michellescarey

[michellescarey]

Examining the Pros and Cons of Integrating AI in Writing Fiction.

As an author, I've been fascinated by the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) tools that can write fiction. To see what this technology can do, I used AI - specifically ChatGPT and Grammarly- as writing assistants to see if it could help boost my productivity. But I quickly found some significant pros and cons when machines try cranking out novels.

The Good

It's Super Fast

Wow, can AI write stories quickly! ChatGPT pounded out an outline in a matter of seconds. That kind of speed is hard for any human to match. I could get the basis for several new book ideas in less time than it would have taken me to write one chapter.

Grammarly can correct my writing as I write. I sometimes disagree with the suggestions, but it does let me know where I've missed a comma or misspelled a word.

It's Dirt Cheap

After paying the upfront cost for ChatGPt - $20 and about $60 for three months of Grammarly, it generates and corrects as much content as I want. Since I'm on a tight budget, not having to pay an actual human editor for the first pass-through is a huge plus. The cost-efficiency lets me experiment freely.

It Offers Surprising Twists

Since the AI isn't limited by human imagination and experience, it will often come up with story directions I never would have thought of. While not all the wilder plot twists and characterizations work, they stimulate my creativity.

Anybody Can Try It

With AI fiction writers, anyone can give writing a shot, whether they have training or not. This technology has lowered the barrier and opened fiction authorship to more voices. Thanks to AI, I have friends who never would have tried writing a book before and are now dabbling.

Now...The Not-So-Good

It's Not Very Coherent

The biggest problem is that while ChatBPT writes passages easily, they don't always connect into a meaningful narrative. The sentences make sense, but the through-line of the story falls apart. It needs considerable content and line editing to add coherence, themes, and character development.

I found myself rewriting entire passages because of this. I also found that AI loves adverbs. Writing with adverbs is a lazy form of writing, especially in dialogue tags. Please don't do it. Use adverbs as little as possible. Adverbs remove the show, don't tell rule.

It Gets Repetitive

Since the AI recycles phrasing and descriptions from what it's "learned" from data, I've noticed the writing can get repetitive quickly. Characters say the same things over and over, or scenes play out in similar ways. It fails to surprise or stay fresh, something human writers excel at.

I Don't Own the Material

I also read somewhere that AI-generated content isn't protected under copyright law. I probably only have an ownership claim if I've significantly rewritten what AI has produced. If this is true, this will prevent authors from being able to commercially publish the AI-composed stories under their name. But I'm not sure about this. Research it for yourself, and you decide.

It Could Cost Writers' Jobs

The scariest downside is that AI could eventually make many human fiction writers obsolete. Many writers depend on writing books, stories, and scripts to earn a living. If publishers and studios can get automated content for cheap, it may cut writers out completely. And that's the crux of the writer's strike. The WGA went on strike on May 2, 2023. They represent over 11,000 screenwriters. Authors are covered by The Authors Guild.

Trying to Balance the Benefits and Risks

After my experiment, I think AI writing tools have potential but also dangers. During turbulent times in publishing and Hollywood, like the recent WGA standoff, we have to have open conversations about smart regulation to minimize fake news, misinformation, and disinformation from bad actors. There are opportunities to let AI boost creativity and productivity, but also ethical perils if we allow it to displace human storytellers. Which at this moment isn't possible. AI isn't that good yet at capturing human emotion. For me, finding the right equilibrium will be key.

*Disclaimer: This piece was edited using Grammarly.

#Ai #Artificial Intelligence #AI Tools #Pro and Cons of AI #writing journey #Writing Faster #Writing Advice #Writing Better #Writing Tips #writing formulas

[michellescarey]

Crafting Compelling Characters

As an aspiring writer, one of the most important skills to master is character development. The characters are the heart of any story, so crafting compelling, multidimensional characters is essential. In this post, I'll share some tips for bringing your characters to life on the page.

I like to begin with a basic character sketch when developing a new character. This includes details like their name, age, physical appearance, background, personality traits, quirks, desires, and fears. It helps to visualize my character and imagine them as a real person. Starting with these basics allows me to define each character and their role in the story.

Another key tip is to make your characters complex. Give them contradictions, flaws, and internal conflicts. Perfect characters are boring - we relate more to those with real struggles. Maybe your character is confident in their professional life but insecure in relationships. Or they act cheerful on the outside but deal with sadness on the inside. Complexity makes characters seem human.

