Tag: books

Today’s Stupid Shit Moment: Independence Day Edition

Ah, Independence Day. A time for fireworks, BBQs, and, apparently, a parade of people doing stupid shit that makes you question how we’ve survived as a species this long. For those of you in the U.S. or Americans abroad, Happy Independence Day! You’ve earned it. Well, most of you. Some of you are out there being paid to metaphorically (and maybe literally) piss your pants in public because you think it’s a good idea to protest a president who—brace yourselves—actually believes in putting America first. Shocking, I know.

To those of you playing the role of “useful idiot,” let me just say, your about as helpful as a parachute that opens on impact.

Oh, and while you’re out there playing political charades, make sure you report that dark money on your taxes. Seriously. Uncle Sam doesn’t give a shit about your “cause,” but he will care about the fact that you’re skipping out on your dues. If you think you’re above the law when it comes to taxes, let me introduce you to a little history lesson: Al Capone. You know, the guy who ran an entire criminal empire but got taken down because he couldn’t be bothered to file his 1040? Yeah, that guy.

And don’t think for a second that you’re too clever to get caught. The IRS is like a bloodhound with a caffeine addiction—they’ll sniff out your shady finances faster than you can say “offshore account.” And when they do, don’t be surprised if your new address is Alligator Alkatraz, the newest prison where tax evaders go to share a cell with a gator named Chompers. Spoiler alert: Chompers doesn’t care about your political affiliations, but he does care about how tasty you look.

I hear the mosquitoes in the newest Florida prison create a relentless, high-pitched buzzing, a cacophony that makes the alligators sound like gentle giants in comparison.

So, here’s some free advice: stop trying to Jedi-mind-trick people into thinking your bullshit is revolutionary, pay your damn taxes, and maybe—just maybe—try doing something productive for once. Like knitting. Or learning how to juggle. Or, I don’t know, not being a walking punchline.

Now, don’t get me wrong—I get it. I understand both sides of the equation. Communism? Not the answer. Hating on cops? Also not the answer. And for the love of all that is holy, tossing 90-year-old grandmas who crossed the border illegally into the slammer? Yeah, probably not the answer either. But here’s the kicker: it’s above your pay grade to fix all this shit. So maybe stop taking dark money to unravel the fabric of this country faster than a cheap sweater in a washing machine. Just a thought.

A quick thank you to the real MVPs.

To the veterans who sacrificed so we could have these kinds of conversations (and by “conversations,” I mean yelling at each other on Twitter): thank you. You’re the reason we can argue about stupid shit like pineapple on pizza or whether Die Hard is a Christmas movie.

To law enforcement: you’re the best. We back the blue—well, the ones who actually support the American people. The rest of you? Maybe consider a career change. I hear Starbucks is hiring.

For the Writers Out There: How to Make It Big (Without Losing Your Mind)

Now, let’s pivot to something less rage-inducing and more productive: writing. I know a lot of you dream of being “independent” from working for The Man. You want to write your way to fame and fortune, sipping margaritas on a beach while your books sell themselves. Spoiler alert: it’s not that easy. But it’s not impossible either. Let’s take a look at two wildly successful authors—J.K. Rowling and E.L. James—and see what we can learn from their journeys.

Secrets of Success for Authors Like J.K. Rowling and E.L. James

Perseverance and Resilience J.K. Rowling was a single mom living in poverty, writing in cafes while her baby drooled on her shoulder. She got rejected 12 times before Bloomsbury finally said, “Fine, we’ll publish your wizard book.” E.L. James? She started in fanfiction, reworking her stories into the “Fifty Shades” trilogy after getting feedback from online communities. Moral of the story? Rejection is just the universe’s way of saying, ‘Not yet, bitch.’

Don’t skim, read; this text is full of wisdom.

Unique and Relatable Stories Rowling gave us a magical world with themes like friendship, loss, and courage. E.L. James? She tapped into a niche market with her bold, unconventional storytelling. (Translation: she made BDSM mainstream. You’re welcome, society.) The lesson here? Be unique. Be relatable. And if all else fails, throw in some handcuffs.

Discipline and Hard Work Rowling rewrote the opening chapter of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone 15 times. FIFTEEN. Meanwhile, James worked tirelessly to turn her fanfiction into a polished trilogy. The takeaway? Writing is hard. Suck it up and do the work.

