I'm writing a book at 62 but never even read a book. I'm dyslexic and using google docs and a microphone to write and also to read back what I've written. I always knew technology would come along to help. thank you Jerry for your videos
Would you also add: read at least 100 great novels a year? Maybe that was a bit extreme, but I have been writing feverishly and reading voraciously now for years, and, despite my writing twenty paragraphs a day, cannot write worth a grain of sand.
@@GreggMikulla Kafka thought his work was garbage. His dying wish was for his friend to burn it all. See what someone else has to say about it. Someone who will be honest; because maybe I'm wrong and your writing really does just suck.
@rulyhyperion8277 I have. Early on, I was annihilated for my bad writing, and justly. This was three years ago. For a long time I hid im my own self-loathing. They tell me my writing is good, some say it's fantastic, but then again, people are apt to be compassionate. I'm almost sure it is awful, and I keep reading "Help Me" books on poetry, syntax, grammar, philosophy, psychology, on prose, on style, etc.etc.etc....I tend to focus on fiction of masters, the more difficult of the group like Joyce, Henry James, Faulkner, Woolf, and their ilk. the more of it I read, the more I realize how diminutive my level of talent.
@renemcdonald8763 May I ask why the line " every light in the house was on" moved you to tears? I'm learning to write and am simply asking questions...thanks for your time.👍
@@PapasChannel123it moved me to tears too. It's so moving, because you fear that the story could have a sad ending, but instead it's not just a happy ending, but it's much better than the reader could have expected. As a reader you hope for the best, which in this case the front lights are on and fear for the worst, lights off. And you get surprised by every light that could have been on are on, the family even got additional lights to show that of course they want him back. The reader is surprised by something so beautiful. And most of it plays in the mind of the reader and not on paper.
Step 1- Read Short Stories(Start with reading books written by Bret Lott Step 2- Generate A Winning Idea(Recognize the germ, Create characters from people you know) Step 3- Narrow Your Scope Step 4- Employ A Classic Story Structure 4.1- Terrible Trouble 4.2- Attempted Fixes Make Things Worse 4.3- The Predicament Appears Hopeless 4.4- Heroic Growth Helps Hero Win Step 5- A Satisfying Ending Step 6- Edit Aggressively
I just can’t believe that this man puts such valuable content online for free. I started writing my novel over a year ago. Everything that has gone well in it is almost completely thanks to Jerry Jenkins’ videos and his self-editing checklist. Brilliant. Thank you. God bless you.
I know, I'm doing a degree in creative writing and my good grades have a lot to do with the content here, not just the content on the course, and it's free! Bless him!
Once again, Jerry Jenkins comes through with excellent advice. If you want to write, sit down and listen to what he has to say. It's how I wrote my first science fiction book, Ark Three, and how I'm writing the second in the series, Ark One. Without Mr. Jenkins, I doubt that I would have actually self-published. If I can do it, anyone can.
@@jaglinuxmint Immense achievement? Not really. A person just has to sit down and start it, and follow Jerry's advice. Both of my books are available on Amazon. They're called Ark Three and Ark One. I'm currently working on a third book, which I'm going to switch hats and try my hand at a thriller. Again, following Jerry's plan, I'm in the marathon of the middle. And following Jerry's advice, I'm letting my writer's block work for me instead of against me.
@aboctok That may be one of the most ignorant comments that I've seen in a while. But please, carry on so we can all enjoy your ignorance as much as you do.
@@mikecee3058 "If you wrote something for which someone sent you a check, if you cashed the check and it didn't bounce, and if you then paid the light bill with the money, I consider you talented." quote from Stephen King's advice to writers. Writers should also read widely so they won't be ignorant.
I think it’s ignorant to assume that anyone who writes has read every book by every famous author or watched every video and read every interview. It’s simply impossible to do that. You can’t honestly make a quote and attack someone for not recognizing it. Especially when said quote isn’t fully stated in the first place. You took a fraction of it... At least if you are going to quote something have enough of that quote left intact so that the meaning of that quote can be better understood. If I didn’t know where it came from I very well would have thought you were belittling them.
Hi Jerry. Commenting because it helps you with your channel. I am 64, a former alcoholic writing a story about overcoming addiction. Its done in story form to go alongside my audio course. Invaluable information. Thank you. I will be watching more of your videos as my main source of learning. ❤
I'm 68 years old, but I'm haunted by a short story class I took in high school where the ultimate goal was for each person to write one. Not normally a confident person, for some reason I felt that I was good at writing and that this was something I'd be good at. Well, I received a good grade for it, but personally I was very, very disappointed with what I created. My ending, in my mind at least, was poor and a cop-out. It's bothers me to this day. I kept saying to myself "write a better one" but as usual, whenever anything is tough for me, I give up. Watching this video and the points you make has made me re-think this. And as daunting this task is to me in many ways, I may be ready to try again. Not doing this to get anything published. My sole motivation is simply to make myself feel better and prove to myself that I can do what I initially thought I could do - write a short story that I can be happy with. Wish me luck.
I've been writing a book about how tourists act in rural Ireland, as I own a small nontourist shop in a touristy area of West coast Ireland. The first 2.5 years went great, 60000 words in I started to edit. That was a year ago, I had to put it down because of how negative I had wrote, it wasn't an account of how generally tourists act, it was a full on look for as much of the negative aspects I could find. I learned a lot about how negative a person I am that's for sure. I will finish it one day, hopefully in a much more accurate light.
I don't see how you should make it fully accurate if it's a fictional work. Readers can also have an insight of your mind, but I agree with the other comments. A satire would be fun to read. The best story is the one that speaks with you the most.
At seventeen years of age I wrote a short story about an inmate of a mental hospital. It is about 40 pages and I consider it to be my batchelors. Fifty years later I'm writing the novel I've been thinking of all this time.
