A Snarky Guide to Master the Essential Elements of Fiction Writing

Balance

Have you ever spun a plate on a stick? How about three at once? 

I tried. "Tried" being the key word. I was also grounded after breaking half my mother's stoneware set. They were the wrong kind of plates, for one. I also didn't have the skill or knowledge to adjust the shifting weights. 

Good news! Balancing the elements in fiction writing is way easier than plate spinning. Wanna know how? Because learning "balance" is more of a formula than a party trick. 

No need for the groans. I didn't say "balance" is like math; I said 'formula.'

Like a recipe. 

Think about your story in terms of layers. 

'Ogres have layers.' Wait! No.

Writing is like a cake, remember? The ratio of sugar to butter may not be to everyone's preference, but everyone appreciates the mad skills it takes when a kick-ass dessert hits the table. 

"Layers? Balance?"

Everything is connected. You can't expect a phenomenal character's "voice" to hold up in a dud world. They'll have nothing to do! Just like an amazing frosting can't hold its shape without a solid foundation of cake underneath. 

How do you make a show stopper in writing? By keeping your cakes, frosting, and decorations balanced.