Embracing Criticism and Rejection Both authors faced rejection and criticism. Rowling’s manuscript was rejected by multiple publishers, and James got roasted for her writing style. But guess what? They didn’t quit. They used the feedback to improve. Pro tip: Grow a thick skin. You’re gonna need it.

Leveraging Opportunities and Platforms E.L. James started in online fanfiction communities, building a loyal audience before going mainstream. Rowling expanded her books into films, merchandise, and theme parks. The lesson? Use every platform at your disposal. And don’t be afraid to think big.

Passion and Authenticity Both authors wrote stories they were passionate about. Rowling loved storytelling, and James was enthusiastic about exploring unconventional themes. (Again, handcuffs.) The point? Write what you love. Your passion will shine through.

Timing and Luck Talent and hard work are crucial, but timing and luck also play a role. Rowling’s manuscript landed on the right desk at the right time, and James’ trilogy blew up during the rise of digital publishing. The takeaway? You can’t control luck, but you can control how prepared you are when it strikes.

Building a Brand Rowling turned Harry Potter into a global empire. James capitalized on her trilogy with movie adaptations. The lesson? Think beyond the book. Could your work inspire a podcast, a screenplay, or even a line of merch? The possibilities are endless.

Final Thoughts for Aspiring Writers

Writing is a grind. It’s messy, frustrating, and sometimes feels like you’re screaming into the void. But it’s also rewarding as hell. So keep at it. Write your stupid shit. Share your stupid shit. And who knows? Maybe one day, your stupid shit will make you famous.

Now go forth and conquer. Or at least write something that doesn’t make people want to gouge their eyes out. Happy writing!

As for my book, Stupid Shit, let me tell you something: just when I think I’ve finally wrapped it up, the world goes, “Hold my beer,” and hands me yet another steaming pile of stupidity to write about. It’s like the universe is running a 24/7 stupidity buffet, and I’m the poor bastard with an all-you-can-eat pass. Seriously, I could be typing “The End” and BAM—someone out there decides to try and deep-fry a frozen turkey in their living room. Or, I don’t know, invents a new TikTok challenge that involves licking electrical outlets.

I mean, I try to filter out the mundane, everyday dumb shit—like people who still don’t know how to use a turn signal or those who microwave metal forks. That’s amateur hour. No, I’m here to bring you the absolute stupidest shit imaginable. The kind of stupidity that makes you stop, stare, and wonder how we’ve made it this far as a species without accidentally walking into the ocean en masse.

And let’s be real: I don’t just do this for you. Writing this book is therapy for me. Because if I didn’t laugh at this stuff, I’d probably be curled up in a corner, rocking back and forth, muttering, “Why, humanity, why?” But for you? It’s humor. It’s a front-row seat to the circus of idiocy that is modern life.

So, stay tuned. The world keeps giving me material, and I’ll keep serving it up hot and fresh. Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: stupid shit never takes a day off.

Dissecting 2012: The Hero’s Journey Explained

I don’t always watch movies on TV, but when I do, it’s usually because I’ve run out of excuses to avoid them. Truth be told, the last time I sat down for a cinematic experience, Twisters was still blowing cows across the screen. Why the long hiatus? Well, when you’ve written over 90 million words (yes, I counted), your brain tends to treat “relaxation” like a mythical creature—something you’ve heard about but never actually seen. But hey, even the most overworked wordsmith deserves a mental vacation every now and then, right?

So, I decided to dust off my popcorn bowl and dive into 2012, Roland Emmerich’s epic disaster flick. But because I’m a writer (and therefore incapable of turning off my analytical brain), I thought it’d be fun to dissect the movie through the lens of the Hero’s Journey. If you’re not a writer, you might be thinking, “Why should I care?” And honestly, fair point. But stick around—there’s a good chance you’ll leave this with a newfound appreciation for both storytelling and John Cusack’s ability to outrun the apocalypse in a limo.

The Hero’s Journey: A Quick Crash Course

Before we dive into the fiery pits of 2012, let’s talk about the Hero’s Journey—a storytelling framework so universal it’s basically the avocado toast of narrative structures. Coined by Joseph Campbell, it’s the blueprint for every epic tale, from The Odyssey to Star Wars to, yes, 2012. Here’s the gist:

Ordinary World: The hero starts in their boring, everyday life. Think “before Frodo left the Shire” or “before Harry got his Hogwarts letter.”

