Today, we’ll be sharing 26 of the greatest Ernest Hemingway quotes, ranging from his takes on writing and literature to life death.

On Writing and Literature

“There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.” 

Writing is a raw and cathartic process that demands emotional investment.

“The first draft of anything is shit”

The initial version of any creative work is often imperfect and requires refinement.

“All good books are alike in that they are truer than if they had really happened and after you finish reading one you will feel that all that happened to you and afterwards it all belongs to you; the good and the bad, the ecstasy, the remorse, and sorrow, the people and the places and how the weather was.” 

Great literature captures universal truths, resonating with readers as authentic experiences.

On Life and Experience

“The world breaks everyone, and afterward, some are strong at the broken places.”

Adversity is a common experience, but resilience and strength can emerge from hardships.

“Courage is grace under pressure.” 

True bravery is displayed in maintaining composure and dignity during challenging moments.

“But life isn’t hard to manage when you’ve nothing to lose.”

When faced with minimal stakes, life becomes more manageable.

“The only thing that could spoil a day was people. People were always the limiters of happiness except for the very few that were as good as spring itself.”

Human interactions can be both a source of happiness and a potential hindrance to it.

On Love and Relationships

“The most painful thing is losing yourself in the process of loving someone too much, and forgetting that you are special too.”

Overcommitment in love can lead to self-neglect and personal loss.

“When people talk, listen completely. Most people never listen.”

True understanding requires active and thorough listening.

On War and Conflict

“Never think that war, no matter how necessary, nor how justified, is not a crime.”

War, even when deemed necessary, is inherently destructive and carries moral implications.

“In modern war you will die like a dog for no good reason.”

The harsh realities of modern warfare often involve senseless and unjustifiable deaths.

“War is not won by victory.”

The consequences of war extend beyond the immediate triumphs or defeats.

On Death and Existence

“Every man’s life ends the same way. It is only the details of how he lived and how he died that distinguish one man from another.” 

Death is inevitable, and one’s legacy is shaped by how they lived..

“The world is a fine place and worth fighting for and I hate very much to leave it.”

Despite the hardships, life is precious and worth preserving.

On Truth and Honesty

“All you have to do is write one true sentence. Write the truest sentence that you know.”

The essence of good writing lies in capturing a single, authentic thought.

“Never go on trips with anyone you do not love.”

Traveling with loved ones enhances the experience and creates lasting memories.

On Nature and the Outdoors

“He was an old man who fished alone in a skiff in the Gulf Stream and he had gone eighty four days now without taking a fish.”

The loneliness and determination of the old man in “The Old Man and the Sea” reflect the human spirit.

“I never knew of a morning in Africa when I woke up that I was not happy.”

Africa holds a special place in Hemingway’s heart, evoking consistent joy.

On Art and Creativity

“An artist is a creature driven by demons. He doesn’t know why they chose him and he’s usually too busy to wonder why.”

Creativity often stems from a relentless inner drive or passion.

On Friendship

“There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man, true nobility is being superior to your former self.”

True nobility lies in personal growth and self-improvement, not in comparison with others.

“The best way to find out if you can trust somebody, is to trust them.”

Building trust involves taking the initial step of trusting others.

On Time and Simplicity

“Time is the least thing we have of.”

Time is a limited and precious resource.

“Simplicity is the most difficult thing to secure in this world; it is the last limit of experience and the last effort of genius.”

Achieving simplicity in expression or lifestyle is a challenging but worthwhile endeavor.

“My aim is to put down on paper what I see and what I feel in the best and simplest way.”

Writing should aim to convey genuine thoughts and emotions in the simplest manner.

On Discipline

“There is no rule on how to write. Sometimes it comes easily and perfectly; sometimes it’s like drilling a rock and then blasting it out with charges.”

Writing has no fixed rules; it can be a diverse and individualized process.

“I learned never to empty the well of my writing, but always to stop when there was still something there in the deep part of the well, and let it refill at night from the springs that fed it.”

Preserve creativity by stopping before exhaustion and allowing inspiration to replenish.

We’re in our digital era—where content is king and screen time is on an Olympic sprint. And despite the low-key threat of artificial intelligence and other tech innovations, the demand for skilled writers is needed now more than ever. Businesses need captivating content (whether it’s binge-worthy blog posts or compelling product descriptions) and are always looking for fresh voices. 

And that’s where you, the budding freelancer, come into play.

But of course, knowing there’s a need isn’t much help unless you know where to show up so you can fill the gap. And how do you stand out with all of the other aspiring wordsmith’s out there? That’s what we come in.

Buckle up and prepare to embark on a whirlwind tour of all things entry level writing jobs—where to find them, how to snag them, and what opportunities they could unlock for your career.  

Do I Need Formal Qualifications to Secure Entry Level Writing Jobs? 

Short answer? Not at all. 

Certifications and degrees are helpful, and certain markets will require advanced education (such as medical writing, which requires exertise in that niche) but they don’t guarantee entry in writing world. In general, having strong writing skills is much more important than academic education.

There are many different kinds of writing (e.g. business writing, personal essays, travel writing, food writing, etc.), so as long as you understand the assignment then you’re in good shape. Your writing skills are the essential ingredients but in order to secure the ongoing paycheck, you’ll want to know how to make successful pitches too! 