Don't just tell us who your character is. Show us through their actions, dialogue, and relationships with others. Reveal details bit by bit through scenes and exchanges. For example, you could show your character's impatience by having them tap their foot and check the time. Or showcase their big heart by depicting them helping a stranger in need.

Get inside your character's head. Really imagine how they would think and feel in any given situation. As the writer, you know more about your characters than anyone else. Use that insider knowledge to make their behaviors authentic and convincing for readers.

Make sure your characters have desires and goals that shape their actions. A character with a strong motivation at the heart of the story - whether it's seeking revenge, finding true love, or achieving fame - will compel readers. Your characters should play active roles in driving the story forward, not just passively observing.

Great characters often require research and planning, but you also need to leave room for inspiration and discovery. Let your characters surprise you. Some of my best story ideas have come from a character taking on a life of their own and making unexpected choices. Enjoy getting to know them and letting them reveal themselves naturally on the page.

Remember that the very best characters are the ones we relate to, even if we don't always like them. They draw out our empathy and echo something universal about the human experience. Any character who makes us feel deeply has succeeded.

Developing truly compelling characters takes time and practice. But the payoff for readers is huge. Memorable characters are what take a story from good to great. I hope these tips help you create characters as fascinating and authentic as your story deserves. Now get writing and let those characters lead the way!

#Character Development #Characters #Character Building #Writing Tips #Creative Writing Tips

[michellescarey]

Beat Sheets Are Training Wheels for Novelists - Here's Why You Should Ditch Them and Let Your Story Soar

Greetings, fellow writers, novelists, and creative dreamers! I'm back again to share some thoughts from the trenches of creative writing. You're all at various stages of your writing journeys, so I wanted to talk about something near and dear to many aspiring novelists - the beat sheet.

For those who have managed to avoid this particular writing tool, a beat sheet is a detailed outline that maps out all the major plot points and story beats in a novel. It's meant to help structure your story and ensure you hit all the right narrative notes. Many will tout beat sheets as essential to crafting a solid novel. But here's my hot take: beat sheets can be useful as training wheels, but eventually, you've got to shed that restrictive outline and let your story soar free.

When starting out as a writer, I found beat sheets incredibly helpful. They gave me a template I could follow to ensure I had all the pieces of a complete narrative arc - from inciting incident to climax to resolution. It was like a paint-by-numbers for storytelling, filling in the blanks until the whole picture emerged. And having those guideposts made the writing process far less intimidating as a novice novelist.

However, what I've learned after a few writing projects now is that beat sheets can also be incredibly limiting. When you adhere too closely to a predetermined outline, you lose opportunities for surprise, spontaneity, and originality. Your story becomes predictable, formulaic - a model assembled from prefab pieces rather than something organically created.

The stories that resonate most are often the ones that subvert expectations, that throw out conventions, and forge their own path. I've found my best narrative moments are the ones that emerge naturally during the writing process itself. When you let the characters and story guide you rather than forcing them down a pre-mapped road, that's when the true magic happens.

So these days, I'll sketch a very loose beat sheet to start with, just to get my creative juices flowing and give me some fictional landmarks to aim for. But once I've found my narrative footing and really sunk into the world and characters I'm writing, I crumple up that beat sheet and toss it out.

At that point, the story needs room to breathe and evolve as it will. I let go of the plot outlines and formulaic beats and just write. Those unplanned character arcs, surprising twists, and thematic nuances that develop through seat-of-your-pants writing are what make my novels feel alive.

Don't get me wrong - structure is important. But you can master structure without being bound to a beat sheet. Learn the conventional narrative tools, then break free and make them your own. Experiment, explore, and try wild, creative choices just for the sake of it. You can always edit and refine it later. But for now, give your story wings and let it fly wherever it needs to go.

So, for all you writers toiling away at your masterpieces, remember - beat sheets can be helpful signposts, but the real magic lies in the uncharted wilderness beyond. Venture off the outlined paths. Let your characters surprise you, your themes emerge organically, and your story come to life. Only then will you create something truly original.

Your novel is waiting - go write it!

