The 3R's to Awesome Writing! (Rap, R&B, and Rock-n-Roll)

Some time ago, upon discovering that I enjoy the music of bad-boy rapper 50 Cent, a fellow-writer blasted me for my “misguided” choice.
He pointed out the fact that many rappers have lyrics that promote violence, materialism, and misogyny. Couldn’t believe that someone as straight laced and socially conscious as he considered me to be, would actually “indulge“.

Though it’s true that many of today’s entertainment icons in the rap industry use words and references that could make a sailor blush, it’s not a totally valid assessment for all of them collectively and their music. Don’t believe the hype!

Here’s an example. In a popular song by Tupac Shakur, the gangsta’ rapper pays a touching tribute to his mom in a song entitled, “You are appreciated.”

In fact, even with its bad “rep”, some rappers actually champion important causes and seek to promote social justice. When asked to defend his lyrics to critics, 50 Cent shared this: “Only God can judge me.”

But, the purpose of today’s piece is not to defend the merits of “alternative” types of music. No, my friend. Today’s post is designed to help you become a rock-star writer and have “the moves like Jagger!”

So, if you’re on board, I’d like to share how listening to the “3 R’s” enhanced my writing, helped to reach broader audiences, and increased my bottom line.

As an award-winning writer of more than a decade, here’s what I’ve learned over the years that has taken my writing to new levels and put a song in my heart. And it can for you too.

ON CRAFT AND BUSINESS...

Rappers and singers often skillfully use some of the same literary techniques and devices our English teachers tried to drill in our heads back in high school.Here are a few of them you may remember: hyperbole, imagery, analogies, alliteration, and poetry. For example, In a popular song, one rapper compares the dance floor with the heat of a tea kettle. While another artist compares a woman’s body to a sanctuary. Use phrases and references that evoke emotion, puts a different spin on things, and makes indelible impressions on the minds of busy readers. They know how to turn pain in to profit.
Word! They’re savvy about turning life’s lemons into lemonade. Behind the blaring music, if you listen closely, you’ll hear stories of love and loss. Of humble beginnings, having “haters,” and even dealing with personal demons. It’s something we all can relate to on some levels; no one is immune to these universal experiences, no matter what side of the track we may come from. Though these experiences may not translate into the next billboard hit, as writers, they can become “scores” for personal essays, poems, or commentary pieces. Take your heartbreak to the bank. Rappers are “convicted” in more ways than one.
You may not morally share their perspective, but you should definitely aspire to their deep sense of conviction. Take for instance, Lil Kim, who was incarcerated for reportedly trying to protect friends regarding a shooting outside a nightclub. Now of course, I’m not advocating that you go out and do anything that violates your moral code, or that will land you behind bars, (though it could very well lead to a book deal). J Your writing should stand for something! Watch their videos or read their tell-all books, and their intensity and commitment is truly evident. Passion moves people. In other words, if you’re not geeked about your subject matter, chances are your readers won’t be either. Controversy sells, and they are great merchants. Have courage, don't always play it safe. Disagree with a position made by a blogging "expert," or take a different position on social media popularity, or "sound off" on a heated topic in the news. I know, I have. As long as it’s done tastefully, and you are “well-informed,” a little controversy can ultimately help to establish you as an online influencer, and brand you as someone authentic and worth “following”. That's the stuff that "solid platforms" are built upon.

Note: It's important to recognize, folks, that controversy is different than angry, spiteful, personal "ranting". Don't get it twisted. :-)
 
They diversify their talents and their income streams.
Puff Daddy does this through a popular clothing line.
50 Cent has a lucrative vitamin water and "fly gear" business.
Some singers even operate trendy, successful restaurants.
What can we learn from this? Cast a wider net. Dabble in different genres. Don't rest on your laurels.
 
They collaborate with those whom they admire.
Everything is not always about competition; there's enough "bling" out there for all of us.
Consider collaborative projects as a great way to build important friendships, expand your offerings, and share the spotlight with other talented artists.

