I’ve spent the better part of the past year writing and publishing this newsletter. Over that time, a lot of people have asked me how I do it. I thought I’d spend time answering everyone’s questions by sharing my step-by-step framework.
Well that was a master class in “show don’t tell.” As my kids would say “you jebaited me!”, but in a good way. I don’t agree with you on the semicolon, but I always appreciate the depth in your stories. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for the kind words. I’m pretty sure I’ve used a semicolon in some of my stories, but I thought it was a funny way to end and lighten the mood a bit.
stumbled across your platform from your advice on the Grow thread. I plan to read some of your content this weekend. Your advice headline hooked me, as I am always looking for ways to improve my writing. What I found, however, was validation. Your About page is well-written. Your advice is right on. But your tone and the stuff you write abut is your sweet spot for me.
People ask me what I write about, and I tell them "me, myself and I - and how that relates to you."
The part about living the crazy life is what stops most people from telling their stories- they just have never lived apparently.
As always Lyle, your writing brings tears. But this time I am crying as your dad was special and your mom a pillar of strength. We will miss having conversations with him but we have great memories.
This is incredibly thoughtful and beautifully written. Quick and to the point but very emotional. Thank you for sharing your life with me. Your writing is an unexpected gift. I will use your advice to write my book.
This is beautiful. Thanks for my periodic reminder not to complain about life, because I need to remember that.... as long as I'm breathing, the game is still on. This too shall pass. Your daughter has a wonderful father, and I am sure she'll appreciate your written wisdom decades from now when she's older and needs it.
A senior editor at Little Brown Publishing - this is years ago - once said that his criteria for a good story was this - compelling story, well written. You check both boxes! Cheers! Karin p.s. I am still finding my way - not sure what I am writing about is what I love writing about....etc. Wish me luck.
Beautifully written Lyle. Love, Mom
Love you too, mom
...And now I'm crying right before workshop. Thank you. I mean it. It's beautiful.
😊♥️
Well that was a master class in “show don’t tell.” As my kids would say “you jebaited me!”, but in a good way. I don’t agree with you on the semicolon, but I always appreciate the depth in your stories. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for the kind words. I’m pretty sure I’ve used a semicolon in some of my stories, but I thought it was a funny way to end and lighten the mood a bit.
Sorry...I get defensive about the lowly semicolon at times. It’s a brilliant ending.
I want to write better stories but I keep getting stuck on step 3 :(
It's definitely the easiest one to get tripped up on!
hi Lyle,
stumbled across your platform from your advice on the Grow thread. I plan to read some of your content this weekend. Your advice headline hooked me, as I am always looking for ways to improve my writing. What I found, however, was validation. Your About page is well-written. Your advice is right on. But your tone and the stuff you write abut is your sweet spot for me.
People ask me what I write about, and I tell them "me, myself and I - and how that relates to you."
The part about living the crazy life is what stops most people from telling their stories- they just have never lived apparently.
Looking forward to diving in to your work
thanks
Ric
Thanks so much, Ric! It’s great to hear my writing resonated with you so strongly.
This was a really beautiful and unique way to address grief from a different angle
Thank you so much, Cole!
As always Lyle, your writing brings tears. But this time I am crying as your dad was special and your mom a pillar of strength. We will miss having conversations with him but we have great memories.
Thank you, Sue ♥️
Thank you Lyle.
Beautifully done, thank you for sharing the sadness and the love.
❤️
When is your memoir coming out? Beautiful piece.
Thank you! I wish I had a date for the book, but it’s been a tough project to keep the momentum going on for me.
I can see why this post went far.
Thanks, Scott!
Thanks for sharing. Love the approach. Inspired me to keep at the daily writing.
Thanks, Eric!
This is incredibly thoughtful and beautifully written. Quick and to the point but very emotional. Thank you for sharing your life with me. Your writing is an unexpected gift. I will use your advice to write my book.
Thank you so much, Melissa!
Great storry, loved irony, it was breth taking and mind tricking.
I wish I could write like You.
Thanks, GG!
This is beautiful. Thanks for my periodic reminder not to complain about life, because I need to remember that.... as long as I'm breathing, the game is still on. This too shall pass. Your daughter has a wonderful father, and I am sure she'll appreciate your written wisdom decades from now when she's older and needs it.
Thank you so much! I hope she appreciates it when she grows up. That would be wonderful.
A senior editor at Little Brown Publishing - this is years ago - once said that his criteria for a good story was this - compelling story, well written. You check both boxes! Cheers! Karin p.s. I am still finding my way - not sure what I am writing about is what I love writing about....etc. Wish me luck.