Friday, August 10, 2007

Back in the Saddle

Blogger: Deborah
Mood: Upbeat
Music: The lyric melodies of my interviewees' voices over the wires
Writing: none, but gathering that good ol' background


Well my day off yesterday did me some good. My date with Jean Luc went well, and I'm chipper, alert, and have already conducted two interviews with two more on today's docket. Then this afternoon I hope to get all those interviews translated into articles.

Speaking of interviews, they are pretty basic to writing a good story, and I'm sort of burning out on what to ask--I'm tired of asking the same things over and over and over. And while I do follow strings of consciousness that my interviewees bring up, and thereby get some interesting tidbits for my articles, the interviews are pretty much the same.

Anyone know of a good article, blog, or book on interview techniques?

How about research techniques for articles? I don't do a whole lot of research, because it's often not needed for what I write, but sometimes I'd like to delve into a topic a bit more and I'm sort of lost on where to find info (besides the Internet).

Anyone know of any good articles that have been written about urban development? I'd like to read another writer's stuff so I can learn from them. New techniques to infuse my work would be great.

Hey! I'm also going to the fall retreat. Can't wait!!!!! Hope to see you there.

Larry, when are you coming to a retreat again? We've never met, and the group, while always talented and interesting, could use your perspective on life. This fall would be a great time to re-join us, don'cha think?

Mike? You, too? Coming up to join us?

Hey, Sarah. We should talk about some ideas I have for promoting the blog.

Later, all.

6 comments:

outdoorwriter said...

Deborah;

I have been giving some thought to a fall retreat. It's been a very long time and I do enjoy my time there. I often spend more time exploring than writing but I could use some feedback on my stuff.

I have several back issues of Michigan Natural Resources Magazine. I think I saw some stuff on urban sprawl. Are you going to the picnic? I could make copies if you give me some idea of your slant or interest.

smcelrath said...

Hey Deborah!

Good to see you on the blog. I've been running the last two days--besides, my connection wasn't working yesterday. And--get this--I was writing! I can't read Eclipse until I write 3 pages so...I wrote until 12:30 last night. Felt great.

I'm not sure about interview questions, but I'd check out the library if I were you. They might have some books on interviewing techniques. Remember to ask the librarian if you need help. (shameless plug) And I think maybe I've seen some articles in Writer's Digest, so I'll look through some back copies and let you know if I find any.

Do you ever use MEL? Michigan Electronic Library? It's a ...database on the internet and it's available to all Michigan residents. Google it and see if it comes up, otherwise I'll look it up and email the link.

Great to hear that you take time ever once and awhile to sleep in. I've decided it's my favorite thing ever. We got these 800 count sheet and they are so soft and smooth I just lay there and wallow.

dreemryter said...

Hey, Outdoorwriter and Sarah,

Thanks for the good information. L, anything on urban sprawl would be great. I just want to read it and absorb the language, writing techinque, etc. I don't think I'll be at the picnic--haven't decided yet, but my address is in the PW directory (last name begins with J W, if that helps).

Sarah, I hadn't thought of the library--Duh! I'll check out MEL. I go on Kent District Library once in a while, so I'll try there, too. Glad you're back to writing.

dreemryter

Isn't it odd that Mike is the "dream guy" and a novelist, yet my online moniker has been dreemryter for years? It should be his moniker, I'd say. But I'm not giving it up. My online Euchre rating is tied to it!

dreemryter said...

Oh, and L, I hope you come to the retreat. It's such a wonderful break from the ordinary, and isn't it great to be with people who understand other writers?

mike stratton said...

Deborah,

I don't hold any rights to dream monikers. And I will not be able to attend this year's Fall retreat since I'll be hosting a retreat for a group of speakers. I haven't hit a Fall retreat yet, actually, since it is usually really close to a week that I take off to travel to Mackinack for an annual conference.

But it's great to see you blogging, and I bet Sarah appreciates the break.

Mike

Anonymous said...

For research never underestimate the power of Google. In fact by Googling you can find books on the subject you desire, find a place to buy said book online, without ever needing to leave the house!