Tell Me All About You…

Posted on by inkbiotic

 

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Hello fellow Blogsters,

Over the past year, I’ve rattled on quite enough about me, now I want to know about you. Sometimes blogging can feel like I’m throwing posts out to the world, with no real clue what I’m doing. It makes me wonder how other people go about blogging and what it means to them. It doesn’t matter if you are a regular reader or are just in the mood to chat, I want to know about YOU. Please answer in the comments below, or if you feel particularly inspired, you can write on your own blog and put a link in the comments.

Questions, questions, questions…

If you are a blogger, how would you describe what you write about? Are there specific themes you stick to or a style you use? (feel free to add a link)

Do you write driven by inspiration or do you struggle to find things to say?

Which kinds of posts do you most like writing? Do other people like reading them?

What wouldn’t you ever write about? Why?

What’s your favourite post that you’ve written? (again, add a link if you like) What did you like about it? Did other people ‘get’ it?

What’s your favourite post that someone else has written? What about it caught your attention?

Do you keep a blog because you want it to lead somewhere? Or do you just like writing?

What sort of blogs do you most like to read? Personal? Stories? Factual? Pictures?

What kind of posts put you off reading? Is there anything else about a blog that puts you off (eg fonts, popups)?

When do you write and read blogs? From work? On the toilet? Inside a volcano?

If you  want to add any questions, that would also be great. 🙂

I’ll post with my answers on Friday…

 

48 thoughts on “Tell Me All About You…”

      1. Oooh, what a lot of questions, and all about me! (Well, and you, and you, and that other person …)

        I can’t possibly answer all of them here — anyway, need to hone the replies to razor-sharpness, and that takes time — so just a couple of quick responses, and thank you for the oxygen of publicity (in Mrs Thatcher’s infamous phrase).

        I mostly write reviews of books — in a range of periods and genres — as well as about generally bookish matters and occasionally politics with both a big and a small ‘p’. (For those you don’t know me that’s at http://calmgrove.wordpress.com).

        Your detailed questions about the actual process of blogging I’ll leave for a different time and space, if I may, with a link, but I’ll answer what sort of blogs I most read and that’s (a) bookish blogs, (b) the odd creative writing blog — flash fiction, say, or poetry — and (c) the odd photoblog. (That ‘odd’ as in occasional, not peculiar).

        When do I write and read blogs? Well, the joys of being retired! Any time I have an hour so to write, and a few minutes to check my ‘followed’ feed. Where? In the living room if on a laptop, pretty much anywhere at home if on a mobile. On the loo? How very dare you!

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      2. Hehehe, of course I should have known you were too sophisticated for toilet blogging (the desire to make a sick pun is great, but I shall resist!) Thank you for some fine answers. Your bookish and political blogs always have interesting insight, even if some of it goes above my head!
        Come back with a link if you decide to write more 🙂

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  4. OMG! Great questions. Can’t answer them all here. But I write my blog because I want it to lead somewhere! I post sections of “my book”, I invite friends to read and comment, then I remove those sections. Why do I remove them? I do not want to get addicted to “positive feedback.” If I remove a section, I am no longer waiting for a “like” or a “follow” so I am motived to write more. I could bore you with additional responses to your question, but here’s a section. Read my “About” to figure out the rest. Thank you asking! And, yes, your writing is teaching me a lot! So here you go: https://randomwalkthroughintelligentuniverse.wordpress.com/

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  5. I’m not entirely sure but, I suspect ‘your readers’ would appreciate it more if you approached this goal by ‘visiting and reading their blogs’. That’s why they’re blogging, to be read, just like you. So occurs a visible display of interest and an authentic exchange of ideas. You with me?

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    1. I do visit other blogs! I love reading what people have to write, plus commenting and so on. But sometimes I’m interested in specific information which people may not have talked about. Especially since most blogs I follow are fiction blogs – so more likely to be stories than opinion.
      In the past I’ve found people quite like answering questions, and it’s an enjoyable way to connect and interact, it isn’t meant to be instead of reading other blogs. Bloggin works great as a dialogue, but it isn’t simply a conversation, I like playing with how it works, seeing what’s possible. See?

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      2. No problem! I’m just fumbling my way through this blogging thing, so different views are always interesting – that’s why I was asking the questions after all, to get different opinions 🙂

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  6. Hmmm … I could approach this many ways, but I’m short on time at the moment, and I’m not sure if I really want to “blow my cover” ….

    I’ve written many many many blogs – I can’t even remember them all anymore – from the personal just sharing the day to day and with some more specific content about interests, like gardening and knitting, dashed with some light fiction. And for whatever reason, this was my most “popular” blog.

    Time moves, things happen, we change, my interests shifted a bit – and I started writing differently – using blogging as a way to explore my long lost creative writing – which was once upon a time, really about short story writing. So I started playing the prompts – and ended up all over WP – daily post, different prompt sites, strictly flash fiction, poetry, mixed bags etc.

    It was about experimentation and playing and really became “fiction” – although, there was still a fair amount of more personal content – but transcribed as influences – rather than personal story -telling. Much of the darker stuff and nasty personal scars, wounds etc. filtered through this – so what’s real or not? only I could tell you.

