A Hint Of Poetry

Flanders Fields - Rememberance Day Poem

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:07:00 +0000

Photo: John McCrae - author of "Flanders Fields"

The "In Flanders Fields" poem was written in the spring of 1915 by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae during World War I. The poem was first published in the winter of 1915 and has become one of the world's most famous poems.

John McCrae was born in Ontario Canada in 1872 and died in 1918 at the age of 45 from Pneumonia. His poem "Flanders Fields" lives on as a war memorial poem as well as the symbol of the poppy.

Essay Writing Tips - Powerful Introduction and Conclusion

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:00:00 +0000

By Laura Medel Nelson

Essay writing is never complete without the two most essential parts - introduction and conclusion. Why? Introductions serve as teasers that establish and convey the relevance of the whole essay. On the other hand, conclusions serve as deal sealers that leave strong and persuasive impressions on the readers.

With such great responsibility, introductions and conclusions have to be as powerful as possible. These paragraphs give the readers the opening and ending statements required that can make or break an essay. Brilliant essay writing has two vital factors - attractive introduction and strong conclusion.

Writing good introduction and conclusion is not done in a snap. It entails squeezing of creative juices and sufficient time to research. But there are some important considerations that can guide essay writers in coming up with hip beginning and ending statements.

In Writing Introductions

The introduction is basically designed to grab reader's attention. It also aims to provide the readers a brief rundown of the essay's main focus and idea. Remember two main points.

1. Begin with a bang. An attention grabber opening paragraph is a sure hit in essay writing. How to formulate such? A lot of means are efficient. Here are some:

• Use startling information
Employing surprising and revealing information has always been a good way to start an essay. Essay writing is an exciting and brain stimulating activity. Using startling facts make readers curious and excited. Therefore it compels them to read more. However, the information must be true and confirmable.

• Through anecdotes
Using anecdotes is another way to start an essay. An anecdote is a story that exemplifies a point. But the anecdote must be short and genuinely relevant to the topic. This method can be a competent essay writing opener, although, I must be done cautiously.

• Try dialogues
Using dialogues as an introduction entails crucial scrutiny. The dialogue has to be appropriate and relevant. The readers must be able to understand the point that the dialogue is trying to convey. It is ideal to use only two or three exchanges between speakers to establish the main point. It must still appear as essay writing activity and not script writing.

• Apply information summary
In writing formal essays, information summary works best. A few sentences citing the general points of the topic can actually lead the readers towards the heart of the essay. It is ideal that each sentence gradually become more and more specific, until it reaches thesis statement.

2. Finish the opening paragraph with the thesis statement. This is to immediately convey to the readers the essential points that the essay offers.

In Writing Conclusion

Essay writing can never be effective without a closing statement. The conclusion does not only bring closure to the readers, it is a tool so that the essay can leave a strong and compelling impression to the readers. It does not merely sums up the important points of the essay, but it wraps up and provides a personal perspective on the topic.

Conclusions are usually three to four sentences long. It is not advisable to have long and winding ending paragraphs. Three sentences will do. However, these sentences must be powerful enough to achieve the goal of the essay - whatever it might be. Essay writers also have to ensure that the written conclusion emphasizes the value of the main claim.

There is only one key point in essay writing to make it invincible - begin strong, end stronger.

About the Author: Laura Nelson, an essay writer fresh out of college, Laura can't wait to undergo the news and feature writing seminar her first employer requires her to finish. She can learn a lot about essay writing and other writing strategies and rules on that seminar. Laura's other passion includes oil painting and hockey.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Laura_Medel_Nelson

A Blonde View of Life - a Book of Excellent Humor in Poetry at Its Best!

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:49:00 +0000

By Joseph Spence, Sr.

This is what I classify as a funny and happy-type poetry book. It's packed with humor and is written by a wonderful blonde who jokes about herself. Daveda Gruber, is a sensational author and poet of numerous volumes of poetry. She is beautiful, witty, and full of charm, which will become very obvious while reading this excellent poetic volume, "A Blonde View Of Life."

Daveda starts the book with an exceptional poem, "A Yellow Rose," written in the Quatrain format. It speaks highly about meeting her husband, Sonny, who is from Pennsylvania, when he travelled to Montreal, Canada to meet her for the first time.

