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writing

Feb
20
The cover of Woodworking depicts the title cover text tumbling over a series of disorganized desks.

Your novel-writing questions answered

By someone who has (almost) published one novel.
11 min read
Feb
17

Ask Emily Anything (about writing novels)

You have questions? Emily possibly has answers.
1 min read
Jul
24
A view of a person with long blonde hair sitting on a blanket and reading. We see them from above.

Does anybody KNOW themselves? REALLY?

Or: Why do I struggle with the concept of interiority so much?
6 min read
May
22
Margot Robbie, in a red dress, rides atop a throng of people, borne up by their hands, at a massive party.

The difference between creation and criticism

It's not what you think!
5 min read
Apr
12
Elmo, the tiny, furry, red Muppet from Sesame Street, smiles. He's shrugging for some reason.

April mailbag!

7 min read
Mar
15
A man and woman, both in robes, face an unseen person just offscreen.

March mailbag!

6 min read
Jan
24
Steve Carell plays Michael Scott in The Office. He's sitting at his desk!

How I create (hopefully) memorable characters

Hint: It involves more than one character.
6 min read
Oct
04
The members of the writers room in 30 Rock stare incredulously at something off-camera.

How to become a TV writer in 700 easy steps

Now that I've been a TV writer for one day, I have some advice for you.
10 min read
Sep
21
A woman in an aqua top, aqua shoes, and black running shorts runs alongside a river.

Flight or flight?

Why does every hobby I have end up feeling like an escape route?
9 min read
Aug
09
Milo Ventimiglia and Mandy Moore (in a Steelers jersey) watch some TV on the couch in This Is Us.

You are not smarter than the art you critique

Here's my best advice for young critics: Don't presume you know better.
8 min read