Writing & Game Mastering | LOL 056

Writing & Game Mastering | LOL 056

Author: Lex Starwalker May 2, 2022 Duration: 1:01:12
This week I answer a variety of questions submitted by listener Matt Yancik. I cover a variety of writing-related topics including comparing writing and game mastering, comparing discovery writing and outlining, and the kinds of appendices I’d like to put in my book.

Ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes as a science fiction novel comes to life? Lex Out Loud: Writing Science Fiction pulls back the curtain, offering a raw, ongoing audio diary from author Lex Starwalker. Currently deep in the process of crafting a third novel, Lex invites you into the workshop to witness the triumphs, frustrations, and daily decisions that shape a work of speculative fiction. This isn't a polished lecture series; it's a companionable, real-time exploration of the craft. You'll hear Lex think through plot tangles, wrestle with character motivations, and dissect the balance between scientific plausibility and compelling narrative. The discussions naturally extend beyond just writing novels, touching on world-building applicable to game masters and the broader joys and challenges found within the genre. Each episode of this podcast feels like a conversation with a fellow creator, sharing hard-won insights as they are discovered. If you've ever been curious about how stories are built from the ground up, or if you're looking for a thoughtful companion for your own creative endeavors, this is a space where process is celebrated over product. Tune in to follow the journey, episode by episode, as the book-and the writer-evolve.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Lex Out Loud: Writing Science Fiction
Podcast Episodes
The Joy of Fountain Pens  | LOL 050 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:36
Today I share my love of fountain pens with you. I used to hate writing longhand. Now I love it, and it’s all because of fountain pens (and the inks, of course!).
Preparing to Write Book Two  | LOL 049 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:33
I share my thoughts and process, as I begin preparing for the second book in the series. I also talk about how I plan on handling an ensemble cast of characters.
Alpha Readers & Beta Readers  | LOL 048 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:40
Today I define what specifically the terms “alpha reader” and “beta reader” mean to me and how I use them in my editing process. I also reflect on why it’s really a good idea not to let anyone read your first draft.
Editing the First Draft  | LOL 047 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:22
Today I talk about beginning the process of editing the first draft of my novel. I also talk about the importance of taking some time off between finishing the first draft and beginning the second draft and how it was re…
The Road So Far | LOL 046 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:09:45
I have finished the first draft of my novel! In the season 2 finale episode, I reflect on the last year and the progress I’ve made in this novel. I also talk about what’s in store for the coming year, both in terms of my…
Learning through Reading: Increasing Momentum | LOL 045 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:51
One of the best ways to become a better writer is to read a lot. Today I talk about pacing. I share some observations I’ve made of a lot of books I’ve read recently—how they gradually increase momentum as the book progre…
How to Receive a Critique | LOL 044 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:58
Today I continue my series on writing groups and critiquing with a discussion of how to receive a critique.
Sci-Fi/Fantasy Word Counts & The Wheel of Time | LOL 043 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:19
Today I’m going to share the ideal word counts for a debut sci-fi or fantasy novel. After that I’ll talk a bit about what I’ve learned as a writer from The Wheel of Time.
Backup Best Practices | LOL 042 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:24
In episode 41 I talked about best practices for formatting your manuscript. This week I discuss best practices for backing up your manuscript and other files relevant to your work in progress. If you follow this advice,…
Manuscript Best Practices | LOL 041 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:45
Today I’m going to recommend some best practices when it comes to writing your actual manuscript. These include the best software to use and guidelines on formatting your manuscript.