Craft Lab 07.22.25

VIEW RECORDING - 42 mins (No highlights)

Meeting Purpose

Craft lab session for writers to ask questions about writing, publishing, structure, and craft.

Key Takeaways

• Various approaches to research and note-taking for writing projects, from casual "vibe" reading to detailed indexing systems

• Importance of finding personalized methods for managing memory limitations and organizing complex information

• Value for articulating book concepts succinctly, like explaining to a fifth-of developmental editing, whether through peer feedback or professional services

Topics

Writing with Limitations

• Esmé shared her experience writing on her phone due to health limitations

• Used app called Drafts to write while lying down, typing with one finger

• Wrote essays, stories, and significant portions of books this way

• Revised on laptop in short increments (10-15 minutes) before resting

Research and Reference Methods

• Approaches range from casual "vibe" reading to detailed note-taking systems

• Julia uses color-coded index cards, post-its, and typed notes with page numbers

• Kristie integrates quotes directly into her writing, using Kindle notes

• Scrivener praised as a tool for organizing research and drafts

Handling Evolving Narrative Structures

• Julia discussing integrating changing perspectives (pre/post autism diagnosis, long COVID impacts)

• Consideration of keeping "archaeological layers" of voice changes vs. unifying voice

• Potential use of fragmentation to reflect evolving understanding and integration

Developmental Editing

• Options include asking writer friends for feedback or hiring professional editors

• Esmé offered to share contact for a recommended developmental editor

• Suggestion to use Circle space for peer feedback exchanges within the cohort

Articulating Book Concepts

• Challenge of succinctly describing complex, non-linear works

• Tip: Practice explaining the book concept to a fifth grader for clarity

• Focus on core story elements rather than academic or structural complexities

Next Steps

• Esmé to post developmental editor contact in resources section

• Writers encouraged to practice concise book descriptions

• Upcoming "first pass" session on the calendar

• Information on continuing in the academy beyond August to be shared soon