Begin...
...your story
Original Win
Fifty-eight Augusts ago, I was born at a university hospital in Tennessee.
At that time, fathers didn’t participate in the birthing process. My dad, even though he was a doctor, had to sit in the waiting room while my mom pushed. At least she didn’t labor too long – only three hours.
My mother doesn’t remember me at the moment I emerged into the world. She says the doctors knocked her out for that part. However, when she came to, she recalls looking over and seeing my thick, dark hair, matted and standing on end. I was a seven-pound, eight-ounce bundle of joy and my parents’ only child.
What have you been told about your birthday?
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Writing a book is like having a baby – a book baby. You pour your blood, sweat, and tears into the project and then launch it into the world, hoping for the best. It can be nerve wracking but also rewarding.
If you’re still growing your book baby, break into the newsletter and check out how Ironed Words can help you push it closer to delivery.
In This Issue
A Few Words on Em Dashes
A Word From Our Sponsors
Retreating Yourself
On the Record
Back in the Groove
Hammering In
Regenerating
Words of the Month
A Few Words on Em Dashes
The em dash (—) is a powerful and versatile punctuation mark, longer than a hyphen or an en dash. It can add emphasis, clarity, and stylistic flair to your writing when used correctly. However, its flexibility can also lead to misuse. Here’s when and how to wield the em dash effectively.
1. To indicate a sudden break in thought or an interruption in a sentence. This can create a sense of immediacy or surprise for the reader.
Examples:
I was about to leave—then the phone rang, shattering the silence.
She started to explain—but thought better of it and remained quiet.
2. To set off appositive phrases for emphasis. While commas can also set off appositive phrases (phrases that rename or explain a noun), em dashes provide a stronger emphasis, drawing the reader's eye to the inserted information.
Examples:
My neighbor—a retired historian—has a fascinating collection of antique maps.
The only thing she truly desired—freedom—was finally within her grasp.
3. To introduce a list, explanation, or summary, especially when the introductory clause is a complete sentence. The em dash often feels less formal than a colon and can add a more conversational tone.
Examples:
He brought everything he needed for the trip—a tent, a sleeping bag, and a portable stove.
The novel explored a complex theme—the search for identity in a fragmented world.
To succeed, you need dedication, perseverance, and a bit of luck—that's the recipe for any creative endeavor.
4. To indicate omitted letters or words. In dialogue or quoted material, an em dash can indicate that letters or words have been omitted, often due to a character being cut off or a deliberate pause.
Examples:
"I can't believe you just—" she began, but he cut her off.
The witness testified that the defendant said, "I'll never—" before being interrupted.
5. In place of parentheses, em dashes can be used to enclose additional information that is more closely related to the main sentence than parenthetical information usually is, or when you want to give the inserted information more emphasis.
Examples:
The new policy—which was met with significant resistance—will be implemented next month.
Her sudden departure—completely unexpected by everyone—left the team in disarray.
Important Considerations:
Overuse: While versatile, avoid overusing em dashes. Too many can make your writing feel choppy or informal. Use them strategically for maximum impact.
Clarity: The em dash should enhance clarity, rather than create confusion. If a comma or a colon would be clearer, use those instead.
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Every month, I’ll have tips on different elements of writing. If you have any requests, please let me know at IronedWordsProductions@gmail.com.
A Word From Our Sponsors
{Sponsored segment}
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Spotlight Sponsors
All About Books with TLC. We are a used bookstore in the heart of Canonsburg, PA. We carry fiction, non-fiction, children's and vintage/rare books. We also offer book repair, rebinding and restoration by appointment. Come and see us, have a cup of coffee and find a spot to read a book.
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The Growing Darkness by Sean Gregory
Thrust together by chance, a group of four strangers run from forces they do not understand on a desperate mission to find the truth. But the forces set against them seem to always be one step ahead…
Read more here.
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If you’d like to promote your book or writing services in the Hot Off the Iron newsletter to a group of people passionate about good words, get in touch for more details.
Retreating Yourself
{NEW} Come nurture your craft at the Ironed Words Writing Retreat, nestled in the charming town of Washington, Pennsylvania!
Escape the distractions of daily life and immerse yourself in a truly productive writing experience. Our retreat offers:
Uninterrupted writing time: Dedicate yourself to your manuscript in a peaceful and inspiring environment.
Dynamic group meetings: Connect with fellow writers, share your progress, and receive constructive support.
Exclusive author meet-and-greets: Network with talented local authors from Pittsburgh, sharing their journeys and tips for success.
Conveniently located in Washington, Pennsylvania, our hotel setting provides the perfect blend of productivity and comfort. You'll be just a stone's throw away from fantastic shopping outlets and a lively casino, offering opportunities for relaxation and entertainment during your downtime. Plus, our prime location makes us easily drivable from many major cities around Pittsburgh, ensuring a hassle-free journey.
Don't miss this opportunity to ignite your creativity and propel your writing forward!
Saturday, November 1 to Monday, November 3, 2025
Click the link to learn more: https://www.ironedwordsproductions.com/fall-2025-ironed-words-writing-retreat-by-iwp
On the Record
ICYMI, you can still get Your Writing Craft by purchasing the recording.
Highlights:
Author Hilary Hauck has two planes of tension to insert into your writing to keep readers engaged.
Creative writing professor Clayton Bradshaw-Mittal, PhD dissects a fun scene for elements of an author’s voice and how you can apply that to your own author’s voice.
The panel, including author and journalist Maria Simbra, also discusses the art and craft of writing with questions from the audience on
Finding inspiration
Conquering writing roadblocks
Demystifying elements of the publishing process
Building tension in stories and scenes
Establishing your individual voice in a sea of influences
Purchase the exclusive link here: https://www.ironedwordsproductions.com/your-writing-craft-virtual
Back in the Groove
The Iron Writing Circle is back to its regularly scheduled weekly meetings starting in September. Get feedback and support, bond with fellow writers, and make progress on your writing project! Now registering for September. Sign up ASAP to reserve your spot now.
Hammering In
Why subscribing to Building Books™ is a good idea:
Avoid costly mistakes. Learn from the experiences of others and avoid common pitfalls that can derail your book’s success.
In August…
Meet the BOOK MARKETER: MAGGIE TEE
Meet the AUTHOR: ANN K. HOWLEY
Regenerating
From the Tales with Friends™ archives…
Check out Angelo Creo’s story: Father Unfinished
Words of the Month
“Write hard and clear about what hurts.”
See you next month in another edition of “Hot Off the Iron!” Write on!
— Maria Simbra | Director & Principal | Ironed Words Productions, LLC