KN Magazine: Articles
Literary Alchemy: Ingredients of the Story – Foreshadowing
Foreshadowing is one of the most powerful tools in a writer’s craft, planting subtle clues that build suspense, deepen theme, and create satisfying payoffs. In this installment of Literary Alchemy, Chrissy Hicks breaks down how to use foreshadowing effectively—through dialogue, setting, symbolism, and character action—so readers stay engaged and every twist feels earned.
Japanese Literary Terms
Neil Plakcy introduces fifteen essential Japanese literary terms—like aware, jo-ha-kyū, mono no aware, and wabi-sabi—and shows how they can deepen emotional resonance in your writing. A guide to using cultural concepts to enrich storytelling, create atmosphere, and enhance character expression.
It Was a Dark and Stormy Night: Effective Use of Weather to Create Tension and Introduce an Atmosphere of Menace
Weather can do more than set the scene—it can create tension, foreshadow violence, and immerse readers in menace. This post explores how psychological thrillers use weather and atmosphere to amplify suspense and deepen characterization.
The Writer’s Playbook | A Ripe Kumquat
What do football fumbles and ripe kumquats have in common? Similes. This playful behind-the-scenes story from the Detroit Lions' radio booth morphs into a smart, engaging guide on writing vivid, effective similes in fiction—when to use them, how they work, and how not to kill your story with a clunky comparison.
Motifs for Murder
Motifs are a powerful tool in mystery writing, helping to develop themes, characters, and mood. This article explores the importance of motifs, such as crows, mirrors, and other repeated symbols, and how they contribute to the overall impact of a story.
Subplots Can Tighten Your Story’s Saggy Middle
Struggling to keep your story’s middle from dragging? Discover how subplots can add depth, drama, and momentum to your narrative—and keep readers turning pages all the way to the end.
Punctuation Is Power - Part 4: Finding your style: Free your mind and readers will follow
Finding your writing style is less about following rules and more about practicing until your voice emerges. Learn how punctuation, revision, and rhythm can help shape a voice readers will follow.
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