I’m going to write a bunch of short stories with recurring characters and setting, then draft all these stories together as a novel. It’ll take a lot of drafting to make it coherent, but I think it’ll work for the story I want to write. I also think that just writing all these separate stories that have unique ideas may be easier than just connecting everything from the first draft. Each chapter will be like an episode of a Netflix binge series.
So so relieved to hear this. I got so overwhelmed and lost; I almost wanted to give up, but my love for the written words and melodies and love for being in the creative worlds just will not go away. I feel like VC Andrews starting at 53
Starting your writing career with short stories then progressing to novels is like starting your TH-cam career with 1-5 mins videos then progressing to half an hour videos if your audience requests.
Awesome. This is the short-story version of tutorials on general writing, yet the steps can be applied to any story. It's stripped to the essential information with no fluff: a nuts-and-bolts, helpful tutorial.
I needed to hear everything you said here. From the not starting out with a novel (which I’ve been insistent on doing, thus have gotten nothing published), to reading of other works, to allowing myself to write draft without editing. Your presentation style is inspiring. You’re the instructor I think I’ll need to get started on my writing career which I’ve put off since childhood.
This makes a lot of sense. I like the illustration of toddlers learning to walk, and plopping till they get it, and kids in grade school, going to graduate schools. Excuse me. I must go. Much ferocious editing to do!
Outstanding advice and support on short stories. I really want to become a published writer, and I know this is my starting point. Truly appreciate the reading list provided and the authors mentioned. Thank you very much!
I had such a long drawnout awe and little tears starting to well when you described the light.. which lights.. how many lights and the extension of lights WOW!!!! Fantastic and I haven't even read it YET!!!!! Hearts
At this point in my life, writing is "all that I have" to make a living; not physically able to do much else. At 55 years old, life is my encyclopedia to my stories. Thanks Jerry.
Jerry, your videos are amazing. You're an excellent and patient teacher and I appreciate the wealth of information you share in each one. I'm currently writing picture books but need to give short story writing a shot again. I love Ray Bradbury and will be hauling out my dog-eared copy of "The October Country" tonight to rediscover everything from the poetic wonder of "The Emissary" to the creeping dread of "The Next in Line." Thank you for helping me fill in the technical blanks, and reawakening my desire to tackle a genre I didn't feel confident enough to handle. Wish me luck!
writing a good short story is more difficult than writing a novel. of course it takes longer to write a novel, but the more time you spend with your story, the better it is in my opinion, especially if you're a novice writer like me. novel writing is like a long term relationship while short story is like one night stand. Am I right? I totally agree with reading a lot. it is the feul for writing.
WOW Jerry! As a sales and marketing professional the last 25 years sitting across the kitchen table of families I know how to connect. Watching you on this video I felt a real connection with you great job what a skill.
Exactly. I started with an idea for a short story and ended up with a novella. Discipline and get the words and ideas down then edit. Short stories can be 3,000 - 15,000 words, if it is at the top end then it might work as a novella. My typical short story is an idea fleshed out to about 7,500 words edited.
I wish a I had come across your lessons 2 decades back when I first started to write short stories for relaxation. Today I am editing those works of passion and love using your valuable lessons, hoping to find a publisher. Thank you, sir.
Wow, thanks for this Jerry. Ive written for a long time, and I seem to have always been good at it naturally, even though I was a terrible student. (a substitute teacher who didn't know me, but only knew what she saw in the "grade ledger"accused me of plagiarism when she had inspired me to want to do better). After whining about reaching a certain age and not having anything to show for it, I can now look back and see all these short stories that have happened. It's a neat realization. I'm writing my first as we speak! I've subscribed & checking out more videos. If I could put my $0.02 in for short stories - Jean Stafford is mind blowing (to me).
May I just say - thank you, sir. I've been freelancing for twenty years and I speak eight languages so I mostly do a lot of translations, but I'm working on my first novel and I did - clearly, as you say correctly approached - want to begin with a short story. Therefore, as I began I looked for some online tips and your advice is exactly what I needed. it's clear a BA in English doesn't teach you everything :) All the best!
If u are interested in writing or reading others stories then u can join this discord server. Here u can sponsor ur books aswell... . discord.gg/X3cana8JhB
It will be ideas forever if u don't write it on paper. So give it a try. What's wrong if u were bad. Noone us good at Beginning. U can share ur stories here with struggling people in our discord server.... discord.gg/X3cana8JhB .
The "classic story structure" that Dean Koontz mentioned in the 80's is basically Lester Dent's master fiction plot from the 30's. Dent used it for a bunch of 6000 word pulp stories. Koontz adapted/extended it for novels, just like Michael Moorcock, who wrote a bunch of 60000 word sword & sorcery fantasy novels with that structure.
🙏 thank you. Writing my first short story now by following an IRL course. Your online resources are a helpful addition. It was inspiring to see your target of writing 2500+ (unedited?) words a day in another video. After sleep I will write and keep writing to finish the story I'll fix it later. I hope to share my story on madness and mysticism with the world. I think it's important. Thanks for sharing your insights
Hello , I came from the emails you were sending me to share your knowledge! I was making the mistake you mentioned in the opening Mr Jenkins and couldn't finish my writings, Thank you so much for pointing it out. I will now switch to short stories first and progress further.
Jerry this video was sensational. Your delivery was exceeded only by the content and sensible advice. It was just the right length but not too short to miss the essentials. If any viewer had potential and they follow your advice , it should hit the target at some point. Well done, keep them coming .
Short story writing I found to be the most challenging writing I've ever done, from novel writing, playwrighting, non-fiction, journalism. BUT, the absolute most rewarding and moved my writing to a great new level. It really taught 'tightening' up, and showing not telling like never before. One doesn't realize how much rambling there is, until you make a rule that every paragraph has to be relevant. I also should say that I read short story after short story after story story story to learn how to do it.
