

I'm from the Philippines and am a lawyer by profession. I write daily because of the nature of my profession. But I've been wanting to write stories -- light and funny stuff -- maybe about all the unintentionally funny people I meet in my work and all the funny events that occur in my line of work.

I'd like to join writing competitions and see how my stories will fare.

Aug 30, 2010
 My Writing Aspirations
by: Samuel W

Hello everyone, pleasure to meet you all and I hope to be able to learn a lot and help others learn. Excited to finally be getting some creative writing help.

For a few years now I've wanted to write my own novel, but something always stops me and it's rarely the same thing. I hope to improve my writing and ultimately write and get a novel published that people will want to read.
Aug 30, 2010
 My Writing Goals
by: Megan Snedeker

My goals are: 1) Figure out my adventure novel idea (this is moving slowly) 2) Getting a good start on my thriller 3)Getting used to writing at least one page a day at least 3 days a week 4)To learn that I am writing for MYSELF, not others. I am SO happy to finally be able to get help on my writing!!
Aug 28, 2010
 To Joanna and Cindy
by: Joseph F. Mazzaferro

Nice to meet you, in your comments you used the tag you all and you'll.

Do I detect a souther accent.

I have family from Columbia South Carolina.

Again very nice to talk with you both Joanna and Cindy.

P.S. I was wondering if you detect any accent I might have (I am from Brooklyn New York and I am of Italian American decent?) How appropriate the code word ACCEND.

J.F.M.
Aug 28, 2010
 Welcome to the last two posting members.
by: Joseph F. Mazzaferro

The way you both ended your posting with you all.
I detect a slite southern accent am I correct.
I have family out in Columbia South Carolina.

Again nice to meet you both.
Aug 27, 2010
 newbie
by: Johanne-dana

Hi every one!!!my writing goals is to write a least two pages everyday.I have started my draft and currently on page 7. I happy that I found a writing circle where I can share my thoughts, and Ideas, and hopefuly get some help and ideas from you all.
Aug 27, 2010
 Glad to be here
by: Cindy

My writing goals are: 1) to write, even for just a few minutes, at least 5 days a week; 2) to continue my recent foray into poetry writing; 3) to write the two novels that alternately play in my head like movies; and 4) to have fun and stretch my creative abilities. I'm looking forward to meeting y'all.
Aug 26, 2010
 Hi
by: Judy

Every Since I was in grade school I was told I had a "fun to read" writing style. I never really pursued or developed whatever ability I have. Maybe a part of the reason was and is not having confidence.
Would like to get into the habit of just writing, be it a journal or story. Sure hope this proves to be an interactive group who reads, comments and critique other members writing. (gently of course)
Glad to join you.
Aug 26, 2010
 Welcome: Mercedes, Kelbian, Anonymous, Leah, Aimee
by:

Mercedes: I can tell you have a flair from language just from your comments here! (How sad to imagine a lemon meringue pie without the lemon.)

Kelbian: Congratulations on nearing the second draft of your novel!

Anonymous: A deep love of reading is the perfect starting point for writing.

Leah: A journal is a good idea for getting past writers' block. You can find some ideas for journaling at https://www.creative-writing-now.com/writing-journal.html

Aimee: Finishing stories can be hard. I hope this course will give you some helpful ideas.

Welcome, everyone!

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)

Aug 25, 2010
 New
by: Aimee

I always have all these stories running through my mind, but they are only the beginning of stories. I am hoping this course will help me to complete a story and help with me creativity block.
Aug 24, 2010
 My Writing Goals
by: Leah

I hope to be able to get over my writer's block, start a writer's journal, and actually get somewhere in this story I just started working on.
Aug 24, 2010
 writing
by: Anonymous

Writing will allow me use my imagination to the full, to create characters out of nothing to provide them with a childhood, experiences and preferences.
I suffer from agrophobia along with a mood disorder and reading for me is a form of escape, a way to delve into anothers imaginative creation, i am hoping this course will provide me with the basic knowledge to start writing so i can provide others with a form of escape.
Aug 23, 2010
 The nerve wracking novel!
by: Kelbian

Hi Everyone!

I'm glad to have found this course! I have a degree in professional writing but my passion is creative writing and I was just thinking the other day that maybe I studied the wrong thing!

I'm nearing the end of my first novel (second edit). So far I love the characters and the plot but I feel like something is missing. I changed it from first person to narrative and have added at least three new characters to the plot since writing the very first sentence over a year ago.

Based on my research, I've noticed that most readers are looking for characters with more substance and plots with deeper meaning. I believe my novel has the potential to achieve this but I feel like I've been writing it so long and so hard that I'm failing.

I'm here to be refreshed! Perhaps then I can figure out what the missing link is :)
Aug 21, 2010
 I want to get into the "meat and potatoes..."
by: Mercedes

Okay, I am a special sauce, parsley garnish, chocolate swirl kinda girl. I am so good at making things look (or taste) pretty, that I forget the important stuff. The bones, the lemon to the lemon meringue pie. So I am left with this dreamy meringue sitting on top of an empty pie plate. I need to figure out how to advance my plot. I am great at frills and goo gahs, but I need substance.
Aug 21, 2010
 Why I want to write
by: Mercedes

I love words...If they were food, I would be a glutton. I love the images you can create by submerging yourself into them. I love the power they give you over others...I don't mean in a Dr. Evil sense-I just mean as the author you have ultimate responsibility to your characters, to your reader and to your story itself when breathing life into something. I want to make the reader taste the Apple crumble I am describing or smell the noxious fumes from the witch's old black cauldron. My problem stems from a lack of direction...I am sometimes not good at guiding my story where it needs to go and that's where I need help, plot development. The backbone of the tale unfortunately.
Aug 19, 2010
 Welcome to the course
by:

Diane: Congratulations on nearing the end of your book!

Ina Mary: That's a great idea to write three times a week in order to stay focused. Keep us posted on how it goes.

Susie: I see you're getting some good tips on Joseph and Renee. All of the writing assignments in this course could potentially be turned into ghost stories.

Charlotte: I know that feeling of starting over so many times that it seems impossible to reach the end! Maybe you could try to push through one time and finish the story without rereading it. Then you can reread it afterward, and, if you have new ideas for a new approach, you can try them in a second draft.

Susan: Congratulations on finishing a draft of your novel. What an accomplishment!

Great to have you here.

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Aug 18, 2010
 My Goals
by: Susan

Hi everyone, I'm Susan and I just completed writing my first 80,000 word YA novel a few months ago. I'm now in the throws of my first round of editing and quickly finding out that editing IMO is even harden than it was to write the book.

My weak area for writing is Grammar. I suck at it an am having to lean on friends for help in that area.

