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Poetry by Rowan Evans

Tag: Helpful

  • Master Your Writing: 10 More Writing Tips for New Writers

    Rowan Evans
    Advice for Aspiring Writers

    10 More Tips for Aspiring Writers

    1. Write Without Judgment

    Allow yourself to write freely, without second-guessing every word. Judgment often stifles creativity. Trust that your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect—just get the words out. The editing process is where you’ll shape it into something you’re proud of.

    2. Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment

    Sometimes the most exciting writing happens when you step outside your comfort zone. Experiment with new genres, perspectives, or styles. You might surprise yourself and discover a new passion for storytelling.

    3. Learn the Art of Editing

    Writing doesn’t end when you finish the first draft. Editing is an essential skill. Don’t be afraid to cut, rework, and refine. Ask yourself if each word is necessary and whether it adds to the impact of the piece. It’s through editing that your work becomes polished and powerful.

    4. Write for Yourself

    First Write what feels true to you, not for validation or approval from others. Your passion and honesty will be felt by readers. Once you’ve captured your raw emotions, then you can refine the work for a wider audience if you choose.

    5. Let Inspiration

    Finding Your Inspiration isn’t something you can always wait for. Sometimes you have to show up for it. Create a routine where you write even when you don’t feel inspired. Often, the act of writing itself can spark the creativity you’re looking for.

    6. Stay Curious

    Curiosity is what keeps a writer’s mind sharp. Be open to learning new things, whether it’s about your craft, the world around you, or new technologies. The more you explore, the more you’ll have to offer in your writing.

    7. Don’t Rush Your Writing

    Quality takes time. Writing isn’t a race, so avoid pressuring yourself to finish a piece quickly. Give your work the time it deserves to grow. Whether it takes hours or months, your patience will result in a more fulfilling and meaningful creation.

    8. Set Realistic Goals

    Set achievable writing goals that motivate you. Whether it’s writing 500 words a day or finishing a poem every week, clear goals give you something to work toward. Track your progress and celebrate milestones along the way.

    9. Read Aloud

    Reading your writing aloud can help you catch awkward phrasing, weak rhythms, or unclear sentences. It also allows you to experience your words in a new way, which can deepen your understanding of the piece.

    10. Take Breaks

    When Needed Sometimes the best thing you can do for your writing is to step away for a moment. A break allows you to return to your work with fresh eyes and a new perspective. Overworking yourself can lead to burnout or writer’s block, so be kind to yourself.

  • Master Your Writing: 10 Tips for New Writers

    Rowan Evans

    Advice for Aspiring Writers

    1. Write Everything

    Embrace Every Idea: Whenever a thought, image, or feeling crosses your mind, write it down. Don’t worry about whether it’s polished or profound; what matters is that you capture it. The act of writing itself is a way of exploring your creativity. Sometimes the most surprising or seemingly insignificant ideas can lead to something powerful. Write freely, without judgment—each piece, no matter how small, is a step in honing your voice.

    2. Read Everything

    Feed Your Imagination: Read widely and without limits. Dive into poetry, novels, essays—anything that stirs your interest. While it’s beneficial to read works that resonate with your style, don’t shy away from exploring genres or authors outside your usual scope. Inspiration often comes from unexpected places. Reading not only broadens your perspective but also enriches your own writing, helping you understand different techniques and styles. (Take it from someone who didn’t read as much as they should have early on—start this habit now, and you’ll see your writing flourish.)

    3. There is No Such Thing as a Worthless Piece

    Value Every Word: Every piece you write has value, even if it’s not meant for an audience. Some works are meant for the public, while others are meant just for you. If you feel that a piece is ‘worthless,’ recognize that it still serves a purpose—it’s a moment of expression, a way to clear your mind, or a step toward finding your next idea. Every word you write is progress. There’s no such thing as wasted effort in writing; every piece, whether it’s shared or kept private, contributes to your growth as a writer.

    4. Embrace the Messy First Draft

    Don’t Worry About Perfection: The first draft is meant to be imperfect. Don’t get caught up in making everything sound flawless right away. Give yourself permission to write poorly at first, because the revision process is where the real magic happens. Write freely, without overthinking, and trust that you can refine your work later. Remember, the worst first draft is always better than a blank page.

    5. Write Every Day (Even When You Don’t Want To)

    Consistency is Key: Writing every day, even if it’s just for ten minutes, builds discipline and keeps the creative muscles strong. There will be days when you don’t feel like writing or feel uninspired, and that’s okay. Write anyway. It’s often during these times that unexpected ideas and breakthroughs emerge, simply from putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). Make writing a habit, and over time, you’ll find your flow.

    6. Be Open to Feedback (But Stay True to Yourself)

    Constructive Criticism: When you’re starting out, don’t be afraid to share your work with others and seek feedback. It can be challenging to hear critique, but it’s one of the quickest ways to improve. At the same time, learn to trust your own voice. Not all feedback will resonate with you, and that’s okay. Always stay true to your unique perspective and writing style, and filter the advice through your own lens. You are the one who knows what feels right for your work.

    7. Don’t Compare Yourself to Other Writers

    Your Journey is Unique: It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to more established writers, but remember that your path is your own. Every writer has their own pace, style, and timeline. Instead of focusing on others, focus on your personal growth and progress. Celebrate the small victories and remember that comparison can stifle your creativity. Your voice is unique, and your journey will unfold as it should.

    8. Write What You Love (Even If It’s Not Popular)

    Passion Over Popularity: One of the most important pieces of advice I can give is to write what excites you, even if it doesn’t seem to fit with current trends. Writing with passion always resonates more than writing to please others. Don’t chase after what’s popular in the moment—write from the heart, and your authenticity will shine through. If you write about what moves you, others will feel that too.

    9. Allow Yourself to Evolve

    Your writing will change as you grow—let it. You might start in one genre or style and find yourself drawn to another. You might discover new themes, new structures, or a new voice entirely. That’s not losing your identity as a writer; it’s expanding it. Don’t be afraid to let your writing take unexpected turns. Growth isn’t about abandoning where you started, but about building on it.

    10. Find Your Writing Community

    Writing can feel solitary, but you don’t have to go it alone. Finding a group of like-minded writers—whether in person or online—can make all the difference. They’ll celebrate your wins, support you through struggles, and remind you why you love writing in the first place. Sharing your work with people who understand the craft can be both grounding and inspiring.

    Your Journey Matters

    Remember, writing is about discovering your voice, not following a set of rules. Keep going, even when it’s tough. Each word you write is a step forward, no matter how small. Believe in your process and trust that your words will find their place. The world needs your unique story.

    What advice would you add to this list? Feel free to share your thoughts or any struggles you’ve encountered in your writing journey!