Show, Don’t Tell: The Power of Sensory Details in Writing
Engaging writing isn’t just about what happens—it’s about how it feels. Sensory details bring stories to life, immersing readers in vivid experiences rather than just delivering information.
Storytelling Lessons from A Trip to the Moon by Méliès
What can writers learn from A Trip to the Moon? Clay Stafford explores how Georges Méliès’s groundbreaking film teaches timeless storytelling techniques—mystery, suspense, action, horror, and romance—offering valuable lessons for writers of all genres.
Public Speaking: Defining Your Niche
Public speaking is a powerful tool for writers and creatives to build their brand. Learn how to define your niche, engage audiences, and craft a compelling speaker brand that resonates.
Public Speaking & Interviews: Understanding Your Audience
Public speaking and interviews are opportunities to connect, inspire, and educate. Understanding your audience is key to delivering impactful, engaging, and memorable presentations.
Becoming Addicted to the Zone
The best writers immerse themselves fully in their work and life, shutting out distractions to live and write in the zone. Discover how to harness deep focus and creativity to elevate your storytelling and experiences.
Tell the Truth and Tell It Well
Writing demands truth, even when it’s difficult. By sharing our stories honestly and skillfully, we free ourselves, connect with others, and create powerful narratives.
Incorporating Gothic Elements into Your Writing: Here Are a Few Themes
Gothic literature is more than haunted houses and dark shadows—it’s about powerful themes that pit the past against the present. Learn how to incorporate these rich elements into your writing, no matter the genre.
Stagecraft: The Art and Joy of Writing Plays and Musicals
Writing plays and musicals is a rewarding creative exercise that sharpens dialogue and storytelling skills. Explore the art of stagecraft and how it can enhance your writing.
Beginnings and Endings: Do They Ever Begin or End?
Beginnings and endings in storytelling are never absolute—they exist within a continuum of narratives that shape and influence us. Understanding this literary stream allows writers to create with awareness, originality, and purpose.
Protagonists Don’t Have to Be Likeable; They Have to Be Unforgettable
A protagonist doesn’t need to be likable—just unforgettable. Whether heroic or villainous, they must captivate from their first entrance. Readers should feel an irresistible pull, whether through admiration, disgust, or fascination. The key is to create a character no one can ignore.
Don’t Give Up on Your Creativity
Your creative voice is unique—no one else can express it like you. Don’t write what you think you should; write what excites you. Creativity requires tenacity and courage. Trust your instincts, push through self-doubt, and create something only you can.
Why Not Write as You Think?
Writers write—not because of inspiration, but because of curiosity, exploration, and the courage to put thoughts into words. Why not write as you think?
Creating Engaging and Active Literary Experiences
Writing should be an engaging, active experience—not just for the writer but for the reader as well. By evoking emotions, using vivid language, and crafting compelling conflicts, we create literary works that truly resonate.
If You Want To Write A Page-Turner
If you want to write a page-turner, you need action—on every page. Whether it’s physical, emotional, or suspenseful, action is the key to keeping readers engaged and turning the pages. Learn how to incorporate action into your writing and keep the suspense high.