My ultimate goal is to have my book complete and ready to send out to agents by the end of this year.
Aug 17, 2010
 Susie here is the story I am wring see in lesson 5
by: Joseph F Mazzaferro

(my suggestion)
My take an eye opener.
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

The concept of using a setting as the main character has been used before.

Stephen Kings-Salem's Lot.

The Amityville Horror.

T.V. Shows-Dallas

T.V. Soap Opera's Later turned into a regular T.V. Show- DARK SHADOWS-Dan Curtise.

This Concept is worth looking into.

J.F.M.
Aug 15, 2010
 Final Wrap Up
by: Charlotte



I have been working on a story for several years now and I need to bring it to a close. I am having trouble because I keep reading it through over and over. When I do this I find new ways to spin the story and so I keep adding to it. I am hoping with this course I will be able to finally end it.
Aug 15, 2010
 Ghost Stories
by: Renee

Are you writing for adults or children? I've noticed many ghost stories are based on historical events i.e. dead soldiers from wars either on land or sea, pirates, old homes/manors, fun celebrations i.e. halloween, dark lonely roads, graveyards. If you're a child there's always the boogeyman in your closet or under your bed. I look forward to reading your stories on the 'share your writing' page.
Aug 14, 2010
 ghost stories
by: susie

Hi im susie, I have been writing articles for awhile and had some published in magazine, But I would like to write ghost stories can anyone give me any ideas, as Ive been told its a hard area to write stories on. Ive had persional experiences of the paranoral, so feel this will be my best area to write on.
thanks everyone
Aug 14, 2010
 Nice to meet you Ina Mary.
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

(HERE IS MY SUGGESTION HOPE IT HELPS!)

HERE is a trick I use to help me write.

Create a Lexicon of words you want to use, then build you story from there.

J.F.M.
Aug 14, 2010
 need coaching
by: Ina Mary

I have a degree in Journalism and use to write daily then I got away from it and having trouble getting started. My goal is to write 3 times a week and finish what I start.
Aug 14, 2010
 GOAL
by: Diane

My name is Diane and I am writing a book. It will be done soon but I feel like there is still a lot to learn. I am hoping to learn something new here.
Aug 12, 2010
 My computer been downTrojen virus wasent to me
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

I have not received lessons 6 and 7 just got the computer back today.

J.F.M.
Aug 12, 2010
 Aspiring to write
by: Anonymous

My goals at this point is to brush up on my writing skills so that I might become an author in the future.
Aug 09, 2010
 @ VictoriaN
by:

Welcome to the course, Nojang Victoria! It's great to have you here.

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Aug 08, 2010
 My writing goals
by: VictoriaN

I am Nojang Victoria, a student in the higher secondary school in Cameroon. Writing has always been my ambition, perhaps my obsession. That is why when I pick up Jude Deveraux's novels,"The Duchess" for example I am immediately intrigued by the writer's ability to evoke the readers' feelings.
These is what I hope to discover as a writer.I am in interested in poetry, scriptwriting and writing romance. I want to become a writer who would be critical of societal ills.
Aug 07, 2010
 @ Renee
by:

Welcome, Renee! Those are great goals.

And there are many writers like you, who prefer a spare, almost journalistic, style. This style seems a natural fit for the type of detective fiction you admire. If this is what you like to read and want to write, then go for it!

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Aug 05, 2010
 Goals I hope to accomplish
by: Renee

Learn how to flesh out a character, describe details of the character and their surroundings, to become observant of their quirks and flaws. I want to create an iconic detective in the first person. My favorites are from the 1930's through 1950's i.e. Sam Spade, Phillip Marlowe. My all time favorite is Lt. Columbo. He used his brains, was very observant, looked for motive, and then set a trap for the suspect who didn't know what he/she was walking into. I tend to write like Joe Friday from the Dragnet series i.e. 'just the facts.' I'm wondering if this is wrong.
Aug 03, 2010
 @ Joseph
by:

Congratulations on the progress toward your writing goals!

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Aug 03, 2010
 Welcome: Christian, Lynsey, David, and Casey
by:

Casey - That's wonderful how your second grade teacher inspired you. I hope you'll enjoy the transition from essay writing to fiction.

David - Welcome to the course. You can also find additional tips on science fiction writing at https://www.creative-writing-now.com/how-to-write-science-fiction.html

Lynsey - Dreams can be a powerful source of creative material.

Christian - I certainly know the feeling of being crowded in a small apartment with too many books. Looking forward to reading your story.

Welcome, everyone.

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Aug 03, 2010
 writing goals
by: Christian

I have heard for years that everyone has a story in them and judging by the sheer number of books around my dingy little apartment i think by now i've read just about all the stories there are. I hope this course will help me let my story out.
Aug 01, 2010
 Hi!
by: Anonymous

Hi there,

My name is Lynsey I come from Scotland, I too have never written a story before, although I probably could tell one due to all the strange dreams that I have at night.
I hope to write a really good unique book that takes people into the journey of my imagination.

Thanks
Jul 31, 2010
 Hello
by: David

Hi, I am David. I am from Scotland in the UK. I have never really written much in my life but hoping to write a good science fiction story.
Thanks
Jul 30, 2010
 Subject to revision J.F.M.
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

I now can sleep tonight. Finished the story changed the title and completed an ending for the story.

Title; Genie in a bottle-Nick Murdock Private Eye.

Added a twist of lemon to the ending.

9 pages
1801 words
8.058 characters (no space)
9.958 characters (with space)
135 paragraphs
350 lines

Subject to polishing it.

J.F.M.
Jul 30, 2010
 lost sleep
by: J.F.M.

The flow of ideas come to me between night and R.E.M. time thats when the muse pays me a visit.
Jul 29, 2010
 progress report working to achieve my goals.
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

My story I started writing about a week and a half ago Nick Murdock Private Eye.

now is;

7. pages

1,266 words

5,649 characters (no spaces)

6,961 characters (with space)

105 paragraphs

291 lines
Jul 28, 2010
 Intro and Goals
by: Casey

I've loved writing since I was very young. My second grade teacher told me that she was sure she would see my name on book shelves one day. I am now a high school English teacher and I love reading fiction. Through my studies in English I have developed into a competent essay writer. I am just starting to embark on a (probably very long) journey that will hopefully culminate in the completion (maybe publication?) of a fiction novel. For now, I'm just looking to hone my creative writing skills.
Jul 27, 2010
 Welcome to the group
by:

Welcome, Margaret, Nancy, and Gill!

It's great to have you here.

Nancy (Creative Writing Now)
Jul 27, 2010
 To eventually write a novel
by: Gill

I have wanted to be a writer for many years, but have never gotten around to it. More and more I am feeling the urge to create a story that others will want to read and that I can be proud of.

