How many writers does it take to screw in a lightbulb?

How many writers does it take to screw in a lightbulb? Six. One to screw it in, one to sharpen all the pencils in the house, one to make more coffee, one to call a friend to chat, and one to complain that there's never time to do any writing. Wait, that's only five — that's why they need editors.

This is a great joke but if you're serious about writing join the Ligonier Valley Writers in 2018. 

Thanks

Jim Busch

Advice from one of America's most successful writers

Louis L'Amour was a successful writer in anybody's book. In his life he wrote over 100 novels, published more than 250 short stories and had 320 million books in print in over 10 languages. He was a hardworking writer who knew how to engage his readers. Here is L'Amour's advice on how to start a book:

"Begin every story in the middle. The reader doesn't care how it begins, he wants you to get on with it."--Louis L'Amour

If you want to learn how to be a great writer, join the Ligonier Valley Writers. Information on joining and on our upcoming programs visit LVWonline.org

Thanks for reading

Wishes for a new book

Here is a verse found on an old bookplate that I feel that would serve as a sort of a "grace" for a new book:

May this volume continue in motion,
And its pages each day unfurl'd,
Till an ant has drunk up the ocean,
Or a tortoise has crawl'd round the world.

Long live writers and long live your book. If you want to write a book that lasts until the ants drink up the ocean, join the Ligonier Valley Writers. For more information go to lvwonline.com

How to lie by telling the truth

Here is a great quote on our art from the great novelist, Isabell Allende:

"You can tell the deepest truths with the lies of fiction."

Thanks for reading. If you want to get better at telling your truth with "the lie of fiction" the Ligonier Valley writer is here to help. For more info check out lvwonline.com

Nationally known author Randy Ross coming to Ligonier to speak

Randy Ross, author of God Bless Cambodia, will speak at the Ligonier Town Hall community room 7 PM on March 29^th. Booklist Online and other reviewers have praised Ross’s book, a fictional travel memoir, and compared it to Anne Tyler’s best-seller The Accidental Tourist. Mr. Ross is an entertaining and engaging speaker who has performed his work on stages across the U.S., Canada and the United Kingdom. He will speak on the trials and travails of getting his novel published.

This performance is sponsored by the Ligonier Valley Writers.

Go to LVWonline.org for more information.

Lynda Barry on story structure

Here's a great quote from cartoonist/writer/graphic novelist Lynda Barry. I think I would file this under--Once you learn the rules you are allowed to break them! Barry has build a successful career by breaking with conventions and following her own unique muse. Her creativity is evident in the metaphor contained in this quote:

"People think if you're writing a story you have to follow story structure--it's like thinking the only reason we have teeth is because there are dentists." Lynda Barry

Thanks for reading. Be sure to visit  LVW.org to check out some of the exciting new programs for aspiring writers and all lovers of great storytelling.

 Jim Busch