Ultimately, the best way to become a better writer is to be a good reader. And I don't mean that you have to be reading the classics all the time (although they certainly have their place), I mean that you should be thinking critically about what you are reading. Evaluate novels, poems, whatever you chose to read. Analyze the author's use of characterization, plot, devices, style, determine the impact on the reader- and then beg and borrow that shit for your own writing.
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The poor worldbuilding of Talentless Nana makes the story come off as cheap and shallow. It is edgy for the sake of being edgy, dark just because it wants to differentiate itself from the superhero crowd, and features a sociopathic schoolgirl as a main character just 'coz.
My first pick, How Poor Worldbuilding Destroyed Talentless Nana by @cheah, is a great example of analysis, and how analysis can inform writing. In the post, @cheah compares the worldbuilding of two different mangas; Talentless Nana, which has ineffective worldbuilding that ultimately affects the plot, and Boku no Hero Academia, which created a more effective setting. Writers would find this analysis thorough and informative.
how laughter has a sound
almost like weeping
the same pattern as
the sound of a heart breaking
The longing and desire in @torico's piece Frozen is almost palpable. I love her use of juxtaposition and the imagery is just heartbreaking. If you're into poetry, she is someone to emulate for sure.
There were signs that death leered nearby. Shadows played in the sunbeams. Flickers of movement, dim streamers, and faint shapes of darkness slunk around the corners of his eyes, and hid in the shade around the draperies. Here and there was a human form, a hand, a face. One was familiar. A pall of smoke bearing the visage of Boris’ long-dead father floated in the shadows between his wardrobe and the wall.
More Clearly at Last by @jeffstoner is one of those genre-bending short stories. Definitely supernatural, with a hint of family drama and a bit of creepiness. This exploration of why a person might chose not to live forever is endlessly fascinating.
That hole, where the body was supposed
to meet the sleeve, is barely noticeable
to anyone but the two of you
and your string of girlfriends.
@damianjayclay writes a post rife with symbolism about the love of a mother spread too thin between siblings, and the ultimate consequences of that. The extended metaphor of the knit sweater is so original and well done. You should check out Binding Off if you get the chance- it's absolutely stunning.
the untuning of the sky
rain tie the bow
sun save the sight
of an overcast mind
Clouded Thoughts and A Mind Full of Heavy Light by @carmalain7 uses enjambment like a professional- succinct and heavy with meaning. I absolutely adore this piece.
All posts will receive an upvote from MSP-curation, and my favorite piece will be resteemed via the account, as well as featured in the weekly MSP-curation post. Go check out msp-curation for other genres as well- we also feature sustainability, technology, philosophy, art, and music!
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Graphics and pull-quotes are sourced from their original posts
Reflections are property of Sunravelme