The Modern Wordist Blog

  It’s been a busy week, so this week’s blog post is well, random. Intentionally. It’s a sampling of thoughts and observations from over the last couple of weeks, from my little corner of the world. I hope it provides some inspiration for you to create your own journal or notebook of thoughts and observations that can feed your creativity and your writing. ----------------- Sometimes nature smells sweaty.   A butterfly’s shadow on a morning-lit curtain Do people proofread their messages and texts anymore? I get messages from people and it’s like a hallucinating robot typed them right before going bleep-bleep-KAPLEW! Question starting a conversation: “What do grasshoppers taste like?” There’s a fine line between charred and burnt. My dog was feeling claustrophobic at the vet, and he decided to talk to everyone about it. " Uuurrwuuwh … Eeeeeraaaaawr! " When the current regime ends, can we overhaul the internet, too? I’m finally using more multisyllabic words, bubbling up from t...

  It may seem counterintuitive (or just weird) for a writer to watch YouTube videos about writing. But if you're new to writing, or you're struggling with something specific in your current writing project, plenty of published writers and publishing industry professionals offer helpful guidance on YouTube.   Watching YouTube videos on the ins and outs of publishing is a nice break from reading. As someone who looks at words all day as part of my job, I find infotainment YouTube channels refreshing. For this week, I’m recommending a handful of channels from people who know what they're talking about. They can nudge you if you feel like you’re in a wrestling match with an idea in your head. Plus, if you're serious about publishing and you're looking for insights, you’ll find plenty of helpful info. These YouTube channels may spark a little inspiration. Or, if you’ve had a long day, they may also offer a good laugh. Note: Some of the videos within the channels on this ...

 For this week, here are some simple nuggets of advice from Judd Apatow for new writers — or reminders if you've hit an impasse: https://youtube.com/shorts/aRwqT5URE7I?feature=shared Let Me Add ... If you're struggling to write right now, go easy on yourself. Read something enjoyable if you can. Practice self care. Find a few minutes of quiet time each day to give your mind space to rest, and to replenish your creativity. Have a great week — and happy writing, no matter what stage of the process you're in.