The Deadly Vixens would like to welcome author Sophie Athens as our guest blogger today!
THINGS THAT PUT ME IN THE MOOD TO WRITE
As a writer, I'm always desperate for new things to put me in the proper mood, whatever it may be. Here are some tips and tricks I used when writing my novella The Vampire Oracle: Hunger. These helped me evoke the atmosphere I needed to put pen to paper (or more appropriately, fingers to keyboard):
1--scents are often one of the most overlooked senses, and yet the human mind has scads and scads of memories associated with scent. Think of an emotional memory that ties in with a particular scent (perhaps one that makes you laugh, cry, or long for someone), and use that scent when writing to evoke those particular feelings in yourself. You'd be amazed how much easier it is to transfer those emotions to the page. For example, if you're trying to evoke a feeling of home, maybe pop some chocolate-chip cookies in the oven (then bonus, you have cookies to reward yourself, too! hah)
2--candles (scented or unscented). I love the flickering of candles off the objects around me. When I'm trying to write something dark or romantic, I find candles help pull that mood out of me.
3--music. If there's a mood you're trying to create, there's a song that can help. Some people love music without lyrics, while others love the lyrics. Play around with it and see what works for you.
4--sexy clothing. If I'm trying to write a love scene, I find I feel more confident and aware of my own sexuality if I dress in a more provocative manner.
5--watch a movie that has a similar feel to what you're trying to evoke before writing. Visual stimulation is a fantastic aid when going to write a scene. It helps make things more tangible in your mind.
6--act out a scene before writing it, whether just in your mind or with someone else. This can apply to sex scenes, as well as any other. Go through the dialogue in your mind and let yourself feel the emotions so you can accurately transfer them to the page.
7--a little alcohol can help. I love sipping on a glass of wine while writing. Too much will make your writing sloppy, but just a little bit can help relax you enough to let you tap into your sensory emotions.
If anyone has any good tips or tricks, please share them!
You can find the Vampire Oracle cards at http://www.cobblestone-press.com/catalog/line/vampireoracle.htm -- to learn more about me, visit http://www.sophieathens.com.
* * * * * *Disclaimer (because we don't have a choice): The views expressed by the guest blogger do not necessarily reflect those of The Deadly Vixens.
9 deadly screams:
I wanted to quickly thank you for hosting me on your blog! I appreciate it.
Sophie
When I'm trying to keep a scene fresh, I'll often grab my man for 'research'. I've not heard any complaints, ha ha:)
You're welcome, Sophie. Thank you for being our guest!
Those are some great tips for getting in the mood to write. Thanks for sharing them with us.
Molly--good call. Your man can help, too, and I'm sure he's glad for it! haha
Great post, Sophie.
I've never thought of watching something with a similar feel to what I'm writing. I've been kind of stuck on a story, so I may try that now. Thanks!
Congrats on the release! Wish you many sales!
Lanie
Great post, sophie! And major congrats on the release!
Hi Sophie!!
The thing that always puts me in the mood to write is knowing that I can't. Like, when I have stuff I HAVE to do and can't be by my computer. Then I itch to.
Awwwwwwwww thanks guys!! XOXOXO you all are good friends. :-D
Hi, Sophie! Thanks for guest blogging with us. I had never thought about it before how I get in the mood to write until your blog.
If I'm in a slump, I'll read a great book and that usually puts me in the mood to sit at the computer and write away.
Thanks again. Great topic.
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