Hi, Alex Simmons here. I've taught 100s of aspiring and struggling writers how to overcome their fears and frustrations and create compelling plots, characters, and stories that appeal to a broader audience. Over the years, I've been honored to be a professional author (award-winner), writing coach/teacher, and consultant. I’ve written for many mainstream publishers, Marvel/DC/Archie Comics, and penned plays, interactive games, and video and animation scripts. And I’ve been a global speaker on empowering people through the arts. I have much to share, starting with my Simmons Says Newsletter.
YES, IT WAS A MISTAKE (Simmons Says #177 A)
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Simmons Says
Hi, Alex Simmons here. I've taught 100s of aspiring and struggling writers how to overcome their fears and frustrations and create compelling plots, characters, and stories that appeal to a broader audience. Over the years, I've been honored to be a professional author (award-winner), writing coach/teacher, and consultant. I’ve written for many mainstream publishers, Marvel/DC/Archie Comics, and penned plays, interactive games, and video and animation scripts. And I’ve been a global speaker on empowering people through the arts. I have much to share, starting with my Simmons Says Newsletter.
Welcome to my newsletter! "Why They Do What They Do Matters." Hey,Reader, This time, I feel the need to talk about one of my favorite parts of storytelling: creating characters. A strong plot is important, but if your characters feel awkward, unbelievable, or just “off,” the story falls apart. And often the missing piece is one simple question: 👉 Why are they doing what they’re doing? In other words, what’s their motive? Motives are what drive characters to act — to betray friends, seek...
Welcome to my newsletter! "In a world where character is everything...What Are The Three Musketeers of Storytelling?" Grab a drink and sit back, Reader, This one is going to be a bit long because it’s about character creation, a little bit about research, and a little bit about the foundation that one can build with backstory. I want to take a little time to emphasize a point (or two or three) about the importance of character, research, and backstory. I’ll use my Blackjack series — and get...
Welcome to my newsletter! "Without this, your characters drift in a lifeless void." Forgive me, Reader, Originally, I planned to continue a piece about the question “what if” and the powers one can gain from asking that question when determining a plot, character, or story structure. And trust me, we’ll get to that in an upcoming issue. But as I sat with my notebook and a favorite cup of tea, something else pushed its way to the front of my creative mind: the incredible power of...