I agree. It's challenging. I have a hard time parsing down my prose to fit the short-story length. I often develop the ideas too much, creating more symbolism and allegory than can fit in the container of short-fiction.
Holy Smokes !!!!! I have watched TONS and TONS of these kinds of videos, in attempt to improve and learn more about writing stories. THIS video is by far the VERY BEST of them all. I'm going to download the guide, but first I'm going to rewind this video and take notes on pen and paper. If YOU are wanting to learn more about writing, I can confidently suggest you look no further.
I feel so inspired, especially about editing ferociously. I can do this! I'm a retired English teacher -- I've been editing my students' work for three decades. I know how important it is, but I'd forgotten what a strength it is when writing fiction also. I've always seen myself as a writer, and I've played with different genres over the years. I decided a long time ago that I would write fiction after I retired, but then I haven't seemed to be able to get started. It's far more challenging than i had anticipated. But I've got a great imagination, inspiration from dreams, strong writing skills, and even more, I can edit ferociously. Thank you for reminding me about this.
There are some things in life you figure out on your own without being told or taught. I plan to write a book someday but realized it would be easier/better to do a short story first. Good to see I was on the right track. Every time I plan to start though I realize there is something I need to brush up on and never actually start. This is the first I am hearing about this Jenkins guy. Interesting so far. But is it the lady "AND" the tiger or lady "OR" the tiger?
Wow! Very eloquent with examples and sound advice. Immediate to the point, and constructively helpful. Thank you so much for sharing your helpful tips!
You truly inspire me, sir. My whole life I have been creating stories for audiences and now while I'm in my 30's I realized that I would love to become a writer. The horror short stories of H.P. Lovecraft had inspired me to create my own place in his universe. The Europe version of it. Eventually, I want to make a bundle of my short stories and sell it to an audience. My first short story is getting great responses and I'm proud of my second one that no one has read yet other than my better half, who Is a writer already. Your videos inspire me to charge forward and create!
Finally found Barry Stark (my youtube snooker coach who helped me improve my game immensely) of the writing field. Jerry, terrific insights and very useful tips. You can inspire even a block (not writer's) to write a book. The only regret is I found you late anyways will try and make the most of it. Thank you. 🙏
Very impressed by the depth of understanding of the writing process expressed here as gleaned through years of experience. I am binge watching these videos and using them as a checklist against my what I thought was completed novella. Looks like I have more work to do. Thank you for your generous spirit in sharing this important information. And straight to the point teaching style.
Thank you sir for your advise. I must say that I have read around 40 to 45 books of yours and in the process, got a better grip over writing. I consider you to be my mentor. Big Fan
It's so nice to actually be able to listen to an experienced authors voice. I can't handle dome authors shares on writing skills when they rush through the slush I. A complex blur. Thank you sir 🙏🙄
Than you so much for being a light to my feet as I begin my walk to become a writer. I appreciate your willingness to share your talents with me and others.
Thanks so much for this video. I loved the ending of ‘The Ride’. The prodigal son returning home and finding all the lights on for him is such a beautiful ending
That’s true. The greatest short story writer of all time was Charles Bukowski. He began with poetry then moved to short stories the branched into Novels. I like his Short Stories Best. Here are the immortal ones by Bukowski “ The Blanket” ( better than EA Poe’s the tell tale heart) “ The Most Beautiful Woman In Town” “ Animal Crackers in My Soup” “ Would You Suggest Writing As A Career” “ The birth, life and death of an underground Newspaper” “Life And Death In The Charity Ward” All from the book “ Erections, Ejaculations, Exhibitions, and General Tales Of Ordinary Madness” If you don’t read these stories then you don’t know jack shit about greatness. Al
I am always interested in writing and blogs about writing. They are a steady diet in the hunger for learning. I appreciate this and can identify with even the short stories used as examples. The learning never ends. Someone once said, and I'm not sure who the quote belongs to, but to me it really exemplifies writers. It says: to be a writer is like having homework for the rest of your life. He/She must have been a writer themselves to realize that saying.Thank you for your insight, Jerry, and best of luck with all your projects.
@@dragonchr15 I think it depends on how life is going. For an example: I'm working full time and I write every day a little bit. I am able to write like 700 to 14000 words a week, but more often than not I'm left with the 700. This is only the first draft. The editing process is a complete other story, because it takes more time and effort. More thinking if you will. So I might need two to three weeks to finish the editing process. So yeah, three month might be a bit long, but everything around one or two month are okay, if you don't have so much time to write.
@@dragonchr15 'Too long' according to who? Writing a new short every quarter is something a writer can realistically stick to, plus this is on top of working full-time, running a publishing imprint, novel writing, and all the other stuff life throws at you.
I admire the value Jerry B. Jenkins creates here on TH-cam and I truly appreciate him and other people like him doing this. I hope that I can do this one day as well, if I discover some writing techniques and so forth on my journey of writing. ;)
Thank you, Mr.Jenkins, for helping us newbies to learn to start writing but telling us, basically, not to be a hero. I think short stories are the best at starting out. I sat down on my laptop and felt pressured to be like you and other authors. The first story or novel we write will hit the New York Times best selling author list and we are heroes. 😂🙄 Thank you for telling us to get rid of the pressure; I need to sit down in a quiet place and think and think and think then get going and have fun. If I muck up I muck up. Stay with it. 📚😎👍...
I am just 18 struggling to write something since 2 years but, now there are less obstacles. Thank you so much Sir. It meant a lot for beginners like me.
