A Thankful Moment
Every time I produce an Ironed Words event, I fret. Will people come? Will people like it?
Over and over, I’m amazed at how many people sign up. There must be something about writing that unifies us in astounding ways.
When people do commit to learn about writing and to be with other writers, there’s magic in the air. It warms my heart to know that an event touched someone in a meaningful way when they say, “I liked meeting new people with similar interests and goals,” “It was wonderful, helpful information,” and “This was a great experience for me.”
I’m grateful for the writing community of Pittsburgh. I’m thankful you’re part of it. There’s always a seat at the Ironed Words table for you.
Come on in and take a look around. Check out the new opportunities to write and share and be thankful.
In This Issue
A Few Words on Character Arcs
Round Here
The Show Goes On
All Aboard the Podcast
Words of the Month
A Few Words on Character Arcs
Character Arcs: The Journey of Transformation
Character arcs are an essential element of storytelling. They provide a roadmap for the growth and development of characters throughout a narrative. Through this arc, readers can connect with the characters, empathize with their struggles, and celebrate their triumphs.
What is a Character Arc?
A character arc is the journey a character takes throughout a story. It typically involves a transformation, whether internal, external, or both. The character may start in one place, physically, emotionally, or psychologically, and end up in a different place by the story's conclusion.
Examples of Character Arcs
The Hero's Journey: This is the classic arc of a character who overcomes great obstacles to achieve a goal.
The Redemption Arc: This arc involves a character who starts out flawed or misguided but eventually changes their ways for the better.
The Coming-of-Age Arc: This arc follows the journey of a young character as they mature and learn about the world.
The Anti-Hero Arc: This arc features a character who is not traditionally heroic but still manages to achieve their goals, often through questionable means.
The Tragic Arc: This arc involves a character who suffers a great loss or misfortune.
How to Write a Character Arc
Start with a strong foundation. Your character should have clear goals, motivations, and flaws.
Create a clear path for your character's journey. What obstacles will they face? How will they overcome them?
Give your character a chance to grow and change. No one is perfect, so allow your character to make mistakes and learn from them.
End your character's journey in a satisfying way. The ending should feel earned and believable.
Character arcs are a powerful tool that can elevate your storytelling to the next level.
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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.
Round Here
The Iron Writing Circle is registering for November! Don’t write alone. Write with a group! It’s camaraderie, feedback, support, and fun. Monday nights in person starting November 18 for five weeks in the South Hills. Wednesday nights virtually starting November 20. Capped at six. Get more information and register here: https://www.ironedwordsproductions.com/iron-writing-circle
The Show Goes On
Thanks to everyone who came out to the Galleria Book Show on October 12. Met a lot of local authors and so many fabulous readers!
Coming up next, my pen name will be at the Bethel Park Arts Show on November 9 and 10 and at the Bethel Park Library on November 12. Would love to see you there!
All Aboard the Podcast
In the latest episode of Tales with Friends™, storyteller Karen Joy Cummings shares her story, “I DID Turn Right!” in which the concierge advises her it’ll be a five-minute walk, but she ends up on an empty dock in New Orleans.
Watch on Substack (use Chrome as the browser on a laptop or desktop)
Read on Vella
Do you have a five-minute true story about yourself to share? Get in touch at IronedWordsProductions@gmail.com to be on the Tales with Friends™ podcast!
Words of the Month
“To know what you’re going to write, you have to begin writing.”
See you next month in another edition of “Hot Off the Iron!” Write on!
— Maria Simbra | Director & Principal | Ironed Words Productions, LLC