Writers
This carefully maintained dock holds a growing collection of the written word. Here, you’ll find thought provoking articles, unique stories, private letters, personal notes, deep musings, and occasionally, even poetry. Much of the content here has never been shared publicly. For whatever reason, some pieces were tucked away by the writer for years. Now, it’s all available for you.
The Yukon
Step into the rugged world of the Klondike with two of Robert W. Service’s most powerful poems. The Spell of the Yukon captures the restless pull of gold and the even greater lure of the land itself—a place of harsh winters, haunting silence, and wild beauty that refuses to let go of those who’ve known it. The Law of the Yukon thunders like the voice of the wilderness itself, laying down its brutal, unyielding demand that only the strong survive. Together, these poems remind us of the irresistible call of adventure, the price of survival, and the timeless majesty of the far north.
Life and All Its Cracker Barrels
What does a Cracker Barrel logo have to do with war, fate, and a Packard with a hood ornament you can’t unsee? In this unexpected tale about perspective, an old farmer’s steady response to every twist of fortune might just reframe how you see the world—and your inbox. Caps lock optional.
Plot Twists and Rabbit Trails (Business Edition): How to Write with Clarity, Focus, and a Point
In business, words are tools—not decorations. In Plot Twists and Rabbit Trails (Business Edition), Tami Nantz shows how to trade clever detours for clear direction. From trimming rabbit trails to structuring your message for scanning eyes, she explains how to write emails, proposals, and memos that get read—and acted on. You’ll discover when a well-placed twist or side story sharpens your point, and when it just muddies the waters. The takeaway? Clarity wins every time.
Plot Twists and Rabbit Trails: How to Keep Readers Curious
In this playful and insightful piece, Tami Nantz explores how the best stories don’t always stick to the main road. With examples from masters like Daniel James Brown, Michael Perry, and Agatha Christie, she explains how rabbit trails and plot twists—when done with purpose—can turn good writing into unforgettable storytelling. Whether you’re crafting fiction or memoir, this will show you how detours can add depth, build connection, and keep readers turning pages with curiosity.
What If? Seven Retellings of the Tortoise and the Hare
The timeless fable of The Tortoise and the Hare offers not only a moral lesson in perseverance and humility, but also a unique opportunity to explore the power of voice in storytelling. By examining how this simple tale transforms when retold in the distinct styles of literary and cultural figures, we gain insight into how tone, structure, rhythm, and diction shape meaning and emotional impact. An engaging study in authorial voice, these vastly different versions demonstrate how the same narrative can be molded to reflect satire, gravity, humor, or inspiration—depending on the storyteller. It’s a creative and educational way to deepen students’ understanding of literary style and to appreciate the diverse ways stories can be told.
Ready, Set, Write! A Kid’s Guide to Creating Awesome Stories
Think you might have a story inside you? This playful and encouraging guide helps young writers take their first steps toward crafting unforgettable tales. From dreaming up wild “what ifs” to building believable characters and daring settings, this Writers Dock post will show kids that the secret to writing isn’t waiting for inspiration—it’s just starting. Perfect for any aspiring author ready to dive in and have fun!
Exploring Poetry: An Introduction for Beginners
There’s something magical about poetry—it helps us slow down, look closer, and say things we didn’t know we needed to say. In this piece, you’ll find a gentle introduction to the world of poetry: simple explanations of rhythm, imagery, and word choice, along with easy writing exercises designed to unlock your creative spark. Whether you’re brand new to writing or just looking for a fresh start, this is your invitation to experiment, express, and explore what only you can say.
A Star Is Born
Before it became an Oscar-winning soundtrack or a modern Hollywood epic, A Star Is Born began here—in 1937—with a script that captured the beauty and heartbreak of chasing dreams. The writing behind this original version sparked a legacy so enduring, it has been remade three times over nearly 90 years. Dive into the film that inspired generations of writers, filmmakers, and artists—and see how great stories begin here on the Writers Dock.
Write, Share, Grow: Why Blogging Still Matters
Blogging has come a long way since its early days, but at its heart, it’s still a simple, effective way to share your voice with the world.
Words of Wisdom: Writing Advice from the Greats
Every writer—aspiring or seasoned—needs a little guidance now and then. Words of Wisdom: Writing Advice from the Greats offers insights from literary legends like Mark Twain, Roald Dahl, C.S. Lewis, and John Grisham, covering everything from simplicity in writing to the art of storytelling. Acclaimed writer Sean Dietrich adds a candid, humorous take on the reality of being a writer (spoiler: none of us really know what we’re doing). Whether you’re battling self-doubt, finding your voice, or just need a fresh perspective, this collection of wisdom will challenge, inspire, and maybe even make you laugh. Grab a cup of coffee and let the greats guide your journey.
The Importance of Reading for Writers
Have you ever wondered how the best writers seem to string words together so effortlessly? I promise, it’s not magic—it’s reading! Yep, the simplest tool for improving your writing is something you probably already love—or at least don’t mind—doing.
Write Like a Pro: How Rhythm Makes Your Words Shine
Have you ever noticed how certain writing seems to pull you along like you’re riding a current? That’s good writing rhythm at work—it’s what keeps readers connected and engaged, even if they don’t know why.