Pay attention! It doesn't matter how low your score is or how many negatives are on your report. Your credit report could be as perfect for anything if you had the right contact. I used to have a low score of 415 and about 7 negative items including an eviction on my report. I knew I couldn't qualify for anything and thought my report would never get in shape. But life as a game of number, proved to me that there could be light at the end of the tunnel. Yes there was really light. After being ripped off by online impostors many times, I finally saw a comment about bestwriting96@gmail.com. At first, I felt reluctant to give him a try. But when I finally did, I became ever thankful. My score was increased to a high 801 with all the negatives removed including the eviction in just 4 days. I didn't care about the cost because I had the best experience with him. I'm currently living in the comfort of a new big home and a new car. I just decided to share my experience as I know that a lotta people have been scammed a lotta times. Mail Him through bestwriting96@gmail.com.
I am trying to put together a portfolio to send to a really nice school and I intend to fill it with some short stories. This is a really helpful video and know I know where to start.
Thanks Mr Jenkins . This is great advice. I was doing exactly the opposite of what you suggested here and got stuck real bad. Then I found this video. Thanks so much.
I am so thankful for this video. Your concepts are so clear to me. Thank You for sharing your knowledge with us here on youtube. I don't know much of anything, but I know i am following my intuition to write and I'm going for it.
Just pull out your notebook, laptop, bit of rough paper and let the words pour out. They might not be the best at first, but it gets your mind in the writing zone and then you have something on paper to work with. Rather then letting it get lost in worry for starting your piece. You can do it
The short stories you recommended (except for Brett Lott) were all on the reading lists in Junior and Senior Year English classes, Texas high schools, when I was a student in the 00s and 10s.
Thank You Jerry for enriching not only my life but millions of others. Here's to a hopeful meeting in Glory or should I say after the Glorious Appearing.
Thank you for the excellent video. The only issue I have with it is speaking as if a short story is just for training to write a full novel. In my opinion short stories are an art form in themselves!
Thank you. I will review this often. I'm working on a novella and have two versions I compare; one is the original no words barred version, the other is called Supercut. I put them away for 10 years and noticed the energy that the original had. To combine them, I look for advice like yours. Perhaps that will help others. Keep both copies. As for me, I will review what you said and what Kurt Vonnegut said and finish the job. Thanks. H.
I started with a full novel, and even though I am ok with it, and still proud....there is a lot I have and am snow learning!! So short story up next...
I would like to know more about the story “The Ride” mentioned in step 5 (around 7:30). I tried googling for the story but could not find anything. Can anyone tell me who wrote it and where can I find it?
I see a lot of advice videos on how to become a writer on the internet, but for me, its just a hobby. I want to write a novel because I've been inspired by Tolstoy, Jane Austin, and other classics. Most, if not all, of the videos refer to writing as a career and give advice contrary to what I thought I would hear. I decided I want to write a novel because I litterally couldn't stop thinking about it, I had to get it down on paper so I wouldn't go crazy. Basically, I dont care about what I "should" write, im going to write whatever I want. Also, I dont have any time constraints or publishing guidelines. Lastly, I want to know things like, where do I start? Chatacters or setting? And how to prevent plot holes. But all the advice I hear seems to focus on avoiding clichés and "show dont tell". But I already know these things before I even started.
Wow! Woiw! Wow! Thank you Jerry - I'm so glad I stumbled across your site! Inspirational and as a final comment I appreciate your calm considered delivery. .
Thank you for this video! I'm trying to finish the story my mind is most preoccupied with before it gets lost in the deep chasms of my dyslexia... it's currently 3 years in the making because it got lost...
I'm writing a book at 62 but never even read a book. I'm dyslexic and using google docs and a microphone to write and also to read back what I've written. I always knew technology would come along to help. thank you Jerry for your videos
Good luck with your work!
Inspiring, I wish you luck!
Good luck!!
Let us know when it's done! I would love to read your book
I love your story. Inspiring.
I ferociously edited my comment to the following two words:
Thank you.
Skillfully done, Sir!
Thank you for that laugh.
The best 9 minute short story writing points tutorial you will ever find. Thank you.
This guy is the goat.
Amen.
1 - Read short strories 1:08
2 - Generate a winning idea 3:01
3 - Narrow your scope 4:30
4 - Employ a classic story structure 5:56
5 - A satisfying ending 7:13
6 - Edit Aggressively 8:20
Adorabel
Would you also add: read at least 100 great novels a year?
Maybe that was a bit extreme, but I have been writing feverishly and reading voraciously now for years, and, despite my writing twenty paragraphs a day, cannot write worth a grain of sand.
@@GreggMikulla Kafka thought his work was garbage. His dying wish was for his friend to burn it all.
See what someone else has to say about it. Someone who will be honest; because maybe I'm wrong and your writing really does just suck.
@rulyhyperion8277 I have. Early on, I was annihilated for my bad writing, and justly. This was three years ago. For a long time I hid im my own self-loathing. They tell me my writing is good, some say it's fantastic, but then again, people are apt to be compassionate. I'm almost sure it is awful, and I keep reading "Help Me" books on poetry, syntax, grammar, philosophy, psychology, on prose, on style, etc.etc.etc....I tend to focus on fiction of masters, the more difficult of the group like Joyce, Henry James, Faulkner, Woolf, and their ilk. the more of it I read, the more I realize how diminutive my level of talent.
Thank you
I quite literally was moved to tears when he said "every light in the house was on."
@renemcdonald8763
May I ask why the line " every light in the house was on" moved you to tears?
I'm learning to write and am simply asking questions...thanks for your time.👍
@@PapasChannel123it moved me to tears too.
It's so moving, because you fear that the story could have a sad ending, but instead it's not just a happy ending, but it's much better than the reader could have expected.
As a reader you hope for the best, which in this case the front lights are on and fear for the worst, lights off. And you get surprised by every light that could have been on are on, the family even got additional lights to show that of course they want him back. The reader is surprised by something so beautiful.
And most of it plays in the mind of the reader and not on paper.
