Just wanted to introduce myself. I’m Bear. Middle-aged, moderately housebroken, and I’ve been writing for about twelve years — mostly screenplays, with a little poetry when I’m feeling extra mysterious. I’ve lived a life that’s part campfire tale, part misadventure montage: camping, sailing, hiking, getting lost on purpose, and occasionally on accident. If it involves fresh air and a questionable decision, I’ve probably done it or at least considered it. Writing came along as a way to make sense of it all — or at least to make it entertaining. I’m big on dialogue, character-driven stories, and moments that say a lot without shouting. I like my narratives like I…
A & I and Me
I woke this morning with this idea in my head. I have been using AI a lot for research and learning as of late (and loving it) and I pondered some on the implications of it in the creative world. It is a source of great concern to many. In my own thoughts I likened it to a tool that makes many things easier, and in some cases, possible at all. So, I gave ChatGPT a prompt, and got a response. Both follow. The prompt. Write me a short story, or a poem, I will call ‘A & I’. Base it on a person’s life from their time in the…
Becoming a writer?
Becoming a writer depends on what kind of writing you want to do—fiction, non-fiction, journalism, copywriting, screenwriting, or something else. Here’s a general roadmap to get started: 1. Write Regularly Set a daily or weekly writing goal. Keep a journal, write blog posts, or start short stories. Experiment with different styles and genres. 2. Read Widely Read books, articles, and essays in your genre and beyond. Analyze what makes great writing work. 3. Learn the Craft Take writing courses (online or in person). Read books on writing (e.g., On Writing by Stephen King, Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott). Join writing workshops or critique groups. 4. Find Your Niche Do…
