Line By Line Time is a weekly Mini-Critique in which writers/authors share a few lines that demonstrate the week’s topic. On June 10, 2000, the #LineByLineTime topic was “First Lines.” The writing I read during the hour convinced me that excellent “wielders of pen” were participating. That evening, I offered the opening to Members of the Cast, one of 80 attempts:
The year Margo learned to say no started in October of 1959.
The line hinted at the book’s ending, and the comments were inciteful. Through the critiques, I realized that while many liked my first line, it wasn’t being interpreted as I planned. I chatted with some participants and reworked the opening. The published book begins:
Outside the apartment door, Margo’s biggest problem was the “F” on her Biology test. Inside, it didn’t matter; her parents were leaving.
My final opening is less ethereal and better settles the reader in the scene—and Margo’s state of mind. Apparently, it works because the book keeps selling.
Regardless of COVID, family and work difficulties, storms, or heat waves, writers have generously shared their lines and eagerly offered suggestions to strengthen the writings of others. It has been marvelous to watch.
The biggest complaint is that the hour passes too quickly, and participants fall behind, trying to read all the great offerings. The rewards are many: meeting writer friends, seeing growth in us all, and realizing that we all struggle to “get the words right.”
If you are on Twitter and haven’t participated, give us a try on Wednesday evening at 9 Eastern.
Thanks to all my #LineByLineTime friends. You are well-loved.
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