@@axelstuart2707well put and .. the tears came back 🇨🇦❤️
As an MFA student, I can state with confidence this video is 10 minutes of solid gold writing instruction.
Step 1- Read Short Stories(Start with reading books written by Bret Lott
Step 2- Generate A Winning Idea(Recognize the germ, Create characters from people you know)
Step 3- Narrow Your Scope
Step 4- Employ A Classic Story Structure
4.1- Terrible Trouble
4.2- Attempted Fixes Make Things Worse
4.3- The Predicament Appears Hopeless
4.4- Heroic Growth Helps Hero Win
Step 5- A Satisfying Ending
Step 6- Edit Aggressively
Thanks!
Tku Mark👍
Thanks short attention span
Thank you 😊
Cool name bro
I just can’t believe that this man puts such valuable content online for free. I started writing my novel over a year ago. Everything that has gone well in it is almost completely thanks to Jerry Jenkins’ videos and his self-editing checklist. Brilliant. Thank you. God bless you.
I know, I'm doing a degree in creative writing and my good grades have a lot to do with the content here, not just the content on the course, and it's free! Bless him!
The 'lights on' story is a great example of saying more with less. Thanks for sharing Jerry.
*Liked it,*
*Screenshots,*
*Saved it in the list,*
*Subscribed,*
*Motivated*
If u are interested in writing then u can join this discord server where u can share ur stories with others....
. discord.gg/X3cana8JhB
Are you a Pilipino?
@@leodaer2041 nope...
Once again, Jerry Jenkins comes through with excellent advice. If you want to write, sit down and listen to what he has to say. It's how I wrote my first science fiction book, Ark Three, and how I'm writing the second in the series, Ark One. Without Mr. Jenkins, I doubt that I would have actually self-published.
If I can do it, anyone can.
Wow, would love to read your work. What you have done is an immense achievement
@@jaglinuxmint Immense achievement? Not really. A person just has to sit down and start it, and follow Jerry's advice. Both of my books are available on Amazon. They're called Ark Three and Ark One. I'm currently working on a third book, which I'm going to switch hats and try my hand at a thriller. Again, following Jerry's plan, I'm in the marathon of the middle. And following Jerry's advice, I'm letting my writer's block work for me instead of against me.
@aboctok That may be one of the most ignorant comments that I've seen in a while. But please, carry on so we can all enjoy your ignorance as much as you do.
@@mikecee3058 "If you wrote something for which someone sent you a check, if you cashed the check and it didn't bounce, and if you then paid the light bill with the money, I consider you talented." quote from Stephen King's advice to writers. Writers should also read widely so they won't be ignorant.
I think it’s ignorant to assume that anyone who writes has read every book by every famous author or watched every video and read every interview. It’s simply impossible to do that. You can’t honestly make a quote and attack someone for not recognizing it. Especially when said quote isn’t fully stated in the first place. You took a fraction of it... At least if you are going to quote something have enough of that quote left intact so that the meaning of that quote can be better understood. If I didn’t know where it came from I very well would have thought you were belittling them.
Hi Jerry. Commenting because it helps you with your channel. I am 64, a former alcoholic writing a story about overcoming addiction. Its done in story form to go alongside my audio course. Invaluable information. Thank you. I will be watching more of your videos as my main source of learning. ❤
I'm 68 years old, but I'm haunted by a short story class I took in high school where the ultimate goal was for each person to write one. Not normally a confident person, for some reason I felt that I was good at writing and that this was something I'd be good at. Well, I received a good grade for it, but personally I was very, very disappointed with what I created. My ending, in my mind at least, was poor and a cop-out. It's bothers me to this day. I kept saying to myself "write a better one" but as usual, whenever anything is tough for me, I give up. Watching this video and the points you make has made me re-think this. And as daunting this task is to me in many ways, I may be ready to try again. Not doing this to get anything published. My sole motivation is simply to make myself feel better and prove to myself that I can do what I initially thought I could do - write a short story that I can be happy with. Wish me luck.
@SportsBoss999: Best of luck to you.
I've been writing a book about how tourists act in rural Ireland, as I own a small nontourist shop in a touristy area of West coast Ireland. The first 2.5 years went great, 60000 words in I started to edit. That was a year ago, I had to put it down because of how negative I had wrote, it wasn't an account of how generally tourists act, it was a full on look for as much of the negative aspects I could find. I learned a lot about how negative a person I am that's for sure. I will finish it one day, hopefully in a much more accurate light.
Maybe you can turn it into a comedy by portraying the foibles of tourists.
I agree with tangobayus...turn it into a farce or short funny stories in the style of Mark Twain or P.G. Wodehouse.
Writing satire is the best antidote for thinking about things you hate.
I don't see how you should make it fully accurate if it's a fictional work. Readers can also have an insight of your mind, but I agree with the other comments. A satire would be fun to read. The best story is the one that speaks with you the most.
At seventeen years of age I wrote a short story about an inmate of a mental hospital. It is about 40 pages and I consider it to be my batchelors. Fifty years later I'm writing the novel I've been thinking of all this time.
I've never made notes from a youtube video. This was the most valuable thing I've learnt all year.
I’m going to write a bunch of short stories with recurring characters and setting, then draft all these stories together as a novel. It’ll take a lot of drafting to make it coherent, but I think it’ll work for the story I want to write. I also think that just writing all these separate stories that have unique ideas may be easier than just connecting everything from the first draft.
Each chapter will be like an episode of a Netflix binge series.
So so relieved to hear this. I got so overwhelmed and lost; I almost wanted to give up, but my love for the written words and melodies and love for being in the creative worlds just will not go away. I feel like VC Andrews starting at 53
Starting your writing career with short stories then progressing to novels is like starting your TH-cam career with 1-5 mins videos then progressing to half an hour videos if your audience requests.
