The Practice of Creative Writing has a simple message: you can do this, and it’s worthwhile to try. Heather Sellers, who writes in multiple genres herself, has developed an approach that focuses on the habits and strategies that produce good writing in any genre: Images; Energy; Tension; Pattern; Insight; and Revision. She teaches students how to focus, to generate lots of writing, and to get to the good stuff — the powerful imagery and the stories they really want to tell. She provides opportunities to be playful and to experiment at the same time she teaches students the importance of discipline and craft.

Postmodern American Poetry: A Norton Anthology galvanized attention on its publication in 1994, making "the avant-garde accessible" (Chicago Tribune) and filling "an enormous gap in the publication annals of contemporary poetry" (Marjorie Perloff). Now, two decades later, Paul Hoover returns to suggest what postmodernism means in the twenty-first century. This revised and expanded edition features 114 poets, 557 poems, and 15 poetics essays.

This book defines fictional techniques and guides the potential writer in their use. It may spark off ideas for stories and novels and provide first-aid for failing stories. A story's ending may come as a surprise to the reader, suspense may have the reader on the edge of the seat, and conflict may lead to unbearable excitement. It is the job of the writer to create these effects and this book illustrates how it is done. The book is for students doing creative writing in higher education, at "A" level, and it will be essential reading for anyone interested in writing fiction. Contents: * Definitions of over 200 terms and techniques to do with fiction writing * How to achieve fictional effects * Literary examples of the techniques described Characteristics of genre as well as literary fiction * Basic but essential techniques such as writing dialogue and using figures of speech * Definitions of major terms used in publishing

A step-by-step guide on how to write and on how to manage the writer's life. If you have ever wondered what it takes to be a writer, what it means to be a writer, what the contents of your school lunches said about what your parents were really like, this books for you. From faith, love, and grace to pain, jealousy, and fear, Lamott insists that you keep your eves open, and then shows you how to survive. And always, from the life of the artist she turns to the art of life.

Natalie Goldberg's word-of-mouth hit has sold well over half a million copies. Goldberg, who has conducted writing workshops for both beginners and professionals all over the United States, sees writing as a practice that helps us comprehend the value of our lives. With insight, humor, and practicality, she inspires writers and would-be writers alike to take the leap into writing creatively and well.

This comprehensive introduction to creative writing combines theory, practical advice, and examples in each chapter and not only explores elements of effective writing applicable to all genres, but also considers the creative writing enterprise and the necessary Owriterly attitude.