How Much Do Entry Level Writing Jobs Pay?

As you grasp the value of your work, learn to tailor your pieces to your target publications, and gain experience, you’ll find your negotiating power—and rates—moving upwards.

Freelance writers who publish in newspapers or magazine often are paid by the word. If this is the case for you, then your income is a balance between how fast you work and how long your commissioned pieces are.

If you write for businesses or online sites, then you may find yourself negotiating project rates. In this case, you’re looking for a win-win between their budget and your desired income.

In either case, the outlet or organization may set the rate, but that doesn’t mean you can’t negotiate. Have a good idea of what you want/need to bring in so you only take on work that aligns with your business plan and values.

When you’re just getting started as a freelance writer you may not know how long a piece will take you or what it should be valued at, so it will be difficult to set rates. It will take some trial and error to figure out what type of writing best suits you, what you most enjoy, and what price point will help you reach your income goals.

Don’t worry too much if you end up taking a job where you realize later you’ve undercharged. Take it as a learning experience and raise your rates the next time this type of job comes up.

Wondering what writers are earning in 2023? Check out this post from Make a Living Writing

Where to Find Entry Level Writing Jobs

It’s one thing to have the desire to break into freelance writing. It’s a whole other thing to actually find quality writing jobs as a beginner! The good news is there are many ways to find and secure well-paid writing jobs, even if you’re just getting started. Here are a few suggestions to try out.

1. Look for Websites In Need of Updating

Have you ever strolled around your local digital neighborhood and noticed the small businesses whose websites seem stuck in the 90s? Or perhaps, you’ve stumbled upon those big businesses with blog sections that look about as lively as a tumbleweed town.

It’s like spotting a cute fixer-upper house and you’re inspired to breathe life into the outdated landing pages or blog posts. 

You’d be amazed at how many companies have unoptimized About Pages or are missing testimonials or company stories. It’s probably on their to-do list, but it can be difficult to get to these details!

So here’s a thought: Why not inqure about it? Ask if they could use a freelance writer to update their website a bit. Include a few of your writing pieces that are similar to their industry if you can, it will give them confidence that you’re up to the task. If you don’t have relevant samples then you could mock up some examples to showcase your skills and how you can help. 

You never know, they might be waiting for someone like you to revitalize their website. 

2. Utilize Freelance Writing Sites

There is a lot of debate about platforms such as Upwork or Fiverr. It’s not for everyone. However, it can be a good starting point to get experience and build your writing portfolio.

Here are the pros: You can establish your profile and highlight your specialties. You can offer an array of services at different rates. Sites like these allow clients to reach out and for freelancers to bid on jobs. You won’t get everything you go for, but since sites like these are largely a numbers game, if you pitch enough eventually you’re bound to get something.

However, these platforms charge a service fee on each project, and they prefer if you keep communication within the platform rather than taking it private. Working with clients from these platforms may require time and perseverance to secure those big projects that offer a generous paycheck.

We recommend considering these types of platforms as stepping stones.

3. Work with Marketing Agencies

Agencies can be lucrative for writers, and they work especially well if you’d rather not deal directly with clients or find jobs yourself. Marketing agencies handle the administration and account management (for the most part) and pass the writing work to you as it comes in.

By searching online for marketing agencies within your niche, you may be surprised at how many work with freelancers and are looking for help in the near future. Agency work can be inconsistent but you’ll also likely gain a lot of experience on many different types of writing projects in a short amount of time. 

4. Network with Other Freelance Writers

It’s not about what you know but who you know, right? Established freelance writers will tell you most of their high-paying work is generated from referrals and netowrking. 

Whether it’s in person or on social media, be as proactive as possible in reaching out to freelance writers to gain fresh, new opportunities. 

5. Use Reliable Job Boards

While pitching can often secure you higher-paying jobs, it can be intimidating and overwhelming. You may choose to apply to postings on job boards instead, which is a bit more passive. 

The advantage with job boards is it puts you in control when it comes to filtering the type of writing job you want and the kind of company you’d love to work for. Some businesses will offer full-time positions while others will be seeking out freelancers so you can search, sort, and filter down to exactly what you want. 

Tips to Kickstart Your Writing Career as a Beginner

So now that we know where to find your first writing jobs and you have a bit of an idea for how much you can expect to be paid, here are some additional tips to help you land that job. 

Create a Writing Portfolio

Most clients will want to see some writing samples ahead of time. You’re probably thinking, “I’m new! I have nothing published!”

Fear not, there are other ways to showcase your skills, even if you’re just showing samples or mock-ups that haven’t actually been published.

Putting together a writing or social media portfolio shows the prospective client what you’re capable of and demonstrates your competence to do the job well. 

We recommend creating your portfolio online and sending a link to specific relevant pieces rather than to the entire package. This will help them see you as a professional. 

Dedicate Yourself to Continual Improvement 

Just because you’ve secured a writing job doesn’t mean the learning comes to an end. There are always things to learn, ways to improve, and techniques to try.

You may begin in blogging and realize you could earn more if you also add in search engine optimization (SEO) to your offer. And once you learn SEO, then you see how copywriting can make you even more valuable to clients. As you grow and gain experience with one type of writing, you’ll see even more stepping stones to keep improving. 