Well, this concludes my "performance" here today. Let me know what you think about today's topic. Agree or disagree? Anything you intend to incorporate in your writing soon?
Remember, "Swagger matters!" :-)

Last, but not least, this is just a reminder that Pen & Prosper will be on a short break until mid-August. Feel free to stop by and leave comments in the interim. I'll be checking here and there. :-)

　

　
Image: Freedigitalphotos.net
　

　

　

　

　

5 Questions With Publisher Shilpa Mudiganti...

Shilpa, thank you for joining us today. We appreciate your time, creative input, and expertise here at Pen and Prosper.
　
1. Can you tell us a little about your background?

I come from a simple, book-loving family. I remember how I used to sneak in the Sidney Sheldon novel within the bigger physics book I was pretending to read and burn the mid-night oil! That’s where I come from – an electronics engineer with an insane need to read everything from the next novel to the labels on milk cartons. And I write too. At least I think I can!

Today, I am the founder of Inkspell Publishing LLC, an independent publishing house of enchanting romance and fantasy fiction. And, more recently, The Good Villain, a writing and publishing resource for authors and publishing professionals.

I am married to the most wonderful man I could wish for and on the way to add a new family member this Oct! J

2. What was the purpose behind starting your publishing company and The Good Villain?

I started Inkspell Publishing LLC in Jan 2012 after I shopped around for my novella for about 3 months. I know that’s not much of a time to give up, but the experience I had with other small publishers was very disappointing. There was no professionalism or quality. I realized the need for a fair deal for the authors in terms of quality and support, and at the same time, the variety that a reader deserves, and I was confident that I could do a better job.

Well, a lot said it’s very naïve for me to think that really, considering I have no background in publishing, but I knew what I wanted to give and I started doing that. It’s perhaps the best thing I did in a long time. Today we have 48 published books (26 full length novels and 22 free short stories). There are 4 more novels to release this year. 20 authors and growing and we nailed the publishing process. In fact, one of our books “The Star Child” just hit Amazon #1 in the Fantasy/Coming of Age category and we cannot be more thrilled. It is a combination of high quality and consistency.

At the same time, I also realized the gap in writing and the knowledge of the publishing process amongst the aspiring and published authors and I felt a need for a platform where writers and publishing professionals can come together to share their knowledge. I learned it that way – from peers-- and I don’t think there is a stronger medium of learning than peer help. Therefore, The Good Villain. Weird name but plan to provide awesome content to help everyone.

3. Are you currently accepting submissions, and if so, what are you looking for?

Actually yes and I am glad to be making the announcement on your blog!
Inkspell Publishing quite recently opened up three imprints – Inkspell Romance, Inkspell Passion and Inkspell Teens, all stories of romance within 20K-50K word count. The word count can be relaxed a bit if the story is great. It will be digital only with all the regular stuff Inkspell provides – quality editing, great cover designs, publicity and moral support. J

Our digital royalty rates are 40% net sales and are paid quarterly.

You can find more details at our submissions page: http://www.inkspellpublishing.com/submission.html

I strongly encourage writers to check out some of the books we mentioned in each imprint to see what we are talking about. We have noticed a particular trend in stories that our readers like and we intend to provide more of those to them.
　
4. What would it surprise others to know about you?

I am terrified of dogs! Haha..
　
5. If you could have one literary “super power” what would it be?

Editing! I think I am very bad at it and I don’t take editing feedback too well. I spend hours in the dark corners of my house once the MS is back from the editor telling myself I don’t need to throw away that book. I wish I knew how to make that cleaner myself.

　
One more question, to round things off here...

* What advice would you offer to today’s writers?

Connect with your audience even before you finish the book. Make genuine connections with like-minded people and grow your skills. You need only 2 skills – writing prowess and social aptitude. Everything else like editing, design, etc – leave it to the professionals. You can get publicity done from a professional as well, but even that would require a basic platform from you and there is no better time than starting it today. Like Now!

News You Can Use*Weekend Announcements

I hope you're all enjoying a fabulous, fun-filled week of both writing and recreation.
Thanks for taking the time from your busy schedule to hang out here at Pen and Prosper.
I'd also like to extend a special welcome to all of my new followers.

Today's post is provided to give you the 4-1-1 on what's happening online and here in my corner of the world. Please let me know if you have any additional questions, or require clarification.

ANNOUNCEMENTS...

