Recently I came across an article with a list of the origins behind common sayings, which sparked my interest in such things. I went and did some further research and came up with a number of such sayings that I thought I would share. This list is (of course) in no way comprehensive but I hope you enjoy them! Ever wonder why poor people are called “piss poor?” The saying originates from the practice of using urine to tan animal…
For today’s post, I thought I would go back to a subject that always seems to be of interest–an excerpt. On this occasion, I have several to choose from as I have three books in various stages of the writing progress. I chose Four Days at Netherfield because it is likely the closest to seeing Amazon’s virtual store shelves. As usual when I post excerpts, this is hot off the presses with little editing done, so you may fine an error…
I have long loved classical music, as those who have read my blog posts over the years will likely remember. Of the various subsections of the overall classical genre, I tend to be a classical guy, though I do like some romance and baroque music too (think Mozart). I’m not a fan of modern classical, as most of it seems to be a contest of who can create the most discordant cacophony. My favorite composers have always been Mozart and…
As you can probably see by the title, this post was supposed to be published yesterday. For the delay I offer sincere apologies, for I was anticipating this post, which is an excerpt! I hope you will all forgive me if I offer this little tidbit to you, a story that you’ll be able to read for yourself by the end of the month! The story is called Mr. Darcy’s Return, though that might change if whim and fancy take me…
Thank you to all who commented and entered the giveaway for a copy of Only Exceedingly Shy narrated by Harry Frost. I put all the entries into a website that spins a cool wheel, and the winner was Sam H! Again, thank you to all who entered!
As the subject indicates, I have a new release to announce today. The audiobook for Only Exceedingly Shy has been released, featuring Harry Frost as the narrator. Thank you, Harry, for lending your talents to my little story! https://www.amazon.com/Audible-Only-Exceedingly-Shy/dp/B0CXQLZ18Z Now, let’s do something fun. I have a code for a free copy of the audiobook to give to a lucky reader. Please add any comment to this post, and I will put your name into a draw to receive the audiobook….
Rather than a specific piece, I thought I would highlight a music style today–the barcarolle. A barcarolle is a traditional folk song sung by Venetian gondoliers and over time has come to mean any piece of music that was composed in that style. A barcarolle when done properly is supposed to give the sensation of traveling on waves through music. It is usually written in 3/4 or 6/8 time (or some other three beat pattern) and is often, though certainly…
I haven’t done an idiom in some time, so I thought I would return to the fascinating world of idioms on this lazy Monday. Idioms are sayings that make little sense from a practical standpoint, but mean something in common language. Storm in a teacup is not one of the more used idioms, but is common enough that just about anyone who speaks English natively should know it. Storm in a teacup is the concept that a small matter is…
I know I have spoken of the outlining process before, but I have recently had an experience with outlining that I feel it is worth discussing. As I have said before, outlining can be the most fickle part of the writing process. There are times when I outline like a demon, going through an entire novel’s planning in the space of a few days, while other times I can look at an outline for hours and not put a single…
For this edition of Funny Friday, I thought I’d pull out some funny one frame cartoons for your enjoyment. So pull up a chair and get ready to laugh (or groan!) And, of course, everyone’s favorite! And finally, a little Pride and Prejudice humor! Happy Friday everyone! I sourced all these images from various pages on Pinterest.