Personalize your Pitches

If you’re reaching out to clients via email or LinkedIn, then it will benefit you to find ways to stand out in a busy inbox. 

Here’s a pitch checklist to get you started

We’d recommend keeping your opening paragraph as concise as possible (you have something like seven to keep someone reading). 

Also, do your homework so you can mention things in your pitch that resonate with the recipient. Who doesn’t love an email where the sender actually has some idea of who they’re messaging? It will make a much bigger impact than sending a copy-paste generic cold pitch, trust us. Of course you don’t want to cross the line and come off as creepy—keep it professional, yet personable.

We won’t leave you hanging, of course. Fill in the form below and we’ll send you our pitch checklist, free! 

Summary

It’s an incredible feeling when you get that first paying writing job but here’s something even more exciting: Entry level writing jobs aren’t the end of the road for writers, they’re only the beginning.

This is your springboards for getting into the industry and opening up doors to MORE—more opportunities, more connections, more experiences, and more money. 

So, here’s to finding jobs that fit your skills, learning how to value your writing, how to negotiate, and how to grow your portfolio one sample at a time.

Keep writing, keep learning, and remember—every master was once a beginner. 

Shakespeare Birthplace Trust says he did this “often by combining words, changing nouns into verbs, adding prefixes or suffixes, and so on.”

Perhaps even more interesting is although these words and phrases were invented in the 16th century, many of them are still in use today! 

Keep reading as we explore 50 of our favorite phrases and words invented by Shakespeare and share a bit of the story behind them where we can. 

Words Invented by Shakespeare (with Some Origins) 

Considered the greatest playwright in English history, William Shakespeare was a prolific writer and left an incredible mark on literature and western culture.  Here are 25 words he is credited with inventing.

1. Addiction—Exemplified in Othello, the word “addiction” is used to describe the state of being dedicated or devoted to a thing, unlike the modern usage of the word relating to bad habits like smoking
2. Assassination—Found in Macbeth, the word “assassination” holds its same meaning by being a timed poisoning or utter destruction of something
3. Bedroom—This word still holds the same meaning as when it was added to A Midsummer Night’s Dream
4. Champion
5. Cold-Blooded—When first used, this word was used metaphorically whereas now it’s used as a reference to serial killers and vampires
6. Critic—Found in Love’s Labour Lost to mean someone who judges merit
7. Dwindle
8. Elbow
9. Fashionable—Cited in Troilus and Cressida, this 11-letter word has stood the test of time in various industries today
10. Generous
11. Gloomy
12. Hint
13. Inaudible—Shakespeare added the negation of “in” before a word where it had never been before
14. Lackluster
15. Lonely
16. Moonbeam
17. Multitudinous—There are two meanings that Shakespeare derived from this word. One describes a body of water and the other is related to common people
18. Obscene—Meaning “repulsive or disgusting,” this term was first found in Love’s Labour Lost
19. Puking
20. Perusal
21. Pious
22. Radiance
23. Reliance
24. Submerge
25. Swagger—This was way before Justin Bieber! Shakespeare meant “swagger” to mean “strutting with a defiant air” 

25 Common Phrases Shakespeare Invented

Here are a few phrases that first came William Shakespeare. See how many you recognize and use! 

1. All’s well that ends well
2. Break the ice
3. Eaten out of house and home
4. Fair play
5. Good riddance
6. Heart of gold
7. In a pickle
8. Laughing stock
9. Love is blind
10. Wild-goose chase
11. Vanish into thin air
12. Naked truth 
13. A piece of work 
14. Fight fire with fire
15. What’s done is done 
16. Wear your heart on your sleeve
17. Seen better days 
18. Set your teeth on edge 
19. Too much of a good thing 
20. The world is my oyster
21. A sorry sight 
22. Green-eyed monster
23. Heart of hearts
24. Dead as a doornail 
25. Bated breath 

Some of these phrases may have existed in speech before Shakespeare documented them in his work. However, his usage caused them to enter popular culture and influence our word choices, even today. 

Shakespeare’s Invented Words Showcases the Flexibility of the English Language

What’s so interesting about these terms being used today is that it demonstrates just how enduring our language is. Can you believe these 16th-century words and phrases still (basically) mean the same thing? It also shows us how flexible English can be. If we need a word, we can make one.

For example, as of February 2023, there were already 313 new entries and 130 new definitions added to the dictionary in 2023 such as:

• Digital nomad
• Rage farming
• Folx
• Petfluencer

Language is how we express our human experience, and the words and phrases we use will endure or flex based on what we need in any given moment. 

While many of the words invented by Shakespeare are more heavily used in England and the United Kingdom, English speakers around the world will be familiar with some, if not most, of our curated list! 

Best Poetry Books and Poems (According to The Write Life)

In times of loss, love, and everything in between, turning to the world of carefully poetic words to help make sense of emotions can be powerful. To this day, we can reflect on the experiences of these great poets and learn from them to understand our own personal thoughts. 

Choosing favorites is always subjective, but in our search for the best poetry books and poems we tried to find something to suit most every occasion.

Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman

Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass is a celebration of life, democracy, and the beauty of the natural world. Originally published in 1855, the collection underwent several revisions throughout Whitman’s life.  With its free verse and unapologetic embrace of individualism, Leaves of Grass broke away from traditional poetic conventions and set a new standard for American poetry.