But first, I need to learn how to write in a way that will keep people riveted, I am hoping this course will help.
Jul 26, 2010
 Back to Basics.
by: Margaret

My goal is to start writing again. I used to write a lot. 4 kids later and no time. Thought I would give this a try to get the creative juices flowing again.
Jul 25, 2010
 Writing Goal (by a course participant named Nancy)
by: Nancy

I would like to write stories based on our family's experiences for my grandchildren. I have already written two stories. One is about their dogs and the other is about a trip to the zoo. I would like to write something a little longer, something with chapters.
Jul 24, 2010
 Aout lesson 2 vivid characters
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

Good Research, good story.

Every character has a job, career with its own vocabulary.

Doctors = medical

Lawyers = legal

ect. research is the key foundation of my characters.

(Example) If my character is a Forensics expert.

I need to be a Forensics expert.

How does a 66 year old from Brooklyn learn enough to sound like I know what I'm talking about?

Don't laugh could it be my copy of Forensics For Dummies that I own (research)
Jul 24, 2010
 Hi
by: Anonymous

My name is Dylan and I am from Arizona.
My writing goal is to finish the novel I am writing and to get it published soon after.
Jul 23, 2010
 For helping and encouraging other writers.
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

About lessons one, two, three and four.

What life has taught me. As you travel down roads of intrigue.

I envy all you new writers. Your imaginations will take you on hairsplitting adventures.

From the pinnacles of mount everest napaland india 29.028 feet.

To the marsh, swamps and bogs mires quagmires all around the world.

Without leaving the safety of your own homes.

No adventure to dangerous to go on.

Thats the wonderfull part of the imagination!!
Jul 23, 2010
 Hello
by: Liad

Hi,

I'm Liad from Israel. I'm really excited to be on this course. My goal is to start writing regularly, and to hone my writing skills.
I hope this course will give me a push in the right direction.
Jul 23, 2010
 Welcome to the group
by:

Jorge Richard P. Guerrero from Laoag City, Philippines.

Jul 23, 2010
 Hello!
by: Anonymous

Hello! I am Jorge Richard P. Guerrero from Laoag City, Philippines. I am completely a newbie in novel writing, but I dream to be able to publish one someday. I pray for your patience on my ignorance in this field. Thank you and God bless!
Jul 20, 2010
 Nancy one last Bill Weiss story.
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

Bill Weiss had spent a life time at writing these exercises.

(Something to learn by) At the writerspark club Bill created he cried out for help one day, he had his computer crash and lost all his exercises.

He asked that the members if they had any of his exercises. Please copy and paste to send back to him. We all did.

(The lesson) is simple back up anything you write on the computer with hard copy.
Jul 19, 2010
 @ Joseph
by:

Hi Joseph,

It's great to have you participating here, and I really appreciate your generosity in helping and encouraging other writers.

To keep things organized, let's try to use this page for certain specific purposes:

1) Introducing ourselves

2) Welcoming new classmates

3) Sharing and discussing our writing goals

4) Sharing our progress with our goals

5) Encouraging other writers with their goals.

There are other areas of the Salon specifically for sharing class writing assignments and discussing class topics. Right now, we unfortunately do not have an area of the website that is for publishing general creative writing not related to the class assignments or competition themes. We'll definitely look into creating more areas for sharing writing in the future.

Joseph, thanks a lot for sharing the prompts that you found useful. This is very kind of you. But we shouldn't publish this writer's prompts without his permission.

Joseph, I hope you'll keep visiting this forum to welcome and encourage the other writers in the group.

Thanks,

Nancy
Jul 19, 2010
 Welcome
by:

Welcome Bindy and Stacie! It's great to have you here.

Nancy
Jul 19, 2010
 hello
by: stacie

hello my name is stacie and i have always wanted to write but it gets so frustrating and so easy to quit. but i want to write a book and sale it and have something out in the world i did that everyone wants to read.
Jul 19, 2010
 part 5
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

Things have gotten so bad that Holmes became so irate towards Doctor Watson blaming Watson for his lack of privacy. Watson blamed Holmes irritability on Holmes addiction to cocaine use which was out of control and suggested a holiday to the America's, New York. Brooklyn New York to be more precise. Watson wrote As Holmes got of the Great British Ocean Liner from England at the port of Manhattan. Holmes expected to be greeted by Indian's but instead was pleasantly surprised when he was able to get a coach to take us to Brooklyn.
He spent his final years of his life right there in Brooklyn New York exploring his new surroundings. Holmes had hired a coach driver to ride from Stillwell avenue and surf as he was in awe of the view of the ocean, its breath taking beauty. On his return trip the coach driver took him down Stillwell avenue to where it changed and became Bay Ridge Parkway. Enjoying the sites of the farm land all along the way to shore road. There was something about this place that had a calming effect on him, it was such a beautiful site, the scenery along the route, Holmes told Watson of his intentions. It shocked Watson when Holmes announced to him what he intended, "I have decided Watson to buy a parcel of land here on Bay Ridge Parkway and settle down to the life of a bee keeper.
Jul 18, 2010
 part 4
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

1.
In Holmes own diary and memoirs he stated. My good friend Doctor Watson has suggested a change of major consequences a change of scenery. I was un-able to walk around the streets in London were people, who were perfect strangers kept coming up to me asking me the most ridiculous questions. Even going to see my brother Mycroft became a bit of a chore.



But I was up for the challenge at this time. I made myself up to look like a decrepit old beggar in a tattered uniform looking like an old solder using crutches while hanging outside on the street. The sign above the door announcing welcome to the Diogenes club.
I was holding out my hand asking everyone who pasted if they had any spare shillings. This was how I wanted to appear to the merchants on the street. People refusing to make eye contact with me.
I looked up and I saw this heavily built massive man as he approached. There was a suggestion of un couth physical inertia in the figure as he walked. So alert in his steel gray deep-set eyes. The gross body only his dominant mind showed through.

He looked at me and didn’t say a word. He handed me a note. The note said, Sherlock meet me at 7 p.m. at the docks signed Mycroft.
Not many would be observant enough to recognize me in disguise, the way my older brother Mycroft could.
On the dock we met, he handed me a pouch. “Sherlock, I need for you to deliver this to the secret service a matter of national importants to the American government.” “This is a dangerous assignment I am asking you to embark on.” “If you choice not to undertake it I will understand.” Mycroft Holmes was adamant about it. “My dear brother.” “I have an obligation to inform the American Government about a menacing threat to the life of the president.” “”Sir Winston Churchill has contacted me personally.” “He placed the Burdon in my hands to warn the president.” “The only one I can trust with this assignment is you, Sherlock.” They were determined to use the cover story of Holmes taking a holiday!
It was Holmes on Holiday in New York. The year was 1840 From the Notes of Doctor John H. Watson. . Towards his later years. Later on in the life of my dear friend Sherlock Holmes, Our relationship became strained. Because of my writings of Holmes cases in the strand magazine he had lost out on his privacy, Holmes popularity had ballooned in London to the point that as Mr. Sherlock Holmes walked down the streets of London strangers would constantly bother him.