Call to Adventure: Something shakes up the status quo. Usually, it’s a big ol’ problem that can’t be ignored.

Refusal of the Call: The hero hesitates because, let’s face it, saving the world sounds exhausting.

Meeting the Mentor: Enter the wise guide who says, “You’ve got this!” (or, in some cases, “You’re doomed, but good luck!”).

Crossing the Threshold: The hero leaves their comfort zone and steps into the unknown. Cue dramatic music.

Tests, Allies, and Enemies: The hero faces challenges, makes friends, and punches bad guys (or, in this case, dodges tsunamis).

The Ordeal: The big, climactic moment where everything’s on the line.

The Reward: The hero achieves their goal—or at least survives long enough to celebrate.

The Road Back: Time to head home, but not without a few more hurdles.

The Resurrection: The hero emerges transformed, wiser, and probably in need of a nap.

Return with the Elixir: The hero brings back something valuable to share with the world. (Spoiler: It’s usually not an actual elixir. Sorry.)

How 2012 Fits the Hero’s Journey (With a Dash of Chaos)

1. The Ordinary World

Meet Jackson Curtis (John Cusack), a struggling writer and part-time limo driver. His life is as ordinary as it gets—divorced, juggling kids, and probably wondering why his book sales are flatter than a pancake. If this were a sitcom, his biggest problem would be forgetting his ex-wife’s birthday. But alas, this is a disaster movie, so things are about to get way worse.

2. The Call to Adventure

Jackson stumbles upon a conspiracy theorist (Woody Harrelson, in peak “crazy guy with a radio” mode) who warns him that the world is about to end. Naturally, Jackson’s first reaction is, “Yeah, okay, buddy.” But then the ground starts cracking open like a dropped egg, and suddenly, Charlie’s ramblings don’t seem so far-fetched.

3. Refusal of the Call

At first, Jackson doesn’t take the whole “apocalypse” thing seriously. I mean, who would? But when Los Angeles starts collapsing faster than my New Year’s resolutions, he realizes it’s time to grab the kids and hit the road. Or, in this case, the sky—because nothing says “family bonding” like escaping in a private plane.

4. Meeting the Mentor

Charlie Frost, our lovable doomsday prophet, serves as Jackson’s mentor. Sure, he’s a little unhinged, but he’s got the inside scoop on the government’s secret arks (because of course there are secret arks). His advice? “Head to the Himalayas.” His delivery? Equal parts helpful and unhinged.

5. Crossing the Threshold

This is where things go from “bad” to “holy crap.” Jackson and his family narrowly escape a crumbling Los Angeles in a limo—a scene so over-the-top it makes Fast & Furious look like a documentary. They’re officially in the unknown now, where survival is the name of the game.

6. Tests, Allies, and Enemies

The Curtis clan faces obstacle after obstacle: collapsing cities, selfish billionaires, and the occasional volcanic eruption. Allies include a Russian billionaire’s kids (because nothing says “teamwork” like rich kids in peril) and a geologist who’s trying to save humanity. Enemies? Pretty much everything else, including gravity.

7. Approach to the Inmost Cave

The gang finally reaches the Himalayas, where the arks are being prepped. But there’s a catch: they don’t have tickets. (Pro tip: Always RSVP to the apocalypse.) Sneaking aboard becomes their next big challenge.

8. The Ordeal

This is the big one. A massive tsunami threatens to destroy the ark, and Jackson has to risk his life to save everyone onboard. It’s tense, it’s dramatic, and it’s exactly what you’d expect from a movie where the stakes are literally “the end of the world.”

9. The Reward

Jackson and his family make it onto the ark, securing their survival. Humanity gets a second chance, and Jackson gets to be the hero his kids always wanted him to be. Win-win.

10. The Road Back

As the waters recede, the survivors aboard the ark prepare to face a drastically altered Earth. It’s a bittersweet moment—kind of like realizing you’ve survived a marathon, only to remember you still have to walk home.

11. The Resurrection

Jackson’s journey transforms him into a braver, more selfless version of himself. He reconciles with his family, proving that even in the face of global annihilation, there’s always time for personal growth.

12. Return with the Elixir

The survivors represent humanity’s chance to rebuild. Jackson’s “elixir” isn’t a magical potion—it’s hope, resilience, and the knowledge that even in the darkest times, we can find a way forward. (Cue inspirational music.)