And Still I Rise by Maya Angelou

Published in 1978, And Still I Rise is a collection of 32 short poems that are divided into three main sections. Speaking on concepts from love and dreams, to longing and living in the American South, Angelou uses this poetry book to invite readers into her trials growing up while acknowledging the many oppressions faced by Black people throughout time.  The poems are in first-person lyrics, which helps to make the poems intimate and engaging. The variation in line lengths also gives the poems unpredictability as they reflect the events of Angelou’s life. 

The Iliad and The Odyssey by Homer

Dating back to ancient Greece, Homer’s epics The Iliad and The Odyssey stand as monumental works of poetry. These epic poems are filled with heroic tales, gripping narratives, and complex characters. The Iliad portrays the Trojan War, while The Odyssey follows the arduous journey of Odysseus. These classics remain fundamental in shaping Western literature and continue to inspire countless works to this day.

Selected Poems by John Keats

John Keats’ most celebrated pieces of work can be found in his book, Selected Poems, including “Ode on a Grecian Urn.” The book was first published in 1947 and contains poems published during Keats’ lifetime. With themes of beauty, hardships, grief, and love being explored in this book, the collection covers a range of emotions, engaging the reader in many ways and making it a top favorite for us. 

Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri

As a long narrative poem, Dante’s Divine Comedy takes readers on a guided tour through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise. This epic poem, written in the 14th century, explores themes of sin, redemption, and the complexities of human existence. Through vivid imagery, profound symbolism, and remarkable storytelling, Dante’s masterpiece remains an unparalleled exploration of the human soul while blending both reason and faith to explain social chaos. The series of illustrations and diagrams made the book engaging while playing a part in explaining some of the classic literature. 

The Waste Land by T.S. Eliot

T.S. Eliot’s The Waste Land stands as a landmark in modernist poetry. Published in 1922, this influential work captures the disillusionment and despair felt by many after World War I. Through its fragmented structure, intertextual references, and multilingual lines, Eliot skillfully depicts a post-war landscape plagued by spiritual emptiness and societal decay.

Here is a snippet of one of the poems from his book: 

After the torchlight red on sweaty faces
After the frosty silence in the gardens
After the agony in stony places
The shouting and the crying
Prison and palace and reverberation
Of thunder of spring over distant mountains
He who was living is now dead
We who were living are now dying
With a little patience

The Waste Land Part V – What the Thunder said

The Collected Poems by Sylvia Plath

Sylvia Plath’s The Collected Poems offers a poignant glimpse into the troubled yet brilliant mind of the poet. Published posthumously in 1981, Plath’s poems explore themes of identity, feminism, and mental anguish. Her raw and confessional style, as showcased in works like “Daddy” and “Lady Lazarus,” continues to captivate readers and inspire generations of poets.

The Love Poems of Rumi and The Essential Rumi by Rumi

Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, the 13th-century Persian poet, wrote verses that transcend time and cultural boundaries. In The Love Poems of Rumi, readers are transported to a world of mystical love, spirituality, and divine union. Rumi’s poetry speaks to the depths of the human soul, offering profound insights and a profound connection to religion. 

Another poetry book we highly recommend reading by Rumi is The Essential Rumi. Exploring themes of silence, separation, emptiness and loss, the book has been known to help readers understand and heal through some of the most difficult emotions to encounter. 

The Raven and Other Poems by Edgar Allan Poe

Edgar Allan Poe, a pioneer in the modern detective story, crafts his dark and haunting tales through poetry. The Raven and Other Poems showcases Poe’s mastery of rhythm, rhyme, and imagery.  With works like “The Raven,” “Annabel Lee,” and “The Bells,” Poe delves into themes of grief, madness, and the fragility of the mind, making this book known for its very spooky and chilling verses. 

Set Me on Fire: A Poem for Every Feeling by Ella Risbridger

Published in 2019, Set Me On Fire is a contemporary take on classic poems, which introduces refreshing perspectives, voices from around the world, and themes that were dared to be explored in earlier centuries.  Discussing concepts of trauma, rage, and happiness, this poetry book anthology is ideal for anyone looking to understand any emotion they may be going through.

Summary | The Best Poetry Books

We’ve unveiled the best poetry books (in our opinion), but there are many other wonderful poets and poems out there to discover.

One of the biggest perks of becoming a freelance writer is you can do your job from anywhere, whether it’s cozy on the couch, on a beach somewhere tropical, or at a desk with three monitors…the choice is yours! 

Remote writing jobs offer a ton of flexibility so you can choose how and where you spend your time working. But the real question is, which type of remote writing job is best for you and where do you find them? 

Types of Remote Writing Job 

Remote writing jobs are positions that involves not being tied to a particular location. Due to how independent writing can be, it’s common to find remote work in this industry. 

Here are a few different types of remote writing jobs: 

Freelance Writing

Finding freelance writing work refers to working independently on a contract basis. You accept projects from clients and get paid upon completion. 

One advantage of freelance writing is you can choose how much you work with each client, as well as how many projects you take on at a time. Freelancers can also work on behalf of staffing agencies who help match writers to clients. 

