Last week, we talked a little bit about the history of the sonnet form in general, and the Italian sonnet in particular. We've still got one more week to go before we analyze English - read: Shakespearean - sonnet, though. This week, it's all about the Spenserian sonnet. The History of the Spenserian Sonnet The … Continue reading How to Write a Spenserian Sonnet
The sonnet is one of the most famous poetic forms, almost as recognizable as the haiku. It comes in many forms. Over the next few weeks, we'll examine three of the most famous sonnet types. Let's begin with the Italian sonnet. The History of the Italian Sonnet When most people think of sonnets, only one … Continue reading How to Write an Italian Sonnet
If you write for long enough, you'll eventually come to the conclusion that it's impossible to completely avoid using passive voice. That isn't to say your professors were wrong when they told you not to use it. Both are true: you shouldn't use it, and you can't help but use it. I'm sorry. English is … Continue reading When to Use Passive Voice
When you first enter the word of literature and literary academia, the vocabulary can be unnerving. These are words you've probably never seen before; you hardly feel comfortable reading them to yourself, much less out-loud. Everyone has met with challenges like these at least once, so try not to let your intimidation keep you from meeting these … Continue reading 13 Words Every Writer Should Know
Have writer's block, or a similar creative constipation, that needs to go now? Check out these 15 interesting words and catch some inspiration.