Why the Hero’s Journey Matters

The Hero’s Journey isn’t just a storytelling formula—it’s a mirror for our own lives. We all face challenges, doubts, and moments of transformation. Sure, most of us aren’t dodging tsunamis or sneaking onto arks, but the core themes—struggle, growth, redemption—are universal. And that’s why it works, whether you’re writing a novel, watching 2012, or just trying to survive Monday morning.

So, the next time you watch a movie, ask yourself: Where’s the hero? What’s their journey? And most importantly, could you outrun an earthquake in a limo? (Spoiler: Unless you’re John Cusack or have a death wish, the answer is a resounding “hell no.”) But hey, if you’re feeling confident, go ahead and try. Just make sure someone’s filming it so the rest of us can enjoy your inevitable failure on YouTube.

Speaking of disasters, have you signed up for my emails yet? No? Why the hell not? What are you waiting for—a personal invitation? Fine. Here it is:

Dear Reader, please sign up for my emails so I can spam you with my questionable wisdom and occasional nuggets of brilliance. Love, Me.

There. Now you have no excuse. Unless, of course, you’re one of those people who still uses AOL and thinks email is for “serious business only.” In which case, I can’t help you.

Now, let me tell you about my current juggling act. I’m working on not one, but two books at the same time. That’s right—two. Because apparently, I enjoy torturing myself. One of them is called Stupid Shit, which, let’s be honest, is probably why you’re here. The other one? 1300 Feet Per Second, which is a psychological thriller.

And because I’m such a generous soul, I even find time to share blog posts about stupid shit. Or, occasionally, not-so-stupid shit. You know, for balance. It’s like a treasure chest of wisdom, except instead of gold coins, you’re getting sarcastic commentary and unsolicited advice. But hey, treasure is treasure, right? So go ahead—take something from my trove of brilliance. Or at least pretend you already knew all this stuff so I can feel like I’m making a difference.

Have a nice Day!

Why Stupid Shit Rules the Internet

Let’s be honest: the news is a soul-sucking black hole of despair. It’s like a daily reminder that humanity is collectively riding a unicycle on a tightrope over a pit of lava, and we’re all just hoping the clown in charge doesn’t sneeze. I, for one, can only stomach about two minutes of headlines before I’m ready to yeet my phone into the sun. As long as the sky is still blue, birds are still dive-bombing freshly washed cars with military precision, and gravity hasn’t given up on us yet, I’m good.

So, what do I do instead of doomscrolling? I dive headfirst into the cesspool of distractions: reels, TikTok, and YouTube. These platforms are like the junk food of the internet—deliciously addictive but guaranteed to rot your brain. And let’s be real, they’re also a breeding ground for some of the stupidest shit humanity has ever produced.

When I’m not doomscrolling or watching people do dumb things for clicks, I’m writing. Currently, I’m editing a thriller about a forensic expert who moonlights as an assassin. (Because why not? Who doesn’t love a little murder with their science?) Writing, my friends, is escapism on steroids. Unlike movies, where you’re stuck in someone else’s plot, writing lets you play God. I create worlds, people, places, and scenarios. I can make someone fall in love, get hit by a bus, or both—because I’m the boss.

But editing? Editing is like one of those adult coloring books that are supposed to be relaxing but actually make you want to set the whole thing on fire. It’s tedious, it’s boring, and it requires a level of self-control I simply do not possess. Which is why I keep getting distracted by—you guessed it—stupid shit.

Let’s talk about reels for a second. My God, this is the armpit of society, and I say that with love. Case in point: there’s this girl—no, woman—who has a pet scorpion. Yes, you read that right. A pet scorpion. She proudly shows off this venomous little nightmare, holding up its log like it’s a goddamn trophy, and proceeds to explain how it eats, how poisonous it is, and—wait for it—warns people not to pet it.

No shit, Sherlock. Who in their right mind is out here trying to cuddle a scorpion? “Oh, look at my adorable little murder bug! Isn’t he just the cutest?” No, Karen, he’s not. He’s a living fossil with a stinger that could ruin your whole week.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the irony here. The word “pet” comes from the Scottish Gaelic word “peata,” which means “tame animal” or “companion.” In what f*cking world does a scorpion fit that definition? Unless you’re cuddling it, stroking it, or teaching it to fetch, it’s not a pet. It’s a red flag with legs.

