What is the Literary Library?

The intention behind Literary Library is:

• to provide writers with tips on how to develop and improve their writing
• to provide editors with ready-made tutorials on problems commonly found in writing
• to provide ideas for the expansion of literary horizons (i.e., prodding writers in new directions)

Basically, what you'll find here is a database of articles. These articles are written by writers, editors, and enthusiastic readers who are members of Brigit's Flame. Think of it as a co-operative workshop for whisperers of the literary word; we can all stand to learn from each other, and the Literary Library is a way to help make these ideas easily accessible to writers and editors in all stages of experience.

Featured Article, by Raphaelish...

Multiple narrative strands add depth to your story, and add another dimension clue-wise: which clue ties to which mystery?"

Click here to read the full article...

Keep in mind that we have no intention of homogenizing literature. The articles are quite often subjective pieces; we don't pretend to know the "right" way to approach a certain genre. They're intended only as a way to push writers to try their hands at something new, or to tinker with their writing until they find something that works for them.

Articles fall into four categories:

Proper Usage of English -- These articles contain tips about punctuation, spelling, parts of speech, tenses, and general rules of the English language. Perhaps the least subjective category the Literary Library offers, these articles are often (but not always) summaries of grammatical rules as they are summed up in other sources, for instance, the Chicago Manual of Style.

Methods in Style -- Articles in this section will discuss things like how to cut down lengthy sentences, how sentence length can affect your narrator's voice, etc. This category may also include things such as guidelines for how to give a well-executed edit.

Stylistic Choices -- These articles tend to contain tips on writing for certain genres, how to avoid stereotypes, and other general suggestions (emphasis on suggestion)of that sort. Articles on poetry will commonly be found here.

Miscellaneous -- These articles are about anything that doesn't fit into the above categories. Be original -- come up with your own topic! Just keep in mind that the goal is to help authors, editors, and/or readers with the content of your article and we're golden.

There is no required length and are no rules about what to include or exclude in each article, provided that all articles are respectful of others. Your editor may suggest that you include or exclude something that you didn't consider, but ultimately it's up to you what to talk about! As long as your article is concise and informative, present it however you want. Charts, graphs, and/or diagrams are accepted and encouraged. Do try to keep in mind those with visual impairments when formatting your article, however; if you choose to include images, add alt text and so forth.

The only formatting requirement we have is that you include two things:

• A strong title
• A byline (or a one-sentence description) of what your article is about.

That way, readers will be hooked into your article effectively.

For more information on the Literary Library, hit the "About" link at the top right-hand side of your screen.