Goals:
In our writing classes – nights, weekends, year-long courses, writer’s conferences – we encounter hungry writers. Everyday people dying to write. Starving people. People who love telling stories and who love hearing stories. In a matter of minutes, we get these hungry people writing. There is no lecture. We don’t talk much about being a writer. To be a writer, you sit down and write. You put the pen to the page, the pencil to the paper, the cursor to the screen.
To get them writing in the room, we use startlines. I remember. I want to write a story about. This is a story about. The story I want to write is called. The startlines force the hungry writers to commit. Write it down. Start a story now before your mouth talks it away.
Their source for story is narrow: life, personal tragedy, someone they knew who died, a parent, a sibling, anger, illness, despair, a faded memory of an ugly disease.
In a memoir course, we guide these writers toward discovery—how the personal story can find its way out of the mind and onto the page. We write to discover connections. Using the memoir moment as a writing technique, we urge writers to dig into the past. We teach them to keep the story short. Short and packed with power and energy. Short and explosive—the personal memoir written with dynamic insight.
In a fiction course, we use startlines to plunge them into story. How to start. How to build. How to finish the story they started. When they have something solid on paper – a character, a setting, a story situation – we use exercises to help them build a complete story. The exercises guide the writers in a detour around the internal editor. That’s the judgmental creature inside the brain of the hungry writer. The internal editor is critic, judge, deadly foe of creativity in any form: painting, music, architecture, poetry, writing.
In this resource for writers, our aim is to share some of what we know about craft–story, structure and style –with writers looking for guidance deeper into the art of fiction. You won’t be asked to attend a workshop, you won’t be asked for dough, but we might ask you to buy one of our books.
Jack Remick and Robert J. Ray
Bio: Jack Remick
Coffeetown Press brought out Valley Boy, the second book of the California Quartet, in May 2012. Gabriela and The Widow arrives on January 15, 2013. Details on my fiction page.
Be sure to check out Blood (2011) from Camel Press. I co-wrote The Weekend Novelist Writes A Mystery, with Robert J. Ray, The WNWM is a how-to/write-along for beginning and achieved mystery writers.
I have taught Fiction and Memoir in Certificate programs at the University of Washington Extension and Distance Learning. Before I went deaf, I was a frequent presenter at writers’ conferences with Bob Ray.
Bio: Robert J. Ray
I sold my first book in the late sixties. It was a book to help student-writers see the patterns in words on the page. The title of that first book – The Art of Reading: A Handbook on Writing – tapped the power of the close read as a key to better writing. For a dozen years I taught college kids to write better. A handful of my student writers turned pro.
I left full-time teaching when my first novel – The Heart of the Game – hit the stands in the corner drugstore in Roswell, New Mexico. I wrote books and taught tennis. My detective hero, Matt Murdock, appears in five novels. Two other books – and Cage of Mirrors and The Hitman Cometh – are closer to the thriller genre. In 1985 I co-authored a small business text that is now in its sixth edition. My latest book is The Weekend Novelist Rewrites the Manuscript, the third book in The Weekend Novelist series. Jack and I co-wrote The Weekend Novelist Writes a Mystery. I am resurrecting the Matt Murdock series with a re-issue of Merry Christmas, Murdock, which will hit the stands in early November 2011. Camel Press will bring out all the the Matt Murdock mysteries in 2012-2013. Check out the Kindle and the paperback versions–both on Amazon.com
If you’re returning for more of what’s here, Welcome back. If this is your first visit here go to the FAQ and scan the list there. If you have questions add them using the comment box. We’ll answer all queries.
Jack Remick and Bob Ray
67 Comments
Outstanding blog you have here! The exercise in your “Three Act Treatment” post just helped me break into the second act of my latest screenplay.
WOW! This blog is great! I didn’t know it was up. If I just studied your blog I’d become a better writer. Great stuff here, lots to learn. Thanks so much for being so generous with your knowledge.
Mindy
congrats to jacknbob and jerry the webmaster as the blog goes live.
Hi guys,
Funny, I just broke out my copy of The Weekend Novelist and was starting to reread it. The winds of change are blowing on this side of the Pacific and I may be living in the land of lattes and Gore-Tex again in the near future. Looking forward to reading your blog.
I am so excited to be connected with such prolific writers
Alex, So good to hear from you and good to imagine you back in latte land. I hope you find something to use on this blog.