#Creative writing #Writing Tips #Writing #tips #Novel writing tips #story structure #plotting a novel #beat sheets #creativity #novelist tools #writing journey #writing formulas

[michellescarey]

The Trials of Novel Writing

Writing a novel is no easy feat. It requires dedication, perseverance, and a creative spirit. Many aspiring writers embark on writing a book with lofty goals, only to get derailed by the hard work and commitment involved. Here are some of the main reasons why writing a novel is such a challenge:

Finding the time. Writing a full-length book requires a considerable time commitment. It's not something you can dash off in a few weeks or months. Most novels take years to complete, with authors dedicating large chunks of time daily or weekly. Making time to write while juggling work, family, and other obligations can be extremely difficult.

Staying motivated. The long slog of writing a book can sap anyone's motivation. The "middle slump" is real. After the initial excitement wears off, staring down hundreds of pages yet to write can test your drive. Pushing through when self-doubt, boredom, and fatigue set in requires tremendous discipline. There needs to be more than a strong motivation or interesting concept to sustain momentum.

Developing a solid story. Crafting a compelling plot with well-developed characters and good pacing takes skill. Ideas alone don't necessarily translate into a riveting arc. Pulling off the narrative satisfactorily over hundreds of pages takes a lot of work. Even experienced authors can struggle with story cohesion.

Finding your voice. Every writer needs to find their unique voice and style. This can take years of practice and writing. Voice gives a novel personality and brings it to life. Developing an engaging voice that spans an entire book requires attention and conscious effort. It rarely just flows naturally, even for seasoned writers.

Facing rejection. Seeking traditional publication often brings rejection and criticism before success. Developing a thick skin and persistence is key. The path is lined with agent rejections, negative feedback, and obstacles. Pushing past the early "nos" to get a "yes" is part of the journey.

Handling edits. Once a draft is complete, more hard work follows. Editing a book down to its essence requires tough choices and laser focus. It may involve cutting large portions of text, even scenes or whole chapters. Revising the story flow, character arcs, and other elements often means significant rewrites. The editing process is integral to crafting a tight, polished novel.

Sticking with it. With so many roadblocks and challenges, simply finishing a book is an accomplishment. From start to end, writing a novel requires immense discipline and perseverance. Life pressures or competing priorities constantly threaten your progress. Despite all the difficulties, staying committed to regular writing and pushing through to THE END is a major achievement on its own.

The road to writing a novel is paved with struggles. However, crossing the finish line brings immense satisfaction and pride. Finishing a book takes determination, self-belief, and passion. The journey may be arduous, but it's worth it for those driven to share their story with the world. With grit and perseverance, any aspiring author can overcome the challenges of writing a book. The destination is worth all the bumps along the way.

#novel #creative writing #writing #creative #novel writing #Creative Writing Tips

[michellescarey]

Michelle Carey Writes [A Novel] #MichelleCareyWrites #NovelWriting #WritingTips

Unlock the secrets to writing a captivating novel with Michelle Carey Writes! Dive deep into the essentials of novel writing, from meticulous planning and in-depth research to crafting unforgettable characters. Get step-by-step guidance on drafting and polishing your manuscript. Whether you're a budding writer or seeking advanced techniques, this comprehensive overview covers the entire writing and publishing journey. Don't miss out! #MichelleCareyWrites #NovelWriting #WritingTips

#Michelle Carey Writes #How to write a novel #Novel writing #writing tips #Creative Writing Tips

[michellescarey]

The Mandela Effect: Memory, Misconceptions, and Parallel Universes

The Mandela Effect: Memory, Misconceptions, and Parallel Universes

Join Michelle Carey on this episode of the Useless Information Podcast as she delves into the enigmatic world of the Mandela Effect, a phenomenon where large groups of people remember events or details differently from how they actually occurred. Michelle explains the history and origins of the Mandela Effect, shares some fascinating examples – including misremembered movie quotes and iconic logos – and discusses the positive and negative aspects of this curious psychological occurrence. Discover how cognitive biases, social influences, and memory conformity contribute to the formation of collective false memories, and explore the intriguing theory that alternate realities or parallel universes might be at play. Tune in for a captivating journey into the quirks and mysteries of the human mind!

#Podcast #Useless Information #Useless Information Blog #Mandela Effect

[michellescarey]

Super Dumb Women Meghan Markle & Lori Vallow Daybell + The Fidget Spinner Frenzy

Useless Information Podcast

In this week's episode, I dive headfirst into the stupidity of Meghan Markle's ill-conceived adventure through midtown Manhattan. 