You will crack up while reading her series of poems, "Gym Bag on Fire," regarding buying underwear for her ex-husband, Jerry, who is a lawyer. Apparently, he had left his gym bag on the stove top with a variety of his underwear inside and the bag burned to ashes. The irony is that she had to buy him several new sets of American underwear, while accompanied by her now husband, Sonny, at her side in the store. HA! This is really a funny poem.

While reading, check out her poem, "A Blonde Moment." It will have you in stitches from laughing. In the last stanza she states, "I am a dumb blonde honey; it seems that Jerry still owes me money (referring to her ex-husband the lawyer)."

Her articulation and personification of inanimate objects will get you moving in the following poems: "I am a Jockstrap," "Life as a G-String," "I am a Sock," "I am a Bra," and others. She brings these non-life pieces of clothing to life in her poems while telling detailed stories with vivid images.

Reading about famous people is like a "Who's Who in American Society." Catch her with these famous people: President Bill Clinton and his wife, Hillary; John Lennon the singer, and his wife, Yoko Ono; Oprah Winfrey (talk show host); Scotty from Star Wars, beaming her up; and Tiger Wood, the golf pro. Don't forget that she is also an avid golfer; therefore, if you're on the golf course and hear someone yell, "FORE," don't forget to take cover. Additionally, she is a Scorpio; therefore, take some bug juice with you. Haha! This is so much fun writing about my dear friend and poetess.

Daveda gives tribute to her dear and precious mother, who still resides in Montreal, Canada, in the following poems: "July Ninth or Tenth," regarding her exact date of birth, and "Happy Mother's Day" in the forms of a Quatrain for the former, and Double Etheree poem for the latter. She also renders tribute on her sisters in "Three Ballerinas." They are really cute!

She uses the Rhyming Couplet form to place her loving husband, Sonny, in the spotlight. Additionally, her use of the Epigram form is very witty in articulating the essence of their love. Don't forget the brown fluffy poodle pup, "Lady Godiva," I bet she eats nice dark chocolate candy.

Daveda speaks of her breasts in a humorous manner with a series of poems. She refers to how she has had breast reduction, and how her breasts have grown back to be magnets for men's eyes. This is a really funny and humorous section.

She has a variety of pictures throughput the book, which makes the pages catching to the eyes. Several of the pictures show her beauty, husband, mother, sisters, and many more. Several motifs are also prominent.

Over all, this is an excellent poetry volume written in a story format using a variety of poetry forms. It's humorous as poetry should be, intriguing, and inspirational.

Obtaining and reading this book,"A Blonde View of Life," should be a special treat. Her website is: http://www.davedagruber.com or http://pfppublishers.com.

Submitted by "Epulaeryu Master."

Joseph S. Spence, Sr., is the co-author of two poetry books, A Trilogy of Poetry, Prose and Thoughts for the Mind, Body and Soul, and Trilogy Moments for the Mind, Body and Soul. He invented the Epulaeryu poetry form, which focuses on succulent cuisines and drinks. He is published in various forums, including the World Haiku Association; Milwaukee Area Technical College, Phoenix Magazine; and Taj Mahal Review. Joseph is a Goodwill Ambassador for the state of Arkansas, USA, and is an adjunct faculty at Milwaukee Area Technical College. He has completed over twenty years of service with the U.S. Army.

http://www.trilogypoetry.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Spence,_Sr.

Kanye West Slam Poetry - Video Clip

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:59:00 +0000

Kanye West has been making headlines for all of the wrong reasons since he interrupted singer Taylor Swift at the 2009 Much Music Video Music Awards. Kanye West ruined Taylor Swift's best female music video award win by taking away the microphone and telling the crowd that "Beyonce" was the one who had the best music video.

Kanye has since apologized to his fans, Taylor Swift, and anyone else who will listen, but is it enough to win back the fans he's lost?

Kanye West is not only a musician but he's also a poet, check out Kanye West's slam poetry performance. Do you think he'll make a comeback or does he have more apologizing to do?