    Then, change it up change it up flip it over and dump it rough.

    For me, I felt a shift and tried to marry the two – but it seemed like 2 worlds colliding – can’t quite bring the fusion into being – so I slipped back into prompts – and have just begun to add other “interests” – like music videos or art work – but with no personal comments or sharing of why – unless someone asks or mentions something in the comments.

    I have more than one blog – but I’m only using and allowing one to be public – and like I said – it’s just about writing – creative writing and playing around. And really, I’m not sure most days why I bother – and this has nothing to do with stats – lack there of – or responses etc. It’s more that I’m still trying to find something of me – somewhere – and I just can’t quite nail it.

    So I see my space as a project – yet another project – and that’s okay too – I get a chance to play around, hopefully write something of interest and of decent quality sometimes, as well as see what others are doing for the same things. And then, I wander about – I read all kinds of blogs – from straight up photoblogs to foodie blogs, to personal stories to whatever. Some I stay with, others I hang around for a bit – others are just a few visits and then, I move on.

    The one thing that annoys the stink out of me are blogs that are monetized – not because people shouldn’t have sponsors or whatever – but because so often the ads on these spaces/places take forever to load – and the scripts cause interruptions and all kinds of crap – that I really don’t want or need. The best sites don’t let this happen. So if a site’s owner has gone this route – and has less than “awesome” sponsors or advertising, then I don’t care how great the content is – bloggus interuptus means I’ll be heading to the door.

    Right, that’s long enough.

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    1. It doesn’t surprise me that you took an explorative route to get to your blog now, it has a clarity of focus, unlike mine which all over the place. Whether you get readers or not, your prose is so delightful, and the images you create so memorable, that I’m glad your posts exist where people can see them. I’m with you on annoying ads. Thanks for replying! 🙂

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      1. well see, I’m laughing here – because I think my blog is too focused …. I mean, it’s good, right, but I think “how come you can’t create as freely as Petra?” huh??? because I think your blog is focused – it’s about creative writing, and you have a gift to pull stuff out of your head – and work it and write it out – and as you know, I think you write exceptionally well.

        But I will say, thank you for the comments and compliments.

        But I don’t think of myself as a writer – I used to – you know, a writer who wants to but doesn’t write …. and then yeah, a writer …. but no? really? maybe it was all wishful thinking ….

        and I’m guessing here, that not only are you curious about others and why etc. but also because you have this whole new book thing going on – and now wondering – how do I incorporate this? do I give it it’s own space? do I need a particular “blog book site” etc. etc.

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      2. Aw, you’re lovely! 🙂 I’m not sure I think of myself as a ‘writer’ either, it sounds daft. Maybe if people paid me to do it, but that’s optimistic.
        it’s true I’m wondering how having a book fits in, in anywhere, really. I want people to read what I write, but I’m scared that trying to achieve it means becoming a soulless wreck of a human being. I’m impressed by people who manage to find a balance, I’m not convinced I’m smart enough to figure it out.

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      3. Actually, I do think you are smart enough to figure it out – and yup, you’re from the “old school” – you’re 43 and I’m 48 – so we grew up with “writing as a means of living means …. ” insert all the crap and garbage …. and “you better have something worthwhile to say because you think you’re good enough to be in league with….” insert all the big names.

        I’m guessing I’m not far off here?

        So soulless wreck? Listen, bottom line: are you passionate about what you write? Are you passionate and interested in your story? your book? then believe it – someone else did – and if you took the time, effort, patience, dedication and discipline to work on it, through it – whether in secret or with lots of support or little or whatever …. then isn’t this the next step???

        LOL – yeah, easier said than done, I know – for all the reasons that are …. but whether you know this or not – I could be your worst nightmare – if it’s come to this point? you’re on the brink of something huge – even if you’re not a household name yet? (even if you never aspire to that?) – still, I’ll cheer you on …… because if someone else said “hey – there really is something here” and it was someone you respected and valued their works – and they took a chance – then maybe swallow the hard lump in your throat and heart – and say “okay” …. yup …. as for how and the means, I have no idea – but I’m sure that you will find the ways best suited to you and your project – which is saying “we see the light of day!” Everyone starts somewhere …. pick any of your favourite authors …. so maybe, now is your step into the big beyond ….

        just saying…. and of course, you take or leave any or all of this and do what you feel is best for you…. no worries or anything weird over here 🙂

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      4. You speak wise words of wisdom wordwitch, and I shall be thinking about them a lot, seeing how I can fit them into my wonky logic and bigger plan – it takes me a while to process things. You’re very inspiring, I hope you are able to give yourself the same kind of boost (one that you definitely deserve). Have a beautiful day, and keep up the magical-word-spells, I think that’s what the world needs 🙂

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      5. you take all the time you need – you’ll find your way – I’m sure … and thank you 🙂 I think we all can use more magic in life – and word magic is totally cool. 🙂