Next, it’s time to provide an update on the Lori Vallow Daybell case, in a legal story that has gripped and horrified the nation.

Finally, we navigate the whirlwind world of the fidget spinner frenzy. What's causing this cultural tsunami of stress-relieving toys? Is it another fad, or is a deeper psychological and societal factor driving their popularity? I discuss the psychology behind their use and their role in the lives of adults and children alike.

#Useless Information #podcast #weekly podcast #Useless Information Blog #socializing #listening

[michellescarey]

Reignite Your Drive: Overcoming Complacency to Fuel Success

Overcoming complacency can be a challenge, but with the right mindset and strategies, it is possible to break free from it.

To me, the idea of complacency is the silent killer of success. It creeps into my life, your life disguising itself as comfort or satisfaction with the status quo. But once it settles in, makes itself a home, pulls up a chair, and turns on the television to watch the game while grabbing a drink, it’s already hindering you from growth and development, leaving you stagnant while the world keeps moving forward.

The first step to overcoming complacency is recognizing its presence. Be aware of my complacency. Sometimes I don’t even realize when it’s set in. Signs of complacency include a decline in motivation, a lack of interest in learning new things, procrastination, or the absence of goals and aspirations. I would say depending on the project, procrastination is my one number complacency. But not understanding that complacency can lead to stagnation and missed opportunities.

Once I’ve recognized the signs of complacency, it’s time for me to combat it. The first weapon in my arsenal is goal setting. Goals give me a sense of purpose and direction. They act as milestones on my journey to success. It’s important to set SMART goals - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Having clear, well-defined goals helps me to keep complacency at bay by maintaining focus and instilling a sense of urgency.

Another key to overcoming complacency is cultivating a growth mindset. This involves embracing challenges, viewing setbacks as learning opportunities, and understanding that effort is a path to mastery. A growth mindset helps me to see the potential for improvement in every situation.

In my opinion, curiosity fuels innovation and growth to a certain extent. By maintaining a sense of curiosity in my personal and professional life, I can help combat complacency. It keeps me wondering. I am open to learning new things and exploring new ideas. This includes reading different perspectives, attending seminars and workshops, or learning a new skill.

Routine can be comforting, but it can also lead to complacency. I try to mix things up now and then to keep my mind engaged and alert. This can involve changing my daily routine, taking on new projects or tasks, or even changing my environment. These changes help me spark creativity, renew my energy, and ward off complacency.

Last, practicing gratitude can help combat complacency. Gratitude shifts my focus from what’s wrong in my life to what’s right, helping to foster a positive attitude and a desire for growth. It’s easy to become complacent when I take things for granted. Gratitude helps me appreciate what I have while still aspiring for more.

Complacency can be a significant obstacle to personal and professional growth. With the right mindset and tools, it’s possible to overcome it. By recognizing the signs of complacency, setting clear goals, embracing a growth mindset, staying curious, breaking the routine, and practicing gratitude, you can ward off complacency and stay on the path to success. Remember, the only limit to your growth and development is you. Overcoming complacency is a continuous process. Stay committed, be patient with yourself, and stay open to new experiences and opportunities for growth. Don’t let complacency hold you back. Reignite your drive and fuel your journey to success!

#Complacency #Useless Information Blog #Useless Information #Blog #Growth Mindset #Procrastination #Goal Setting

[michellescarey]

The Healing Power of Forgiveness: Why Letting Go is Good for the Soul

Forgiveness is a challenging process that involves letting go of anger or resentment towards someone who has hurt you. It's not always easy to do, but it can be incredibly rewarding. In this blog post, I want to explore the positive effects of forgiveness and why it can be so healing for the soul.

Benefits of Forgiveness:

Reduced Stress: Holding onto grudges and negative emotions can lead to chronic stress, which can have negative effects on your physical and mental health. Forgiveness can reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.

Improved Relationships: Forgiveness can improve relationships with friends, family members, and romantic partners. It can also help to rebuild trust and increase feelings of closeness and intimacy.

Increased Empathy: Forgiveness can help to increase empathy towards others. When we forgive someone, we can see things from their perspective and understand their motivations.

