While making up stories, and following our curiosity can make for a great career in fiction, journalism or freelancing. I’d also dare to say that within the work of it all, writing is also cathartic. And I will be the first to raise my hand to say that the gift of putting feelings, observations, and experiences into written words has likely saved my life on multiple occasions.

the craftAshley M. ColemanMarch 19, 2023writing, Black authors, authors of colorComment

the craft. the stories we tell.

I finally had to cave and get a subscription to the New York Times because it always seems like I’ve reached my article limit. And with good timing because this article exploring representation in Black literature was making its rounds. After the final straw of being tagged on Twitter about it, I figured I’d take a look.

the craftAshley M. ColemanOctober 16, 2022writing, Black literature, Black authorsComment

the craft. themes and the bigger picture.

When I sat down to write Good Morning, Love it was not with other people in mind at all. I found myself asking the question, “what happens if a playboy falls in love?” Then I decided to follow that through. It was a selfish pursuit. I had no idea what it would mean to people or what exactly readers would glean from it and I think that is the best way to create.

the craftAshley M. ColemanSeptember 4, 2022book themes, writing advice, Black authors, BIPOC writersComment

the craft. pacing.

Have we talked about pacing? I feel like we may have grazed over it in some of the other broader subject matter but I think this week is the week. Pacing is as simple as it sounds, how fast or slow the story is moving for the reader. However, it’s a delicate balance to make sure you’re achieving the right pacing in your storytelling.

the craftAshley M. ColemanAugust 21, 2022writing, writing advice, pacing, Black authorsComment