SEO Content Writing 

SEO refers to search engine optimization, which is the practice of using specific keywords in your content to in order to rank on search engines such as Google. When this happens, your article or blog post displays in search results when someone inputs a relevant query.  

Blog Writing 

Blogging is great for SEO, which is my many businesses have a blog section on their website. However, businesses often lack a full blogging staff and rely instead on freelancers to create the bulk of their blog posts. Blog writers are needed in B2B and B2C industries so there are a lot of opportunities out there!

Social Media Writing 

Social media writing refers to any piece of writing that is for social media platforms (either directly or indirectly). This includes captions, LinkedIn articles, replies to comments, or anything else that build and engage with an audience online. 

Scriptwriting

Want to combine your love of writing and theater? Scriptwriting may just be for you. Whether it’s creating scripts for production companies, YouTube videos, a speech, or a screenplay, scriptwriters are always in demand. 

Copywriting 

Many people confuse copywriting and content writing so let’s set the record straight: copywriting means to produce pieces of writing that promote a brand and establish it whereas content writing engages an audience in forms like blog posts.

Examples of copywriting include sales pages, marketing campaigns, and sales emails. 

Email Marketing

Any business owner will tell you that email marketing is crucial to their business. And email marketing is a great way to combine copywriting with marketing strategy. Whether you specialize in a particular email automation software, you help businesses plan and execute customer journeys, or you stick to writing emails, there’s a lot a freelancer can do in this space.

Ghostwriting

Another type of writing that has taken TikTok by storm is ghostwriting. This is essentially writing something without getting credit. Ghostwriters are in huge demand in the book world, the music world, and the corporate world (to name a few). Many people hire ghostwriters to write or co-write for them so they can save time and effort (and probably end up with a better product). 

Book Writing 

Writing a book is no small task, but the reward is certainly worth it (whether you’re writing for yourself or others). You can immerse yourself into a whole new story and, by writing remotely, you can get inspiration from any corner of the world. Not bad! You can then submit your book to publishers and get it out there for as many people to read as possible. 

Where to Find Remote Writing Jobs

There are more ways than ever to find remote writing jobs, and the demand from clients and companies continues to increase. Here are a few of the online platforms where writers go to find work (full time, part time, freelance, and everything in between). 

LinkedIn 

LinkedIn is no doubt the biggest social network site for you to put your CV on. Prospective clients are always looking for writers, freelancers, employees, and hard-working candidates on this platform. 

The great thing about LinkedIn is that it works both ways. You can apply for the jobs that are posted on there, and clients can also reach out to you directly. This is a smart platform to network on, so be sure to create an optimized profile to let potential employers know what your skills, experience, and expertise are! 

Freelancer.com

Freelancer.com is a popular marketplace helping freelance designers, writers, bloggers, and developers find work and connect with clients. With over 10,000 active jobs and 50 million registered freelancers, there’s a lot of opportunity to find freelancing jobs. 

Freelance Platforms Such as Upwork and Fiverr 

If you’re looking to build your portfolio, freelancer bidding sites are a go-to for new writers. Fiverr and Upwork are some of the biggest marketplaces and once you have a profile, you can use the filters to search for jobs. It’s good to note that these platforms are best for entry-level work and can sometimes offer low pay so be sure to know what your rates are ahead of time! 

ProBlogger Job Board 

ProBlogger helps match writers to blogging opportunities, as well as helping writers boost their writing profiles. The job board lists hundreds of jobs at a time and covers a variety in niches including copywriting, ghostwriting, and editing. 

Indeed Job Board

Indeed is a great place to search for remote writing jobs, especially if you’re interested in being employed by one company. A lot of companies are distributed and open to hiring remote workers. Another nice perk is Indeed tracks your job search progress, making the job hunt a bit easier. 

The Benefits of Remote Writing 

Aside from the obvious of being able to work from anywhere, there are many advantages of remote writing jobs.  Here are a few benefits.

Increase Productivity and Outcomes

While writers based in the office must endure daily in-person meetings and distracting personal conversations, remote workers can attend the same meetings virtually but without the commute or interruptions. Remote writing jobs lets you complete your daily tasks at a faster rate for this reason. 

Save Time and Money

Working remotely takes away the need to commute, which means you’re minimizing the amount of money and time spent on traveling or fuel. Not to mention you’ll no longer be paying a fortune on meals, work clothes, and car maintenance! You can also focus on utilizing your mornings more wisely before you set up for work. 

Prioritize Your Physical and Mental Health 

Working from home has proven to reduce a person’s stress levels because you feel more in control of your day. Whether it’s worrying less about rushing into work or no longer feeling sluggish when sitting at your office desk,  there are many ways taking remote writing jobs can help improve your well-being.  

Customize Your Workspace

Forget the fluorescent lighting and small desk space, remote working means you can create a fresher, more inviting work area for yourself to boost productivity. Place your desk in front of optimal sunlight, light a candle, or even hang your favorite decorations to add elements of your personality. 

We’ve covered all you need to know to hit the ground running finding remote writing jobs! If you’ve made your decision on which type of remote writing work you want to take on, then check out the job boards and platforms we’ve listed to find that perfect job match. Good luck and happy writing!

Consciously immersing ourselves in African-American literature is important for so many reasons. And celebrating Black authors by intentionally choosing their books to read and study allows for wider discourse, education, and understanding. 