Naomi Wolf Celebrated Author of "The End of America"

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:37:00 +0000

Here is an interesting interview with author "Naomi Wolf" discussing her book "The End Of America:"

How to Master SEO Article Writing

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 11:19:00 +0000

By Lisa A Mason

If you want to write articles for SEO or search engine optimization, so that they will get noticed in the search engines online, there are some things you should learn. It's not enough to just make up some keywords and then write some articles tossing those keywords around. Instead, you need to learn how to master the art of SEO article writing.

It doesn't have to be complicated and it doesn't require special schooling or an education. All you need is to learn a few basic steps and then you will be creating amazing SEO articles like the pros. First, you need to learn how to perform proper keyword research.

There are tools available on the Internet for free that will allow you to search for keywords related to your topic. You can use these tools to see how many people are searching for specific keywords, to help you find long-tail keyword phrases and to find more keywords to write on. Become as familiar as you can with these tools as they will serve you very well from now on.

Now before you just start plucking keywords out at random, you will need to learn a little something about keyword analysis. You need to know how these keywords and keyword phrases are performing so that you can choose the right ones for your needs. You want to avoid those which are too competitive or that are specifically being targeted by your competitors because you may not come out on top against all the competition.

Lastly, you need to know where to put these keywords. You don't just throw them along wherever you feel like it. They need to be in your title, in your first sentence and in the last paragraph of your article as well as in the resource box whenever possible you also don't want to overuse the keyword phrases. This is called "keyword stuffing" and it can get you penalized by the search engines.

Lisa Mason is a freelance writer with a specialty in Internet content and SEO articles and the author of How to Earn a Living Writing for the Internet as well as two poetry anthologies and a how-to poetry book. She has written thousands of articles, hundreds of ebooks and thousands of website pages and related content.

Professional wordsmith for hire: gamer, wife, mother, entrepreneur, published poet, co-owner of game guides company, public speaker and Internet business consultant. You can learn more or follow Lisa's blog from her website

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_A_Mason

Jonas Hyde's Poetry

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:05:00 +0000

I stumbled upon the poetry of writer Jonas Hyde, and found it to be quite interesting. I've been reading a lot of "Slam" poetry lately which is very popular right now, but I found it really nice to read poems written by an author that brings you back in time.

Jonas Hyde's "classical narrative poetry" is beautiful. I particularly enjoyed his poem "London Rain" which can be found on the website "The Literary Works Of Jonas Hyde." You can feel the intensity of the poet's emotion while reading the poem.

I find Hyde's poetry to be engaging and the "classic style" is refreshing. You can read Jonas Hyde's online at his website and you can follow Jonas Hyde on his Twitter Page @jonas_hyde.

Jonas Hyde's latest poetry book will be coming out soon and is titled "Renaissance," and I'm sure we'll be hearing more on the successes of this up and coming poet in the future.

Interview With Author Richelle Mead

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:31:00 +0000

Here's an interesting interview with writer Richelle Mead, author of the "Vampire Academy " novel series. You can find out more information on Richelle Mead, including other novels that she has written on her Wikipedia page.

Scratch & Dent Dreams -Slam Poetry - Eric Darby

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:27:00 +0000

Here is slam poetry at it's best, check out this video clip of Eric Darby performing his poem "Scratch & Dent Dreams." You can find out more about Eric Darby on his website.

Tips on Writing a Good Descriptive Paragraph

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:29:00 +0000

By Tiffany Provost

In order to appeal to the reader in the strongest way possible, the writer should use language which appeals to the five senses. If you follow these tips on descriptive writing this should be easy to do.

Make sure that the beginning is exactly what you want the reader to see. It is necessary for a proper example of a descriptive paragraph to first illustrate the picture that the author wants the reader to receive. Use powerful adjectives in your description. Don't use words that are too general (such as awesome, pretty, good, or nice), as these in no way give a visual image. Alternatively, be as detailed as possible with the visual descriptions in your paragraph, allowing the reader to experience what you are describing. There are many ways of communicating this. For example, you can say, 'the nice dog played.' You can also go in a more roundabout way - 'The scruffy brown dog with a patch above his left eye jumped quickly up at the passing red frisbee.' The first sentence may be to the point, but the latter one has sufficient description to create a picture for the reader.