Awesome. This is the short-story version of tutorials on general writing, yet the steps can be applied to any story. It's stripped to the essential information with no fluff: a nuts-and-bolts, helpful tutorial.
I needed to hear everything you said here. From the not starting out with a novel (which I’ve been insistent on doing, thus have gotten nothing published), to reading of other works, to allowing myself to write draft without editing. Your presentation style is inspiring. You’re the instructor I think I’ll need to get started on my writing career which I’ve put off since childhood.
This makes a lot of sense. I like the illustration of toddlers learning to walk, and plopping till they get it, and kids in grade school, going to graduate schools. Excuse me. I must go. Much ferocious editing to do!
Outstanding advice and support on short stories. I really want to become a published writer, and I know this is my starting point. Truly appreciate the reading list provided and the authors mentioned. Thank you very much!
I had such a long drawnout awe and little tears starting to well when you described the light.. which lights.. how many lights and the extension of lights WOW!!!! Fantastic and I haven't even read it YET!!!!! Hearts
At this point in my life, writing is "all that I have" to make a living; not physically able to do much else. At 55 years old, life is my encyclopedia to my stories. Thanks Jerry.
I am just short of that mark, myself. Good luck to you.
Do you have a writing group or beta readers?
Jerry, your videos are amazing. You're an excellent and patient teacher and I appreciate the wealth of information you share in each one. I'm currently writing picture books but need to give short story writing a shot again. I love Ray Bradbury and will be hauling out my dog-eared copy of "The October Country" tonight to rediscover everything from the poetic wonder of "The Emissary" to the creeping dread of "The Next in Line." Thank you for helping me fill in the technical blanks, and reawakening my desire to tackle a genre I didn't feel confident enough to handle. Wish me luck!
Anyone know who the author is of the short story, 'The Ride' that Jerry mentions? Sounds like a great story!
Trying to get back into writing again, after a few years off. Maybe this will help. Thank you, Jerry. You are always inspiring
Me too, i was simultaneously writing 5 different novels but finished none. Will begin today evening one at a time
Wishing you success and joy along your way!🌞
Me too! Blessings as you go forward!! THANKS for sharing
Me too! I wrote a screenplay in 2010! I think I want to write again but short stories!
writing a good short story is more difficult than writing a novel. of course it takes longer to write a novel, but the more time you spend with your story, the better it is in my opinion, especially if you're a novice writer like me. novel writing is like a long term relationship while short story is like one night stand. Am I right? I totally agree with reading a lot. it is the feul for writing.
I disagree, it's better to be prolific than to take ages in one story.
WOW Jerry! As a sales and marketing professional the last 25 years sitting across the kitchen table of families I know how to connect. Watching you on this video I felt a real connection with you great job what a skill.
Short, sweet and delivered with no time wasted. Thank you Jerry.
Exactly. I started with an idea for a short story and ended up with a novella. Discipline and get the words and ideas down then edit. Short stories can be 3,000 - 15,000 words, if it is at the top end then it might work as a novella. My typical short story is an idea fleshed out to about 7,500 words edited.
I wish a I had come across your lessons 2 decades back when I first started to write short stories for relaxation. Today I am editing those works of passion and love using your valuable lessons, hoping to find a publisher. Thank you, sir.
Wow, thanks for this Jerry. Ive written for a long time, and I seem to have always been good at it naturally, even though I was a terrible student. (a substitute teacher who didn't know me, but only knew what she saw in the "grade ledger"accused me of plagiarism when she had inspired me to want to do better). After whining about reaching a certain age and not having anything to show for it, I can now look back and see all these short stories that have happened. It's a neat realization. I'm writing my first as we speak! I've subscribed & checking out more videos. If I could put my $0.02 in for short stories - Jean Stafford is mind blowing (to me).
May I just say - thank you, sir. I've been freelancing for twenty years and I speak eight languages so I mostly do a lot of translations, but I'm working on my first novel and I did - clearly, as you say correctly approached - want to begin with a short story. Therefore, as I began I looked for some online tips and your advice is exactly what I needed. it's clear a BA in English doesn't teach you everything :) All the best!
I have been toying with ideas for years but never written anything in story form. This was so informative, I need to start ASAP. Thank you sir!
If u are interested in writing or reading others stories then u can join this discord server. Here u can sponsor ur books aswell...
. discord.gg/X3cana8JhB
It will be ideas forever if u don't write it on paper. So give it a try. What's wrong if u were bad. Noone us good at Beginning. U can share ur stories here with struggling people in our discord server....
discord.gg/X3cana8JhB
.
The "classic story structure" that Dean Koontz mentioned in the 80's is basically Lester Dent's master fiction plot from the 30's. Dent used it for a bunch of 6000 word pulp stories. Koontz adapted/extended it for novels, just like Michael Moorcock, who wrote a bunch of 60000 word sword & sorcery fantasy novels with that structure.
Thanks for the info. Never heard of Lester Dent before. I just googled him and found some stuff to read later
@@henbane2247 You are welcome :)
Your videos are making me feel inspired and motivated to work on a short story right now!! Thank you!!
Me too
🙏 thank you. Writing my first short story now by following an IRL course. Your online resources are a helpful addition. It was inspiring to see your target of writing 2500+ (unedited?) words a day in another video. After sleep I will write and keep writing to finish the story I'll fix it later. I hope to share my story on madness and mysticism with the world. I think it's important. Thanks for sharing your insights
Hello , I came from the emails you were sending me to share your knowledge! I was making the mistake you mentioned in the opening Mr Jenkins and couldn't finish my writings, Thank you so much for pointing it out. I will now switch to short stories first and progress further.
Jerry this video was sensational. Your delivery was exceeded only by the content and sensible advice. It was just the right length but not too short to miss the essentials. If any viewer had potential and they follow your advice , it should hit the target at some point. Well done, keep them coming .
