Ancient Rome stands as a formidable empire renowned for its military might, architectural marvels, and enduring legacy. It is my favourite subject and period in time and I can talk about it for hours. Yet, beneath the grandeur of the Roman Republic and Empire lay a complex and often overlooked facet of society: the institution of slavery. In this exploration, we delve into the lives of slaves in ancient Rome, shedding light on their origins, roles, aspirations, and the intricate web of social, economic, and ethical complexities that defined their existence. The Origins of Roman Slavery Slavery in ancient Rome had diverse sources. Slaves could be captured in warfare, born…
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10 Easy Tips for Self-Editing Your Fictional Writing
Congratulations! You’ve poured your heart and soul into your manuscript, weaving a tapestry of characters, plot twists, and emotions. Yet, before your literary creation can dazzle readers, it requires a crucial step: editing. This for me, is the hard part, cutting fluff, sentences I spent hours finely tuning, only to then dump them in the bin. I am in the middle of fine tuning Even Gods Are Blind and it is getting there but all these blog posts are a perfect example of productive procrastination… Effective self-editing encompasses various stages, from developmental editing to copy editing (also known as line editing) and finally, proofreading. This comprehensive approach is the chisel…
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They Are Alive! 10 Lightning Tips for Crafting Compelling Characters
In the vast tapestry of literature, characters are the beating heart of the narrative. They are the souls that readers connect with, the voices that resonate, and the vessels through which stories come alive. Crafting memorable characters is an art form, one that requires a balance of creativity, empathy, and keen observation. Whether you’re a seasoned novelist or an aspiring writer, the journey of character creation is a path well worth exploring. In this exploration, we’ll delve into the depths of character development, unveiling ten tips to breathe life into your fictional creations and etch them into the hearts of your readers. 1. Know Thy Character Intimately Before you introduce…
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Venus: The Enigmatic Roman Goddess of Love and Beauty
In the pantheon of ancient Roman deities, few figures shine as brightly and enigmatically as Venus, the goddess of love, beauty, and desire. Known to the Greeks as Aphrodite, Venus transcends mere mythology to become a symbol of the profound and often complex emotions that bind humanity together. In this post, we delve into the multifaceted world of Venus, a goddess who embodies the eternal allure of love and beauty. She is an important character in my novel, Even Gods Are Blind. Birth of Venus Venus’s origin is rooted in myth, and her birth is the stuff of legend. According to Roman mythology, she emerged fully grown and remarkably beautiful…
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A Review of “Circe” by Madeline Miller: A Mythic Masterpiece
If you have read the Odyssey by Homer, you are probably familiar with the name Circe. When Odysseus and his crew meet Circe, she invites them to her palace and offers them a feast. However, she uses her magic to turn them into pigs. Odysseus, with the help of the god Hermes, receives a magical herb, which protects him from Circe’s spells. He confronts Circe, demands the release of his crew, and eventually persuades her to turn his men back into humans. They stay with Circe for a year before continuing their journey. And that was all we knew of Circe until now…. Step into the beguiling world of Greek…
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Plotter Or Pantser? Do You Need A Narrative Road Map?
It is almost that time again. November. That means two things. My birthday and NaNoWriMo. Every year, I give it a go, yet I never seem to get those 50,000 words down in 30 days and registered! Perhaps this year will be different (I say that every December). One very divisive argument surfaces in late October and that is whether you are a Plotter or a Pantser. If you have never heard of these words before, please continue reading and discover which you might be… Writing a novel is an adventure into the unknown, a journey where the destination is often as mysterious to the writer as it is to…
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Mastering the Craft: 12 Aspects Writers Should Perfect.
Fictional writing is a craft that demands not only creativity but also meticulous attention to detail. Whether you’re a novice writer eager to learn or an experienced wordsmith honing your skills, there are critical elements you need to watch for when writing. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 12 key aspects writers should be vigilant about to improve the quality and impact of their work. The other option is to sell your soul in exchange for a perfect manuscript and an wonderful agent. If anyone knows how I can go about this, please leave a comment below 🙂 1. Filler Words: The Culprit of Fluff Filler words are the saboteurs…
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10 Famous Writers’ Quotes On Writing Advice When You Are Stuck
Before we delve into the treasure trove of wisdom offered by some of the world’s most renowned writers, let’s take a moment to appreciate the profound insights they’ve shared about the art of writing. From Mark Twain’s sage advice to Stephen King’s musings on the creative process, these quotes offer not only guidance but also a glimpse into the minds of literary giants. Join me on a journey through the words of these celebrated authors as they share their writing advice. Whether you’re an aspiring writer seeking inspiration or a seasoned wordsmith in need of a reminder, these pearls of wisdom will resonate with you and shed light on the…
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Emperors of the Roman Empire: From Augustus to Constantine
The Ancient Roman Empire, one of history’s most influential and enduring civilizations, was defined by its formidable emperors who wielded immense power and shaped vast portions of the world with ruthless ambition. As a devoted enthusiast of the early Roman Empire, I’m thrilled to present to you this list of extraordinary individuals who guided this ancient colossus. From the iconic Augustus to the transformative Constantine the Great, join me on a journey through time as we delve into the lives of 41 Rome’s emperors, exploring their achievements, legacies, and the intriguing tales that have survived the test of centuries. 1. Augustus (27 BC – 14 AD): Often considered the first…
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The Indulgent and Oily World of Roman Bathing
In the ancient Roman world, communal baths were much more than just places for physical cleansing. They were the epitome of social interaction, relaxation, and indulgence. The Roman baths served as hubs of civilization, where people from all walks of life would come together to not only cleanse their bodies and get a haircut or shave but also engage in conversations, forge business connections, and even partake in philosophical debates. The Origins of Roman Baths: A Blend of Cultural Influences The concept of public baths in ancient Rome finds its roots in the bathing traditions of ancient Greece and other Mediterranean cultures. As the Roman Republic expanded and came into…