You should consider writing about various types of smells and tastes. Now describe that topic to the reader in terms of smell and taste. The best writers incorporate many adjectives into their sentences in order to make their audiences get a vivid picture of what they are describing. You may want to include smells when describing your topic to entice the reader. Perhaps do the same thing when describing tastes. Simply stating that something tastes good is not a good description of it, so try and use more descriptive terms. You should try to get as descriptive as possible with how everything smelled and tasted.

Write about how the item or moment makes you feel. When you go about the description, write about your experience and how you went about it and how it feels. Does it remind you of anything as you think about running your hand along the surface? Just what are your emotions doing in reaction to the present time? Adjectives help the reader really feel and envision what is going on in the story. Your readers will feel and think in the way you wish if you are careful about your wording and are very descriptive. Try not to be too general like, "that is good" (it isn't descriptive). It is best to choose specific, definitive examples which adequately share a distinct impression with your reader.

The noises heard at that time should not be neglected in your description. The one-paragraph description ought to include a short description of the types of sounds that can be heard. What sounds are carried on the wind? Or is it very quiet? Be descriptive when explaining the sounds the reader should expect to hear. You have to be specific about the nuances of sound when you want your readers to experience the sound. "The gentle breeze blew through my ears and left me peaceful and calm," is a good example of how to use the sense of hearing to describe a sound. You should try being this detailed when you write your own paragraph.

Sprinkle your writing with phrases that are sure to impress. Your professor and other readers will like the paragraph even more when the description includes other good writing tricks as well. A simile is a comparison between two different things using the words 'like' or 'as'. Your audience will better associate the content of your text with their daily lives when you use metaphors that they can appreciate. Creating a picture is important in writing. Include all the minute details. The readers can then appreciate the idea fully.

Tiffany Provost writes about writing and education for HowToDoThings.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tiffany_Provost

Writing Short Stories - Fiction

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:26:00 +0000

By Chris L. Smith

Many of us discover we love to write fiction. Some might stumble into writing while others know from the time they first pick up a pencil. Our problems lie with finding the proper starting point in the writing world. Do we jump into a full novel? How about trying our hand with some beautiful poetry? If nothing else sounds like it will work for you, try taking a shot at a short story. These stories can be based on any topic, setting, or characters you like. Write what you feel passionately about.

Writing can be one of the most rewarding challenges you can undertake in life. But many people get turned off when they immediately jump into a large project. Short stories offer a path to enjoy writing and keep it within a manageable level at the start.

Let's take a look at some of the basic components of a short story. When you read one, you may automatically think how easy it would be, but good short stories have many subtleties which make them enjoyable. Each story should have an introduction, a phase to build the action or plot, a climax, and a resolution. This is not a dead set rule, but for beginning writers it's easiest to follow a basic format. You will figure out how to bend this unwritten rule after building experience.

Now that we've looked at the basics lets start with searching for ideas. Once again we will go back to writing what you have passion for. If you aren't passionate about what you are writing, it won't have the right "mmph" to it in order to hook the reader. Find a subject you truly enjoy and begin thinking about ideas for the direction of your short story.

Once you have your characters and story planned decide who is going to tell the story. What viewpoint are you going to write in? First person? Second person? Third person? With short stories, a lot of experimentation can be used to find the best way to show the reader what is happening.

As you sit down to begin the writing process remember that the opening few sentences in a short story must contain a "hook". This device pulls the reader into the plot and connects them to the characters and settings. Without a strong lead, the readers may quickly lose interest.

After you've completed your short story (whether it is 100 words or 3,000 words) make sure to sit back and edit it. Not many writers can send a perfect rough draft out the door. The editing process is a key tool in any writer's arsenal. Look not only for grammatical and spelling mistakes, but also key factors in the story like dialogue and character actions.

If you have a forum to receive feedback... use it! One of the best ways to improve your writing is through constructive criticism from family, friends, writing clubs, or online communities. With the tips and critiques they provide you may find quite a few small mistakes or perhaps even big holes in your writing. Feedback from family and friends can make the difference between a decent story and a great one.

Writing fiction short stories can lead you to places you've never been. The worlds you create will forever live with you and continue to evolve as you go through life. Remember to keep writing and always have fun with it! Let short stories be the start of your writing career.