Academically clear and straight to the point on writing a basic first time short story book Thank you for your help
Short story writing I found to be the most challenging writing I've ever done, from novel writing, playwrighting, non-fiction, journalism. BUT, the absolute most rewarding and moved my writing to a great new level. It really taught 'tightening' up, and showing not telling like never before. One doesn't realize how much rambling there is, until you make a rule that every paragraph has to be relevant. I also should say that I read short story after short story after story story story to learn how to do it.
I agree. It's challenging. I have a hard time parsing down my prose to fit the short-story length. I often develop the ideas too much, creating more symbolism and allegory than can fit in the container of short-fiction.
Holy Smokes !!!!! I have watched TONS and TONS of these kinds of videos, in attempt to improve and learn more about writing stories. THIS video is by far the VERY BEST of them all. I'm going to download the guide, but first I'm going to rewind this video and take notes on pen and paper. If YOU are wanting to learn more about writing, I can confidently suggest you look no further.
I feel so inspired, especially about editing ferociously. I can do this! I'm a retired English teacher -- I've been editing my students' work for three decades. I know how important it is, but I'd forgotten what a strength it is when writing fiction also. I've always seen myself as a writer, and I've played with different genres over the years. I decided a long time ago that I would write fiction after I retired, but then I haven't seemed to be able to get started. It's far more challenging than i had anticipated. But I've got a great imagination, inspiration from dreams, strong writing skills, and even more, I can edit ferociously. Thank you for reminding me about this.
Ughh yesssss, im very excited to read your work. Please write, you hsound like you have both skill and talent.
this is so gold
what am i even saying this is more than gold!!!
Practical, clear, and just plain elucidating advice. Thank you. I look forward to this work refining all of ours.
There are some things in life you figure out on your own without being told or taught. I plan to write a book someday but realized it would be easier/better to do a short story first. Good to see I was on the right track. Every time I plan to start though I realize there is something I need to brush up on and never actually start. This is the first I am hearing about this Jenkins guy. Interesting so far. But is it the lady "AND" the tiger or lady "OR" the tiger?
Wow! Very eloquent with examples and sound advice. Immediate to the point, and constructively helpful. Thank you so much for sharing your helpful tips!
This seems to be the key to greatness.
Great tips. As someone who has been writing more off than on, I struggle to structure my stories. Much appreciated.
You truly inspire me, sir. My whole life I have been creating stories for audiences and now while I'm in my 30's I realized that I would love to become a writer. The horror short stories of H.P. Lovecraft had inspired me to create my own place in his universe. The Europe version of it.
Eventually, I want to make a bundle of my short stories and sell it to an audience. My first short story is getting great responses and I'm proud of my second one that no one has read yet other than my better half, who Is a writer already. Your videos inspire me to charge forward and create!
Finally found Barry Stark (my youtube snooker coach who helped me improve my game immensely) of the writing field.
Jerry, terrific insights and very useful tips. You can inspire even a block (not writer's) to write a book.
The only regret is I found you late anyways will try and make the most of it.
Thank you. 🙏
His voice is calming
Very impressed by the depth of understanding of the writing process expressed here as gleaned through years of experience. I am binge watching these videos and using them as a checklist against my what I thought was completed novella. Looks like I have more work to do. Thank you for your generous spirit in sharing this important information. And straight to the point teaching style.
Thank you sir for your advise. I must say that I have read around 40 to 45 books of yours and in the process, got a better grip over writing. I consider you to be my mentor. Big Fan
It's so nice to actually be able to listen to an experienced authors voice. I can't handle dome authors shares on writing skills when they rush through the slush I. A complex blur. Thank you sir 🙏🙄
Than you so much for being a light to my feet as I begin my walk to become a writer. I appreciate your willingness to share your talents with me and others.
Thanks so much for this video. I loved the ending of ‘The Ride’. The prodigal son returning home and finding all the lights on for him is such a beautiful ending
I have been searching this story for a few months now, can you tell me where to find it?
That’s true. The greatest short story writer of all time was Charles Bukowski. He began with poetry then moved to short stories the branched into Novels. I like his Short Stories Best. Here are the immortal ones by Bukowski
“ The Blanket” ( better than EA Poe’s the tell tale heart)
“ The Most Beautiful Woman In Town”
“ Animal Crackers in My Soup”
“ Would You Suggest Writing As A Career”
“ The birth, life and death of an underground Newspaper”
“Life And Death In The Charity Ward”
All from the book
“ Erections, Ejaculations, Exhibitions, and General Tales Of Ordinary Madness”
If you don’t read these stories then you don’t know jack shit about greatness.
Al
Thanks for your suggestions, will check them out
@@jaglinuxmint Me too
I love Bukowski but his style isn't exactly one you'd try to follow for success. A true original.
I am always interested in writing and blogs about writing. They are a steady diet in the hunger for learning. I appreciate this and can identify with even the short stories used as examples. The learning never ends. Someone once said, and I'm not sure who the quote belongs to, but to me it really exemplifies writers. It says: to be a writer is like having homework for the rest of your life. He/She must have been a writer themselves to realize that saying.Thank you for your insight, Jerry, and best of luck with all your projects.
Just shared this on twitter - writing short stories has leveled my novels like nothing else. I strive to producer a new short every three months.
That seems too long. Shouldnt you be able to write a good short story on 1 week?
@@dragonchr15 I think it depends on how life is going. For an example: I'm working full time and I write every day a little bit. I am able to write like 700 to 14000 words a week, but more often than not I'm left with the 700. This is only the first draft. The editing process is a complete other story, because it takes more time and effort. More thinking if you will. So I might need two to three weeks to finish the editing process. So yeah, three month might be a bit long, but everything around one or two month are okay, if you don't have so much time to write.
