Writing Craft: Vol. 3: What is conflict?

What is the conflict? When a story starts introducing elements that directly affect the outcome of the story, that’s conflict. When characters fuss with small objects, make small talk, or think about backstory, that’s not conflict. The vital elements of character and setting are in place, and the “meat” of the story proceeds forward, leading

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Process Post: Where is the story set in place and time?

I don’t know what the deal is, but I’ve been in several knock-down arguments with other writers about naming the places in their settings.  Like, I’ll be lazy and not name a setting location sometimes. (I often forget to name POV characters, too; I don’t go around thinking, “My name is DeAnna” on a moment-by-moment

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Writing Craft Vol. 3: Where is the story set in place and time?

(This section is about the type of setting that you’re probably used to, the place and time. I didn’t put it first; I put the “reality” and “rules” of the story first. But these two types of setting usually work together inseparably, so don’t hesitate to juggle as your particular story warrants!) What’s more important,

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