The Craft of Compelling Writing: Insights from Laura Munson

returning guest Laura Munson shares her valuable insights on the craft of writing. Laura emphasizes the importance of scenes and the use of thoughts within them to elevate the storytelling experience. She explains the concept of 'show and tell' over the traditional 'show, don’t tell,' highlighting the critical role of the narrator in both memoir and fiction writing. Laura also discusses her Haven writing retreats and online community, The Nest, aimed at supporting writers. Throughout the discussion, she stresses the significance of connecting with the reader by inviting them into the character’s inner thoughts and feelings. This episode is packed with practical advice for writers of all levels, making it an invaluable resource for those looking to enhance their craft.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:32 The Importance of Craft in Writing

02:14 The Power of the Scene

06:40 Using Thoughts in Writing

13:53 Direct vs. Indirect Thoughts

22:33 Memoir Writing Tips

23:59 Conclusion and Resources