Reduced Anxiety and Depression: Holding onto negative emotions can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression. Forgiveness can help to reduce these feelings and improve mental health.

Improved Self-Esteem: Forgiveness can help to improve self-esteem and self-worth. When we forgive ourselves or others, we can let go of negative self-talk and beliefs that hold us back.

Why Forgiveness is Good for the Soul:

It Releases Emotional Burdens: Holding onto anger, resentment, and negative emotions can be a heavy burden to carry. Forgiveness can release these emotions and allow us to move on.

It Promotes Inner Peace: Forgiveness can bring a sense of inner peace and calm. When we let go of negative emotions, we can find a sense of contentment and tranquility within ourselves.

It Helps Us Grow: Forgiveness can help us grow and learn from our experiences. When we forgive, we can let go of the past and move forward with new knowledge and understanding.

It Strengthens Relationships: Forgiveness can strengthen relationships by promoting trust, understanding, and empathy. It can also help to prevent future conflicts and misunderstandings.

It Fosters Compassion: Forgiveness fosters compassion towards ourselves and others. When we forgive, we can see the humanity in others and ourselves, and treat others with kindness and understanding.

In conclusion, forgiveness is not always easy, but it can bring a multitude of benefits for the person who forgives. It can reduce stress, improve relationships, and promote inner peace and growth. Forgiveness is good for the soul, as it releases emotional burdens, promotes inner peace, strengthens relationships, and fosters compassion. So, take the first step towards forgiveness and experience the healing power it can bring.

#Forgiveness #Letting Go #Useless Information #Useless Information Blog #Healing #acceptance #a moment in time

[michellescarey]

The Power of Revision: How Revising Your Writing Can Make All the Difference

One of the most crucial stages of the writing process is revision. Revision involves reviewing your work, making changes, and refining your writing to make it clearer, more concise, and more effective. The power of revision cannot be overstated–it can mean the difference between a mediocre piece of writing and a masterpiece. This blog post explores the importance of revision and provides some strategies for revising.

Why Revision Is Necessary?

Revision can help you develop a better understanding of your writing and ensure that your piece meets the standards. Revision is also necessary to find the right words to express yourself, as well as searching for grammatical and spelling errors. In addition, revision allows you to improve long-form writing by developing more engaging sentences, more concise paragraphs, and stronger transitions between sections. All these benefits make revision an important tool for any writer.

First, it helps you clarify your ideas and ensure that your writing is coherent and logical. As you revise, you can identify areas where your writing may confuse or be unclear to the reader. This can improve the overall quality of your writing and make it easier for your readers to understand your message.

Second, revision helps you refine your writing and makes it more concise. Often, writers can get bogged down in unnecessary details or wordy sentences, which can detract from the main point of their writing. Through revision, you can identify areas where you can cut down on extraneous information and make your writing more streamlined and focused.

Third, revision allows you to catch errors and typos that may have slipped through in your initial draft. Even the most experienced writers make mistakes, and revision is an important opportunity to catch and correct those errors before you share your writing with others.

Strategies for Revising

There are several strategies that can help you revise:

Take a break: This will give you some distance from your work and make it easier to approach your writing with fresh eyes.

Read your work aloud: Reading your work aloud can help you identify areas where your writing may be awkward or unclear. As you read, listen for areas where you stumble over your words or where your writing seems to drag.

Focus on clarity and concision: Look for areas where you can cut down on unnecessary details or simplify your language to make your point more effectively.

Seek feedback: Getting feedback from others can be a valuable tool for revision. Share your work with friends, family members, or colleagues and ask for their feedback. Listen to their suggestions and use them to refine your writing.

Take a big picture view: Consider the overall structure and flow of your piece and look for areas where you can make improvements.

Edit for grammar and spelling: Use a spell-checker or grammar checker to catch any mistakes that may have slipped through.

In conclusion, revision is a critical part of the writing process, no matter the genre or purpose. It allows you to look at your work from a fresh perspective, identify errors, and make improvements that can enhance the quality of your writing. By taking the time to review and revise your work, you ensure that your writing is polished and effective in conveying your message.