Chris Smith is an avid writer with over ten years of experience in the literary world. On his site, he offers free help to any writer. Each day a new short story is published on the homepage with a direct link to a discussion and feedback forum. Anyone can submit a story to be published. There is absolutely no cost.

Other resources such as literary agency lists and in-depth critiques are available at no cost. Make sure to watch for the free-to-enter writing costs on the forums which present $100 to the winner. If you want to push your writing to the next level, it's the perfect place for you.

For more information head over to the homepage at http://www.justalittlefiction.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_L._Smith

How Editors Know You're An Amateur

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:50:00 +0000

Author website: www.williammeikle.com

Are you happy being an amateur writer? Do you want to stay in that happy state? Then just follow these tips in all your submissions.

Don't address the editor by name. After all, there may be many editorial staff at the publication just waiting to jump at the chance to read your work, and you don't want them to miss out do you?

Don't use double spacing. You never see articles or stories published in double space do you? So why should you bother double spacing your work, when someone is just going to have to convert it to single spacing later?

Don't bother checking your spelling or grammar. That's the editor's job isn't it?

Don't send return postage. Why should you assume they'll return your work? That's defeatism. If they want to publish it, they can write you a letter - surely they can afford that? And as you've paid to send it to them, surely they can pay to return it?

Don't put your name on the manuscript. They're bound to keep your manuscript and the cover letter together aren't they. No one would ever file correspondence and submissions in different places. Neither would they keep your letter, and send your submission to someone else to appraise it. That never happens.

Don't tell them how many words it is. Surely they can count?

Don't use a standard font. Everybody else does, and you want your manuscript to stand out from the crowd.

Don't use a new ribbon or cartridge. Why waste ink when the manuscript will get re-typed before publication anyway?

Don't tell them you've sent it to other editors. What they don't know can't hurt them. And you can always play one editor off against an other when they both offer you publication. Surely they'll understand that they can't expect an exclusive look at your work without a guarantee to publish it?

Don't read the publication's guidelines. Your work is so good that they'll have to publish it, even if it doesn't fit what they say they want. They just don't realise that they want it yet, that's all.

Just follow the tips above, and you're guaranteed to remain a happy amateur for ever.

Source: http://www.articlecircle.com/ - Free Articles Directory

About the Author

I have seven novels published in the States. I am available for all freelance writing work. Contact me and read some free fiction at my web site http://www.williammeikle.com

Article Writing For Pay - A Great Work From Home Opportunity

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:43:00 +0000

Author: Christopher Granger

Have you always wanted another job for extra income? With the economic crisis, more and more people are looking for ways to augment their income. This can be difficult, as more and more companies are closing, and more and more people are getting laid off. These can serve as hindrances for many people.

To add to that, it can be quite difficult and challenging to get another job, as it would be too physically demanding. Not only will you have to work double; physically, you will also be strained, transferring from one workplace to another. Another problem is time. With a full, nine to five office job, who still has the time for another job, and what kind of job starts after the regular work hours? These things pose great challenges to people who wish to find an extra job.

Thankfully, there are great jobs online, and one of them is article writing for pay. This is an excellent idea for people who have full nine to five jobs, as most of these have work from home opportunities. All you have to do is to get a writing assignment, finish writing the articles, and submit them-through electronic mail. Pretty easy, especially when you think about the time you save from going to another workplace.

The internet has changed a lot of things for us-and has opened great opportunities for many. Article writing for pay is a great way to earn extra income, as you practically do not have to bring out money the way you do in normal office jobs-for transportation, food, and other things. Working from home allows you to relax and work at your own time while earning money. This is not only great for those who want extra income; it is also beneficial to many new parents who have to stay at home to watch their children.

If you are someone who writes for a living, or someone who just simply loves to write, then article writing for pay is the best job for you. Some may see it as a great way to earn extra money, but if you are serious in doing this, it can also be the main source of your income. If writing comes naturally to you, then this may be a great opportunity. There are many websites which can host your writings, and there are many others who are looking for writers to give writing assignments to, so make sure you research and find out which is the best for you.

Nowadays, many people worry about the slump of the economy, but as long as you know where to look, you can most certainly find a job, and this is one example of a good-paying job that can also bring satisfaction to you. Not only that, it will also help you practice your writing skills. If you know and follow the basics, you will see that writing is actually quite simple, and it will be a very enjoyable job for you.

