Writing Tutorials and Help

thanks DE.
i am planning to read through it and improve discriptions and ill look out for those out of place things. thanks for the tips.

A quick couple of questions,
how long should a short story be?
and how can I stop everything from turning into comedy?

The second one I'm really having trouble with as I want to write about something a little on the serious side.

Not sure about the length on this forum, but anywhere from 3 words to 5000 words i would think. Much more than that and your heading into novella territory.

As far as the second question, dont try to force your story in a particular direction, let it flow, sure stick to your concept, but let the muse take you where it will.
You should have a basic outline of what you would like to achieve but often anything creative will tend to take on a life of its own from my experience.
You might find that you have a natural aptitude for comedy, dont stifle it if thats what comes out.
Theres no reaon why a serious subject cant be treated with subtle humour and wit, in fact it may improve its interest to the readers.
Just my 2cents for what its worth, hope that helps, send us a u2u if you have any other questions.
Btw i enjoyed "The Road Less Travelled".

Good Luck Mojo.

I had real problems with A Road Less Travelled - I had to keep re-writing parts, because the comedy crept in. It's not that I don't like writing it, it's just that I wanted this story to be a bit more poignant and serious.
Actually took me 2 1/2 hours with the constant re-writes.

Still, the idea I have for the writing contest will have room for a bit of comedy, so hopefully, it will come through when I want it to.

Glad you enjoyed it

are there any rules to posting in this forum?....any threads that have such?....i have some old stuff i want to post....

I am embarking on a project consisting of 5 "books" which share a theme, but can be viewed as separate entities.

I have a couple of questions.

1. I am not sure of the best way to start the "writing" bit. I have written something similar to what you might find on the back of a book cover, but have no details or outline. Is it an acceptable technique just to write and see where it goes?
2. I am good at the description, but find it difficult to get characters talking. Any tips?
3. How do I get the reader to be interested in the main character?

Thanks for your help!

I really like the idea of a 'writing forum' where people don't post their work, but discuss the craft itself. I can see threads like:

1. A how to - Creating emotion
   
2. Character flaws, how do I do it?
   
3. Need help researching top secret aircraft
   
4. How much sex is too much?
   
5. How to end a story? HELP!
   
6. I've written myself into a corner, any ideas?
   
7. The 'Rambo' character love him or hate him
   
8. The everyman, techniques and tips
   
9. Suspending disbelief
   

I think the forum could be a great resource to fellow amateur writers. It could be very constructive and I'm sure moderately successful.

I like your ideas Enrikez.

Unfortunately writing is a very lonely business and a place to share frustrations and ideas, or just to unwind with some light entertaining banter is great.

You certainly have my vote.