Fun Fact: Scorpions Glow (and They’re Everywhere)

Now, I live in a place where scorpions are not a novelty—they’re a nuisance. They’re everywhere. I take a blacklight out at night to hunt them because, fun fact, they glow under UV light. It’s like a rave, but instead of dancing, you’re trying not to get stung. And no, I don’t pet them. Once you’ve stepped on one barefoot, you’ll understand why. Spoiler alert: it’s not a pleasant experience.

So, that’s where I’m at with my book, Stupid Shit. It’s coming along nicely, fueled by my fascination with words, my disdain for scorpions, and my love of calling out the ridiculousness of the world. If you want to stay updated on my blogs, book releases, or just want to laugh at the absurdity of life, sign up for my email list.

And as always, have a nice day! Or don’t. I’m not your mom.

Modern Insomnia: Navigating Today’s Chaos

If you’ve ever lain awake at night, pondering the peculiar parade that is our modern world, you are not alone. In fact, you’re in excellent (and probably sleep-deprived) company. Join me, dear reader, for a meandering stroll through the baffling bazaar of current events—a stroll filled with curious characters, economic contortions, and, of course, the ever-present background noise that makes insomnia seem downright logical.

Restless Nights and Restive Times

It’s hard to sleep these days. Not because of caffeine, but because I’m serenaded nightly by the cacophony of contemporary civilization. The soundtrack? Equal parts confusion, outrage, and a touch of “did that really just happen?” If only there were a snooze button for society.

Story Time, But Not As We Knew It

Once upon a time, story time meant fairy tales and talking animals. Now, it seems we’ve added a touch of theatrical flair, with drag queens reading to kids. Some call it progress, others call it performance art gone rogue. Either way, the plot twist is: society can’t agree on the moral of the story.

The Immigration Imbroglio

Tens of millions in the country without official paperwork—some say they get more assistance than our own veterans. It’s a bit like hosting a potluck where the guests eat first and the hosts get the leftovers. No wonder the host is grumpy.

Gang Bangers, Judges, and the Curious Case of the Protected Perpetrator

In today’s legal landscape, it sometimes feels like activist judges are playing defense for those who never quite got the hang of playing by the rules. Courtrooms: now with 25% more plot twists!

Presidents, Puppets, and the Mystery of the Marionettes

Why do we need a president? Is it just to keep the White House tour guides in business? And if the president is the puppet, who’s got their hand on the strings? I suspect the marionettes have marionettes, and somewhere, someone is making a fortune selling all the strings.

Economy: Where Prices Go Up, Wages Stand Still, and Politicians Get Richer

Sanders and company shout about living wages while their own bank accounts live quite comfortably. Meanwhile, regular folks are left with calluses and receipts for $8 eggs. Here’s a radical idea: maybe prices should come down instead of wages going up. But what do I know? I’ve never been invited to a Senate brunch.

Did you know: the more you earn, the more everything costs, and the only ones celebrating are the tax collectors, who get a bonus every time a price tag goes up. It’s like a game of Monopoly, but the banker always wins.

North Korea: Apocalypse Now, or Later?

Rumor has it that North Korea’s supreme leader instructed his people to launch nukes at the U.S. upon his demise. Loyalty or lunacy? Hard to tell. Either way, it’s proof that “Dear Leader” is not a job for the faint of heart (or the rational).

Shadow Governments and Conspiracy Cocktails

Was JFK snuffed out for being too much like Trump? Is the CIA running a shadow puppet show behind the scenes? Was the “Red Scare” just a shiny distraction? At this point, the only thing less believable than the official story is the unofficial one.

Higher Education: Now With 50% More Indoctrination

Is college just expensive brainwashing? If so, can I get a refund? And perhaps a certificate of “Critical Thinking, With Honors (Some Restrictions Apply)”?

The Curious Case of Flying Immigrants

The latest travel trend: the Biden administration was flying in thousands of newcomers and dropping them in red states, courtesy of NGOs with all the transparency of a foggy window. Apparently, “non-profit” is the new “trust me, bro.”

The Age-Old Question: Why?

Why does the media spin tales taller than Paul Bunyan? Why do politicians defend the indefensible? Why is the frog in the soup kettle still hanging on? Why can’t I get some sleep?

