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FOR WRITERS: Writing a More Hopeful Future

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FOR WRITERS Today’s writer topic comes from QSFer Jana Denardo: I was raised on Star Trek with a happier view of the future than the current trend toward dystopias has. I was wondering why, in so many SF (especially) and fantasy pieces we continue to recreate the homophobic barriers we see in real life instead of showcasing the idea of rising above them? (With the understanding of course, there are topics the author wants to tackle within the framework of spec fic). I’d broaden this out a bit to also include writing a vision of a future in general brighter … Read more

FOR WRITERS: Writer Self Care

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FOR WRITERS Today’s writer topic comes from QSFer Christine Wright: I noticed a few writers saying that depression/ anxiety really effecting writing recently, what are some self care actions are you taking and what has helped to reawaken the writing spirit? Maybe speak also of what impact that ‘creators carrying on through trying times’ has on society. Join the chat

Tips for Writerly Success

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FOR WRITERS Today’s writer topic comes from QSFer Kari Trenten: Tips for Success: What are the things you need to know in order to survive as a writer? What social mediums are essential in getting the word out? Join the chat

FOR WRITERS: Starting a Newsletter

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FOR WRITERS Today’s writer topic comes from QSFer Kari Trenten: “Newsletters to readers, how does one go about starting one?” Adding on to this – what plugin or app do you use? Is it free? If not, what does it cost? How do you get folks to join your newsletter list? What content is most effective? Join the chat

FOR WRITERS: Gaming Your Stories

Super Mario Brothers

FOR WRITERS Today’s writer topic comes from QSFer Jordan Marshall: We often talk about the architect/gardener dichotomy, but with the advent of story games, I’m wondering if a thrid option has opened up. Do you ever use some sort of game in your plotting/writing process? Scott adds: “And if you do, please, oh please, can it be Super Mario Brothers???” Join the chat

FOR WRITERS: Self Publishing 101

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FOR WRITERS Today’s writer topic comes from QSFer Kari Trenten: “What are the basic steps every self published author should follow?” I’ll elaborate a little. How do you get your manuscripts into ebook and print formats? How do you submit them to distributors? What are some of the pitfalls self publishing authors need to be aware of? Join the chat

FOR WRITERS: After the Rejection

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FOR WRITERS Today’s writer topic comes from QSFer Kari Trenten: “Rejection – Now What?” I’ll elaborate a little. You see a great call for submissions. Or you hear about a publisher you really want to work with. You spend weeks, or months, crafting the perfect story, put it in a metaphorical envelope and mail it off. Then two months later, you get a rejection email. What do you do with it next? Join the chat

FOR WRITERS: Multiple Author Names

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FOR WRITERS Today’s writer topic comes from QSFer Aidee Ladnier: “Do you or have you thought of obtaining multiple pen names? Is it hard to keep up with two brands?” Let’s talk about the practical rather than the why – if you have multiple brands/pen names, how do you deal with them? Do you keep them strictly separate? Do you bleed into them a little? Do you have multiple facebook logins? etc… Join the chat