About the Author:
Want to learn about Atricle Writing for Pay? We have the lowest rates, highest quality, and best article writing and submission services available online! Come check out why internet marketers rank us #1 - Go to http://www.99centarticles.com

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Article Writing For Pay - A Great Work From Home Opportunity

Book Review -- "Mockingbird Wish Me Luck" by Charles Bukowski

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 13:16:00 +0000

Interviews With Twilight Author Stephanie Meyer

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 13:04:00 +0000

Stephanie Meyers is the author of the popular Twilight series. Here's a look into how Twilight started and how Stephanie Meyer feels about the books and their characters:

Teaching Poetry - How To Interest Students In The Art Of Poetry

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 12:51:00 +0000

In this first video Teacher Helen Vendler gives some valuable tips on how to get students interested in poetry. The second video features talented poet Zach Ashley who expresses his views on poetry taught in schools. It's an amazing poem as well as a valuable lesson on what this generation needs to excited about poetry.

Have You Switched To Satellite TV Yet?

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 12:28:00 +0000

If you haven't switched from cable television to satellite TV yet you should check out the current "5 Months Free" web special being offered at the Direct TV website.

It's a great chance to check out the Direct TV Service available. One of the best reasons to switch from cable to satellite is that you receive many more channels for a lower price. Direct TV is offering television packages for as low as $29.99 for the family entertainment package which is a good deal.

If you're willing to pay more for your satellite television you can order over 200 channels for $39.99. Check out the www.directsattv.com website for full details on tv packages and current specials. If you like what you see you can order a Direct Service package online.

Totally Naked Poetry - Funny Video

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 14:50:00 +0000

I found this funny "Totally Naked Poetry" video on You Tube and had to post it. It's stupid yes, but it's fun too, check it out:

Writing For Young Children - 10 Basic Rules

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 15:33:00 +0000

By Karen Cioffi

I write for young children and I also write marketing and health articles. Writing in both genres, I can tell you that writing for children can be much more challenging. When writing for children, there are guidelines to keep in mind to help your story avoid the editor's trash pile. Here is a list of 10 rules to refer to when writing for young children:

1. This is probably the most important item: be sure that your story does not suggest dangerous or inappropriate behavior.

Example: The protagonist (main character) sneaks out of the house while his parents are still sleeping.

This is a no-no!

2. Make sure your story has age appropriate words, dialogue and action.

3. The protagonist should have an age appropriate problem or dilemma to solve at the beginning of the story, in the first paragraph if possible. Let the action/conflict rise. Then have the protagonist, through thought process and problem solving skills, solve it on his/her own. If an adult is involved, keep the input and help at a bare minimal.

Kid's love action and problem solving!

4. The story should have a single point of view (POV). To write with a single point of view means that if your protagonist can't see, hear, touch or feel it, it doesn't exist.

Example: "Mary crossed her eyes behind Joe's back." If Joe is the protagonist this can't happen because Joe wouldn't be able to see it.

5. Sentence structure: Keep sentences short and as with all writing, keep adjectives and adverbs to a minimum. And, watch your punctuation and grammar.

6. Write your story by showing through action and dialogue rather than telling.

If you can't seem to get the right words to show a scene, try using dialogue instead; it's an easy alternative.

7. You also need to keep your writing tight. This means don't say something with 10 words if you can do it with 5. Get rid of unnecessary words.

8. Watch the time frame for the story. Try to keep it within several hours or one day.

9. Along with the protagonist's solution to the conflict, he/she should grow in some way as a result.

10. Use a thesaurus and book of similes. Finding just the right word or simile can make the difference between a good story and a great story.

Using these techniques will help you create effective children's stories. Another important tool to use in your writing tool belt is joining a children's writing critique group. No matter how long you've been writing, you can always use another set of eyes. It you're a beginning writer and unpublished, you should join a group that has published and unpublished members. Having published and experienced writers in the group will help you hone your craft.