Conclusion: Pass the Ambien, Please

If you’ve made it this far, congratulations! You deserve a nap. Perhaps you’re considering joining me in a virtual world where the newsfeed is filled with nothing but puppy videos, and the only drama is whether the cat will knock over the vase. Until then, let’s keep asking questions (and maybe invest in earplugs).

Best,
A Fellow Sleepless Soul

The Return of Firing Squad Executions in the U.S.

I have been on the fence regarding the Death Penalty since I was a child.
For those of you old enough to remember grade school, when we got back from lunch and there was a projector in the room it was a great day!

Well, that was not the case one day in the third grade—yes, third grade. Most of us were 9 years old, and we didn’t know too much about war. For me, Vietnam was fresh on our minds even though we couldn’t find it on a map; we all knew someone who was involved.

The film that day was The Execution of Private Slovik. In case you never saw the film, the story revolves around a soldier named Private Slovak, who is executed for the crime of cowardice.

The events unfold in a manner that highlights the absurdity and tragedy of war. Vonnegut uses dark humor and irony to convey the senselessness of the military’s decision, questioning the values and morals of those in power.

“The Execution of Private Slovak” serves as a powerful commentary on the nature of war and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in extreme circumstances. Vonnegut’s unique style and perspective prompt readers to reflect on the consequences of conflict and the human capacity for both cruelty and compassion.

The film adaptation of “The Execution of Private Slovak” is likely aimed at a mature audience, primarily due to its themes of war, morality, and the psychological impact of conflict.
The film’s production was so compelling that I still suffer from PTSD after seeing it in 1974 as a child.
I don’t have to tell you that the ‘teacher’ who sucked at teaching BTW had no business showing that film to nine-year-olds.

That brings me to my reason for this blog post…

Recent Execution by Firing Squad
Today, March 8, 2025, marks a significant event in the realm of capital punishment in the United States, as Brad Sigmon, a 67-year-old inmate, was executed by firing squad in South Carolina. This execution is notable as it is the first firing squad execution in the U.S. in 15 years, with the last one occurring in Utah in 2010.

Brad Sigmon was convicted of a double murder in 2002, where he killed his ex-girlfriend’s parents. He opted for the firing squad as his method of execution, rejecting other options such as electrocution or lethal injection. This choice has sparked discussions about the ethics and humanity of various execution methods, especially given the controversies surrounding lethal injections and their potential for botched procedures.

The execution has drawn significant attention and criticism, with many labeling the firing squad as a “barbaric” method of execution. There have been calls for clemency and debates about the appropriateness of using such methods in modern society. The return of firing squads as a method of execution raises questions about the evolving landscape of capital punishment in the U.S. and the moral implications involved.

Well, I don’t have to tell you that his death has resonated with me.

Unlike many, I feel as if we gain something when a mass murderer doesn’t commit suicide by cop or just plain old taking the coward’s way out and offing themselves.

Learning from the experiences of convicted murderers can help identify patterns that lead to violent behavior. This knowledge can inform community preventive strategies, such as mental health support, conflict resolution programs, and educational initiatives to reduce violence.

I maintain that we have a mental health crisis in this country and most probably around the globe.
As the Trump administration focuses on improving America’s health, mental health should be a key component.

This person chose this method to die as a statement. Why? What was his reasoning to die in such a horrific manner? Will his death dissuade others from committing acts of violence?

What are your thoughts?
Should we have the death penalty?
If we have it how should it be carried out?

As you can see, I enjoy sharing my views on current events. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.

I am thrilled to share an exciting update with you—my latest book, 1300 Feet per Second, will be released soon! This novel delves into the intricacies of human resilience and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams, all set against the backdrop of gripping adventure and unforeseen challenges.
Your support has always been invaluable to me, and I am incredibly eager for you to dive into the pages of 1300 Feet per Second. This story will captivate your imagination and resonate with your spirit, much like it did with mine during the writing process.

In addition to this new release, I invite you to explore my current collection of books available on Amazon. Each title carries a piece of my heart and endless hours of dedication, crafted to offer you memorable and enriching literary experiences.

Thank you for being such a passionate and supportive community. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on 1300 Feet per Second and hope you find joy and inspiration in all my works.
Happy reading!