Jul 18, 2010
 part 3
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

James Moriarty was a teacher of math at a third rate college. He was not any napoleon of crime as claimed by Sherlock Holmes.
“It turned out to be one of the worst days in the life of my brother Sherlock…” “When they connected…” “That charlatan Doctor Watson was the cause of my Brothers problems…” “That is when Sherlock’s faculties started declining…” “His judgment questionable at best…” “When he started to hallucinate…”
“Doctor Watson was Holmes’s drug supplier he kept him addicted by supplying and feeding Holmes’s habit. I helped to provide for the massive cover-up. Watson was a drug pusher peddling his poison, he never helped my brother Sherlock Holmes…”
“I have found the actions of Watson to be unsavory…” “Treating Sherlock for boredom by the use of cocaine and morphine…” “It was outrageous.”
In any normal society this fact would be recognized. Holmes became an embarrassment to both Doctor Watson and Mycroft Holmes. That’s when Watson recommended to Holmes a change of scenery to go to America as a form of treatment for his addiction. Sherlock Holmes whose mind became feeble agreed to do so!
Holmes noted. I am no longer able to tell the difference between what is real and what is not, I am losing my mind! At age 65, I believe dementia prae cox has taken over my once logical mind.
Jul 18, 2010
 part 2
by: Joseph F. Mazzaferro

About my younger brother Sherlock Holmes and his trials and tribulations in his life time. “I have taken this time out from my tedious schedule to set the record straight…” “It’s a delicate matter.” “About my brother.”
As Mycroft stared into the glass case in his study looking at Sherlock’s deer stalker cap…and other items… “About my Brother Sherlock Holmes…” “He was born smart and we shared many of the same attributes from our parents…” “Our superior intelligence…” “It scowled me, the fact that he squandered his gifts and talents away…”
“His talents”.“I often think just how effective he could have been if he only applied himself at the post of superintendent of Scotland Yard…” “The post he was most suitable for…with his talents…” “A perplexity to match his skills to embrace the challenges with his mind that he looked for in his life…” As Mycroft took a bottle of his finest Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet wines out of the rack and poured himself a glass. “It was Doctor Watson’s tall tales that drove both Sherlock and I crazy…” “Watson’s pastime of obscuring the fact’s” “His embellishment of the truths about Baskerville hall and some large dog what a trifling of the fact’s…” “In the Profile of my brother…”
The profile of the mind of Sherlock Holmes that was compiled by Mycroft Holmes in his life and times during his later years he wrote my brother Sherlock Holmes had a horrendous cocaine addiction. If the truth be known about Sherlock Holmes. It is believed by many, that Mr. Sherlock Holmes cocaine problem caused him to hallucinate.

In the abyss of his mind he created professor Moriarty out of Holmes’s own boredom. Picking on a third rate mathematics teacher, he created the so called evils he claimed the professor was responsible for and blamed everything that was evil in England on this poor math teacher. Holmes’s delusions put his mind into a world of his own making.
Jul 18, 2010
 To complete this story project below
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

(Here is the beginning.)

From One Sherlockian to another. I give you the master. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, by placing pen to paper he started the most interesting and intriguing game. Because of him a lot of today’s Sherlock’s method the Monographs the oldest form of forensics, television shows owe a lot to Sherlock Holmes and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The CSI and Criminal Minds would bring a big smile to the face of Conan Doyle, if he was alive today.
What Conan Doyle started those many years back, the rest of us have continued. As long as there is a Sherlockian, there will be a Sherlock Holmes story needed to be told. The games a foot let the games begin.
My approach of writing a Sherlock Holmes story is slightly different than most. I show a more human version of Mycroft Holmes. As I paint a picture of the last days of his brother Sherlock’s life. In my story I create tension between Sherlock, Mycroft and Doctor Watson.


In the Chronicle’s of Mycroft Holmes
Written by J.F. Mazzaferro
Jul 18, 2010
 Trying to figure it out
by: Bindy

Hi all, I'm new. I'm trying to revive an old passion of mine. When I was younger I used to love to write short stories. I loved getting lost in a world I created. As life goes though, I grew up and lost that little piece of innocence and possibility. You know what I'm talking about... that part of you as a child that believes you can do and be anything. Then you grow up and reality sets in. Life isn't as beautiful and easy as we imagine, it's complicated and full of choices, both good and bad.
Anywhoo... wish me luck. I'm very open to suggestion and discussion.
Thanks,
Bindy
Jul 17, 2010
 question.
by: Joseph F, Mazzaferro

In one of the other clubs I belong by the name of
writerspark their was this very nice guy by the name of BILL WEISS he was an extremely bright man.

Well getting to the point Bill used to make up and send out these writers exercises.

I went to a club I created called mysterywritersclub in yahoo and researched and discoverred that I still have most of them.

NO ONE IS OR EVER HAVE BEEN COMPELED TO DO THESE EXERCISES.

These exercises he created to help at all writers skill levels.

Nancy I have a whole collection of Bills Exercises and was wondering if you would not mind me sharing them with the group.

Joe
Jul 16, 2010
 To Nancy Sorry Nancy I don't mean to be a problem.
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

Please forgive me my shortcomings? Nancy

I always liked to help people and share,entertain never meaning to step on anyones toes.

If thats what I am doing let me say I am sorry to
You and the whole group..

Humbley
Yours Joe
from Brooklyn
new york
Jul 15, 2010
 @ Joseph
by:

Hi Joseph. Congratulations on completing these writing projects!

That's a wonderful idea to exchange writing prompts and challenges with friends.

Nancy
Jul 15, 2010
 Writing projects
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

Hi Nancy the project I have been writing for over 10 years.

Title Secret chronicles of scotland yard.
Is 51pages long 16327 words characters (no space)
72605.
Character (with space 90897.

contains 53 paragraphs and 2612 lines

By the above information you can see I take my writing serousely. plus I started working on a second story with these character. I created these characters and brought them to life in my mind.

My second Bedford and McDonald story-

follows the secret chronicles is tittle, The tooth fairy mystery affair.

is only 4 pages
929 words
4303 characters (No spaces)
5326 characters (With spaces)
53 paragraphs
97 lines

This story is a fun story for the reader to follow. After the reader knows all the characters.

GOOD Story ideas come from many fifferent source's. I told this old dear friend about my passion for the craft of writing. His name is Frank Di Meo. Frank sent me in two small words bite and challenged me to create a story, I wrote a whole story intitled A trip to the boneyard
(What Frank sent me was this below)

That’s when everything got really weird, As we walked thru the old cemetery, the clock in the north tower struck two am. It was so dark we couldn’t see a foot in front of us, as Joe and Frank moved ever so slowly, Joe cracked a branch with his left foot. Frank struck a match to discover the branch was old bones.