@@dragonchr15 'Too long' according to who? Writing a new short every quarter is something a writer can realistically stick to, plus this is on top of working full-time, running a publishing imprint, novel writing, and all the other stuff life throws at you.
Wish your list included some great women short story writers. Very helpful suggestions.
Trust me , you videos have been so educative. I wish I could email directly for advise on my work.
I loved this.
Just as I start on a venture to write short stories and poems, this appears.
Thanks Mr. Jenkins.
How awesome to see so many people want to be authors!
As you were talking my current short story idea crystallized. Thank You.
Wow the value in this video! Thanks a ton
I admire the value Jerry B. Jenkins creates here on TH-cam and I truly appreciate him and other people like him doing this. I hope that I can do this one day as well, if I discover some writing techniques and so forth on my journey of writing. ;)
These videos are like getting a complete MFA course in creative writing from the best teacher at an elite institution - but free. Thank you.
So true
Thank you, Mr.Jenkins, for helping us newbies to learn to start writing but telling us, basically, not to be a hero. I think short stories are the best at starting out. I sat down on my laptop and felt pressured to be like you and other authors. The first story or novel we write will hit the New York Times best selling author list and we are heroes. 😂🙄 Thank you for telling us to get rid of the pressure; I need to sit down in a quiet place and think and think and think then get going and have fun. If I muck up I muck up. Stay with it. 📚😎👍...
Anyone got a link or reference for the story that he mentioned? "The Ride"
I can't find it anywhere. Author name?
I am just 18 struggling to write something since 2 years but, now there are less obstacles. Thank you so much Sir. It meant a lot for beginners like me.
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If u are writing ur stories or want to sponser ur book or wanted to share stories then u can join this discord server...
. discord.gg/X3cana8JhB
Can’t believe this advice is free. Thank you!
I am trying to put together a portfolio to send to a really nice school and I intend to fill it with some short stories. This is a really helpful video and know I know where to start.
thank you, sir. I'm a future director, actually, I'm writing the screenplay, this video is like a diamond for me.
Just hearing about that ending with all the lights on made me suddenly weep.
It feels as I haven’t undertaken this process but I will that the first draft is an absolute luxury. You can simple do it anyway you want.
Excellent. I giving you a standing ovation. It's that good your round of advice
Thanks Mr Jenkins . This is great advice. I was doing exactly the opposite of what you suggested here and got stuck real bad. Then I found this video. Thanks so much.
Thank you Jerry for being a tremendous distant teacher to me.
I am so thankful for this video. Your concepts are so clear to me. Thank You for sharing your knowledge with us here on youtube. I don't know much of anything, but I know i am following my intuition to write and I'm going for it.
Just finished writing a short story. This will come in handy when I edit. Thank you.
Thank you. I have one short story planned but find very hard to write it.
Just pull out your notebook, laptop, bit of rough paper and let the words pour out. They might not be the best at first, but it gets your mind in the writing zone and then you have something on paper to work with. Rather then letting it get lost in worry for starting your piece. You can do it
The short stories you recommended (except for Brett Lott) were all on the reading lists in Junior and Senior Year English classes, Texas high schools, when I was a student in the 00s and 10s.
Thank You Jerry for enriching not only my life but millions of others. Here's to a hopeful meeting in Glory or should I say after the Glorious Appearing.
Thank you for the excellent video. The only issue I have with it is speaking as if a short story is just for training to write a full novel. In my opinion short stories are an art form in themselves!
Thank you. I will review this often. I'm working on a novella and have two versions I compare; one is the original no words barred version, the other is called Supercut. I put them away for 10 years and noticed the energy that the original had. To combine them, I look for advice like yours. Perhaps that will help others. Keep both copies. As for me, I will review what you said and what Kurt Vonnegut said and finish the job. Thanks. H.
The Jenkins Enclave is a source of priceless advice for all writers! Thank you Sir Jerry.
And this is why I focus so much on short stories. I haven’t attempted something like a novel yet
I started with a full novel, and even though I am ok with it, and still proud....there is a lot I have and am snow learning!! So short story up next...
Your example of the perfect ending packed such an emotional punch. Great advice.
I would like to know more about the story “The Ride” mentioned in step 5 (around 7:30). I tried googling for the story but could not find anything. Can anyone tell me who wrote it and where can I find it?
Me too, have you found it in the meantime?
Same here. Can't find it
Your advice sounds like a well written short story. Wonderful and instructive. Thank you.
I see a lot of advice videos on how to become a writer on the internet, but for me, its just a hobby. I want to write a novel because I've been inspired by Tolstoy, Jane Austin, and other classics.
Most, if not all, of the videos refer to writing as a career and give advice contrary to what I thought I would hear. I decided I want to write a novel because I litterally couldn't stop thinking about it, I had to get it down on paper so I wouldn't go crazy.
Basically, I dont care about what I "should" write, im going to write whatever I want. Also, I dont have any time constraints or publishing guidelines.
Lastly, I want to know things like, where do I start? Chatacters or setting? And how to prevent plot holes. But all the advice I hear seems to focus on avoiding clichés and "show dont tell". But I already know these things before I even started.
This is exactly the YT channel ive been looking for!!
Wow! Woiw! Wow! Thank you Jerry - I'm so glad I stumbled across your site! Inspirational and as a final comment I appreciate your calm considered delivery. .
You'll want to read Borges or Cortázar if you want to learn how a short story must be written.
Thank you, Jerry B. Jenkins. That was a helpful one. ❤️
Thank you for this video! I'm trying to finish the story my mind is most preoccupied with before it gets lost in the deep chasms of my dyslexia... it's currently 3 years in the making because it got lost...
Get the show on the road, young lady!😉
Some good tips. I'm about to write a short story for the first time, so this is helpful.