Hi Susan. Welcome aboard.
Hi Tom. How are you coming with that mystery novel?
Bravo! Finally a club worth joining. A blog worth reading. A bar to cozy up to. Make mine a double.
I find your blog endlessly helpful. I’ve subscribed with my email address and would love to get a message whenever you make a new posting, perhaps even with the content of the post that I can read while on the go. Is that possible?
“We don’t talk much about being a writer. To be a writer, you sit down and write.”
I love the blog. And, the line above really resonates. Sit and write…
Thanks for being there, holding the space at Lousia’s, setting the example, encouraging us when our pens run dry, and now providing this blog w/archive.
I read in a post of yours years ago that a writer needs a good chair for reading, and I set about rearranging my front room to make it into a writing/reading space w/ my ever present cup of green tea. I recall that you said caffeine was not a drug that we had to give up.
good read, post more!
Thanks to Jack for sending me to your blog. (Hi, Bob. Sorry I missed you at this year’s SiWC). Looking forward to
exploring the posts here. LP
Just wanna say I really love your ‘Weekend Novelist’ text and your blog! Really been the best guides for me in writing my own novels!
Hi Bob and Jack! Just read “how to start a novel” on Jack’s Blood site. I’d love to see you guys include a share on Facebook link. I looked around for one, couldn’t find it, then cobbled one together for my FB friends. Love what you’re up to.
Dear Bob and Jack:
You and your Writing Practice groups and your unstinting generosity in sharing yourselves, your vast knowledge and superb teaching, have not only given me the courage and wherewithal to resurrect my talent after 25 years of writing silence but really a kind of miracle that has turned conscience into creative energy again and given me a family that makes it safe to practice it together. Whenever I teach at The FilmSchool or the Sundance Screenwriters Labs, I let them know that it all comes from the two of you and the dear friends at Louisa’s and the ones who’ve come in with me. The Blog is a holiday present to all humanity and it comes with no strings attached.
I was delighted to discover your site, and am hoping Blood brings you joy, largesse and movie deal. I am about to download it. Can’t wait.
I would like to come and raise a latte and see you both, but will be out of town. And…
I am still writing, and would like to come to writing practice some afternoon. I wonder how you two would feel about it. Maybe you could let me know.
Don and I are on Bainbridge now, but I would happily hop the ferry for some hot writing. It’s been a long time, perhaps long enough. Let me know.
Sending love, Lora Jansson
Louisa’s writing group is open to every one all the time. Just buy a cup of something to keep the place in business.
Miss writing with you all. While the distance is great, I mostly have trouble with traffic on the return trip. Just so you know I still do write every day and have appreciated your helpful comments. Way to go with your new book, Jack.
Mace,
The door is always open at Louisa’s. Hope you can come back soon.
Come to Louisa’s on January 23 at 5:00 for the launch of Blood. Food, Sangria, camaraderie. A five minute reading from the novel.
Damn! Are you guys insane?
All this info you put out could put a lot of people out of business! Thanks! I intend to take advantage of as much of your material as I can absorb. This is a terrific Website. I have recently published my first novel as an e-book with Smashwords.com TDROMC The Dirt Roads of Madison County: “Road of Confusion”. I was of the opinion that I needed to get my work out there so people could begin to become familiar with my writing and my name. Do you think this was a reasonable approach as opposed to waiting months?years? to be picked by a mainstream agent/publisher? Will it hurt my chances of being picked up?
What else can I do?
Jack,
I sent a note to your email address. I hope it reaches you. A lot of comments get picked up as spam.
J
Jack, I’m not sure I can express appropriate thanks for the encouraging reply you sent. I really did not expect such an expedient answer but thanks very much. I know that you guys have to be overwhelmed with such a burden of work. I, too, have been keeping a close eye on the reading trend leaning towards the kindles, ipods etc, etc. and it seemed almost foolish not to publish electronically. The mainstream publishers, I think at some point, are going to have to stand at the end of some very long lines maybe even have to make submissions for representation to the authors. Not right away but Ican see that as a distinct possibility when an author once proves their viability electronically. Hope to be joining some of your classes soon. I have to get this next volume edited, edited, edited for publication. Have any help in that direction?