In the very center a stile-to stood straight up! The sound of dog's howling in the distance brought goose bumps to our flesh.

(My comments) The story I created is;

16 pages
5268 words
23541 characters (no space)
28979 characters (With space)
176 paragraphs
422 lines long.

Would anyone in the group be interested in reading the story I created?
Jul 15, 2010
 Writing goals
by: Anonymous

It's good that writers have goals, my goal is to write stuff that my reader and I can share and in joy together.

J.F.M
Jul 15, 2010
 Welcome to the group
by:

Welcome: Shawny, Martha, Share, Mary B., Lady, and Kaci!

Martha: I hope this course will be a good antidote to technical writing. Probably the best thing you can do to switch to a fiction writing mindset will be to read as much fiction as possible.

Share: Daydreaming about "What if" scenarios is a great way to get ideas for fiction. And I think your idea of setting a writing schedule will help a lot with the follow-through issue you mention.

Nancy
Jul 15, 2010
 Hey!
by: kaci

Hey, everyone! I'm new here and thought I'd introduce myself. My name's Kaci. I'm a 19 year old college student. I hope to become a published author in the young adult genre. I'm actually in the middle of writing one book and have just started two others. My goal is to have them all done by next summer and then possibly be published within a year or two after that.

:D
Jul 15, 2010
 Y Halo Thar!
by: Lady

Hi, I'm Lady. I'm 26 and a freelance writer for a living. In my spare time I write creatively. This is actually sort of a refresher course for me; I'm looking to sharpen my skills a bit. I don't take my creative writing too seriously, but I would like to.
Jul 14, 2010
 Goals
by: Mary B.

I have just finished my first novel and am now in search of an agent. I have three goals at this point; to find an agent, to improve my writing skills and to start my second novel, which is so hard to do when the first has not sold yet.
Jul 13, 2010
 my goals
by: share

Gosh, this is great, reading everyone's reasons for being here. I think my main goal is to get the nerve to let people read what I write. I've always loved books (own too many), reading (nearly anything printed), and writing (journals, notes, lists, poems, fiction -). I even collect paper, pens and pencils.
Everything I do leads into thinking "what if..."; I spend a great deal of time alone and daydream about all kinds of things while doing everyday chores.
I would like to become more focused in setting a writing schedule, and collecting all the bits and pieces of papers on which I've jotted notes over the years. I become very distracted and don't follow thru when trying to but together a book or story. I have several unrelated things in progress right now.
The end point would be to become published.
Jul 13, 2010
 Writing Goals
by: Martha

Hi Everyone, I am Martha from SW Ohio. I loved reading and creative writing when I was young but took a different path in college; I majored in chemistry which required strong technical writing (experimental research) of a neutral genre ( i.e factual and non-emotional ). I switched to a career in IT which requires even drier technical writing. As an unfortunate bonus, my technical reading courseload was so heavy, I found it difficult to get back into a good relaxing read. I currently belong to an online users group and like to write in that forum with humorous banter of everyday happenings. My goals are to springboard off a regimented structured style and get back to a style that is more freeform and uninhibited (PLEASE feed me suggestions on writing exercises). I would like to develop a good feel for putting together a structured short story, then focus on learning how to develop a longer storyline that could perhaps translate into a screenplay. I am in awe of the members here who have or are trying to write a novel and would also love to learn your organizational techniques and discipline tips and tricks for accomplishing this goal. I know I have some assignment catchup to do with you all so I will try to focus on that in the short term.
Jul 13, 2010
 im new
by: shawny

hey I am 18 and i just joined this writing fiction class and my goal is to get my novel published and be successful.
Jul 13, 2010
 Welcome
by:

Welcome: Gail, Silvia, Nat, and Telika! It's great to have you in the course.

Nancy
Jul 12, 2010
 Hello Nat you have my best wishes
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

I am 66 years old I was forced into retirement with major health problems over ten years back,
I turned my attention on my passion for story writing
Jul 12, 2010
 Out of the Miry Clay
by: Telika Howard

I've written a young adult fiction novel titled Out of the miry clay available at amazon.com my goal now is to punch up the sequel and to be able to write other short stories quicker
Jul 12, 2010
 My Goals
by: Nat at NEM Enterprises

Hello,

My name is Nat and I run a small writing company (nementerprises.com). My goal for this course is to simply broaden my repertoire of skills and to finally be able to focus some of my "writing energy" into producing a novel length book.

Specific goals:
1)Maintain a daily blog (actofdiscipline.wordpress.com)
2)Write a fiction short story.

Thanks and I look forward to working with you all!

Nat
Jul 12, 2010
 Thanks
by: Lilly

Thanks Nancy. I'll try some of those. I've been keeping a diary. So I think i'll carry on the diary for now as it's been helping and I'll try out the ritual for switching gears. :)

Thanks again,

Lilly
Jul 11, 2010
 Hello
by: Silvia Hallmark

Hi, my name is Silvia and I am here because I want to learn all I can about writing novels. I have been writing all my life and am in the process of looking for a literary agent. I have a novel ready for review.

I always look for writing courses to take to keep me current on the newest writing techniques and what the current reader market wants to see in a novel.
Jul 11, 2010
 learn more
by: Anonymous

Just finished my first novel about Abraham Lincoln. Looking for new inspiration and to brush up on basic fiction writing skills.
Jul 11, 2010
 My goals
by: Gail

Hi

I'm Gail, and I live in the U.K.

I've been writing all my life, and have recently completed a fictional trilogy. I've received positive feedback, and am currently looking for an agent or publisher, but I'm always open to ways of improving my work.

My goals are:
1. To improve my writing.
2. To learn whether or not my current writing style and technique meet the market criteria.
3. To gain some professional insight into my work.
4. To be able to say "I've completed a writing course" ;)


Jul 10, 2010
 @ Lilly
by:

Hi Lilly,

It can be so hard during times of stress to switch gears and focus on writing.

One idea to try would be to develop a personal "switching gears" ritual that you regularly follow before you write. For example, you might shut yourself in a quiet room and read a page or two of a book that inspires you. Or you might take a short walk before writing to clear your head. Or you might spend a few minutes writing in a diary to let out some of your emotions so that you can better focus afterward on your fiction (if you write about your problems with your partner, of course, you will need to be very careful to keep the diary private.)

If you follow the same routine each time you write, your brain can get used to this routine as a signal that it's time to get into writing mode.

Another approach would be to try to use your stress in your writing. Very likely, you are too close to the problems with your partner to turn them right now into effective fiction. You might find that your emotions interfere with your artistic control over the material. However, you could try writing a story about an entirely different situation which in which a character is feeling the same way you are at the moment. Then you can use your emotion to bring the writing to life.