Karen Cioffi is a freelance writer and co-author of the bedtime picture book, Day's End Lullaby. She is part of the team at DKV Writing 4 U and is the creator and moderator of the yahoo group VBT - Writers on the Move. This group consists of authors and writers who help promote one another through virtual book tours and other useful strategies. Karen is also the co-moderator of a Yahoo children's writing critique group. For helpful tips about writing, marketing, self-publishing and much more please visit: http://karenandrobyn.blogspot.com

If you'd like to learn more about the many affordable writing and website services offered at DKV Writing 4 u please visit: http://www.dkvwriting4u.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karen_Cioffi

Romantic Poetry - What NOT To Do

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 15:27:00 +0000

By Holly Bliss

What NOT to do AKA bad love poetry.

I love your lovely fingers,

My love, as they dive through

Your silky, sunshine hair.

I love your deep blue

Eyes, I gotta tell ya

They’re quite a pair.

Your lips are liquid

Lava and at them

I always stare.

Just wanted to let

You know that in you,

I’ll always care.

Unless the plan is for you and your beloved to be the only eyes on the planet to read your love poetry, you need to avoid some common problems that can be found in romantic poetry.

1) Like clowns in a tiny car - Cram it in until it bursts.

Don't try to shove every feeling you've ever had into one piece. Find a single metaphor or element and breathe life into it. Let the reader feel the moment, not a lifetime.

2) Clichés - Deeper than any ocean...

Avoid clichés. Find unique ways of saying how deep your love is.

3) Mushy Metaphors

You’re the hot fudge on my sundae… The strings on my angels harp.

Unless you’re going for giggles, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, or country music lyrics (sorry, Dad), see number one and stick to a few well thought out metaphors. The shorter the poem, the fewer metaphors.

Feel free to turn a single metaphor into an extended metaphor (poetry thread) but avoid things like the example above.

4) Forced Rhyme

Your lips are liquid

Lava and at them

I always stare.

Just wanted to let

You know that in you,

I’ll always care.

Forced rhyme at it’s best, um, worst. It's better to have no rhyme scheme than to force one out and hammer it into your poem like a misplaced puzzle piece.

Rhyme should sound natural, almost as if it isn’t there. Don't try to switch words around to make them fit into a rhyme scheme. Also, I find slant rhyme (can/hands) works better than perfect rhyme (can/plan).

5) Finally, did I mention “I love you”?

I love your lovely fingers,

My love, as they dive through

Your silky, sunshine hair.

Ack! Enough already. A way to get out of this habit is to try to write love poetry without using the word love at all. It goes back to the “show don’t tell” rule of literature, which can be applied to all forms of writing.

© 2006 Holly Bliss. All Rights Reserved. This document may be freely redistributed in its unedited form and on the condition that all copyright references are kept intact along with the hyperlinked URLs.

About the Author: Using her writing as paint on the canvas of her life, Holly Bliss is an eclectic writer, newsletter editor and an author on http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Creative Writers.

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Maya Angelou Poetry Reading - And Still I Rise

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 14:39:00 +0000

Here is an amazing poetry reading from esteemed poet Maya Angelou: "And Still I Rise:"

Maya Angelou Inspires Young Poet

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 14:31:00 +0000

Famous poet Maya Angelou inpired one young poet by giving her a signed copy of "And Still I Rise." Here's more on the story:

Birthday Love Poems - Tender Verses to Let That Special Someone Know How You Feel

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:04:00 +0000

By Martin Dejnicki

Guys, if you are like the rest of us, you probably have a hard time letting her know how you really feel. Birthday poems written from the heart can express what you have always wanted to tell her, but could not find the right words. Special birthday love poems are thoughtful and tender, letting her know how much she means and how much you love having her in your life.

Ladies, you know how hard it can be to shop for your man. The shirt and tie just doesn't get across the way you really feel about him, and he already has more DVDs and gadgets than he knows what to do with. Birthday love poems that really mean something can let him know that you are thinking only of him on his special day.

When you share your love for one another through special birthday love poems, you are sure to grow closer than ever - enjoy the bond you share in your intimate relationship and show the love you feel for your beloved.

One popular love poem includes this beautiful verse:

My love for you, lives by the truth,

Always keeps me in my youth.

When it sees, our trust and hope,

It climbs and conquers any slope.