#Power of Revision #Writing #Creative Writing #Writing Advice #Writing Tips #Creative Writing Tips #Writing Better #Writing Faster

[michellescarey]

Discover the Magic of AI: Top Tools for Creativity in 2023

As the world transitions into a new era of technology, AI-powered tools are changing the way creatives and aspiring artists bring their ideas to life. From intelligent music composition tools and autonomous video editors to automated painting programs and interactive writing apps, there’s something for everyone on the curated list of AI websites and tools available in 2023. Whether you’re looking to get your start in the industry or take your creativity to the next level, these cutting-edge platforms will spark your imagination and revolutionize the way you create art, music, video, and more.

Writing

WriteAI (www.writeai.com) - An AI-powered writing assistant that helps you generate content, edit and proofread your work, and find your unique voice.

CopyCraft (www.copycraft.ai) - Create interesting copy for your blog, website, or marketing campaigns with this AI-based copywriting tool.

Art

DoodleGen (www.doodlegen.com) - Generate stunning and unique digital artwork with this AI-powered doodle creator.

DeepArt (www.deepart.io) - Transform your photos into artwork inspired by famous artists using advanced neural networks and AI algorithms.

Singing

Vocaloid (www.vocaloid.com) - Create professional-quality vocals for your songs with this AI-driven singing synthesizer.

VoiceCraft (www.voicecraft.ai) - Experiment with AI-generated singing voices and harmonies to elevate your music production.

Music

Amper Music (www.ampermusic.com) - An AI music composer that helps you create original, royalty-free soundtracks for your projects in minutes.

AIVA (www.aiva.ai) - Enhance your music production skills with this AI-powered platform that composes, arranges, and produces music across various genres.

Video

DeepFakes Studio (www.deepfakesstudio.com) - Create realistic video clips by swapping faces or altering expressions with this advanced AI-powered video editing tool.

Artbreeder (www.artbreeder.com) - Generate photorealistic animations and videos by blending various images and styles using AI algorithms.

Website Builders

Firedrop (www.firedrop.ai) - Build beautiful, responsive websites with this AI-powered website builder that learns your preferences and design style.

Uizard (www.uizard.io) - Design and prototype websites, apps, and more with this AI-driven platform that understands and converts your sketches into functional interfaces.

As AI technology marches forward, creatives have harnessed its power to stretch the boundaries of their craft. From stylizing visuals with neural networks to building generative models for music production, AI has become an increasingly versatile tool in the artist’s toolbox. With each passing year, we can expect these tools to become even more advanced and capable, offering creative minds the chance to conjure up wilder and more complex works than ever before – so try out these AI-powered platforms today and get ready to go on a journey of tomorrow's imagination in 2023.

#AI #AI Creativity #Useless Information #2023 #Deepfakes #AI Art #AI Generation #AI websites #Useless Information Blog

[michellescarey]

Get yourself a good read in your life...

She is here and ready to read. First three episodes are free.

#writing #kindle vella #amazon #love stories #romance #erotica #erotica stories

[michellescarey]

Get a free copy of my book for an honest review! Go to Booksprout to get your free copy until May 11, 2023. Only 30 copies remain!

#book #free book #indie author #reading #romance novels #romance books #novel #national novel writing month #books and reading #relationships

[michellescarey]

Want a FREE copy of my newest book? Only 34 copies left!

If you'd like to get a free copy before the release day of May 12, click the link!

#Something Borrowed #new release #books #ebooks #reading #Goodreads #romance #romance novels #creative writing

[michellescarey]

Something Borrowed - My New 2023 Release

🌸 Spring 2023: Get ready to dive headfirst into a love quadrangle that's twistier than a pretzel! Meet Luke "Lucky" Varino, who's caught between Beth, his ex with a vengeance, Laura, his loving (but clueless) girlfriend, and Mikki, the alluring newcomer who's shaking things up. Will Lucky's luck run out, or will he find a way to navigate this tangled web of romance? Pre-order 'Something Borrowed' soon and buckle up for a rollercoaster ride of passion, deceit, and irresistible charm! 📚 #SomethingBorrowed #LuckyInLove #LateSpringRelease

#Something Borrowed #LuckyInLove #LateSpringRelease

[michellescarey]

Thoughts & Rambles is now Useless Information

What is a name? A name is everything…and I realized my blog and podcast weren’t really matching what I was attempting to using the name Thoughts & Rambles.

Yes…these were my thoughts and sometimes I’d ramble, but it didn’t have a nice ‘ring’ to it. So I decided to change the name.