As progressive as our society seems, widespread systemic racism persists, which is why we want to shine a light on ways we can support underrepresented perspectives and stories in our industry. Whether it’s adding a new TBR to your book club list, discovering organizations to join, or finding authors to promote online, we hope this article can be a jumping off point.

The Importance of Celebrating Black Authors

The voices of Black storytellers have long been marginalized, especially when it comes to mainstream media and publishing outlets. Less than 15% of books published each year are from BIPOC authors, and an even smaller percentage of Black authors contribute to this statistic.

In addition to better supporting the author community and increasing our empathy and perspective, here are two more reasons celebrating Black authors is important.

1. It expands our worldview and enhances our understanding

By diversifying our literature we expose our minds and hearts to stories and experiences that we may never come across otherwise. Reading widely and seeking underrepresented voices allows us to engage with different worldviews and histories, adding depth and richness to our lives.

For non-Black readers, learning about what it means to be Black from Black authors is especially important for beginning to do the work of breaking down stereotypes, biases, and inequality. 

2. It educates us on the larger story outside of our lived experience 

People who are not Black may only be somewhat aware of what it means to be Black from news coverage of protests and rallies. However, the Black experience is so much deeper and wider, which is why reading books written by Black authors is so critical to being informed and aware.

8 Black Authors to Add to Your TBR List

From non-fiction and fiction literature you’ll discover themes of joy, entertainment, relief, culture, and escapism, and much more.  Here are some suggestions to get you started.

James Baldwin 

James Baldwin was an iconic American author who turned his personal battles into best-elling literature, becoming one the most celebrated authors in the world. Baldwin wrote stories about his life experiences, which included growing up during the Great Depression, being the eldest of nine children, his complex relationship with his step-father, and an identity crisis. 

Book recommendations:

• Another Country (1962)
• The Fire Next Time (1963)
• Nothing Personal (1964) 

Ralph Ellison

Ralph Ellison was born in Oklahoma and raised by a single mother who worked a variety of jobs to make ends meet. Ellison began writing The Invisible Man, which focused on a Black civil rights worker who became alienated due to the racism he faced when moving to New York.  It won the National Book Award a year after being published and was an international bestseller.

Ellison’s novel still remains a key literature reference to help people understand marginalized groups in American society. 

Book recommendation:

• The Invisible Man (1952)

Maya Angelou

Poet, author, and activist Maya Angelou was a pioneer for change for Black women in America. Inspired by Langston Hughes and Paul Lawerence Dunbar, Angelou used her words to talk about the strength of Black women and the need for social justice. Publishing seven autobiographies over her career, Angelou often spoke on her personal tales of trauma, racism, and finding strength within. 

Angelou was recognised by many organizations nationally and internationally for her creative contributions to literature and received various awards and honorary degrees in her lifetime. 

Book recommendation:

• I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (1969)

W.E.B Du Bois 

Sociologist, activist, and author W.E.B Du Bois was one of the most well-known and influential authors in the 20th century. As someone who grew up as part of the Black elite, he didn’t notice the issues of racial injustice until he attended university in Tennessee. His experience there inspired his work to put an end to racism. 

Book recommendation:

• The Souls of Black Folk (1903)

Alex Haley 

Focusing on telling the struggles of African Americans and their experiences throughout time, Alex Haley broke into the industry with a job at a well-known magazine company. He produced a series of interviews with prominent African Americans, which allowed him to meet Malcolm X and write his story. 

Haley’s bestselling novel Roots depicts his ancestors’ journey to freedom from slavery. His novel became a global sensation when it was turned into a television series. 

Book recommendations:

• The Autobiography of Malcolm X (1965)
• Roots (1976)

Zora Neale Hurston 

During the Harlem Renaissance in 1925, Zora Neale Hurston made her way to New York where she would become a prominent Black female writer. Her most famous novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God, focused on the traditions and culture of African Americans through poetry. 

Book recommendation:

• Their Eyes Were Watching God (1937)

Toni Morrison 

Storytelling through folktales and literature was a big part of Toni Morrison’s childhood and, after teaching at Texas Southern University, she became a fiction editor and author.

Morrison’s first book, The Bluest Eye, told the tale of a young Black girl longing to have blue eyes. Her stories center around the Black American experience in an unjust society. 

Book recommendation:

• The Bluest Eye (1970)

Shonda Rhimes

Famously known for her creative production of Grey’s Anatomy and Princess Diaries 2, Rhimes has released her fair share of books over the years, including her powerful memoir Years of Yes and bestselling novel, Queen Charlotte.

Rhimes is notable for her television screenwriting but her books have a central theme of uplifting the Black community and shining light on stories that often fade into the background. 

Book recommendations:

• Years of Yes (2015)
• Queen Charlotte (2023)

Organizations and Grants Supporting and Celebrating Black Authors

There’s an array of organizations and grants that work to support upcoming Black authors in the writing and publishing industry. It’s an opportunity for new talent to explore their options and receive guidance along the way! 

BWOC Literary Support Program

The BWOC’s support program offers stipends for writers to be used in contests, retreats, fellowships and writing supply expenses. Applications are ongoing and will be reviewed every three weeks. Applicants must be US-based. Find details and guidelines here.

