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Never forgotten but...never finished.

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i just want my book to be written already. i don’t want to write it. i want to have already written it.

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Finding songs for your OCs playlist like

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More detailed questions for your character's psychology

- Is your character self aware? How self aware? How much do they think about the way they appear to other characters? Do they look at things from a third person perspective often? Or another character's perspective? Is your character hypocritical? Do they think about the way other characters may be self aware?

- Does your character reflect on themself alot? In what ways? Is there something that's greatly biasing that reflection? What would it take to break that bias? Do other characters reinforce that bias often? Are other characters aware of this bias? Is your character insecure or hard on themself? Does your character overthink their actions or words? (past or present)

- How good is your character at reading others? Can they spot traits or characteristics in others that they may not be aware of? Why? Do they think they're good at reading others, but actually aren't? Is this due to a bias or simple lapses in judgment? Where does their bias come from? Do they underestimate or overestimate other characters often? Based on what?

- Is your character knowledgeable on things outside their usual scope? How so? What would be considered common knowledge in your setting? How critical is your character about their sources? Do they do further research or get second opinions? Do they have a bias for what sources they consider more reliable?

- is your character emotionally intelligent? Are they able to figure out what/why someone is feeling something, and what might've caused it? Are they good at comforting others? Are they considerate, or notice things other characters might feel sensitive about? Are they good at interpreting other characters' feelings? Do they realize when they're acting in the heat of the moment, or blinded by emotion? Do they know how to self regulate their emotions, or self soothe?

- Does your character think about the implications of things they experience, or things that others say? Are they able to look at the bigger picture, or notice patterns in something? Do they notice little, seemingly insignificant details, and if so, what kind of details? Why? Does your character take the time to gather perspective on something they don't understand? How thoroughly do they think about things before doing something?

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What is an Unreliable Narrator? And How to Write One.

An unreliable narrator is a storytelling technique where the narrator's credibility or truthfulness is questionable. The narrator either intentionally or unintentionally provides a distorted or biased account of the events, characters, or situations in the story. This narrative approach can add complexity, suspense, and intrigue to your writing. Here's how you can create an unreliable narrator:

1. Establish a motive: Determine why the narrator is unreliable. It could be due to personal bias, mental instability, deception, or a hidden agenda. Develop their backstory, motivations, and beliefs to understand why they might present a skewed version of events.

2. Use subjective language: Incorporate language and descriptions that reflect the narrator's personal viewpoint and biases. Their opinions, emotions, and interpretations should color their narration, influencing how readers perceive the story.

3. Include contradictions and inconsistencies: Allow the narrator to make contradictory statements or present conflicting information. This creates doubt and keeps the readers engaged as they try to unravel the truth.

4. Reveal information selectively: The unreliable narrator might withhold or reveal information strategically, manipulating the readers' understanding of the story. This can create suspense and surprise as readers discover hidden truths.

5. Showcase unreliable perceptions: Explore how the narrator's perceptions and interpretations of events differ from reality. They may misinterpret actions, misremember details, or even hallucinate. These discrepancies add depth to the character and raise doubts about their reliability.

6. Use other characters as contrasting sources: Introduce other characters who present alternative perspectives or contradict the narrator's version of events. This contrast allows readers to question the reliability of the narrator and form their own interpretations.

7. Employ narrative techniques: Experiment with techniques like foreshadowing, symbolism, or unreliable memory to emphasize the narrator's unreliability. These devices can help blur the line between truth and fiction, leaving readers intrigued and uncertain.

8. Provide hints and clues: Drop subtle hints or clues throughout the story that suggest the narrator's unreliability. This allows readers to piece together the truth gradually and encourages them to engage actively with the narrative.

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How to Title Your Story

When it comes to titling your story, there are a few things to consider. Here are some tips to help you come up with an effective and engaging title:

1. Reflect the theme or central idea: Choose a title that captures the essence of your story and gives readers a sense of what to expect. Consider the main themes, conflicts, or emotions in your story and try to convey them in the title.

2. Be concise and attention-grabbing: A title should be brief and impactful. It should catch the reader's attention and make them curious about your story. Avoid long, convoluted titles that might confuse or bore potential readers.

3. Consider the genre and target audience: Take into account the genre of your story and the audience you're trying to reach. A title for a fantasy novel will differ from one for a mystery or romance story. Tailor your title to resonate with your intended readers.