• Did you know that August 4th marks National Friendship Day? And what better way to celebrate than to enter the competition sponsored at Vickiward.net. Basically, the guidelines of the contest call for you to submit a short essay, poem, or slogan involving friendship, (less than 800 words) to Wardvl@yahoo.com. The deadline has been extended to August 1st. Winners will receive gifts and have their entries posted on the site. It's a great way to showcase your talent, and give tribute to a blogging buddy or friend who has been your support system.
•  Would you like to make money through your blog? Win contests? Get a greater return for your "sweat equity?" Get advertisers? Let me help! I now offer a blog consulting and critique service, for those serious about taking their blogs to a higher level in 2013. For $29.00 you'll learn insider's tips to earn more, increase your visibility, and stand out in a sea of competition. Interested? Email me at Gemsjen@yahoo.com
• The Chicken Soup folks are seeking more stories for upcoming anthologies. There's an edition on dating that closes next week. For details see http://www.chickensoup.com/.
• Are you a female who has something to say about the craft of writing or blogging? Share your short essays of 500 words or less at "The Muffin" blog, published by Women on Writing. Their "Friday Speak Out" forum showcases the works of women across the country.
• Pen and Prosper will be on a short break from August 1st through August 12th. I'll miss ya', but I'll be back with more goodies and strategies to help you achieve your writing goals.

So make sure to check back in...


Thoughts? Comments? Any announcements you'd like to share?



Image: Freedigitalphotos.net

How to Stay Motivated...til the Money Comes

  

One of the biggest tests of a writer's commitment to his craft is the area of finances.

Let's face it: it's hard to stay the course when yo' money is funny.

And the stress over unpaid bills and uncollected invoices is bound to cause your muse to go M.I.A.

 Am I right here? 

 Money is indeed a motivator.



Which accounts for why many of us get down in the dumps and disappointed when our in-come doesn't match our out-put.
We find that this line of work is very different than being in the corporate arena, where we are paid an hourly wage to compensate us for our daily efforts. This can be challenging.
As a best-selling book title once reminded us: "do what you love and the money will come later."

In this spirit, (and as a veteran who has struggled with these issues over the years), I offer the following tips to keep you moving forward, and to help you stay grounded.

Tips to inspire and encourage...

1. Progress can be just as validating as pay sometimes. Take inventory. Did you recently break into a new market? Work on a project you're proud of? Write your first query? Sign up for a new class to enhance your skills? Enter a contest? Celebrate! There is honor in honest effort.
2. Remember, you never know who is reading your work. Even when we're not making money, we can make an impact. We can be influencers. We can champion important causes. Here's a case in point. Last week my stats were down. And my spirits were a little low too. Then I got a random email from a publisher who found my blog, through a guest post I had done many moons ago. To make a long story short, she praised me for my great work here at Pen and Prosper, and asked to feature me at her site. It made my day. Sometimes "influence" is just as important as "affluence."
3. Think like a gardener. There's a reaping season and a sowing season. Just like with writing. What you "plant" today could very well manifest into a bountiful harvest---next week, next month, or next year. But you won't know if you quit too soon. Keep growing.
4. Hone your craft to increase your cash. One reason that writers sometimes "plateau" is that they fail to learn new things or experiment with different genres of writing. Don't be one of them. Read. Study. Apply. Invest in yourself. Find a mentor. Be a life-long learner.
5. Pray. When all else fails.

Hopefully these tips will inspire you to have a terrific, progressive Tuesday. Carpe diem!

Thoughts? Agree or disagree?
Which tip resonates with you?

Image: Freedigitalphotos.net

5 Things to Add More Bling to Your Blog!

Happy Friday, folks.

I hope you're having a great week and surviving this oppressive heat. :-)

As summer has now unfolded, how we market and construct our blogs will make all the difference between keeping our audience "engaged" and actively reading our sites, when there is so much competition from outdoor activities, and a more "laid back" focus .  Adding to the equation are vacations, reunions, weddings, and school breaks with the kids. Oh my...!

With this in mind, today's post will show you a few ways to add "oomph" to your site, to make the most of your blogging efforts, through the challenging days ahead.

(Have you noticed a decrease in your stats over the last month or so?) I have.
(Do you find yourself reading less, or commenting less?)

That's my point exactly.

So, let's look at things that will enhance your blog, not just during the summer, but year round.

