Choices. They line the path of our lives like colorful memory stones. Like jewels reflecting in the light that is the vibrance of our lives. Our paths are filled with them; good and bad. Light and dark. And we arrive at our final destination at the mercy of the choices we make. You will never … Continue reading Remembering Len Schmautz
A Small Bit
This is an example of Flash Fiction I sometimes use in my classes. I have a couple posts coming up that will refer to this and another piece, so I'm posting it in preparation. "It's only a small bit of change," she said, tugging on her boyfriend's arm with a sweet smile. Reluctantly, he … Continue reading A Small Bit
That Misunderstood Flash Fiction
When I was first learning to improve my writing skills, I happened upon a list of the major literary forms. Among the other forms I saw "Flash" and was reluctant to read the definition, since in the generation I grew up in "flash" usually referred to someone dressed only in an overcoat and sneakers. But … Continue reading That Misunderstood Flash Fiction
Pen Tip #5: Camouflage
I took a trip to help a dear friend move recently and rediscovered a simple, fundamental truth that transcends all of life: camouflage hides stuff, whether you want it to or not. This holds true with your kitchen counter top, and your story. "Where's the packing tape," I mumbled to myself as I looked over … Continue reading Pen Tip #5: Camouflage
Tension In Between
It is December 31st, 2018. For some it is the night before a new beginning. Others would call it an ending. Many make resolutions. I resolved years ago (as many of you already know) not to make resolutions, choosing to make changes in behavior when I found them necessary. Although I don't plan to make … Continue reading Tension In Between
Scandalon
This is a Flash piece (meaning it is approximately 1000 words, hints of a larger story, and has a twist at the end). This particular piece would work better as a play due to the large number of characters which make it a rocky read as Flash. But I digress... I give you, Scandalon. “How old is she, anyway?“ Vera set her … Continue reading Scandalon
Thus Ends Another Literary Clay Series
Thank you, Launching Success, and students of this round of Literary Clay. Stay tuned for future workshops. I'm developing new sessions to add to the originals that will help you pull your stories from the shadows of your mind into a readable form that can be shared! Until next time, cheers and happy writing. Shai
The Background Image
I've been asked what the background image is on my site. It's one of my favorite chairs. Photos of it appear in various places - as a background on this site (though seriously edited), on social media, and in a book that is soon to be released called Fingerprints on my Heart. Mystery solved! Now, … Continue reading The Background Image
Pen Tip #4: POV Isn’t a Virus
Gabe was in line for coffee at a street corner coffee vendor and heard a commotion behind him. He turned to see a woman run out of a bank and a man with a blue jacket chase her and take her to the ground. Gabe was incensed that some nasty wicked male individual was assaulting … Continue reading Pen Tip #4: POV Isn’t a Virus
To Vanquish an Evil
Growling, she flashed her dagger like teeth in the piercing morning rays as she extracted herself from the comfort of her warm den. The air held a tension as she groped her way in the first light like an agitated, fearsome sloth, her talons scraping on the rock floor as small creatures scurried noisily around … Continue reading To Vanquish an Evil