4. Use strong, evocative language: Choose words that evoke emotion or create vivid images in the reader's mind. Strong and descriptive language can make your title more memorable and compelling.

5. Avoid spoilers or clichés: Make sure your title doesn't give away crucial plot points or twists. It should pique curiosity without revealing too much. Additionally, try to avoid overused clichés or generic titles that won't stand out in a crowded book market.

Examples of effective story titles:

1. "Whispers of Destiny"

2. "Midnight Shadows"

3. "The Forgotten Key"

4. "Beneath the Crimson Moon"

5. "Unveiling Secrets"

6. "The Art of Redemption"

7. "Echoes of Eternity"

8. "The Enigma of Emilia"

9. "Love in the Time of Storms"

10. "The Starry Road Home"

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Writing Prompts About Ghosts

1. As a child, you could see and communicate with ghosts effortlessly. Now, as an adult, you've lost that ability. However, one day, you encounter a ghost who desperately needs your help.

2. In an old, abandoned mansion, a group of friends decides to spend the night to prove their bravery. Little do they know that the mansion is haunted by a mischievous and playful ghost who starts toying with them.

3. A ghostly figure appears in a small town, haunting a specific location every night. The townspeople are terrified and curious about the ghost's story. Write about their attempts to uncover the truth and put the spirit to rest.

4. While exploring an ancient graveyard, a teenager discovers a hidden crypt. Inside, they come across a friendly ghost who reveals a forgotten family secret that holds the key to their own destiny.

5. A renowned paranormal investigator takes on the challenge of investigating a haunted lighthouse. However, as they delve into the ghostly phenomena, they uncover a deeper, more sinister mystery that connects the present to the lighthouse's dark past.

6. In a small coastal village, a ghostly figure appears near the cliffs every time a storm is brewing. Write a story about a curious local who braves the elements to find out why the ghost is drawn to the stormy weather.

7. A recently deceased ghost wakes up in a realm where ghosts can still interact with the living. They have a limited amount of time to accomplish one final task before they pass on. Describe the ghost's mission and the obstacles they face along the way.

8. In an old, haunted house, a ghostly presence continuously rearranges furniture, knocks on walls, and causes mischief. Write a story from the perspective of the ghost, exploring their motivations and the reasons behind their haunting.

9. A skeptic who never believed in ghosts suddenly starts experiencing paranormal encounters in their own home. Describe their journey from disbelief to acceptance as they navigate the mysterious and unsettling phenomena.

10. A ghost from the past reaches out to a present-day individual through dreams, leaving cryptic messages and clues. Write a story about the person's quest to decipher the ghost's messages and uncover a long-buried family secret.

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Writing prompts about vampires

1. In a modern-day city, vampires live among humans, hidden in plain sight. Write a story about a vampire who struggles to resist their primal instincts while maintaining a normal life, until they meet someone who changes everything.

2. In a post-apocalyptic world overrun by vampires, a group of survivors discovers a hidden sanctuary where humans and vampires coexist peacefully. Explore the challenges and conflicts that arise as they attempt to bridge the gap between the two species.

3. A vampire hunter dedicated to eradicating vampires realizes that they have been turned into a vampire themselves. Describe their internal struggle as they come to terms with their new existence and decide whether to embrace it or fight against it.

4. A vampire with a conscience decides to only feed on criminals and wrongdoers, seeing it as a way to serve justice. Write about their encounters with both human and supernatural adversaries who question their moral code.

5. Two vampires from rival clans fall in love with each other, sparking a forbidden romance. Explore the challenges they face, including their families' disapproval and the consequences of breaking the ancient vampire laws.

6. A vampire wakes up one night with no memory of their past and embarks on a journey to uncover their true identity. Along the way, they discover dark secrets about their vampire lineage and their own role in a centuries-old prophecy.

7. In a society where vampires are enslaved and used as a source of nourishment, a young vampire rises as a leader, rallying others to fight for their freedom. Write about their struggle for equality and the sacrifices they make along the way.

8. A vampire who has lived for centuries develops a deep fascination with human art and culture. Describe their attempts to blend into human society, learning and adapting to the ever-changing world while keeping their true nature hidden.

9. A vampire coven finds themselves targeted by a powerful vampire hunter who possesses unique abilities and knowledge. Explore the intense cat-and-mouse game as the coven members fight for their survival and uncover the hunter's true motivations.

10. In a world where vampires are a dominant species and humans are on the brink of extinction, a human survivor discovers a way to turn the tide and bring balance back to the world. Tell the story of their journey to rally other humans and challenge the vampire regime.

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Writing prompts about vampires in love

1. Two vampires, from rival bloodlines that have been feuding for centuries, find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other. Write a story about their forbidden love and the challenges they face in trying to be together.

2. A human falls in love with a vampire, knowing the risks and consequences involved. Explore their relationship as they navigate the complexities of their different worlds, battling prejudice and seeking acceptance.

3. In a world where vampires hide their true nature, a vampire and a vampire hunter unexpectedly fall in love. Write about the intense internal conflict they experience as they struggle to reconcile their feelings with their respective roles.

4. Two vampires, both immortal and cursed to eternal solitude, cross paths and discover a profound connection. Describe their journey of rediscovering love and learning to open their hearts again, despite the barriers that eternity poses.

5. A vampire, cursed to live a solitary existence, meets a human with a limited lifespan. Write a poignant story about the bittersweet romance that unfolds as they try to make the most of their time together, cherishing each moment.

6. In a world where vampires have lost their ability to feel emotions, a vampire encounters a unique individual who awakens their long-dormant capacity for love. Explore the transformative power of love as they navigate their newfound emotions.

7. Two vampires, both struggling with their dark urges, meet at a support group for supernatural beings. Write about their journey of self-discovery and redemption as they find solace and love in each other's presence.

8. A vampire, haunted by their past and the lives they've taken, meets a human who sees beyond their monstrous nature. Describe the healing power of love as the vampire confronts their guilt and learns to forgive themselves.

9. In a vampire society where arranged marriages are the norm, two vampires find themselves betrothed to each other. Write about their initial resentment turning into unexpected love as they navigate the confines of tradition and societal expectations.

10. A vampire, cursed with eternal youth, encounters a vampire hunter who has devoted their life to eradicating the undead. Write a story about the transformative power of love as they challenge their preconceived notions and find common ground.

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Small details on a character (appearance wise)

- Do they wear their clothing or accessories the "Correct" way? (as they're intended to be worn) Do they have difficulty dressing themself? Where have they gotten their accessories and clothes? Could they get new ones, and how? Do the clothes or accessories fit them? Literally or physically? (Contradicts their personality and fashion sense / clothes too big or too small, not scaled for their body?)

- Can you tell their age by appearance? Have they aged as they should've, or are there reasons why they'd look older or younger? Do they look to be in good health or are they just young? Could you tell if their looks are based on their age vs their health? Why or why not? What's their personal hygiene routine? What affects it?

- Eye shapes? Nose shapes? Jawline? Cheekbones? Forehead size and shape? Teeth? Lips? Hands? Facial hair? Arm hair? Body hair? Baby hairs?

- Freckles? Moles? Birth marks? Tooth gaps? Eyebags? Eye wrinkles? Different lash types? Styled or free growing eyebrows? Cheek dents? Dimples? Mouth creases? Chin shape?

- Do they have signs of wear and tear? Why or why not? Do they hide it? How's their posture? Walking style? How do they hold themself? Do they idle? Fidget? Do they easily tire being in one position? How much do they prioritize comfort when out and about?

- How would they handle a broken nail? Ripped hair? Broken or fallen tooth? Broken nose? Punctured lip? Messed up makeup? Being forced to wear makeup? Being forced not to?

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Some tips for using a few words to describe voices:

1. Tone Words: Use tone words to convey the emotional quality of a voice. For example, you can describe a voice as "melodic," "soothing," "sharp," "gentle," or "commanding" to give readers a sense of the tone.

2. Pitch and Range: Mention the pitch and range of the voice. Is it "deep," "high-pitched," "raspy," or "full-bodied"? This can provide insight into the character's age, gender, or emotional state.

3. Accent and Diction: Describe the character's accent or diction briefly to give a sense of their background or cultural influences. For instance, "British-accented," "Southern drawl," or "formal."

4. Volume: Mention the volume of the voice, whether it's "whispering," "booming," "murmuring," or "hushed."

5. Quality: Use terms like "velvet," "silken," "gravelly," "honeyed," or "crisp" to convey the texture or quality of the voice.

6. Rate of Speech: Describe how fast or slow the character speaks, using words like "rapid," "slurred," "measured," or "rambling."

7. Mood or Emotion: Indicate the mood or emotion carried by the voice. For example, a "quivering" voice may convey fear or anxiety, while a "warm" voice may express comfort and reassurance.

8. Resonance: Describe the resonance of the voice, such as "echoing," "nasal," "booming," or "tinny."

9. Timbre: Mention the timbre of the voice, using words like "rich," "thin," "clear," or "smoky."

10. Cadence: Highlight the rhythm or cadence of speech with descriptors like "staccato," "lilting," "rhythmic," or "halting."

11. Intonation: Convey the character's intonation by saying their voice is "sarcastic," "apologetic," "confident," or "questioning."

12. Vocal Characteristics: If applicable, mention unique vocal characteristics, like a "lisp," "stutter," "drawl," or "accented 'r'."

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Short List of common nervous tics for your OC

1. Tapping or Drumming Fingers

2. Leg Shaking

3. Foot Tapping

4. Nail Biting

5. Lip Biting or Chewing

6. Hair Twirling

7. Throat Clearing

8. Sniffling

9. Eye Blinking

10. Shoulder Shrugging

11. Head Tics

12. Finger Cracking or Popping

13. Gum Chewing or Popping

14. Repetitive Sighing

15. Tongue Clicking or Clucking

16. Stuttering or Stammering

17. Pacing or Fidgeting

18. Scratching or Picking Skin

19. Humming or Whistling

20. Repetitive Swallowing

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How to show emotions

Part IV

How to show bitterness

tightness around their eyes

pinched mouth

sour expression on their face

crossed arms

snorting angrily

turning their eyes upward

shaking their head

How to show hysteria

fast breathing

chest heaving

trembling of their hands

weak knees, giving in

tears flowing down their face uncontrollably

laughing while crying

not being able to stand still

How to show awe

tension leaving their body

shoulders dropping

standing still

opening mouth

slack jaw

not being able to speak correctly

slowed down breathing

wide eyes open

softening their gaze

staring unabashingly

How to show shame

vacant stare

looking down

turning their head away

cannot look at another person

putting their head into their hands

shaking their head

How to show being flustered

blushing

looking down

nervous smile

sharp intake of breath

quickening of breath

blinking rapidly

breaking eye contact

trying to busy their hands

playing with their hair

fidgeting with their fingers

opening mouth without speaking

Part I + Part II + Part III

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fuck it. be creative even if you never really *make* anything. write out plot synopses of stories and then move on. design OCs you'll never use. make mood boards and concept art and don't do anything with them. life's too short to forget everything that inspired you and creation doesn't have to be "complete" to be worth the time you put into it.

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I have … a tip.

If you’re writing something that involves an aspect of life that you have not experienced, you obviously have to do research on it. You have to find other examples of it in order to accurately incorporate it into your story realistically.

But don’t just look at professional write ups. Don’t stop at wikepedia or webMD. Look up first person accounts.

I wrote a fic once where a character has frequent seizures. Naturally, I was all over the wikipedia page for seizures, the related pages, other medical websites, etc.

But I also looked at Yahoo asks where people where asking more obscure questions, sometimes asked by people who were experiencing seizures, sometimes answered by people who have had seizures.

I looked to YouTube. Found a few individual videos of people detailing how their seizures usually played out. So found a few channels that were mostly dedicated to displaying the daily habits of someone who was epileptic.

I looked at blogs and articles written by people who have had seizures regularly for as long as they can remember. But I also read the frantic posts from people who were newly diagnosed or had only had one and were worried about another.

When I wrote that fic, I got a comment from someone saying that I had touched upon aspects of movement disorders that they had never seen portrayed in media and that they had found representation in my art that they just never had before. And I think it’s because of the details. The little things.

The wiki page for seizures tells you the technicalities of it all, the terminology. It tells you what can cause them and what the symptoms are. It tells you how to deal with them, how to prevent them.

But it doesn’t tell you how some people with seizures are wary of holding sharp objects or hot liquids. It doesn’t tell you how epileptics feel when they’ve just found out that they’re prone to fits. It doesn’t tell you how their friends and family react to the news.

This applies to any and all writing. And any and all subjects. Disabilities. Sexualities. Ethnicities. Cultures. Professions. Hobbies. Traumas. If you haven’t experienced something first hand, talk to people that have. Listen to people that have. Don’t stop at the scholarly sources. They don’t always have all that you need.