The Eleanor Taylor Bland Crime Fiction Award

This award is an annual grant of $2,000 for an upcoming writer of color. By writing a powerful crime fiction piece, applicants can win an opportunity to enhance their literary skills and develop their careers. Find more information by visiting their website.

Teaching Fellowship for Black Writers 

GrubStreet’s Teaching Fellowship for Black Writers provides professional support to two Black writers each year by giving them the chance to work with instructors and teach classes. The fellowship gives a compensation of $25,000, an artistic mentorship and access to their writer’s community. Learn more and read the guidelines here. 

Earnest J. Gaines Award for Literary Excellence

For Black writers based in the US, this is an amazing chance to accomplish professional development and put them ahead in the industry. This grant is designed to help minority ethnic groups level in their creative field once they submit a piece of work to the organization. You can find more information by visiting their website here. 

Sustainable Arts Foundation

The Sustainable Arts Foundation offers $5,000 to writers with children. Fifty percent of all applicants who are awarded the grants are Black writers and the grant focuses on young adult fiction stories, illustrated children’s books, creative nonfiction, graphic novels, and poetry. All requirements are stated on their website here. 

Summary | Celebrating Black Authors

Literature by Black authors tackles the complex issues faced by the community and helps to spread awareness on what’s happening in the world around us. There’s still a long way to go when it comes to elevating the Black experience but by purchasing and reading books written by Black authors and supporting programs that give aid and guidance to emerging talent, we can play a part in bringing about change. 

When we think of poetry, the first thing that usually comes to people’s mind is rhymes (a close second: the other assumption that all poems are short!). 

But of course, this doesn’t capture the entire poetry genre. 

Narrative poetry is one of the most unique forms of literature because of their ability to capture plot, characters, and dialogue all in one poem—often with very little rhyming, if any. 

This is a step-by-step guide to writing a narrative poem, including what they are, how to write an epic narriative poem, and some awesome examples to inspire you. 

What is a Narrative Poem? 

A narrative poem is a form of poetry, which involves telling a story. The poet will use various elements of storytelling to create a plot, introduce characters, and set a certain scene–while using elements of poetry like rhyme, form and other devices. 

We find narrative poems to be the oldest form of poetry, dating all the way back to 2000 B.C. It has successfully stood the test of time because of the engaging and entertaining way that poetic rhymes and verses have been able to tell the intended story. 

More contemporary narrative poems tend to rely less on rhymes but still incorporate elements like non-linear story structure, characterization, and emotive language. 

The Difference Between Lyric Poems and Narrative Poems

A common misconception is that narrative poetry and lyric poetry are the same but this isn’t the case. 

The main difference is the poem’s sense of time. Narrative poems capture the flow of time by having an order of events and an “A causes B” pattern. The sense of time is easy to follow. On the other hand, lyric poems discuss a particular moment in the past with the purpose of bringing emotions out of the readers. 

In short, narrative poems focus on a sequence of events, whereas lyric poems magnify and speak about one specific event in time. 

What are the Different Types of Narrative Poetry? 

• Ballad

Ballad is a form of narrative poetry, which was loved throughout the 19th century. Athough originating in Europe, ballads have certainly made their mark across the world. Ballads were narrative poems set to music, often accompanied by dances and large crowds.  

Victorian-era poets admired this form of poetry and used it to both tell a story and entertain a big audience. However, their popularity hasn’t translated as well into the modern 21st century era and we see less of this form nowadays. 

• Idyll 

Idyll poems are a form of narrative poetry, which describe and evoke rural life. This type of poetry focuses on moments within small communities and villages either describing a single person’s day of work or doing some sort of labor. 

Idyll poems date back to the early 17th century as a way of depicting the life of farmers, laborers, and rural life in general. 

A great example is Idylls of the King by Alfred Lord Tenyson (1859) which details the story of King Arthur’s nights in a 12-poem cycle: 

I found Him in the shining of the stars,
I mark’d Him in the flowering of His fields,
But in His ways with men I find Him not.
I waged His wars, and now I pass and die.
O me! for why is all around us here
As if some lesser god had made the world,
But had not force to shape it as he would,
Till the High God behold it from beyond,
And enter it, and make it beautiful?

• Epic Poems 

Epic poems are long narrative poems concerning stories of heroism and any type of extraordinary people who changed history. 

These poems were used to tell the stories of kings, knights and successors to evoke national identity and morality.

Examples of these poems include, The Aeneid and The Odyssey, The Epic of Gilgamesh, and The Mahabharata. 

How to Get Started Writing a Narrative Poem

Narrative poetry is a form of artistic expression, combining the power of storytelling with the beauty of poetic language. Here are some essential tips and techniques to help you bring your stories to life.

Find Your Inspiration

Every great narrative poem begins with a spark of inspiration. Look for ideas in your surroundings, personal experiences, historical events, or even mythology. Allow yourself to be curious and open to new perspectives. 

Inspiration can come from unexpected places, so be receptive to the world around you, think of something great that has happened to you (or someone close to you) or even create a world that is completely fictional!

Develop Your Plot

Every great narrative poem has a  well-structured plot. Start by outlining the key events, characters, and conflicts in your story and set the beginning, middle, and end of your poem, and consider how each part intertwines. 