Hello! Several years ago I learned about the writers’ gathering at Louisa’s from my ex-husband, Herb Robinson who encouraged me to join the fun. Herb and I remained friends after the divorce and maintained that friendship his death. I haven’t been back to Louisa’s since then. Do you still follow the same format? Timed exercises? If so, even though I am now in Poulsbo, I would be tempted to make the trip over to see if I can prime the writing well. I DO plan to be there tomorrow to celebrate the new book. Are they serving Bloody Marys?
Hello Jack. I took classes from you years ago. Great stuff. Do you still do writing practice? Is there room for one more? I saw the reference to Louisa’s. Is that the place on Eastlake? But first, I’ve got to pick up a copy of Blood.
Yes. The Louisa’s writing group meets Tuesdays and Fridays from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM. Louisa’s is at
2379 Eastlake Ave. East.
Seattle, 98102
206 325 0081
http://www.louisascafe.com/
Come early and grab a cup of heat and fresh scone. They also serve whole meals and we are happy to support them. Then find an empty chair and ask the person next to it, “Are you a writer?” Your adventure begins…
Hi Bill. I remember you. Yes. We meet Tue. and Fri at Louisa’s still. 2:00 or so. Come when you’re around. J
yes, all roads lead back to Jack and Bob! I am thrilled and honoured that you would include me in your blog roll.
13 years ago at UW you were relentless. we wrote until, literally, our wrists ached. we wrote and shared and there were no excuses, no apologies. it was the best tough love we could have asked for.
yes, the only way to be a writer is to write. i still use your techniques myself and with my students. i’ve probably used The Weekend Novelist more times as a workshop textbook than any other.
I had a link to your other weekend novelist site, now I want to link here because I didn’t know about it! Egad, i’ve been under a rock. (but I promise you, I’ve been writing under that rock)
Hi Jack:
Thanks for commenting on my recent post about revising on my blog. I have been making good use of Bob Ray’s book, “The Weekend Novelist Rewrites the Novel.” I appreciate the helpful information on your website, and would be delighted if you link to my blog.
gideon sockpuppet
(aka Dr Sock)
It’s done. Welcome aboard.
Thanks gods there’s a blog for TWN!! I’ve been using the new edition of the book for my new project and just started documenting my progress, not thinking there might be something already out there (duh). My Big Breakthrough? Spinning down the page. It’s like a speedball for the discovery process. And the cure for the dread Blinking Cursor Of Doom. The first time I tried it everything just clicked. Thank you thank you thank you.
Heather–thanks for the visit. Feel free to ask questions. Keep us up to date on your progress with your novel.
What an amazing site. How did I not realize you had a blog? Every piece of writing advice you’ve ever offered me, in person and here in the blog, drips with style. You are true teachers — ones who inspire. Thank you for your great work!
Oh Melissa. Shucks. Welcome to Bob and Jack’s Writing Blog.
Hi Bob and Jack,
Wanted to let you know I listed your blog for the “Stylish Bloggers Award.”
You don’t have to fill out the form — but if you want a break from real writing, it’d be fun to read your answers.
Have a great day!
Melissa
Thanks Melissa. I’m following your journey on Play101. In NYTimes I read about a woman who turned her housework/kids into a blog with a million followers. Check it out. I expect you to be there this time next year. J
hi bob. good to see you’re blogging.
love to see your blog!
If it were not for Jack & Bob I would never have finished my novel. If I had never finished my novel I would never have been able to send it off to an agent and get accepted and sign a contract, which I’ve recently done with Richard Curtis, Richard Curtis Associates, Inc. NY NY. Thanks Jack and Bob. I loved taking classes from you both and I learned a ton.
Love the blog. Soooo miss the Tues / Friday writing at Louisa’s but plunking along on a novel here in Malta.
Thanks for continuing to write and to teach!
Hi Jess. Vlado is now in Serbia writing about being in Serbia. Very enlightening. Drop us a note full of life details about life in the Mediterranean.
I started reading Bob’s book The Weekend Novelist. I worked hard my first weekend on chapter one. Then I hit the chapter on flashback and told myself I could never do that. I find it amusing that there a much flashback in my first novel Secrets. Thanks Bob.
Do you have the times for the Louisa writing groups on this site? Or, on another site?
Hi Stacy,
Tuesdays and Fridays at Louisa’s.
Write from 2:30 to 3:00. Read around.
Show up fifteen minutes early to get squared away.
Zack Hoffman runs a Wednesday group at Q Cafe in Ballard. Same time: 2:30 to 3:30.