Warm regards,
Scott
Discover more of my books:

If your in to reading short stories for free…Follow the link and read my contest entries on the Reedsy web site in the UK.

Show Don’t Tell

‘Show don’t tell’ is one of the foundational principles of writing, emphasizing the importance of vividly illustrating instead of simply stating.

The principle of “show, don’t tell” is a fundamental technique in writing that enhances storytelling by allowing readers to experience emotions and events more vividly. Here are several reasons this approach is effective:
Engages the Reader’s Imagination
When writers show rather than tell, they invite readers to interpret the emotions and actions of characters through descriptive language and sensory details. This engagement encourages readers to visualize scenes and feel emotions alongside the characters, creating a more immersive experience.
Creates Emotional Depth
Showing emotions through actions, dialogue, and body language adds layers to character development. For instance, instead of stating that a character is angry, a writer might describe clenched fists, a flushed face, and a sharp tone of voice. This method allows readers to understand the character’s emotional state more deeply and personally.
Enhances Character Development
Characters become more relatable and realistic when their emotions are demonstrated through their behavior. Readers can infer motivations and personality traits based on how characters react to situations, making them feel more authentic and complex.
Builds Tension and Conflict
By showing rather than telling, writers can create suspense and tension in a narrative. For example, a character’s internal struggle can be illustrated through their actions and decisions, allowing readers to sense the stakes without explicitly stating them. This technique keeps readers engaged and invested in the outcome.
Encourages Reader Interpretation
When writers show emotions and events, they allow readers to draw their own conclusions and interpretations. This active participation can lead to a more rewarding reading experience, as readers connect with the story on a personal level and reflect on its themes and messages.

Here are some basic emotions

Joy – A feeling of great pleasure and happiness.
Trust – A positive emotion characterized by reliance on someone or something.
Fear – An emotional response to perceived threats or danger.
Surprise – A reaction to unexpected events.
Sadness – A feeling of sorrow or unhappiness.
Disgust – A strong feeling of aversion or repulsion.
Anger – A strong feeling of annoyance, displeasure, or hostility.
Anticipation – A feeling of excitement about something that is going to happen.

Detailed or nuanced emotions.

Affection
Amusement
Anxiety
Apathy
Compassion
Confusion
Contentment
Curiosity
Despair
Disappointment
Empathy
Envy
Excitement
Fearfulness
Frustration
Guilt
Hope
Horror
Hostility
Interest
Jealousy
Loneliness
Nostalgia
Pride
Relief
Remorse
Satisfaction
Shame
Surprise
Tenderness
Worry

Examples:
Opening his birthday present, Tim was joyful when he saw the latest video game.

Opening his birthday present, Tim’s face lit up with joy as he saw the latest video game. He eagerly imagined the hours of fun ahead.

Tim was disappointed to learn he would have to wait to play the game until the weekend, as tomorrow was a school day.

The following example may be a bit excessive, but it effectively conveys his disappointment.

As Tim’s face fell, a deep furrow etched itself across his brow. His eyes, which had sparkled with anticipation just moments before, now held a hint of sadness. The corners of his mouth, which had been curved up in a hopeful grin, now turned downward, reflecting the weight of his disappointment. He sighed, a long, slow exhalation that seemed to carry the burden of his unmet expectations.
He stared at the game console, its vibrant colors and intricate graphics now a stark reminder of the fun he would have to postpone. His fingers, which had been itching to wrap around the controller, now drummed a slow, disheartened rhythm against the table.
The room, once filled with the excited chatter of friends eagerly discussing strategies and predicting outcomes, now fell silent, save for the soft ticking of the clock on the wall. The hands moved inexorably forward, marking the passage of time that Tim could not reclaim.
As the reality of his situation sunk in, Tim’s shoulders slumped, and his body language indicated his despondency. He glanced at his friends, their faces a mirror of his own emotions, and then back at the game console. The screen, with its glowing promise of adventure and excitement, now seemed cold and distant, a cruel reminder of the joy that was now out of reach.
With a final, resigned sigh, Tim turned away from the game, his eyes downcast, his heart heavy with disappointment. He knew he would have to wait until the weekend to play, but for now, he could only endure the long, slow hours until then.

Try your hand at it. Pick a couple of the basic emotions, tell the story, and then show the story.

If you want more of these types of interactions, share your thoughts or stories in the comments.

-Best