1. Contests
A great way to keep the fun factor going, and to drive traffic to your site as fierce as the Eisenhower Expressway, is to sponsor a cool contest. And here's the great news: it's not rocket science. It can be something as simple as a trivia contest based around your blog. It could be tied into a holiday or observance day. If your blog is devoted to cooking, it can be a recipe contest. Get the idea here? Prizes could be copies of your books, or your services, or even gift certificates. Get creative and get going!

2. Do a make-over.
Make-overs are all the rage!
From home improvement shows, to weight loss make-overs, to wardrobe and image transformations.
Why not your blog? Come on, when was the last time you looked at your site from a new reader's eyes? Is it clever? Competitive? Easy to navigate? Attractive? Does it have good take-away value? These are things to consider. 

3. Brand your blog.
Branding efforts work like commercials do in T.V. advertising; through association, it helps you to stand out and be remembered. A few things that can help you to achieve this are logos and tag lines. For example, my tagline here at Pen and Prosper is : "Know more. Grow more." My logo is a green and gold pen that is symbolic of growth and richness. How about yours?

4. Add an attractive and personal "About Page."
Your "About me" page is crucial to building connections. It should always include some type of photo, a bio, and a few things to let readers know a bit about the person behind the words. Perhaps your hobbies, your publishing background, your pet peeves, etc. If yours doesn't, revisit and revamp.

5.  Use colorful images and photos to accompany posts.
There's great truth to the expression, "A picture is worth a thousand words."
Readers enjoy visual variety, and images break up the text, so that it's easier to read.
To accomplish this, check out sites like Freedigital photos.net and Stock Photos for free. Many times, you can even use your own photos taken from your camera. Just make sure that it is a quality shot that is properly focused, with good lighting.

Well, there you have it folks: five ways to add more zing to your blog and stand out from the competition. Make the most of them to give your readers a better blogging experience.

Have you tried any of these in your blogging efforts? Will you?
Thoughts here?

Image: Freedigitalphotos.net

5 Proven Cures for "What-to-write-about-itis"...

Having an audience can be awesome.
It can also be intimidating.
And I should know. I often speak of how the first 12 people who followed my Blog regularly kept me motivated. Now, there are hundreds of readers that I am blessed to put my words before each week.
And with it comes great responsibility. Charles Dickens isn't the only one with "Great
Expectations.":-)

Imagine, if you will, hosting a dinner party or function with 100s of interesting guests.
You worry about having the right "menu" selections.
You ponder whether or not your place is appealing and void of excess clutter.

Will "visitors" enjoy their experience enough to say yes to your next R.S.V.P. request?
Oh my! :-)
For many bloggers, a similar dynamic exists when it comes to their readership, and "entertaining" on an ongoing basis.
No matter how much you love it, or how clever you are, after awhile it can be a bit challenging to infuse your Blog with new ideas and interesting themes. True?

Some call it writer's block; while others may view it as a form of performance anxiety.
Either way, how you handle it will determine whether you'll have repeat visitors, or lose fans and friends.

Today we'll look at a few strategies I use to keep the creative juices flowing, and to keep readers stuck like Velcro, after 4 years and over 400 blog posts.
 (And by the way...thanks for being one of them.:-) )

1. Lessons Learned

Raise your hand if you know more about blogging now than you did a year or two ago. Or if you've mastered the dreaded query letter. Or perhaps your revelations may deal with how to persevere through rejection. No matter how long you've been on this writing journey, chances are, you can share with others, tips and techniques to cause fewer detours on their road to success. The possibilities are endless here.

2.    TV Show Analogies
I'm a big fan of Reality TV programs. Not all of them.
But, enough to keep me immersed in ideas that are relate-able and fun.
For instance, I've used shows like American Idol and Dancing With the Stars, to show the parallels between performing on stage, and being "virtual performers" when we release our work to a viewing public. What metaphors and comparisons can you employ, based upon your viewing choices? Assess and then apply.

3. Book Reviews
Writers quite often are readers. And we love to share a good "read" as much as women love to share the 4-1-1 on a  good shoe sale! Posting book reviews allows you to give another writer a little exposure for his/her work, and also create a win/win situation for everybody.  Here's another bonus: you can also tie it in with a book give-away to increase the fun factor.