The right approach to this problem is really a personal matter. Try different strategies to see what works best for you, and please let us know how it goes.

Take care,

Nancy
Jul 10, 2010
 Help!
by: Lilly

Hello!
I'm looking for some advice tonight. Basically for the majority of the day I look after my little boy and the house when I'm not working. Recently my partner and I are not getting on. Whenever I do get the chance and have some me time to write, I can't seem to because I'm so wound up about my partner. Any advice on how to switch off from him and concentrate on writing about something I want to write about?

Thanks :)

Lilly
Jul 10, 2010
 @ Joe
by:

Welcome, Joe.

That's wonderful that you've kept the novel manuscript alive over the years until now, when you have time to focus on it. I would imagine that your perspective on the material has changed in interesting ways since you began the project.

Congratulations on reaching the final chapter-and-a-half of your revision!

Nancy
Jul 10, 2010
 Finish my novel started in 1977
by: Joe

Hello All,
First a thank you to Nancy for this opportunity. My goal is to finish my first novel I started in 1977, yes 1977. I wrote the first draft in 40 days, then my work got in the way. I retired in 2008 and have rewritten and rewritten till the book looks nothing like the first draft. I now have one and a half chapters to go. Then edit and look for a publisher. Then I start my next project a trilogy, historical fiction. So my retirement days won't be boring.
Jul 08, 2010
 @ Carolyn
by:

Welcome to the group, Carolyn!

Nancy
Jul 08, 2010
 my goals
by: Carolyn

My goal is to finish the ms for a book I started a year ago. I'd love to learn how to better translate my thoughts and visions into words that'll draw readers into my story.
Jul 08, 2010
 @ Kayla
by:

Welcome, Kayla. I'm sure that your lifetime of voracious reading will be a huge asset to you as a writer.

Great to have you here!

Nancy
Jul 08, 2010
 @ Sondra
by:

Nice to meet you, Sondra (or do you prefer to be called Danielle?) Those are great goals. And even if it's sometimes impossible to finish a draft without blocks/insecurities, it's always possible to finish the draft in spite of them.

Welcome to the group!

Nancy
Jul 08, 2010
 Joseph
by: Lilly

Thanks for that advice, I will put it into practise and see how it goes! :)
Jul 07, 2010
 My Goal
by: Sondra

hi! my name is sondra but danielle will do. im from georgia!!! my goal is to create a great idea that will keep my audience wanting more. i also wish to finish one draft without writers block or insecurities. (lol). Life gave me lemons but i hate lemonade... so i think lemon meringue pie will do.


<3 live life to the fullest
Jul 07, 2010
 Kayla in Tampa
by: Kayla Kendree

Hello all :D I'm an avid reader and sometime writer in sunny Tampa, FL. I can not remember a time when books, particularly fiction, were not a huge part of my everyday life. I have always been amazed at the way a good story can transport you away to another time and place, and allow you to live someone else's life for a while. When I was a child, my mother called it "Kayla's world", because almost nothing short of a hand in between my eyes and the page could break my attention away from whatever book I happened to be caught up in. Strangely, I've never considered writing until recently. I have been facinated with Laurell K. Hamilton's Anita Blake series, and it inspired me to try my hand. I'm excited to learn the basics of setting up a plot and outline through this course!
Jul 06, 2010
 @ Victoria
by:

Welcome, Victoria, and congratulations on your publication!

Nancy
Jul 06, 2010
 Writing Goals
by: Victoria

I have several projects I'm working on. Two novels - with a few beginning chapters (in first draft status) for both novels. I have just completed the first draft of a short story and am doing a list of characters for another short story.

I just had my first short story published in an anthology that was released in June. That was exciting and has given me new commitment to apply bottom to chair and get more work/writing done.

Happy writing to all.
Jul 06, 2010
 @ Robbie
by:

Nice to meet you, Robbie!

Week 3 in the course is focused on plot structure. And if you have any questions that aren't addressed by the lessons, you can post them in the Salon discussion areas so everyone here can try to help.

Welcome to the group!

Nancy
Jul 05, 2010
 Nice to meet you
by: Joseph F Mazzaferro

Happy Birthday Robbie.

JFM
Jul 05, 2010
 Oh to thicken the plot!
by: Robbie

I just celebrated my 60th birthday. I have written poetry and short stories sporadically throughout my life, but decided over a decade ago to seriously pursue being a published writer. I'm married and we're both retired, yet house and husband still seem to be a full-time job. I do manage a couple of hours most days to either write or research markets or post a chapter for critiquing in an online support group. But I believe my greatest weakness in fiction writing is creating a compelling plot. Since I live in the country an online class that might help me build some plot muscle is very appealing. BTW nice to meet all of you!
Jul 04, 2010
 @ Lizzie
by:

Welcome, Lizzie!

Descriptive writing is something we'll focus on in Week 7 of the course.

Don't worry too much about your vocabulary. Some writers use extensive vocabularies to add texture and poetry to their work. But many fiction writers prefer to use everyday language in their stories and novels. A classic example of this is Hemingway.

I'm sure that, writing in your own voice, you'll find you have words you need to tell stories. But if you want to expand your vocabulary, I'd suggest reading as much as possible. You'll absorb new vocabulary as you're reading, and along with the meaning of the words, you'll develop a feeling for how they're used.

Plus, reading is important to growing in other ways as a writer.

It's great to have you in the group.

Nancy
Jul 04, 2010
 @ Autumn
by:

Welcome, Autumn!

Along with Robin, I'm sure that other writers in the group will have tips and experiences to share about finding writing time while caring for small children.

Keep working on your novel and check back to let us know how it's going.

Nancy
Jul 03, 2010
 My Writing Goals
by: Lizzie

Hi, I am Lizzie. My writing goals a numerous. First of all I would love to learn how to get my thoughts into words.I would like to learn how to write description much better than I do now, which is not very well at all actually. My vocabulary if kind of limited. I'm not ignorant but living in the shelter of these mountains does just that, they shelter us. I live in NC, I am a middle aged female and I work full time with a diverse group of people.
We all have our stories to tell, whether fiction or nonfiction and I want to learn how to tell mine.
Jul 02, 2010
 @Autumn
by: Robin

Yes, our world today is just too fast paced anymore. I do have a suggestion for you, though. Is there anyone who could watch your little one for even one to two hours a couple times a week? Even if you got three pages a day done it's better than nothing. Just a thought. Sending you best wishes.

