“Your first million words don’t count.” In other words you have to write a million words to get good.” I think this is a great thing to keep in mind in order to keep writing and keep striving to get better (and actually if you keep writing, you will get better). For poets this leads … Continue reading Mastering Poetry: Write a Million Words to Success
novel
Embracing the Poet Within: My Journey
The author reflects on their identity as a poet, acknowledging the healing power of poetry and expressing excitement for future projects.
Contest Winner and Publication: “Lake 17” for Lakefly Writing Contest. (Nonfiction)
My essay, “Lake 17,” won 3rd place in the Lakefly Writing Contest, based in Oshkosh, WI, earning me $50 and publication in Lakefly’s Winner’s Booklet…Contest Winner and Publication: “Lake 17” for Lakefly Writing Contest. (Nonfiction)
Lakefly 2026 Keynote Speaker
Lakely 2026 is on the horizon, and we are delighted to announce poet and author G. Anthony as our keynote speaker. G. Anthony first attended Lakefly …Lakefly 2026 Keynote Speaker
Overview & Tips of Writing
Writing Tom Cannon @Tcbcannon Dixie Jarchow writing as Daisy Jerico Habits and Tips (many from writing conferences) Find the best time for you to write. Keep trying to make it a habit. If you miss a day, you still get to be a writer. Keep some sort of journal, even if it is a word … Continue reading Overview & Tips of Writing
2 poems published in Wailing & Gnashing, subs always open!
Many thanks to Wailing & Gnashing for publishing two of my poems: “Footnote to a Footnote” from my collection Footnote (Lithic Press, 2017) of …2 poems published in Wailing & Gnashing, subs always open!
Vonnegut and Poetry
Many write poetry after breakups to express emotions, discovering beauty in life and crafting stronger messages through rhythm and imagination.Vonnegut and Poetry
Does Your Family Ignore Your Accomplishments?
The narrator reflects on a conversation with their dad about writing a new book, "No More Ugly Girls." Despite the dad's caring nature, he becomes distracted, leading to an unfulfilling exchange. The narrator feels that their family is uninterested in their life, revealing discomfort with self-disclosure and a longing for recognition.
Understanding Mental Health and Violence: Key Insights
Here is a post on Facebook in response to the mass shooting at the Minneapolis Church “It’s a mental health issue. These kids are constantly fed affirmations that there’s nothing wrong with them and then they get medication to change their brain chemistry. Etc etc. It’s akin to telling a schizophrenic that you’re okay and … Continue reading Understanding Mental Health and Violence: Key Insights
Self-Publishing vs. Small Presses
Should you self-publish? Should you go with a small press? I have done both. With either of them, there are questions to ask. Questions to find the answer to about the small press publisher you are considering. The first question is to determine if they are legit. Google them and look at websites like Writers … Continue reading Self-Publishing vs. Small Presses
Thomas Cannon Author 