4. National Awareness Days
Did you know that there are days of celebration, (other than typical holidays) that deserve awareness and tribute? A few that I've discovered are: National Chocolate Week, Everybody deserves a massage week, and National Friendship day, to name a few. These "awareness" days can be a great opportunity to broaden your creative horizons, share interesting trivia, and add variety to the content offered at your site. Last year, National Chocolate Week inspired an idea for a writing contest here, that proved very popular. Why not try it? For a listing of national days and events, simply Google "National Awareness Days" for related links.    

5. Interviews
People's national curiosity to learn about what makes others tick, is the reason you'll find interviews and profiles in just about every publication at your local newsstand. And here's the good news: celebrities are not the only ones that live engaging lives. What about a relative who has overcome major health challenges? Or your neighbor with all his colorful war stories? Or your best friend's new business?  Chances are, there are story ideas all around you.

So the next time you find yourself suffering from a bout of "what-to-write-about-itis" tap into this proven recipe for success!

Your turn.
Thoughts? How do you deal with a lack of ideas?

Image: Freedigitalphotos.net

Hot Tips to Keep Your "Mo-jo" Working-During the "dog days" of summer!

It's summer. And let's face it: most of us would rather be a "beach bum" than a blogger. True?
The mercury's hot and you wanna' chill.
But don't let a brief season sabotage the progress and success you've worked hard to achieve the other months of the year.
As the Good Book states, "moderation in all things."

There's an upside here: not only does summer usher in hot weather, it also offers endless opportunities for writers to earn extra dough through events of the season.

All that’s required is a little strategy and some ingenuity.
And the great thing is that these ideas work regardless as to where you live, or what genre you write.

Here’s how to explore various topics to potentially pen poems, essays, how-tos, features or fictional pieces and to earn hot cash in the process.

Make a list and check it twice.

Here’s what it might look like:

Themes:

Graduations and Proms---A look at college career choices, a nostalgic look at your first love, or an essay on defining success for today’s graduate.

Summer reunions---this could include genealogy references, family recipes, or colorful characters.

Summer vacations---Great for travel writing pieces, rating of hotels and restaurants.

Summer gardening---Tips on successful planting, pictures of your back yard and stories of trial and error, or how to cultivate a green thumb.

Summer barbeques and recipes---How to use beer for tender barbeque, or the art of romantic picnics, or how to make the best baked beans.

Summer weddings---Wedding traditions and how not to become a “bride-zilla.” Unusual stories on how couples met. In fact, I just sold a lesson to Lifehack.org on "Bridezilla" weddings to the tune of 50 bucks.

At-home activities for kids—Arts and craft activities, how to host a book club for teens, summer safety tips. Time management for busy moms.

Summer fashions---Popular trends, hot sales, styles that flatter different figures, foot care for sandal wear.

Holidays

Fourth of July
Labor Day

National “Awareness” Days

National Safety Month—June—Why and how it came into existence.
Parents’ Day---July---Gift-giving tips
Friendship Day---August
Grandparents’ Day---September
Special Olympics

Choose the most interesting and relevant topics based upon your interests and experiences, and narrow the list down.

For example, for me, since I’m an incurable romantic, summer weddings would definitely be at the top of my list. Summer barbeques would also be a definite possibility since I enjoy food and backyard barbeques. The weddings might inspire my romantic poetry or a personal essay, or even a how-to on planning an economical but beautiful wedding for penny-pinchers!

Address the 5 Ws of journalism: who, what, when, where, why. Don’t forget to provide colorful anecdotes and quotes to provide richness.

Start sketching and fleshing out viable ideas.
Ideally the more passionate you are about the subject, the easier and more enjoyable it is to write, and the less research required.

Identify potential markets.
This is almost a no-brainer. Wedding pieces would go to places like Today’s Bride or Bride’s Noir. Recipes would find a home at Taste of Home or Woman’s Day. You’ll also find a great database of magazine guidelines at Writing for Dollars. Once this is done, check the publication’s archives and their editorial calendars to identify the best time to approach the publication with a query or completed piece.

Follow these fabulous tips and you’ll find creative projects and pay to last the whole year!
Carpe diem!

Thoughts? Do you find it harder to be more productive and focused during the dog days of summer? Any secrets to staying on task? Do tell.

Image: SPFF

To Your Writer's Health! Get in touch-The Benefits of "Massage Therapy"

“Health is the greatest wealth.”
---Ralph Waldo Emerson

As writers, we spend countless hours crouched over laptops and computers, in the pursuit of our craft.
And like most professions, there are work related hazards, and health concerns that we must be mindful of, if we wish to enjoy optimal health and protect our livelihood and our families.