What better way to share the depths of your enduring love, than to let the words of this specially created birthday love poem speak for you? Profess your deepest feelings and let your beloved know that your love persists beyond everything else with this moving verse and others like it.

For a new love, light and tender birthday love poems celebrate the excitement and soaring feelings that come with a new relationship. And the longer you have been together, the more you know each other's every thought and mood - you can express this closeness best through a thoughtful piece of poetry designed to commemorate a special birthday occasion.

Timeless verses can send the message that your love is forever, and that whatever life brings, you are there to support and care for one another. The birthday love poem you choose is the perfect way to celebrate this special occasion and create a memory that lasts a lifetime. Give a gift that will always be treasured - let your sweetheart know your innermost thoughts and bring your relationship to a new level.

Birthday poems with rhyming verses can help you to express the thoughts you want to share. The right poem will show your beloved how special they are to you and how important they are in your life.

Share romantic birthday poems with your significant other, and make him or her feel truly special on their day of celebration. One-of-a-kind birthday love poems are gifts from the heart that will be cherished forever - the best gift you can give to the one you love.

My appreciation for poetry inspired me to create Special Birthday Poems. This is a website where I share my rhyming birthday love poems. I have been writing these poems for nearly 3 years.

My selection of verses has poems that are suitable for any birthday celebration. Each category contains a number of meaningful verses that are created to make each birthday a day to remember forever. Feel free to browse the entire selection of birthday poems and choose the one that says exactly what you are trying to express on this very special day.

My inspiration to write more birthday poetry increases every time I receive an email from grateful visitors. I must admit, it's an extremely rewarding experience.

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Majestically Uplifting and Spiritually Inspiring Poetry

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 23:54:00 +0000

By Joseph Spence, Sr.

The author of this excellent book, Spiritual Living Waters Flowing in Words, Christina R. Jussaume, has blended a variety of poetic forms and styles in this new book. Tribute is paid to her family through the use of the acrostic form. She also uses the rictameter form to uplift her daughter. The beautiful pictures of her family throughout the book certainly portray a special blessing of family togetherness. One should be able to appreciate the many bounties she has received with such a wonderful family just based on her poetic words.

The exemplary way in which she uses the Shakespearian sonnet style to address colors, especially in the poem, "My Rainbow," is very uplifting. Her poem regarding "Spiritual Healers," which has a picture of herself and Patricia Ann Farnsworth-Simpson, her longtime poetic friend and publisher, is pleasing to the sense of sight. The extended metaphoric lines in "Thunder in the Heaven" regarding angels clapping their hands is just brilliant. Her imaginative skill in writing poetry is ingenious.

Jussaume uses figurative language in many poetic lines to capture the imagination on the reader in her first book, My Walk with Jesus, which touches on various aspects of life, thus providing examples of unconditional love, beauty beyond measures, helping others, and receiving the heavenly blessings while uplifting God's wonderful name. The figurative language she uses is symbolic of an eternal spring "flowing in words" within the soul of humankind.

Truly Jussaume is gifted with her eclectic style of using her poetic muse to write in a variety of forms including: acrostic, cascade, English and Italian sonnets, rictameter, quatrain, triplet, English pensee, senryu, lucky leaf, freeverse, somonka, swap quatrain, and many others. She also uses the form, Seventh Heaven, in an outstanding fashion with her poems "Guardian Angels" and "A Week in Time." Additionally, her talent shines when she writes in the, Christ-in-a-Rhyme poetic form as displayed in: "Embrace God's Love," "Prayers for Asthmatics," "Prayers for Retirees," "Open Invitation of God," and "Eternal Life Promised."

Finally, this is truly a book of inspiring poems for all to read. The words invoke the spirit of heaven and the love of her Savior. This is not just an exceptional poetry book; it should be a blessing in the lives of all readers who believe in the word of God, and His saving grace for others to come to His kingdom, and to know His unconditional love.

Her website is located at: http://www.poetesscrjussaume.com/.

http://www.trilogypoetry.com/

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Michael Jackson Tribute Poem By Apollo Poetry

noreply@blogger.com (ChristyZ) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 19:10:00 +0000

This is a beautiful Michael Jackson tribute poem which serves as an important reminder to us all, we should have some fun, and remember our inner child and our dreams: