Tag: Charles Heath

What I learned about writing – The “Practice Makes Perfect” Myth

(and Why It Still Works—for Writing)

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The “Practice Makes Perfect” Myth (and Why It Still Works—for Writing)

“If you do anything seriously long enough, you’ll get better.”

That sentence feels like an old‑school mantra you might have heard from a coach, a music teacher, or a parent. It’s comforting, almost inevitable—just keep at it and the results will follow.

But does the rule hold true for writers? And what does it mean when we say “good writing is contagious”?

In this post I’ll unpack the science behind long‑term practice, show why writing is a uniquely contagious skill, and give you a toolbox of concrete, battle‑tested tips to turn “doing it longer” into real, measurable improvement.

1. The Core Truth: Time + Deliberate Practice = Skill Growth

FactWhat It Means for Writers
Neuroplasticity – The brain rewires itself with repeated activity.The more you write, the stronger the neural pathways that support storytelling, grammar, and voice.
Deliberate Practice – Not just “doing the thing,” but practicing with feedback and specific goals.Writing a 500‑word blog post isn’t enough; you must target weak spots (e.g., pacing, dialogue) and refine them deliberately.
Deliberate Practice – Not just “doing the thing,” but practising with feedback and specific goals.10,000 hours of mindless typing won’t help. Ten hours of focused revision, critique, and study can trump 100 hours of “just writing.”
Plateaus Are Normal – Skill acquisition follows a sigmoid curve: rapid early gains, a plateau, then a second surge after a breakthrough.Expect periods where progress feels stagnant. Use them to experiment, read, or rest—don’t quit.

Bottom line: Time alone isn’t enough. You need deliberate, feedback‑rich practice to convert hours into mastery.

2. Good Writing Is Contagious – Why It Spreads

  1. Social Proof: Readers (and fellow writers) gravitate toward high‑quality prose. When a piece shines, it sets a new benchmark in its community.
  2. Mirror Neurons: We neurologically mimic the style and tone we consume, especially when we admire the source. Reading great sentences trains our own “inner ear.”
  3. Collective Learning: Writing groups, workshops, and online forums create a feedback loop where one person’s improvement lifts the entire cohort.
  4. Cultural Momentum: Think of the “New Journalism” wave of the ’60s or the rise of flash fiction on Twitter—once a few voices cracked the code, the style proliferated.

In short, exposure to excellent writing accelerates your own growth—if you allow it to.

3. The Pitfalls of “Just Writing More”

Common MisconceptionWhy It FailsHow to Fix It
“I write 2,000 words a day, so I’m improving.”Quantity without reflection reinforces bad habits.After each session, flag 1–2 things you’d change (e.g., redundancy, weak verb).
“I’ll get better after I finish my novel.”Long‑term projects can hide small‑scale weaknesses.Break the novel into bite‑size “skill drills” (e.g., one chapter focused on dialogue).
“Feedback is optional; I trust my gut.”Our internal editor is notoriously biased.Schedule regular external reviews—beta readers, editors, or a critique partner.
“I’ll read only what I like.”Comfort zones limit exposure to new structures, vocab, and perspectives.Add a “genre‑stretch” reading slot each week (e.g., poetry if you write nonfiction).

4. Actionable Blueprint: Turn Hours Into Better Writing

Below is a step‑by‑step system you can adopt today. It’s modular—pick what fits your schedule and skill level, then iterate.

A. Build a Structured Writing Routine

ComponentFrequencyTip
Micro‑Write (10–15 min)Daily, first thing in the morningWrite a single sentence, a vivid description, or a quick dialogue exchange. No editing, just raw output.
Focused Session (45–90 min)3–4× per weekChoose a skill goal (e.g., “show, don’t tell”). Work on a specific piece that targets that goal.
Review & Revise (30 min)Immediately after each focused sessionHighlight 2–3 improvement points; rewrite the same passage with those in mind.
Reading Sprint (30 min)Daily or every other dayRead a passage from a writer you admire and take notes on what makes it work (sentence rhythm, word choice, structure).
Feedback Loop (1 hr)WeeklySend your work to a critique partner or post in a writing forum. Write a response to each piece of feedback, outlining what you’ll try next.

Why it works: The routine mixes production, analysis, and external input—the three pillars of deliberate practice.

B. “Contagion” Tactics – Let Good Writing Infect You

  1. Curated Reading Lists
    • Classic craft: “The Elements of Style,” “On Writing” (King).
    • Genre deep‑dive: 5 seminal works from each genre you write.
    • Modern bite‑size: Follow Twitter accounts that tweet micro‑essays or haiku.
  2. Imitation Exercises
    • Pick a paragraph you love. Rewrite it in your own voice while preserving the structure and rhythm.
    • Swap the genre (turn a news article into a short story).
  3. Community Immersion
    • Join a weekly critique circle (online or local).
    • Participate in writing challenges (NaNoWriMo, 30‑day flash fiction).
    • Comment thoughtfully on other writers’ blogs—explaining what you liked forces you to articulate good writing principles.
  4. Mentor‑Mode Writing
    • Write as if you’re teaching a class. Draft a short guide on a writing technique; the act of explaining refines your own understanding.

C. Metric‑Based Progress Tracking

MetricToolHow to Interpret
Word‑per‑hour outputTimer + word countAim for a stable range; spikes may indicate “flow” days, drops may signal fatigue.
Revision Ratio (original words ÷ final words)Drafts in Google DocsA decreasing ratio (e.g., 1.3 → 1.1) often signals tighter prose.
Feedback Score (e.g., 1‑5 rating from beta readers)Survey FormTrend upward? If flat, examine recurring criticism.
Reading Diversity Index (genres read per month)SpreadsheetHigher diversity correlates with more varied sentence structures.

Review these numbers every month and adjust your routine accordingly.

5. Real‑World Case Study: From “Stuck” to “Spitting Fire”

Writer: Maya, 34, freelance tech copywriter.

ProblemInterventionResult (3 months)
Drafts flooded with jargon; readers complained of “dry” tone.1️⃣ Daily 10‑min “show, don’t tell” micro‑write.
2️⃣ Weekly 30‑min reading of narrative non‑fiction (e.g., The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks).
3️⃣ Joined a local critique group focused on voice.		• Reduced average sentence length by 15 %.
• Client satisfaction score rose from 3.2 → 4.6/5.
• Secured a new contract for a storytelling‑heavy whitepaper series.

Maya’s story illustrates that structured, feedback‑rich practice beats sheer volume—and that reading narrative work made her own prose “contagiously” richer.

6. Quick‑Start Checklist (Print & Pin)

  •  Write a 10‑minute “seed” piece every morning (no edits).
  •  Pick one skill goal per week (e.g., stronger verbs).
  •  Read a 5‑minute passage from a master writer daily and annotate.
  •  Submit a draft for critique at least once a week.
  •  Imitate a favourite paragraph once a month, then rewrite it in a new genre.
  •  Log your metrics (output, revision ratio, feedback rating) every Friday.

7. The Bottom Line

Yes—if you do something seriously long enough, you will improve. But the quality of that “serious” effort is what determines how much you improve.

Good writing spreads like a good meme: you absorb it through reading, imitation, and community, and you amplify it by giving feedback and teaching.

By marrying deliberate practice with contagious exposure, you turn the simple mantra “write more” into a powerful, measurable growth engine.

Your next step? Choose one of the tactics above, commit to it for the next 30 days, and watch your prose evolve from “just getting longer” to “getting better.”

Happy writing—and may the contagion be ever in your favour!

If you found this post helpful, share it with fellow writers, and let us know which of the strategies you tried in the comments.

365 Days of Writing, 2026 – 218

Day 218 – The author’s imaginary world

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Building the Invisible Architecture: Why Every Novelist Must First Create a World They Believe In

“Every novelist must begin by creating himself a world, great or little, in which he can honestly believe.” — Joseph Conrad

When we open a novel, we aren’t just looking for a sequence of events. We are looking for a portal. We want to step out of the mundane architecture of our daily lives and inhabit somewhere else—whether that somewhere else is the misty decks of a 19th-century trading ship, the neon-lit alleys of a cyberpunk dystopia, or the quiet, devastating emotional landscape of a suburban kitchen.

But before a reader can ever step foot into that fictional realm, the author must build it, brick by invisible brick. And as Joseph Conrad famously noted, that process begins with belief.

If the writer doesn’t buy the reality of the world they are constructing, why should the reader?

Let’s explore what Conrad’s timeless wisdom means for modern novelists, world-building, and the psychological heavy lifting required to write fiction that resonates.

The Anatomy of Belief: What Does It Mean to “Believe” in Your World?

Belief in writing is not about magic systems, historical accuracy, or encyclopedic lore (though those things can help). It is about internal coherence and emotional truth.

When Conrad spoke of creating a world “great or little,” he wasn’t just talking about epic fantasy maps. A “little” world might be a single boarding house in Dublin, a courtroom during a three-day trial, or the strained silence across a breakfast table.

To believe in your world, you must know its gravity. You must understand:

  • The sensory reality: What does it smell like after a heavy rain? What is the quality of the light at 4:00 PM?
  • The unspoken rules: What do the inhabitants take for granted? What are the cultural taboos, economic pressures, and quiet griefs that shape their daily choices?
  • The moral pulse: Even if the author is entirely objective, the world must operate on a set of internal cause-and-effect dynamics where actions have real, believable consequences.

If you are writing a scene and you feel a twinge of artificiality—a sense that you are moving characters around like chess pieces just to get to the next plot point—you have stopped believing in your world. And the moment the author stops believing, the reader’s suspension of disbelief shatters like cheap glass.

World-Building is Self-Discovery

Notice the phrasing in Conrad’s quote: “creating himself a world.”

Before a novelist creates a world for the reader, they must create it for themselves. Writing a novel is an act of self-interrogation. The world you build often becomes a mirror for your own obsessions, fears, questions, and philosophies.

  • Tolkien didn’t just invent Middle-earth for the sake of an adventure; he built it out of a profound love for lost mythologies and philology, creating languages that necessitated a world to speak them.
  • Austen mapped the rigid, polite, and deeply economic marriage market of 19th-century England because she was keenly interested in the intersection of female autonomy, social survival, and genuine affection.

When you sit down to write, your fictional world is your testing ground. It is the ecosystem where you explore what you actually believe about human nature, power, love, and betrayal. If your heart isn’t invested in the truths of that ecosystem, your prose will lack the pulse of life.

The Danger of the “Cardboard Set”

We have all read books that feel like movie sets made of painted cardboard. The dialogue is snappy, the plot moves fast, but the moment a character leans against a wall, you feel like the whole thing might tip over.

This happens when a writer focuses entirely on mechanics rather than immersion. They outline the plot beats, design the twists, but fail to inhabit the space.

To avoid the cardboard set trap, adopt Conrad’s mindset:

  1. Dig deeper than the surface details. Don’t just invent a futuristic city; figure out where the garbage goes, who cleans the streets, and what people sing when they’re drunk.
  2. Let the world talk back. A believable world has momentum. When your characters make a choice, the world should react in ways that aren’t always convenient for your outline.
  3. Write for the senses, not just the intellect. Bring your scenes to life through texture, temperature, and tone.

How to Cultivate Radical Belief in Your Writing

If you are struggling to connect with your story-world, how do you bridge the gap? How do you reach that state of honest belief?

  • Write toward the unknown: Don’t plan every single square inch before you start. Leave room for discovery. Sometimes, believing in your world means exploring it alongside your characters, letting it surprise you.
  • Anchor the fantastical in the visceral: If you are writing high fantasy or hard sci-fi, ground the extraordinary in ordinary human experiences. A dragon rider still gets a sore back; a starship captain still worries about aging or estranged children.
  • Interrogate your own cynicism: If you find yourself rolling your eyes at your own plot developments, stop. Figure out why. Fix the underlying logic until you can nod to yourself and say, Yes, that is how this world works.

Final Thoughts: The Invitation to the Reader

Writing a novel is an act of supreme audacity. You are essentially asking a complete stranger to sit in a quiet room, look at a series of black symbols on a white page, and hallucinate an entire reality for several hours.

The only way that magic trick works is if your own conviction is absolute.

When you create a world—whether it spans galaxies or exists entirely within the confines of a single room—you must believe in it first. Pour your curiosity, your empathy, and your attention into its soil. Because when you honestly believe in the world you’ve made, the reader won’t just visit it—they will live in it.

Are you currently building a fictional world? What is the hardest part of making it feel real to you—the physical details, the emotional stakes, or the internal logic? Let us know in the comments below!

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Top 5 sights on the road less travelled – Quito

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is located in the northern Andes Mountains, nestled in a valley on the slopes of the Pichincha volcano, about 25 miles south of the equator, making it one of the world’s highest capital cities at roughly 9,350 feet in elevation. 

  • Region: Sierra (Highlands) of Ecuador, part of the Andes mountain range.
  • Key Landmark: Situated on the Pichincha volcano‘s eastern slopes.
  • Equator: Very close to the Equator, with a monument marking the line just outside the city. 

Beyond Quito’s major landmarks, there are many unique, local experiences and attractions to explore. These include visiting bohemian neighbourhoods, a renowned pre-Columbian art museum, and local food markets. 

Alternative Cultural Experiences

  • Explore La Floresta: This bohemian neighbourhood is known for its vibrant street art, independent galleries, and hip cafes and restaurants. A popular spot is the indie cinema, Ocho y Medio, which screens avant-garde and foreign films.
  • Wander through La Ronda: This charming, narrow cobblestone street in the historic centre truly comes alive at sunset with local art galleries, artisan workshops (like coppersmiths and traditional hat makers), cafes, and live music.
  • Visit Museo Casa del Alabado: Located in the Old Town, this private museum houses an impressive and well-curated collection of pre-Columbian art and archaeological pieces, providing deep insight into Ecuador’s ancestral heritage.
  • Check out the street art: The La Floresta and La Mariscal neighbourhoods feature an evolving outdoor gallery of murals and graffiti that reflect contemporary social and political themes.
  • Experience local markets: For an authentic slice of daily life, visit the Mercado Central or Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal. The Central Market offers inexpensive, traditional Ecuadorian food (try the locro de papa or horno) and fresh juices, while the Artisan Market is perfect for shopping for handicrafts, textiles, and jewellery. 

Top 5 sights on the road less travelled – La Paz

Discovering La Paz: Five Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path

Introduction
Nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Andes, La Paz is a city of vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes. While many travellers flock to its iconic Witches Market and the Death Road, the Bolivian capital holds countless secrets for the curious. For those seeking an authentic, less-travelled journey, here are five extraordinary experiences that redefine what La Paz has to offer.

1. Cholitas Licking: A Celebration of Andean Identity
Step into the striking world of the cholitas, traditional Aymara women, and immerse yourself in their fearless blend of style, resilience, and heritage. This unique cultural encounter, often described as “Cholitas Licking,” features fashion shows, workshops, and artisan markets where cholitas showcase their vibrant polleras (dresses) and colonial-era masks. More than a spectacle, this experience challenges stereotypes and honours indigenous identity. Visit their community centres in El Alto for a deeper understanding of their role as cultural ambassadors.

Tip: Respect cultural significance—ask for permission before photographing participants.

2. Kallawaya School of Traditional Healing: Ancient Wisdom in Modern Medicine
Journey to the outskirts of La Paz to explore the Kallawaya School of Traditional Healing, a living archive of pre-Columbian medicinal knowledge. The Kallawaya people, renowned for their healing practices, offer workshops on herbal remedies, music therapy, and shamanic rituals. Wander their medicinal garden, where over 200 plant species are catalogued, and learn how to craft teas or tinctures for common ailments. This is a rare chance to connect with Bolivia’s spiritual and ecological heritage.

Tip: Book workshops in advance—offerings (regalos) to the mountain (apacheta) are customary.

3. Wuli Qhapaq Cable Car to Chimehua: Sky-High Serenity
Traverse the urban sprawl of La Paz aboard the Wuli Qhapaq (Red) cable car network. While most travellers stick to the main routes, venture to the Chimehua line, a golden cable car that extends into the Illimani Valley. This lesser-known route offers panoramic views of the Illimani volcano and descends into the lush, remote countryside. Alight at a local farm for a chicha (corn beer) tasting or a guided hike through cloud forests teeming with orchids.

Tip: Bring a reusable bottle for coca tea from the local market—perfect for altitude adjustment.

4. Sopocachi Caves: Earth’s Hidden Art Gallery
Just 20 minutes from downtown La Paz, the Sopocachi Cave System reveals a subterranean wonderland of stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient rock art. These caves, once inhabited by pre-Columbian communities, are adorned with mysterious symbols and animal carvings. The self-guided tour is affordable (£16-£20) and led by local guides who share tales of the caves’ role in ancestral rituals.

Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and bring a headlamp for optimal visibility.

5. Trek to the Valley of the Moon: A Martian Landscape
While Salar de Uyuni is Bolivia’s most famous attraction, venture toward the Valley of the Moon (Valle de la Luna) for a quieter, equally dramatic experience. Located near Salar de Cotapata, this surreal red and orange badlands, sculpted by wind and erosion, feels like another planet. Guided day tours from La Paz (lasting 8-10 hours) include a detour to this hidden gem, where photography and hiking are unspoiled by crowds.

Tip: Visit during dry seasons (April–September) for the best colour contrasts without mud.

Conclusion: La Paz, Redefined
La Paz is more than its skyline—it’s a gateway to the extraordinary. By stepping beyond the cobbled streets of the city, travellers can uncover traditions, landscapes, and communities that epitomise Bolivia’s soul. Whether you’re sipping chicha at a cloud forest farm or tracing your fingers along ancient rock art, these hidden adventures promise memories that linger long after your boots return to solid ground. So, pack your sense of curiosity and let La Paz surprise you.

Final Tip: Learn a few Aymara phrases—Suma qhapaq kama (Beautiful is the life well lived) is a poetic way to end your journey. 🌄

365 Days of Writing, 2026 – 218

Day 218 – The author’s imaginary world

…

Building the Invisible Architecture: Why Every Novelist Must First Create a World They Believe In

“Every novelist must begin by creating himself a world, great or little, in which he can honestly believe.” — Joseph Conrad

When we open a novel, we aren’t just looking for a sequence of events. We are looking for a portal. We want to step out of the mundane architecture of our daily lives and inhabit somewhere else—whether that somewhere else is the misty decks of a 19th-century trading ship, the neon-lit alleys of a cyberpunk dystopia, or the quiet, devastating emotional landscape of a suburban kitchen.

But before a reader can ever step foot into that fictional realm, the author must build it, brick by invisible brick. And as Joseph Conrad famously noted, that process begins with belief.

If the writer doesn’t buy the reality of the world they are constructing, why should the reader?

Let’s explore what Conrad’s timeless wisdom means for modern novelists, world-building, and the psychological heavy lifting required to write fiction that resonates.

The Anatomy of Belief: What Does It Mean to “Believe” in Your World?

Belief in writing is not about magic systems, historical accuracy, or encyclopedic lore (though those things can help). It is about internal coherence and emotional truth.

When Conrad spoke of creating a world “great or little,” he wasn’t just talking about epic fantasy maps. A “little” world might be a single boarding house in Dublin, a courtroom during a three-day trial, or the strained silence across a breakfast table.

To believe in your world, you must know its gravity. You must understand:

  • The sensory reality: What does it smell like after a heavy rain? What is the quality of the light at 4:00 PM?
  • The unspoken rules: What do the inhabitants take for granted? What are the cultural taboos, economic pressures, and quiet griefs that shape their daily choices?
  • The moral pulse: Even if the author is entirely objective, the world must operate on a set of internal cause-and-effect dynamics where actions have real, believable consequences.

If you are writing a scene and you feel a twinge of artificiality—a sense that you are moving characters around like chess pieces just to get to the next plot point—you have stopped believing in your world. And the moment the author stops believing, the reader’s suspension of disbelief shatters like cheap glass.

World-Building is Self-Discovery

Notice the phrasing in Conrad’s quote: “creating himself a world.”

Before a novelist creates a world for the reader, they must create it for themselves. Writing a novel is an act of self-interrogation. The world you build often becomes a mirror for your own obsessions, fears, questions, and philosophies.

  • Tolkien didn’t just invent Middle-earth for the sake of an adventure; he built it out of a profound love for lost mythologies and philology, creating languages that necessitated a world to speak them.
  • Austen mapped the rigid, polite, and deeply economic marriage market of 19th-century England because she was keenly interested in the intersection of female autonomy, social survival, and genuine affection.

When you sit down to write, your fictional world is your testing ground. It is the ecosystem where you explore what you actually believe about human nature, power, love, and betrayal. If your heart isn’t invested in the truths of that ecosystem, your prose will lack the pulse of life.

The Danger of the “Cardboard Set”

We have all read books that feel like movie sets made of painted cardboard. The dialogue is snappy, the plot moves fast, but the moment a character leans against a wall, you feel like the whole thing might tip over.

This happens when a writer focuses entirely on mechanics rather than immersion. They outline the plot beats, design the twists, but fail to inhabit the space.

To avoid the cardboard set trap, adopt Conrad’s mindset:

  1. Dig deeper than the surface details. Don’t just invent a futuristic city; figure out where the garbage goes, who cleans the streets, and what people sing when they’re drunk.
  2. Let the world talk back. A believable world has momentum. When your characters make a choice, the world should react in ways that aren’t always convenient for your outline.
  3. Write for the senses, not just the intellect. Bring your scenes to life through texture, temperature, and tone.

How to Cultivate Radical Belief in Your Writing

If you are struggling to connect with your story-world, how do you bridge the gap? How do you reach that state of honest belief?

  • Write toward the unknown: Don’t plan every single square inch before you start. Leave room for discovery. Sometimes, believing in your world means exploring it alongside your characters, letting it surprise you.
  • Anchor the fantastical in the visceral: If you are writing high fantasy or hard sci-fi, ground the extraordinary in ordinary human experiences. A dragon rider still gets a sore back; a starship captain still worries about aging or estranged children.
  • Interrogate your own cynicism: If you find yourself rolling your eyes at your own plot developments, stop. Figure out why. Fix the underlying logic until you can nod to yourself and say, Yes, that is how this world works.

Final Thoughts: The Invitation to the Reader

Writing a novel is an act of supreme audacity. You are essentially asking a complete stranger to sit in a quiet room, look at a series of black symbols on a white page, and hallucinate an entire reality for several hours.

The only way that magic trick works is if your own conviction is absolute.

When you create a world—whether it spans galaxies or exists entirely within the confines of a single room—you must believe in it first. Pour your curiosity, your empathy, and your attention into its soil. Because when you honestly believe in the world you’ve made, the reader won’t just visit it—they will live in it.

Are you currently building a fictional world? What is the hardest part of making it feel real to you—the physical details, the emotional stakes, or the internal logic? Let us know in the comments below!

…

“The Things we do for Love”, the story behind the story

This story has been ongoing since I was seventeen, and just to let you know, I’m 72 this year.

Yes, it’s taken a long time to get it done.

Why, you might ask.

Well, I never gave it much interest because I started writing it after a small incident when I was 17, and working as a book packer for a book distributor in Melbourne

At the end of my first year, at Christmas, the employer had a Christmas party, and that year, it was at a venue in St Kilda.

I wasn’t going to go because at that age, I was an ordinary boy who was very introverted and basically scared of his own shadow and terrified by girls.

Back then, I would cross the street to avoid them

Also, other members of the staff in the shipping department were rough and ready types who were not backwards in telling me what happened, and being naive, perhaps they knew I’d be either shocked or intrigued.

I was both adamant I wasn’t coming and then got roped in on a dare.

Damn!

So, back then, in the early 70s, people looked the other way when it came to drinking, and of course, Dutch courage always takes away the concerns, especially when normally you wouldn’t do half the stuff you wouldn’t in a million years

I made it to the end, not as drunk and stupid as I thought I might be, and St Kilda being a salacious place if you knew where to look, my new friends decided to give me a surprise.

It didn’t take long to realise these men were ‘men about town’ as they kept saying, and we went on an odyssey.  Yes, those backstreet brothels where one could, I was told, have anything they could imagine.

Let me tell you, large quantities of alcohol and imagination were a very bad mix.

So, the odyssey in ‘The things we do’ was based on that, and then the encounter with Diana. Well, let’s just say I learned a great deal about girls that night.

Firstly, not all girls are nasty and spiteful, which seemed to be the case whenever I met one. There was a way to approach, greet, talk to, and behave.

It was also true that I could have had anything I wanted, but I decided what was in my imagination could stay there.  She was amused that all I wanted was to talk, but it was my money, and I could spend it how I liked.

And like any 17-year-old naive fool, I fell in love with her and had all these foolish notions.  Months later, I went back, but she had moved on, to where no one was saying or knew.

Needless to say, I was heartbroken and had to get over that first loss, which, like any 17-year-old, was like the end of the world.

But it was the best hour I’d ever spent in my life and would remain so until I met the woman I have been married to for the last 48 years.

As Henry, he was in part based on a rebel, the son of rich parents who despised them and their wealth, and he used to regale anyone who would listen about how they had messed up his life

If only I’d come from such a background!

And yes, I was only a run away from climbing up the stairs to get on board a ship, acting as a purser.

I worked for a shipping company and they gave their junior staff members an opportunity to spend a year at sea working as a purser on a cargo ship that sailed between Melbourne, Sydney and Hobart in Australia.

One of the other junior staff members’ turn came, and I would visit him on board when he would tell me stories about life on board, the officers, the crew, and other events. These stories, which sounded incredible to someone so impressionable, were a delight to hear.

Alas, by that time, I had tired of office work and moved on to be a tradesman at the place where my father worked.

It proved to be the right move, as that is where I met my wife.  Diana had been right; love would find me when I least expected it.

…

lovecoverfinal1

What I learned about writing – Introduction: Why Your Choice of Software Matters

Writing isn’t just about putting words on a page; it’s a craft that demands focus, organisation, and the right set of tools to bring ideas to life. The software you choose can:

  • Boost productivity – by cutting down on manual formatting and navigation.
  • Protect your creative flow – by offering distraction‑free modes and version control.
  • Scale with your project – from a single‑page article to a 500‑page novel or a multi‑chapter research thesis.

With a flood of options on the market, two camps dominate the conversation:

  1. Dedicated writing software (think Scrivener, Ulysses, yWriter).
  2. Run‑of‑the‑mill word processors (Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Apple Pages).

Let’s dive deep into the strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use‑cases for each, so you can make an informed decision that aligns with your workflow.

1. Dedicated Writing Software – The Specialist’s Toolkit

1.1 What Makes a “Dedicated” App Different?

Dedicated writing apps are built from the ground up for long‑form, project‑based writing. They go beyond the classic “type‑and‑print” paradigm and provide:

FeatureWhy It Matters
Project‑level organisation (folders, corkboards, outline view)Keeps chapters, scenes, research, and notes in one place without endless scrolling.
Distraction‑free modesFull‑screen or “typewriter” view clears the screen of UI clutter, helping you stay in the zone.
Version control & snapshotsCapture a “snapshot” of a chapter at any point and revert without losing later edits.
Export versatilityExport to ePub, Kindle, PDF, Word, plain text, and even manuscript‑ready formats with a single click.
Metadata & taggingAttach custom fields (e.g., POV, status, word count) for advanced sorting and filtering.

1.2 Scrivener – The Industry Standard

“If you write a novel, a screenplay, or a dissertation, Scrivener is the Swiss Army knife you never knew you needed.” — John H., bestselling author

Pros

✔️Scrivener Highlights
Robust BinderDrag‑and‑drop chapters, scenes, and research PDFs into a hierarchical tree.
Corkboard & OutlinerVisualise story arcs with index cards; rearrange with a mouse swipe.
Split‑Screen EditingView two documents side‑by‑side (e.g., manuscript + notes).
Built‑in TemplatesPre‑made templates for novels, scripts, non‑fiction, and academic papers.
Cross‑PlatformmacOS, Windows, iOS (sync via Dropbox).

Cons

❌Potential Drawbacks
Learning CurveThe sheer number of features can overwhelm newcomers.
Price$49 (Mac/Windows) + $29 (iOS) – a one‑time purchase, but higher than a free Google account.
CollaborationNot designed for real‑time co‑authoring (though you can share exported files).

1.3 Other Notable Dedicated Apps

AppIdeal ForStandout Feature
Ulysses (macOS/iOS)Bloggers, journalists, Apple‑centric writersSeamless iCloud sync + Markdown simplicity
yWriter (Windows)Screenwriters & novelists on a budgetFree, robust scene‑based organisation
Storyist (macOS/iOS)Fiction & script writersIntegrated storyboard & script formatting

2. Run‑of‑the‑Mill Word Processors – The Everyday Workhorse

2.1 Microsoft Word – The Classic Giant

Word has been the default for decades, and its capabilities have expanded far beyond a simple text editor.

Pros

✔️Word Strengths
Universal CompatibilityAlmost every publisher, editor, and academic institution expects a .docx file.
Advanced FormattingStyles, footnotes, cross‑references, tables of contents – all built‑in.
Track Changes & CommentsIdeal for collaborative editing with editors or co‑authors.
Add‑ins & MacrosCustomize with VBA scripts for repetitive tasks.
Desktop & Online VersionsUse the full‑featured desktop app or the cloud‑based Word Online.

Cons

❌Word Weaknesses
Project Management LacksNo native folder‑like binder; you’ll need to open multiple files or use a master document (which can be unstable).
Distraction‑Heavy UIRibbon, sidebars, and toolbars can pull focus away from writing.
Limited Export OptionsNot as straightforward to output to ePub or Kindle format without third‑party plugins.

2.2 Google Docs – The Cloud‑Centric Contender

Google Docs is the go‑to for real‑time collaboration, especially in remote teams or classrooms.

Pros

✔️Google Docs Benefits
Real‑Time CollaborationMultiple users can edit simultaneously with live cursors.
Automatic Cloud SavesNo risk of losing work due to hardware failure.
Add‑Ons MarketplaceExtend functionality (e.g., citation managers, grammar checkers).
Access AnywhereBrowser‑based; works on any OS with internet.
Free TierGenerous storage via Google Drive.

Cons

❌Google Docs Limitations
Limited Formatting & StylesComplex manuscript formatting (e.g., long TOCs) can be clunky.
No Built‑In Project ViewYou’ll need to manage individual files manually in Drive.
Offline ModeWorks, but requires setup; performance can be slower offline.
Export FormatsPrimarily PDF, Word, plain text; no native ePub/KDP export.

2.3 When Word Processors Shine

ScenarioRecommended Tool
Academic Papers (APA/MLA/Chicago)Word (styles, citations, footnotes)
Team Reports or Shared DocsGoogle Docs (real‑time editing)
Short‑Form Content (blog posts, newsletters)Either – choose based on collaboration needs
Final Manuscript Formatting for PublishersWord (industry standard)

3. Decision Matrix – Matching Tool to Writer Type

Writer ProfilePrimary NeedsBest Fit
Novelist (300‑500+ pages, heavy outlining)Project organisation, scene tracking, flexible exportScrivener (or Ulysses for Mac/iOS)
ScreenwriterScript formatting, beat boards, quick revisionsFinal Draft (industry) or Scrivener (script template)
Academic ResearcherCitation management, footnotes, large reference libraryWord (with EndNote/Zotero) or Google Docs + add‑on
Freelance BloggerFast drafting, SEO collaboration, easy publishingGoogle Docs (collab) or Word (if you prefer offline)
Non‑fiction Author (multiple chapters, interviews, PDFs)Mixed media integration, flexible export, version snapshotsScrivener
Team of EditorsReal‑time comments, change tracking, simultaneous editingGoogle Docs (or Word Online)

4. Practical Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Chosen Software

  1. Start with a Template – Most dedicated apps ship with ready‑made templates that handle margins, headers, and chapter styles. Save time by customising once and reusing.
  2. Leverage Cloud Sync – Even if you love Scrivener, store your project folder in Dropbox or OneDrive to protect against hardware loss.
  3. Combine Tools – Write first drafts in a distraction‑free environment (Scrivener, Ulysses, or even a plain‑text editor), then import into Word for final formatting and submission.
  4. Use Keyboard Shortcuts – Learn the top 10 shortcuts for your platform; they shave seconds off every page.
  5. Backup Regularly – Set up an automatic backup schedule (e.g., weekly zip of your project folder) regardless of cloud storage.

5. Bottom Line: There Is No One‑Size‑Fits‑All Answer

  • If your writing is project‑heavy, non‑linear, and you need robust organisation, dedicated software like Scrivener (or its Mac‑centric cousins) is the clear winner.
  • If you work primarily in teams, need instant collaboration, or are delivering polished documents to publishers or academia, Microsoft Word or Google Docs will serve you better.

My personal recommendation? Use a hybrid workflow: draft and outline in Scrivener for its unrivalled project management, then export your manuscript to Word for final polishing, formatting, and sharing. For collaborative pieces, switch to Google Docs during the editing phase, then bring the clean version back into Word.

Bonus: Quick Comparison Chart

FeatureScrivenerUlyssesMicrosoft WordGoogle Docs
Project Binder✅✅❌❌
Distraction‑Free Mode✅✅❌❌
Real‑Time Collaboration❌❌✅ (online)✅
Advanced Export (ePub, Kindle)✅✅❌ (needs add‑on)❌
Citation ManagementLimitedLimited✅ (via add‑ins)✅ (via add‑ons)
Price (as of 2026)$49 (one‑time)$49.99/yr$149.99 (Microsoft 365)Free (Google Workspace)
Learning CurveModerateLowLowLow

Take Action Today

  1. Identify your primary writing goal (novel, article, thesis, team report).
  2. Match the goal to the software using the matrix above.
  3. Download a free trial (Scrivener offers a 30‑day trial; Word has a 60‑day Microsoft 365 trial).
  4. Test a small project—write a single chapter or a 1,000‑word article. Observe how the tool fits your workflow.
  5. Commit to the software that feels like an extension of your creative mind, not a barrier.

Happy writing! 🚀

365 Days of Writing, 2026 – 217

Day 217 – What constitutes a strong first line

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Hook, Line, and Sinker: What Makes a Masterpiece First Line (And Why Readers Can’t Look Away)

You have about three seconds.

In the age of endless scrolling, infinite browser tabs, and shrinking attention spans, a reader’s finger hovers constantly over the back button or the swipe-up gesture. Whether you’re writing a sprawling epic fantasy, a punchy B2B blog post, or a gripping journalistic exposé, your opening line is your one and only bouncer. It either opens the velvet rope or tells the reader to move along.

So, what constitutes a strong first line—one that makes it utterly impossible for the reader not to know more?

Let’s break down the psychology of the irresistible hook, analyse some of the greatest opening lines in literature and non-fiction, and look at how you can weaponise your own introductions.

The Anatomy of an Irresistible First Line

A great first line doesn’t just sound pretty (though rhythm and cadence certainly help). It performs specific psychological heavy-lifting. It usually achieves at least one—if not all—of the following:

  1. It creates an “Information Gap”: Coined by economist George Loewenstein, the “information gap theory” states that curiosity happens when we feel a gap between what we know and what we want to know. A great opening line introduces a puzzle, a paradox, or an abrupt shift in reality that demands resolution.
  2. It establishes an unmistakable voice: Tone is the personality of your writing. A strong first line immediately signals who is speaking and how they see the world, whether that voice is cynical, lyrical, urgent, or darkly comedic.
  3. It drops the reader in media res: Great openers rarely start with throat-clearing, weather reports, or background exposition. They throw the reader into the deep end of the pool and let them figure out how to swim.

5 Types of Powerful First Lines (With Examples)

To understand how to craft your own magnetic openers, let’s look at five distinct archetypes of killer first lines and dissect why they work.

1. The Audacious Declaration

This type of opening makes a bold, sometimes shocking claim that forces the reader to sit up straight. It challenges conventional wisdom or immediately stakes out a controversial stance.

  • The Example: “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” — Leo Tolstoy, Anna Karenina
  • Why it works: Tolstoy doesn’t ease you into 19th-century Russian aristocracy; he drops a sweeping, absolute philosophical maxim. It immediately prompts the reader’s brain to object: Are all happy families really alike? Let me read on to see what he means. It frames the entire novel as an exploration of human misery and complexity.

2. The Unsettling Fact or Paradox

Nothing halts a scroll faster than a statement that defies logic or makes you slightly uncomfortable. It creates an instant cognitive itch that only reading the next sentence can scratch.

  • The Example: “It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.” — George Orwell, 1984
  • Why it works: Notice the sleight of hand. Orwell lulls you into a sense of normalcy with “a bright cold day in April”—and then shatters reality with “the clocks were striking thirteen.” Without a single word of exposition, you instantly understand that something is deeply, chillingly wrong with this world. You must read on to find out what kind of society operates on a thirteen-hour clock.

3. The Confession or Secret

We are hardwired to lean in when someone whispers a secret. Starting a piece with a deeply personal confession—or an implication of guilt—creates instant intimacy and urgency.

  • The Example: “Caller ID does not adequately protect us from the people we already know.” — Lionel Shriver, We Need to Talk About Kevin
  • Why it works: This line is brilliant because it takes a mundane, modern technology (Caller ID) and twists it into a source of dread. It implies violence, domestic tension, and inescapable trauma right out of the gate. We know immediately that the narrator is hiding from someone, and the suspense is instantly palpable.

4. The Action-Packed Drop (In Media Res)

Instead of starting at the beginning, start in the middle of the chaos. This forces the reader to play catch-up, assembling the puzzle pieces in real-time.

  • The Example: “The man in black fled across the desert, and the gunslinger followed.” — Stephen King, The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger
  • Why it works: With just twelve words, King establishes pursuit, high stakes, stark geography, and two opposing forces. Who is the man in black? Why is he fleeing? Who is the gunslinger? You don’t know yet, but the kinetic energy of the sentence drags you across the desert sand behind them.

5. The Deadpan Absurdity

Humor and shock value are close cousins. When a narrator states something wildly bizarre with complete, deadpan seriousness, the reader is hooked by sheer curiosity and dark delight.

  • The Example: “You better not never tell nobody but God.” — Alice Walker, The Colour Purple
  • Why it works: This line is devastatingly intimate. Written in vernacular, it instantly establishes the protagonist’s youth, vulnerability, and the immense weight of the secret she is about to share. It feels illicit to read it, which makes looking away impossible.

How to Write Your Own Killer First Line

Knowing what a great first line looks like is one thing; reverse-engineering one for your own piece is another. When you are editing your introduction, run your opening sentence through this checklist:

  • Cut the throat-clearing: Delete any introductory phrases like “In today’s fast-paced world…” or “It has often been said that…” Start with the noun or the action.
  • Check the rhythm: Read your first line aloud. Does it have a musicality to it? Does it land with a punch, or does it trail off?
  • Ask: “So what?”: If your first line is “Content marketing is important for businesses,” your reader will yawn. If it is “Your content strategy is actively repelling your best customers,” your reader will panic—and keep reading.
  • Save it for last: Often, you won’t find your killer first line until you’ve finished writing the entire piece. Once you know what your story or article is actually about, go back to the top and write an opening that serves as the ultimate gateway.

The Bottom Line

A great first line is a promise. It’s a pact between you and the reader that says: If you give me your time, I will reward you with something extraordinary.

Master the art of the hook, and you’ll never have to worry about losing your audience before the journey has even begun.

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Top 5 sights on the road less travelled – La Paz

Discovering La Paz: Five Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path

Introduction
Nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Andes, La Paz is a city of vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes. While many travellers flock to its iconic Witches Market and the Death Road, the Bolivian capital holds countless secrets for the curious. For those seeking an authentic, less-travelled journey, here are five extraordinary experiences that redefine what La Paz has to offer.

1. Cholitas Licking: A Celebration of Andean Identity
Step into the striking world of the cholitas, traditional Aymara women, and immerse yourself in their fearless blend of style, resilience, and heritage. This unique cultural encounter, often described as “Cholitas Licking,” features fashion shows, workshops, and artisan markets where cholitas showcase their vibrant polleras (dresses) and colonial-era masks. More than a spectacle, this experience challenges stereotypes and honours indigenous identity. Visit their community centres in El Alto for a deeper understanding of their role as cultural ambassadors.

Tip: Respect cultural significance—ask for permission before photographing participants.

2. Kallawaya School of Traditional Healing: Ancient Wisdom in Modern Medicine
Journey to the outskirts of La Paz to explore the Kallawaya School of Traditional Healing, a living archive of pre-Columbian medicinal knowledge. The Kallawaya people, renowned for their healing practices, offer workshops on herbal remedies, music therapy, and shamanic rituals. Wander their medicinal garden, where over 200 plant species are catalogued, and learn how to craft teas or tinctures for common ailments. This is a rare chance to connect with Bolivia’s spiritual and ecological heritage.

Tip: Book workshops in advance—offerings (regalos) to the mountain (apacheta) are customary.

3. Wuli Qhapaq Cable Car to Chimehua: Sky-High Serenity
Traverse the urban sprawl of La Paz aboard the Wuli Qhapaq (Red) cable car network. While most travellers stick to the main routes, venture to the Chimehua line, a golden cable car that extends into the Illimani Valley. This lesser-known route offers panoramic views of the Illimani volcano and descends into the lush, remote countryside. Alight at a local farm for a chicha (corn beer) tasting or a guided hike through cloud forests teeming with orchids.