See you there.
Yes, and don’t forget Thursdays, 2:30 – 3:30 at Pacific Coast Bakery in Redmond. Nice quiet place to write with organic coffee, soups, sandwiches, and great pastries.
nice blog, bob.
Got hacked this past Saturday,
had to change my email – see above.
Couldn’t remember yours, can’t access old contact list.
I wasn’t in Madrid.
robinch
Robin, send an email update to rray77@gmail.com with brief note.
hi robin
sorry to hear about the hacking
e-mail is rray77@gmail.com
Sign me up.
Hi Bob and Jack, I know you are not much into blogging awards — but I wanted to let you know I made a new one and am giving it to you: The Happy Blog award.
Here’s the shortlink: http://wp.me/p1jBAi-yc
Melissa–I am humbled to find my name on the honor roll. You’re the one doing all the work. Congratulations on keeping Play 101 up and running.
I learned much from this website. Thanks.
I see you guys at the Blue Saucer doing your work and I envy you – what a partnership! May it last and last. – B
Found your blog through Priscilla’s site… so much here – happy, happy.
Thanks for plowing through the forest to find this tree. Happy you’re here. come again. J
Hi Bob and Jack
I have just seen your website and was very impressed with what you offer. You have clearly done well from this approach. Bravo!
I am also writing to you to explore the possibility of working with you in order to sell a product which I have created which has been well received with my clients and affiliates alike.
Called ‘Words To Riches’, my product is essentially an eSystem which mentors people how they can quickly make multiple revenue streams from writing and publishing their own ebooks and selling them online: http://www.Words2Riches.com
Being in the field of wealth creation, I do think this could be of serious interest to your client list and has already proved to be an ‘easy sell’ for other people. Would you be interested in promoting it to your list? I will happily give you a 50/50 split of all purchases made as a direct result of your referral.
I have a special affiliates section with pre-written emails and banners to make your life easier: http://www.words2riches.com/affiliate-page1.htm
I am using JVZoo (similar to ClickBank) who will reconcile commissions with affiliates so you can be rest assured everything is transparent, and you will receive your very own affiliate link.
I look forward to hearing from you soon,
Rob Colville
07909628820
Hello Rob,
Thanks for visiting our blog. We’re resisting monetizing our work here so will have to say no to your offer. Good luck with other placements. Come again.
Is there any chance The Art of Reading: A Handbook on Writing will be reprinted or made available in an electronic edition? I’m interested in reviewing it for a combined reading and writing course.
Hi Jack…this year the collaborative efforts of Patten, Liggett, and McCord made it as Finalists in PNWA Literary Contest…still trying to publish songs, poetry, and books. Playing congas and singing with a group called Wild Ginger…just played the World Rhythm Festival Center Stage in Seattle…having fun. Excited to see you in November…you have taught me so much as a writer…those were the some of best days of my life.
Yvonne, this is great news. The November workshop should be a blast. I’ll see you there.
Hi Jack:
Janet Oakley suggested I contact you to inquire about your weekly writing group -is it still meeting, and if so, are you accepting new participants? Cheers! Lyn
Hello L.M.
Yes, we meet Tuesday and Friday at 2:00 PM at Louisa’s Bakery Cafe on the corner of Eastlake and Louisa. Welcome aboard.
Thank you, Jack, Bob and Jerry!
Feels like coming home, Louisa’s.
Jack, I just wanted to say a big thank you for your presentation in St George on Saturday. It killed my shoulder, but WOW, the experience was great!
Mary Ann: It was a good experience all the way–I’m impressed with the tenacity of the St. George writers. You handled everything I threw at you and as the day developed, I heard the writing kick up to new levels. Thank you for making the day a slam bang success. J
Hi Jack, Happy Birthday!
We are going to do more at our next meeting coming prepared with descriptions of our characters. Finally we are all feeling more focused.
Marilyn, Janet and I met yesterday for our writing group. Janet was unable to attend your workshop, but we wanted to share with her so we started with several timed writings. We worked nonstop for about an hour which is pretty long for three old ladies.
Mary Ann: this is great, bringing Janet into the process with you. Keep me up to date on your progress. Questions will be answered. Is the pamphlet helpful at all? Tips for the Committed Novelist? Are you using the clock for your writing sessions? That kitchen timer is the key. J
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