Writing Tips

Pam Hogeweide {writer}
writing for a change

How I Learned to be a Writer

When I first starting writing with intention and purpose in 2005 I immediately began a collection of books on writing. Unable to afford expensive writing classes, I launched my own School of Writing as I sought out informal mentorship through the openly shared knowledge of writers who have gone before me.

The first book I bought and read for my self-guided education remains to this day one of my favorite titles. The Courage to Write, by Ralph Keyes, became a pivotal book that confirmed my new found path as a writer. Other books followed, such as Bird by Bird, by Anne Lamott and also the classic On Writing Well, by William Zinnsser. I also invested in a subscription to Writer's Digest magazine which I continue to renew.

At one point I decided to take my hand-crafted education to the next left. I enrolled in a two-year writing program hosted by the prestigious, Christian Writers Guild.

Their program, which consists of 50 lessons covering everything from magazine article writing to how to write a devotional, was one drawing factor; but the real attraction to CWG was the mentorship. Each student is assigned a mentor whom you send your assignments to for critique and guidance.

As I looked at the list of seasoned writers and editors available, one name stood out to me : Roger Palms. I knew Roger's name because of hearing him teach on a tape I ordered from an expensive writer's conference. He had impressed me and now here he was, a headshot on the roster of CWG mentors. I emailed Roger that day and asked him to tell me more about CWG. By week's end I was enrolled.

His credentials were impressive. He had been editor of Decision magazine for more than twenty years, and he has authored a number of books. Roger is a very seasoned vet of the Christian publishing world. I was fortunate to have him as a writing guide for the time that I did.

(You can read more about my mentoring relationship with Roger HERE)

Passing it On

In the fall of 2006 I helped launch a creative writing group for people who enjoy the art and craft of writing. We are now in our fourth year and going strong. It has been a tremendous help in developing my skill as a writer and also as a writing coach. I have helped many writers progress their work by passing on what has been given to me.

I've developed a page of writer tips to give to those who may pass by this way. Click HERE...and then go write!

Writer Experience

After I graduated from CWG's writing program, I began to pursue more bylines and online writing opportunities. I have a modest porfolio of writing credits and many more articles and essays that are not even listed. I have written primarily on issues of faith and progressive Christian spirituality, but I've also amassed a nice start of short stories that I am publishing online with more regularity. Roger always told me that fiction writing was my strength.

Here is a LINK to a collection of my short stories.

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