Tip: Bring a reusable bottle for coca tea from the local market—perfect for altitude adjustment.

4. Sopocachi Caves: Earth’s Hidden Art Gallery
Just 20 minutes from downtown La Paz, the Sopocachi Cave System reveals a subterranean wonderland of stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient rock art. These caves, once inhabited by pre-Columbian communities, are adorned with mysterious symbols and animal carvings. The self-guided tour is affordable (£16-£20) and led by local guides who share tales of the caves’ role in ancestral rituals.

Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and bring a headlamp for optimal visibility.

5. Trek to the Valley of the Moon: A Martian Landscape
While Salar de Uyuni is Bolivia’s most famous attraction, venture toward the Valley of the Moon (Valle de la Luna) for a quieter, equally dramatic experience. Located near Salar de Cotapata, this surreal red and orange badlands, sculpted by wind and erosion, feels like another planet. Guided day tours from La Paz (lasting 8-10 hours) include a detour to this hidden gem, where photography and hiking are unspoiled by crowds.

Tip: Visit during dry seasons (April–September) for the best colour contrasts without mud.

Conclusion: La Paz, Redefined
La Paz is more than its skyline—it’s a gateway to the extraordinary. By stepping beyond the cobbled streets of the city, travellers can uncover traditions, landscapes, and communities that epitomise Bolivia’s soul. Whether you’re sipping chicha at a cloud forest farm or tracing your fingers along ancient rock art, these hidden adventures promise memories that linger long after your boots return to solid ground. So, pack your sense of curiosity and let La Paz surprise you.

Final Tip: Learn a few Aymara phrases—Suma qhapaq kama (Beautiful is the life well lived) is a poetic way to end your journey. 🌄

Top 5 sights on the road less travelled – Santiago

Discover Santiago’s Hidden Treasures: 5 Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

Santiago, Chile’s vibrant capital, is often associated with its iconic landmarks like Cerro San Cristóbal and the Central Cathedral. But for travellers eager to uncover the city’s soul, there’s a world of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Let’s venture beyond the guidebooks and dive into Santiago’s lesser-known treasures that promise unforgettable experiences. Grab your sense of curiosity and join us on this journey!

1. Barrio Lastarria: A Cultural Escape

Tucked just north of downtown, Barrio Lastarria is a bohemian enclave where cobblestone streets, ivy-clad buildings, and creative energy reign. This neighbourhood is a haven for artists, intellectuals, and foodies. Stroll through its tree-lined avenues to discover cozy cafés, indie bookstores, and art galleries like Galería Gabriela Mistral. Don’t miss the Cine Lastarria, a beloved 19th-century cinema that hosts independent films and cultural events. For lunch, try El Rincón de Mafalda, a charming parrilla where locals gather for juicy empanadas and artisanal wines. Weekends are best spent exploring its bustling outdoor markets and hidden patios that buzz with live music.

2. Explore Historic Downtown & Plaza de Armas

Visit the heart of Santiago, see the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Presidential Palace (La Moneda), and soak in the atmosphere with street performers at the main square, Plaza de Armas. Historic Downtown Santiago, centred around the lively Plaza de Armas, is Chile’s historical heart, featuring iconic buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral, Central Post Office, and National History Museum, all surrounding the leafy square with its monuments, street performers, and vibrant local atmosphere, offering a perfect starting point for exploring the city’s rich heritage and culture. Visitors can enjoy free entry to the square and surrounding museums, observe local life, and easily access it via the Metro.

3. Mapocho Valley: A Modern Cultural Oasis

Once an industrial hub, the Mapocho Valley has been transformed into Santiago’s hippest cultural destination. Home to the Gabriela Mistral Park, this riverside haven offers jogging trails, art installations, and the striking Biomuseo, a modern art space with rotating exhibitions. Nearby, the Pabellón 5 hosts innovative food and craft fairs, while the Museo del Banco Central showcases Chilean art and history. Arrive in the evening to witness the glow of the Mapocho Wharf, a perfect spot to sip a chicha morada (purple corn drink) and watch the city skyline shimmer.

4. Mercado de las Pulgas: Time-Travel at the Flea Market

Every Saturday and Sunday, the Mercado de las Pulgas (Flea Market) resurrects Santiago’s colonial past in the Mansión Villarrica. Spread over 30 blocks, this open-air bazaar is a treasure hunt for antiques, handicrafts, and vintage clothing. Haggling is part of the fun—pick up a handwoven poncho or a pre-Columbian artifact at stalls owned by passionate vendors. The surrounding Parque Forestal is perfect for a post-shopping stroll, where street performers and food trucks add to the lively atmosphere.

5. Fundo Balmaceda: A Botanical Sanctuary

Tucked away in the leafy suburb of Ñuñoa, Fundo Balmaceda is a hidden garden paradise. This historic estate features lush botanical gardens, tranquil ponds, and a small museum of pre-Columbian art. It’s a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle, where you can picnic, bird-watch, or simply lose yourself in the beauty of over 1,500 species of plants. The best part? Admission is free, and the site’s blend of nature and history makes it a local favourite. Tip: Visit during the day (it’s closed at night) and bring a camera for those Insta-worthy moments.

Local Tips for the Best Experience

  • Getting Around: Use Santiago’s efficient metro system or bike-share program (Bicentenario) to reach these spots.
  • Timing: Plan your visits around local events—check out the Santiago a Mil theatre festival or Ciclo del Terror horror film season for added flair.
  • Safety: Stay in well-populated areas, especially in neighbourhoods like Barrio Lastarria and La Vega Central.

Conclusion: Santiago Beyond the Surface
Santiago’s magic isn’t just in its skyline or its museums—it’s in the whispered stories of its hidden corners. From the depths of the catacombs to the blooms of Fundo Balmaceda, these experiences offer a deeper connection to Chile’s heritage and creativity. So, step off the main road; the most rewarding adventures lie where few tourists tread. ¡Buen viaje!

Final Note: Ready to explore? Share your favourite hidden spots in Santiago in the comments—let’s keep the road less travelled ever-evolving! 🌿