Jul 02, 2010
 my goals
by: Autumn

Hello. My goals are to finish a book I have been working on for the past two years as well writing all the other stories I have in my head. It would aslo be nice to get my book published but right now I just need to finish it. I am a stressed out stay at home mom of a three year old which is why it is taking me so long to get it finished. It seems I am always either too busy, tired or stressed to write. I have only been writing since I started this book but since then the stories and ideas will not stay out of my head. I was excited to find this free course and I hope it is really all it seems.
Jul 02, 2010
 @ Cheryle
by:

Nice to meet you, Cheryle!

Finding focus is an important goal.

If you read the other comments on this page, you'll see that you're definitely not alone in feeling challenged by story endings.

Welcome to the course.

Nancy
Jul 02, 2010
 Goals
by: Cheryle

My goals are to improve my writing, find focus and actually finish a story. The beginnings are easy, the middle and the end are where I slam head first into that brick wall, then toss the story aside and start a new beginning.
Jul 02, 2010
 Welcome, Paris and Lilly
by: Anonymous

Thanks for joining the course!

Nancy
Jul 01, 2010
 My goals
by: Paris

Hello everyone! I'm really excited about this course. I look forward to reading everyone's lessons, thoughts and ideas and hopefully in the process I'll become a better writer.

My main goal is to finish my current wip. I suffer from the same vicious cycle that Lilly does. My muses like to bring me intoxicating ideas while I'm in the middle of writing. The ideas nag me until I give in and start to flesh out the details, which essentially leaves the wip in floating wip land.

Jul 01, 2010
 Lilly here is a suggestion.
by: Joseph F. Mazzaferro

Try to write the end first then work forward.
Its easy to put the pieces together as long as you know where you're going.

J.F.M.
Jul 01, 2010
 Title: Insanity, the Diary of a werewolf
by: Joseph F. Mazzaferro

My story has 50 sound bites or chapters if you prefer.
Jul 01, 2010
 My goal
by: lilly

My goal is to finish a story as I seem to start them, and then I get another idea which I have to start. It's a vicious cycle!
Jul 01, 2010
 Thank you Nancy.
by: Joseph F.Mazzaferro

Part of my Problem is I have completed several
of my stories but I am to lazy to submit them anywhere.

(In the Genre of Mystery)
My favorite author is Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

I have created my characters after his Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson. My characters, are a Chief Inspector and a Sargent at Scotland Yard.

You have to forgive me I get fired up when I talk about my creations.
Jul 01, 2010
 Welcome, everyone!
by:

Welcome: RJ, toytoker, Robin, Robyn, Kasie, Corrie Ann, and Meka. It's wonderful to have you here!

Nancy
Jul 01, 2010
 @ Joseph
by:

Thanks a lot for sharing one of your current writing projects! (I've removed the duplicate post in the Lesson 1 discussion area just to keep things organized).

Welcome to the course!

Nancy
Jul 01, 2010
 BIG dreams
by: Meka

Hi!It is so wonderful to be apart of such an exciting course!From as far back as i can remember,writing poems and stories was alwas a way for me to express myself.For me,it' also a passion.I'm from a country where "BIG" dreams do come through!!Thanks for inviting me.
Jul 01, 2010
 Focus on project
by: Corrie Ann

The next month I want to keep focus on writing a short story for submission. No distractions, no excuses - just pure focus.
Jul 01, 2010
 Making a Dream Come True.
by: Robyn

I have always been a fan of writing but unfortunately in college I went down the wrong path. Now that I'm thirty years old, I'm going back to my first dream and that's writing. I have all these stories running through my head and now it's time to get them on paper. I know there is so much more to learn and I can't wait to learn as much as possible.
Jun 30, 2010
 To improve my skills ...
by: KT

I've been participating in an online writing community/contests for about 15 months and I'm pursuing a BA in English Literature in hopes of learning all I can to improve my "storytelling" skills. I adore writing fiction, and have a novel in the works that I hope to begin queries for by the end of summer this year.
Jun 30, 2010
 Publishing
by: Kasie

I've finished a number of novels that people seem to like, but I haven't had any luck on the publishing side. I would love to get them all polished to gleaming before sending out any more inquiries. My fondest daydream is of being able to make a career out of writing.
Jun 30, 2010
 Finishing a novel
by: Robin

I'm working on adapting a story I wrote over the winter into a full-length novel and plan on using this course to help me in this endeavor.

@Amanda,
I'm a fanfiction writer, too. I love it, but like you, I want to create my own characters and stories and have others enjoy them.
Jun 30, 2010
 One of my many writing projects.JFM
by: Anonymous

Title: Insanity, the Diary of a werewolf

Written by, Joseph F. Mazzaferro
1.
What would you do if you found yourself in my shoes? I started writing my diary on the shale slate walls of this cave to tell everyone about my tormented soul, can you imagine my pain. How I became a werewolf in the first place. First let me give you this warning! Beware of the full moon.
2.
It was in the year of 1955. I had just turned twenty-one when a bunch of the guys decided to go on a hunting trip upstate New York. It was up in the Catskill Mountains near East Durham New York. Little did I know to my knowledge at that time I was going to be the prey hunted by some large diabolical evil wild animal?
Jun 30, 2010
 to come up with an outstanding fiction novel
by: tokytoker

way back @ my pry en secondary sch days,have written series of unpublished manuscripts,seeing this course online,i realized it was an opportunity for me after about 12 yrs of graduating fromd university to go back and realize d chilhood writng skill.i know d course will be a worthwile one.
Jun 30, 2010
 Writing Goals
by: RJ

I'd like to finish the novel I've been working on for over a year. Hopefully this course will help me work through the plot problems I've been having.
Jun 30, 2010
 @ Amanda
by:

Welcome, Amanda! Great to have you here.

Nancy
Jun 30, 2010
 So hard to decide!
by: Amanda

Well, I am currently working on fanfiction, though I would like to write an original, captivating novel, something that I could really continue for long and show all my friends and family, perhaps publish. I'm still thinking of a mental deadline, I mean, I wouldn't like to push myself when I'm not inspired.
Jun 30, 2010
 @ Joseph
by:

Welcome to the group, Joseph!

Nancy
Jun 30, 2010
 I have more then one genre of writing.
by: Joseph F. Mazzaferro

Mystery, Horror, fiction on the top of my list.
Jun 30, 2010
 @ Angie
by: Rachel

I live in Livingston which is past right past Walker. I don't live that far from you. It is nice to know of another writer in the area.
Jun 30, 2010
 @ Charles
by:

That sounds great, Charles. Welcome!

Nancy
Jun 30, 2010
 Consistancy
by: Charles

To spend more time at finishing a 100,000 word sci-fi novel I am working on. I am now at 55,000 words and write around 1,000 words per day.
Jun 30, 2010
 Welcome to the group
by:

Welcome, Colin, Angie, and Mary. Thanks for joining the group and sharing your goals!