It is now USELESS INFORMATION.

Michelle Carey's Useless Information is a fun and informative blog and podcast that explores the weird and wonderful world of trivial knowledge. I am the host and writer, and for some odd reason I have a passion for uncovering the most obscure facts and sharing them.

Every week, I will dive deep into a topic, ranging from the history of the toothbrush to the origins of the high five. My research is always thorough and entertaining, leaving listeners and readers with a newfound appreciation for the quirks of our world.

The blog is filled with engaging articles, packed with fascinating stories and tidbits of information that are perfect for casual browsing or a deep dive. The podcast is equally entertaining. I will bring my infectious enthusiasm and warm personality to each episode.

Whether you're a trivia buff, a curious learner, or just looking for a fun and lighthearted way to expand your knowledge, Michelle Carey's Useless Information is the perfect resource. Join me on her journey of discovery and uncover the secrets of our world, one useless fact at a time.

#blog #podcast #Thoughts & Rambles #Useless Information

[michellescarey]

From Two-Dimensional to Three-Dimensional: How to Turn Your Characters into Real-Life Unicorns

Let's talk about character development in creative fiction, shall we? It's like making a really wonderful soup. You need to add a little of this, a little of that, and voila! When it’s ready, you will have a set of complex characters that readers will love.

Character development is an essential aspect of creative fiction that can make or break a story. It's transforming a character from a two-dimensional figure into a fully fleshed-out, three-dimensional person.

As readers, we want to invest our time and emotions into characters that feel real, that we can relate to, and that we care about. So how do you go about developing your characters in a way that is both witty and interesting?

Your characters need some personality. They can't just be a bland, cardboard cutout with no quirks or flaws. Give them something unique that will make them stand out. They should have quirks, flaws, and unique traits that make them stand out from the crowd. Think of your favorite characters from literature or film. What makes them memorable? Is it their sense of humor, their intelligence, their vulnerabilities? These are the kinds of traits that bring characters to life and make them feel like real people.

Next up, you gotta give your characters some challenges to face. I mean, what's the point of having them around if they're not going to do anything interesting? Make it hard for them, like really hard. Challenges for characters can be categorized into two types: internal and external challenges.

External challenges are obstacles that are outside of the character's control and are typically physical or situational. Examples of external challenges include facing a dangerous enemy, escaping from a burning building, or surviving in a harsh wilderness. These challenges test a character's physical endurance, problem-solving skills, and ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

Internal challenges are obstacles that exist within the character's mind or emotions. These challenges are often related to the character's personal growth or self-discovery. Examples of internal challenges include overcoming fear, letting go of past traumas, or learning to trust others. These challenges test a character's emotional strength, resilience, and ability to confront their own weaknesses.

The most interesting characters often face both internal and external challenges. By doing so, they show their multidimensionality and show that they are more than just a collection of traits or actions. For example, a protagonist in a story might have to face external challenges like defeating a powerful villain, but also confront internal challenges like learning to forgive themselves for past mistakes. By overcoming both types of challenges, the character grows and grows over the course of the story, making them more relatable and engaging to the audience.

As your characters face these challenges, they should also experience change. Whatever the change, it should feel organic and earned. Readers will appreciate seeing the growth and development of characters.

And let's not forget about relationships. Your characters can't exist in a vacuum, they need other characters to interact with. This is where your witty writing can really shine. Whether it's a romantic partner, a mentor, or a rival, the characters' interactions with others can reveal a lot about them. Maybe your tough-as-nails protagonist has a soft spot for animals, or perhaps your villain has a tragic backstory that explains their actions. The key is to make these relationships feel authentic and not forced. Characters should grow and change in response to their interactions with others.

Character development is an essential aspect of creative fiction that can make or break a story. It’s like baking a cake. You need to mix all the right ingredients together. To make your characters feel real and engaging, they need to have depth, face challenges, and develop over the course of the story. Give your characters some personality, challenges, and room to grow. Readers will be hooked and begging for seconds. So go forth and make some unforgettable characters, and don't forget to have fun while you're at it. By making their journey unique and interesting, incorporating their relationships with others, and giving them unexpected challenges to face, you can create characters that readers will truly care about. So, take the time to develop your characters and make them come to life. Your readers will thank you for it.

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