Poetry Fun-0-1: Greetings from the Emerald Isle

Column by Brian McGackin
Where do you think limericks even came from?

Amtrak Residency Application Terms and Conditions: Proceed With Caution

Column by Jessica Meddows
March 11, 2014 (6) comments
After discussion on Twitter and a trial-run with author Jessica Gross, Amtrack opened its residency applications to writers on March 8, 2014. But some of the terms and conditions are a bit curious...

Write Drunk: The Science of Altered States and Creativity

Column by Rob Blair Young
March 11, 2014 (13) comments
The idea that altered states lead to creativity is an established cultural "wisdom." But is the "write drunk" mentality accurate? I look at the science while conducting a study of my own.

Death Threats and the Death of the Book Review

Column by Dean Fetzer
March 7, 2014 (11) comments
Are we entitled to some kind of reciprocal linking if we review someone’s book (particularly if we write a good review)? More's to the point - is there any point to book reviews?

LURID: O Unlucky Man - Christopher Marlowe

Column by Karina Wilson
March 7, 2014 (3) comments
Christopher Marlowe, troublemaking trailblazer, forever the second-greatest Elizabethan dramatist, celebrates his 450th birthday this year. Lurid takes a look at his colorful life and legacy.

The Top 10 Reasons I May Have Rejected Your Short Story

Column by Susan DeFreitas
March 6, 2014 (11) comments
Submitting short fiction to literary journals? Consider this your hit list (or shit list) for avoiding rejection.

Storyville: Kill Your Darlings—How 'Game of Thrones' Can Change Your Writing

Column by Richard Thomas
March 6, 2014 (8) comments
We can learn some valuable lessons about plotting, characters, and expectations from watching (or reading) 'Game of Thrones.'

The Rookie's Guide to The LitReactor Writer's Workshop

Column by Brandon Tietz
March 4, 2014 (8) comments
Considering joining our workshop but still have questions? Are you intrigued by the idea but aren't sure if this process is for you? Brandon Tietz, one of our alums, is here to provide some answers.

Happy Birthday, Dr Seuss!

Everyone's talking about Dr Seuss' 110th birthday. For me, it's been a time to revisit the books that made me fall in love with words — and that love hasn't tarnished over the years.

40 for 40: Science Fiction and Fantasy Novels that Changed My Life

Column by Rajan Khanna
February 28, 2014 (7) comments
On the occasion of his 40th birthday, columnist Rajan Khanna looks at 40 novels that had a significant effect on him as a reader and writer.