Polarization is the latest buzz word; it seems. The word originated in the scientific realm and was predominantly used for wave oscillations. Much like sound waves on a guitar string, the action of plucking the string creates a reaction that streams to both ends simultaneously, causing symmetrical vibrations which then turns into sound. It’s an oversimplification, I know, but … Read More
Five Things Every Pantser Should Plan
The idiom “Flying by the seat of your pants” was originated in the 1930s when pilots had to rely on instinct instead of navigational devices. Most viewed these gutsy pioneers as heroes who thumbed their noses at danger and took fate into their own hands. Much like the first pilots, writing pantsers have that same larger-than-life view of storytelling. They … Read More
Life is Hope
Suicide. Most people shy away from the subject. It’s difficult, and uncomfortable, and leaves us facing our own mortality. We’d rather smile, nod our heads and switch the conversation to something safe and mundane–like redecorating our bathroom or go on and on about how we’re looking forward to spring. It’s a way to stick our head in the proverbial sand, … Read More
Understanding Narrative Distance
Recently, I’ve been doing a slew of content editing, which is difficult for me at best. There are two reasons for this. One, as a writer, it’s my natural tendency to interject my voice into anything. I struggle to assess a story, the characters, the pacing, the voicing, the plot and any holes there might be, without changing the style … Read More
Running a Lean Mean Marketing Machine
I did a post on Facebook’s latest changes regarding groups and pages last month, but even authors that had prepared for the switch were shell shocked at the results, both in sales and in reader interaction. Algorithms have destroyed any hope of reaching new readers without paying for an ad or running a sponsored post. My friend LK Griffie has been saying for … Read More
The Currency of Life
I was complaining about chasing rabbits (which is a euphemism for doing a little of everything and getting nothing done) to a friend when she suggested thinking in terms of income-producing activities. I wrote about it earlier this month, but the idea is to categorize daily activities into two-columns, one for income-producing activities, and the other for non-income producing activities. … Read More
Defining Equality
I’m compiling answers and insights to add to the Scythian F.A.Q. page, which will be featured on the site in the coming months. But one question keeps popping up, and so I thought I’d give it a post of its very own. 🙂 Why is the Scythian Credo Strength Through Equality? In order for me to explain, we need to … Read More
IPA–It’s Not Just for Beer
This past week, I was discussing with a marketing friend about not having enough time in the day to do everything that needs to be done and still find time to write. She suggested I start thinking in terms of IPA. Now, living in a state where there are more barrels of bourbon than people, I know a thing or … Read More
Now You Can Read the Kailmeyra Series for Free!
Readers have been asking for this one for a while, so I’ve finally taken the plunge. For a short time, you can now read the Kailmeyra series for free through Kindle Unlimited. Click on the pics below to check it out!
Finding Your Tribe
Most of my life has been spent feeling like the proverbial round peg in a square hole. Fortunately, the internet has made it easier to connect with intelligent, witty people who love discussing books and other writerly things. I wanted a place we could call our own, and so I started The Isaacs Society. This secret Facebook group is chalked full … Read More