WRITTEN IN THE STARS.

Practical Magic for Creative Writing

Write a headline, subhead and witty story description first. A catchy head will get you excited, which is a likely prerequisite to exciting the reader. The destination might change, but at least you have an idea of where you'd like to go and why you are embarking.

Play with words. Make a list of terms and phrases related to your overall topic and use them as creative transitions, modifiers, etc. Develop a theme that goes with your subject and turn it into a thread that holds the piece together like ribbon and bow.

Describe sources -- their mannerisms, how they speak, what kind of first impression they make, how they move, how they relate with others--before and while you relate their ideas and expertise. Put news and information in the context of a great human drama.

Create suspense. If at all possible, tease the reader early on with a question or tickle their curiosity, but save the resolution until the end. Shape your story as a circle and give them the satisfaction of having walked the labyrinth.

Look for and offer surprises. Irony is particularly wonderful -- how delicious, the perfectly delightful but unexpected! A burst of humor, awe or tenderness will leave your reader with a lingering sense of fulfillment.