Ghostwriting: One Size Never Fits All

In ghostwriting, as in custom tailoring, never expect a one-size-fits-all approach.

Writing Book Proposals That Publishers Read

You’ll find lots of books on the bookstore shelf about how to write book proposals for traditional publishers. But what advice would those editors give about writing a winning book proposal?

Author - Edit Thyself

When editing your own manuscript, dare to be brutally honest with yourself. To help you, here's a list of tips and techniques.

How And Why You Should Think Like A Tabloid Writer-

Ever wonder why even though you write very professionally, you still aren't getting the results you want? Meanwhile every time you go to the corner store, you see that the tabloids with the craziest new gossip and rumors are almost literally flying off the racks? What gives? Here's a clue: the headlines of a magazine are responsible for 99 percent of its sales. And by taking some time to learn their secrets, you can see a definite increase in results.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Antihero: First Threshold

As with all heroes and antiheroes, the first threshold is viewed from afar. But it is also where character traits further manifest themselves. In Scarface (1983), Manny hits on the girls again and Tony demonstrates his leadership.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Post Mastery Of The Two Worlds And Selves

Post the Crossing of the Return Threshold and before the Master of Two Worlds and Selves, a hell of a lot happens that is rarely given mention. The Final Conflict (a metaphor for this stage) follows a distinct process. It is not unusual for a surprise catharsis, post the defeat of the antagonism. In Straw Dogs (1971), Tom's son attacks again, from nowhere. This final catharsis is a metaphor for the antagonism's last gasp (the antagonism is after all the hero's own id).

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Cast Out

The antihero's fate is to be cast out of the world he has fought so hard to be a part of. One reason is that even the dark world has rules and the antihero, being an antihero, is destined to break them. In Scarface (1983), the restaurant throws him out because he doesn't behave himself. In Goodfellas (1990), Henry is cast out by Frank because he deals in drugs.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Significance of Atonement

The atonement with the father is a confrontation with the inner challenge. It is the confrontation with that that has been the limiting factor and often involves (the replacement of) a father figure. In Shawshank Redemption (1987), Andy walks out of the warden's office wearing his shoes. Everything is symbolic.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Significance of Apotheosis

The Apotheosis is simply the result of conquering the romantic challenge. Once one has been set free of limitations, one feels a release. That is the aopotheosis. It is the realisation, the actualisation of the hero.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)- Hero's Journey- New Self

An incremental change is made explicit. The detective hero advances to his New Self a little. A tangible element of the Old Self is lost. In The Maltese Falcon (1939), Sam wants precious to get rid of Miles' desk and change the sign on the door.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth)- Fourth Catharsis

One of the Antagonist's Lieutenants (who may be the Shape Shifter) may appear from nowhere and be quickly vanquished. In Die Hard (1988), Karl appears from under the sheet and takes the officer's gun.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth) - Hero's Private World

Obstacles to the Hero are somehow overcome and the Heralds are invited into the Hero's Private World. This is a special place where the Hero spends much time alone, where he (or she) is safe and at home.

Tips For a Successful Meeting With An Agent or Editor

As you decide to become more active in pursuing publication, it is strongly advised to attend conferences such as EPICon, Romantic Times, or any local/regional convention where appointments are scheduled. From previous experience, I can tell you that seeing an author in person makes a lasting impression that outshines any e-mail conversation. I note the sincerity and enthusiasm of each writer I meet, and often can tell when one does submit something to me.

188 Stage Hero's Journey - Monomyth - The Hero Is A Natural

A Natural. The Hero tackles obstacles with ease, encounters no delaying obstacles and makes no mistake. The hero finds an inner resolve.

188 Stage Hero's Journey - Monomyth - Committment And Lack Of

Post the Physical Separation and before the Trials, a stage of Lack of Commitment is not unusual. In Bonnie and Clyde (1967), in the bedroom: Clyde gives Bonnie the option of getting out now. In Thelma and Louise (1991), both heroines sit it out in a hotel while they wait for Thelma to make a decision.