Nancy
Jun 30, 2010
 Hi All
by: Colin

My goal is to get myself into a routine where I write every day. Mostly I write non-fiction, but I hope to learn writing skills through this program which I can use in any genre.
Jun 30, 2010
 @ Rachel
by: Angie

Where in Louisiana do you live? I'm in Baton Rouge and it's so rare that I meet a writer that lives near me!
Jun 30, 2010
 Writing Goals
by: Angie

I've written several short stories and started a novel. My goals are to write a novel and write it well. And of course, for it to be published:)
Jun 30, 2010
 Writing Goals
by: Mary

I have an idea for a novel that has been running around in my brain for a few years. So, my goal is really to get a better handle on fiction writing (I am currently writing and publishing frequently in a journalistic venue), so that the story doesn't continue to get away with me with too many characters and the storyline taking off in too many directions. I also want to figure out how to use real life happenings for fiction, yet fictionalize it enough that no one who reads the novel can say 'oh, I know who that character is.' I guess those are my beginning goals.
Jun 30, 2010
 @ Lizz
by:

Welcome, Lizz. Daily writing is a great goal!

Nancy
Jun 30, 2010
 Goals
by: Lizz

My goal is to write a little, or a lot, every day. I just bought a new laptop so are no excuses for not writing. I have written a few short stories and am working on two novels right now. One for children ages 6-9, and one for YA. I have never had anything published other than a few articles in a local club bulletin. I'm hoping to finish my work and one day, get them published. I am looking forward to this class.
Jun 30, 2010
 @ PK
by:

Hi, PK, great to meet you! And congratulations on finishing your YA novel.

Nancy
Jun 30, 2010
 Introductions...
by: PK Hrezo

Hi, I'm PK. I'm a busy working mom who tries to write in between. I have an adult suspense story that needs some work and I just finished revisions of a YA novel I'm vey excited about. I took some journalism in college but I'm basically self-taught from anything I can get my hands on to learn writing fiction from.
I'm glad to have this opportunity to broaden my horizons and look forward to making friends. :)
Jun 30, 2010
 @ Rachel
by:

Welcome, Rachel. That's a great goal!

Nancy
Jun 30, 2010
 @ Angela
by:


Welcome, Angela!

Congratulations on your decision to focus on your writing and take it to the next level.

It's great to have you in the class.

Nancy
Jun 30, 2010
 Writing Goals
by: Rachel

Hello everyone. I'm Rachel and I'm from Louisiana. My writing goal is to finish my first draft for my mainstream fiction novel by September 1st which means I have a word count goal of 1105 words per day. I want to finish my first draft so I can start planning out and researching my second novel that I will be writing for NaNoWriMo.
Jun 30, 2010
 @ Harrison
by:

Nice to meet you, Harrison!

Congratulations on selling your first novel. That's impressive that you're working in so many genres -- horror, science fiction, and soon a thriller.

Ending of stories can definitely be tricky.

Welcome to the class!

Nancy
Jun 30, 2010
 My Current Writing Goals: Finishing
by: Angela

Hello. I am so thrilled to be a part of this class. I am doing all I can to move forward with my writing. I currently have committed this period in my life, in particular this next year, to the sole purpose of writing. Never in my life have I reserved anything for writing, delegating it to a very occasional indulgence and escape from everyday life. The number one love of my life has been writing since 6th grade. I started keeping a journal for school, and fell in love with creative writing as well as journaling. I have dreamed of writing....longed for it, but never believed I could do it. I have since decided to swallow my pride, stomp fear's ugly head, draw my sword and remove it once and for all. Now that the dragon has been slain, it is onward. This class is a stepping stone in my journey. I look forward to sharing my work and learning from yours.
Jun 30, 2010
 Trying to become the best I can be!
by: Harrison Ray

I sure wish I would have paid more attention in school! How could I have known back then, I would end up a novelist when I turned 63? I did and as a result learn something new everyday. I am a firm believer in the old adage: We should never stop learning, which is why I decided to take advantage of this opportunity. What areas do I need help the most with? Grammar and punctuation.

This is why I rely so heavily now on editors who have a good grasp of the English language. I am currently at work on my second novel, which is sci-fi. My first novel was done without such aid, and though it steadily has sold, its by no means making me a fortune in royalties. It was in the horror genre. My next will be a thriller.

While I have no lack of ideas for stories, I always fall down in those two areas of my writing. Have you ever written a story and wondered how on earth to tie it up in the end? That's where I am now. I usually find a way, but would prefer it be the right way. In the meantime, hello, everyone!
Jun 30, 2010
 @ Tomica
by:

Hi Tomica,

It's great to meet you!

Nancy

Jun 30, 2010
 Hello all
by: Tomica

Hi! I'm Tomica from Ohio and really looking forward to this course. I've just started on a novel and would love to get any help available. This should be great.
Jun 30, 2010
 @ Kim
by:

Welcome, Kim!

How wonderful that you have time now to focus on completing your novel.

Great to have you in the group.

Nancy
Jun 30, 2010
 @ Carol
by:

Welcome to the course, Carol!

That's exciting that you're going to take the next step with your memoir.

I hope this course will give you some ideas you can use while writing the short story for your class.

Nancy
Jun 30, 2010
 My writing goals
by: Kim Tyree

I've been writing for a while, and have published a few non-fiction articles, but I really want to write novels. I've been a stay-at-home mom for the past 4 years, and haven't had much time to write with 3 little ones running around, but now that my oldest will be starting school soon (and the younger ones preschool), I'm going to have more time to write. My goal is to get back into "writing mode" and get my novel ready to send to agents soon - by the end of the year, hopefully. My secondary goal is to be successful enough with writing over the next few years that I won't have to get a "real" job (one away from home, that is) once all the kids are in school!
Jun 30, 2010
 Hello!
by: Carol

My goals include writing every day, and starting work on my Memoir. I've had notes scribbled on index cards and a rough outline for a memoir, but now I'm feeling the pull to get more serious with it.

I also have the more immediate goal of completing a short story for a class I'm taking. I have to have something ready to submit by July 18.

Look forward to meeting everyone here.
Carol

Jun 29, 2010
 @ Andrew
by: Nancy

Welcome to the course, Andrew!
Jun 29, 2010
 Introducing myself to the group
by: Andrew Leigh

I'm a middle school teacher residing in Portland. My goal is to keep learning and growing in everything I do. Not only in writing, but in all aspects of life.
Jun 28, 2010
 @ Jamie
by: Anonymous

Hi, Jamie, welcome to the course. Those are all great goals.
Jun 28, 2010
 Hi everyone
by: Jamie

Hi my name's Jamie, I'm from the Pittsburgh area. I've always loved writing but I haven't had so much time to focus on it.

My goal is to write at least one complete story a month starting this month. In one year I'll have 12 stories, which is enough for a book. I also want to get a story published this year.

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