There’s no doubt about it: many of us are overworked and under-insured. We “burn the candle at both ends.” We juggle. Our lifestyle and associated activities make us more prone to things such as back pain, eye strain, migraines, wrist injuries, and tension.

Not to mention the stress of computer glitches, slow paying clients, no-paying clients, a lack of support, and looming deadlines.
It can get to be a bit taxing. True?

So, in the overall scheme of things, what can we do to minimize or counteract these maladies and conditions as writers?
One treatment that I have recently tapped into is “touch therapy” or personal massages.
And you should too.

Here’s what I discovered.
A few months ago, at the urging of a friend, I took some “down time” and treated myself to a massage. Much to my surprise, it was a very relaxing, liberating experience, that not only improved my aching, tired body, it also allowed me to mentally “escape” and feel a sense of renewal and release. It even inspired a little creativity, (I subsequently wrote a poem about it).
I highly recommend it, (of course through a licensed, reputable provider).
And there’s no better time than the present.

July 18^th officially marks “Everybody deserves a massage week."
As one wise man once told me: “treat yourself, don’t cheat yourself!”

Here are some reported benefits of massages, (according to studies I‘ve read):

• Relieves sore muscles
• Lowers blood pressure
• Soothes anxiety and depression by reducing cortisol
• Boosts the immune system

Associated cost of a massage?
Depending upon your location and the type of massage, you can expect to pay anywhere in the range of $30.00 to $100.00 for a half hour to an hour’s session. 

So “get in touch” to help your body to better cope with the many demands of life as a writer.
It’ll thank you for it.

Thoughts? Have you ever indulged? Do tell.


Image: Freedigitalphotos.net

Are You Guilty of T.M.I.? 3 Keys to Proper Sharing Balance

Balance.
The foundation of our everyday existence is based upon it.
Yin and yang principles.
The four seasons.
And you know what they say about "all work and no play."

Balance is indeed important. In fact, it's a crucial ingredient to blogging success.
Divulge too much and it could come across as inappropriate or desperate for attention. Or even worse, as being unpolished or unaware of the ways of the (online) world.
Share too little and you risk not making a real connection with your readers.
Here's an example.

Most folks who have followed this blog for more than a month or two, know that as far as this blogger goes...

• I have a fondness for chocolate.
• I'm a foodie.
• My celebrity crushes are on bad-boy rapper 50 Cent, Keanu Reeves, and Michael Ealy.
•  My favorite color is black.
• Beethoven moves me to tears.
• I like my music as loud as cheap perfume.
• I'm a force to be reckoned with when it comes to Jeopardy and most word games!
• Herbal tea is my drink of pleasure.

But, I don't feel the need to share my daily challenges, family issues, love life, or health woes.
And this is not to disparage those that do; to each his own.
So, what's a blogger to do?

Here are three questions to consider to navigate your blogging journey and dictate your sharing ratio:

1. Is your blog personal or professional?
No doubt about it, I can appreciate a good "rant " session as much as the next person. So, when I come across a blog that is on a tangent, but is tasteful and "colorful" in language, that's cool. From time to time. Especially if it's done well. After all, "personal blogs" should be a bit personal. What have we learned here? Blogs of a non-professional nature have a little more latitude in terms of what is shared and how often.

2.  Who is your target audience?
Is it potential clients? Practicing attorneys? Stay at home moms? Writers?
Your target audience will ultimately determine your language, tone, topics, and sharing dynamics.
Choose wisely.

3. What is your primary goal for blogging?
Are you seeking to "win friends and influence people?" Raise awareness of an important cause?
Get feedback on your creative works? Hone your writing skills? Get funding for a project? Bad mouth your boss?

The answer is different for each person. But, the clearer you are, the more successful you'll be in knowing what works best for your audience, your blogging style, and your objectives.
Word to the wise: be aware of potential consequences as well.

Keep in mind that even in an era of social media and strong advocacy of "Freedom of speech," sometimes "less is more."

How about you?
Have you ever read a blog that you thought was guilty of T.M.I.?
How do you strike the right balance for your blog and readership? Do tell.

Image: Freedigitalphotos.net