Remember, you don’t need to go into too much detail by explaining the scene or introducing characters as this isn’t a novel. Keep it straight to the point yet engaging for your reader.  

Choose a Narrative Voice

The tone and narrative voice of your poem are crucial in setting the mood and capturing the reader’s attention. 

Do you want your poem to be narrated in a humorous tone? Or maybe even a mysterious one? Choose a narrative poem that aligns with the perspective of who is telling the story and, to make it even more personal, you can even use a first-person voice. 

Utilize Imagery and Sensory Detail

The aim with any compelling narrative poem is to create a vivid and rich picture in the mind of readers. You want them to transport themselves to the setting, visualize the events and feel the story unfold. 

Make use of sensory details to enhance the experience and think about the various descriptive words you can use to bring the narration to life. 

Focus on Figurative Language

Figurative language brings depth and richness to your narrative poem. Incorporate metaphors, similes, personification, and other literary devices to infuse your writing with a touch of elegance and lyrical beauty. 

Figurative language helps readers connect with the emotions and ideas conveyed in your poem, evoking a more profound and lasting impact.

Experiment with Structure and Form

We’ve looked at the different forms of narrative poems, so feel free to put them to use! You can opt for something more traditional like a ballad or epic, or perhaps choose a more contemporary form. 

Experiment with line breaks, stanza lengths, rhyme schemes, or even free verse and let the structure and form of your poem enhance the overall storytelling experience.

Summary 

Narrative poems are a beautiful piece of literature that allow you to blend the art of storytelling with the power of poetry. 

By seeking inspiration, focusing on figurative speech, utilizing sensory descriptions, and developing an engaging plot, you can conjure up a compelling narrative poem that tells your story perfectly. 

Grab your pen, let your imagination soar, and embark on the thrilling adventure of crafting narrative poetry!

Ever sat down to write a piece of text and found yourself stuck on whether to use effect or affect? You’re not the only one!

In fact, learning the difference between affect vs effect is one of the most common questions people have, which is understandable seeing as they can both be verbs and nouns, and their meanings can overlap—triple threat! 

Here’s how to remember affect vs effect 

• Affect is a verb (an action word)
• Effect is a noun (an object word)

How to use affect:

Affect refers to a change being produced or an act taking place.

For example, “the hot weather affected the plants.” This implies that there has been a change in the plants because of the heat. 

Another way you can use the verb affect is if you’re referring to the idea of moving the feelings of something or someone.

For example, “The performance deeply affected her,” meaning feelings and thoughts had been altered. 

When you want to imply some sort of chance or to describe an action taking place, you’ll want to use the word affect.

How to use effect:

You’ll most likely see effect used as a noun to talk about the consequence or result of something.

An example of this would be, “Her low mood was an effect of her failed driving test.” 

Used in this way, effect tells us the end result of something, whereas affect is talking about an action and an influence that something had on something else. 

Affect vs Effect in a Sentence 

Daisy pushes Stanley into the puddle. 

Daisy has affected where Stanley was standing (because there has been a change).

Stanley being wet is the effect of Daisy pushing him (falling into the puddle was the result of being pushed). 

Examples of When to Use Affect vs Effect

• What effect did the loss have on the team?
• Did her words have any effect on you?
• The second cup of coffee had no effect on her
• A surprising effect of winning the award was that her sister was jealous 

• How will remote working affect our working hours?
• If I take this class it will negatively affect my grade in my other classes
• The weather today will affect my journey into work
• You know smoking cigarettes will affect your skin as you get older, right? 

Using Effect and Affect in Sentences 

• Scary movies can affect my sleep | Scary movies don’t have an effect on me
• My mom’s opinion has affected my decision to go to college | My mom’s opinion has had an effect on whether I should pursue college
• The car incident has affected my ability to drive alone | The car incident has had an effect on my ability to drive alone 

Here are additional examples of how to use affect and effect in your writing.

Common Mistakes People Make With the Affect vs Effect

You’ll see both affect and effect show up in more formal settings, especially in politics and on the news. It can get tricky to know which word to use when writing on your own. Let’s clear up some common misconceptions.

Is it Effect Change or Affect Change?

The right phrase here is “effect change,” because you’re saying you want to cause change.

You want there to be change as a result and remember, effect = result. 

For example, “As your new leader, I promise to effect change in the system,” which translates to “I want to bring about change.”

Is it Into Affect or Into Effect? 

The correct phrase in this instance is “into effect,” as we’re using the term as a noun to refer to something officially beginning.

For example, “These new rules will go into effect on Monday morning.” 

Is it Take Affect or Take Effect?

This is another phrase that often people get confused about. The right wording is “take effect,” as we’re referring to something beginning to apply. 

For example, “The new medication will begin to take effect within three hours.”

Essentially, the consequences of the medication will show soon.

In Summary: Effect vs Affect

Here’s an affect vs effect trick I like to use to remember which word I want to use:

• Effect = results
• Affect = change

When we use the word affect, we’re referring to something producing a change or influencing something.

For example, the weather will affect the traffic.

When we use the word effect, we’re talking about the result of the change.

For example, the effects of the weather have made the traffic heavier.

This is certainly a case of practice makes perfect so be sure to let us know how you get on with perfecting the difference. If you need further help with this topic, check out more info on affect vs. effect here.

We hope this guide was helpful!