by Cole Salao
In all good stories, there’s at least one character you can relate to—someone who feels like an extension of yourself in the narrative. These characters most likely act as audience surrogates—they’re inserted into the story so you have someone you can...
by Cole Salao
Even if you’re not a Star Wars fan, you probably know how Yoda, one of its most iconic characters, speaks. It’s best remembered by one of his most famous lines: “The greatest teacher, failure is.” This inversion of words is called hyperbaton or anastrophe....
by Cole Salao
Retroactive continuity is a literary device in which previously established information in a work of fiction is changed, ignored, or contradicted to suit the current story. Called a “retcon” for short, it’s mostly seen in works of serial fiction,...
by Cole Salao
If you’re writing fantasy, then you know how much there is to consider when it comes to worldbuilding. One of the most important things you’ll need to consider is your magic system. Magic is a fundamental element of fantasy. Think of magic as an equivalent...
by Cole Salao
Historical fiction excels at blending the real and the imaginary. It immerses you in real settings, which are often populated by real historical figures participating in real events, but the story itself is fictional. Depending on how much research the author does,...
by Kaelyn Barron
The following essay won third place in our 2021 Nonfiction Writing Contest. Congratulations to Eileen Quilter Williams on her excellent work! “The Accidental Tapestry” by Eileen Quilter Williams How many wars, upheavals and strife are caused by the moving...