        Have a wonderful rest of the week 🙂

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  7. Wow! What a wonderful dialogue you have started. I began to write my response and it is turning into an essay. I think I will do it as the next post on my blog as I had been thinking about doing one on blogging as well. I will definitely check out all the other bloggers who have responded to your post. This has brightened up my day as I was feeling a bit unsure of what to write next so thanks Petra. I always love reading your blog as it is so thoughtful, as well as entertaining. Kat

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    1. I look forward to seeing what you write, and I hope you do check out the other bloggers, there are some great ones in the comments. Thank you for your kind words, I always enjoy your blogs too 🙂 Have a lovely day

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  8. I just write, whatever pops up in my mind any given morning. And, of course, if I have some photographs to show. I write early in the morning, having my coffee and various cigarrettes, while doing this. As a reader, I prefer personal entries of people (preferably folks with a sense of humour, good photographers, gardeners and art-lovers, who have a way with words….) I dislike advertisement content and religious preaching. As for why I blog: mostly for myself, also for a few friends I know to follow. And for the rest of you, the cyberlot….

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    1. Interesting answers, i agree with you about advertising, although its unavoidable with some blogs, it always interrupts the flow. Early writing with coffee and cigarette sounds very civilised 😀

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  10. Reblogged this on Dragonition and commented:
    I really like these questions.

    If you are a blogger, how would you describe what you write about? Are there specific themes you stick to or a style you use? (feel free to add a link)
    – I am currently posting daily writing prompts. I also write short stories and poems. I don’t stick to any particular theme or genre but I do like to incorporate a little magic in most things. I used to post more random stuff but I’ve decided to narrow the focus of my blog just a smidge. If you are interested the link is https://purpldragon.wordpress.com/ .

    Do you write driven by inspiration or do you struggle to find things to say?
    – Sometimes I am just inspired to write and other times I have to force myself to write. Sometimes I just feel like writing and have no idea what I am going to write about until I pick up the pen but the writing just flows out. Other times I have this really great idea of what to write about but when I start writing it just wont flow.

    Which kinds of posts do you most like writing? Do other people like reading them?
    – I like writing stories best and people seem to like them.

    What wouldn’t you ever write about? Why?
    – I wouldn’t ever write about something I found boring unless I had good reason too.

    What’s your favourite post that you’ve written? (again, add a link if you like) What did you like about it? Did other people ‘get’ it?
    – I think my favourite story I have posted so far is The Lovers here is the link https://purpldragon.wordpress.com/2016/09/25/the-lovers-story-fragment/ it is a very short story. I liked the fact that it had more than one layer to it and I did this deliberatly which I don’t often think about. People still enjoyed it as a story but I know there is a metaphorical story hidden between the lines. I don’t know if anyone picked up that it was about consent. Maybe I should change the title but I didn’t want to make it obvious.

    What’s your favourite post that someone else has written? What about it caught your attention?
    – I have lots of favourites but here is one that I could find again. It is one of my favourite posts is Drop & Roll – Bend & Rub here is the link https://lifewithlunacat.wordpress.com/2016/09/12/drop-roll-bend-rub/ posted on life with luna cat which is a blog written mostly from the perspective of luna the cat. It is very entertaining to read.

    Do you keep a blog because you want it to lead somewhere? Or do you just like writing?
    – I keep a blog because I like writing and if it does lead somewhere that would be great and I kind of hope it might but mostly I keep it because I enjoy it.

    What sort of blogs do you most like to read? Personal? Stories? Factual? Pictures?
    – I like to read a variety but I especially like poetry, stories (any stories) and pictures always grab my eye.

    What kind of posts put you off reading? Is there anything else about a blog that puts you off (eg fonts, popups)?
    – I don’t like giffs or lots of movement of the page it makes my eyes hurt when I’m trying to read, especially if there is more than one.
    – If the post doesn’t have a title I probably won’t click on it, just put ‘untitles’ it is easier to access.
    – I struggle to read a post if the colour of text and the background colour are to similar for example both dark or both light, this is only okay if there isn’t much to read.
    – A huge chunk of italics or swirly font can be off putting. Fancy fonts are great in small doses though.

    When do you write and read blogs? From work? On the toilet? Inside a volcano?
    – I usually read and write blog posts in bed. I used to do it in my free time at uni.

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  13. I write flash fiction. Usually with some twist, hence my blog name. And I usually write when I’m inspired, but sometimes the inspiration is simply because I feel guilty that my few followers haven’t gotten a post from me for a while!

    I have a few favorite stories of my own, but truthfully, I tend to forget my own stories. Mostly because I’ve always written as therapy. Also, that while inspiration thing. Sometimes stuff just rattles around in my brain until I let it out, and then, when it’s gone, it’s gone.

    I read and write my blogs at various times. In bed, during lunch, washing dishes. I don’t work, so that gives me permission to just do whatever I feel compelled to do.

    I didn’t answer all your questions, partly to keep this post a bit shorter and partly because I don’t have answers. I enjoy your writing and I keep coming back. It helps that you write well. My husband calls me a snob, because I refuse to spend too much of my time deciphering bad writing.

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    1. I did wonder about your blog title, it summons up dramatic images as well as the straight forward description you say. But then why lumosvox? I’m intrigued.
      And you write your blog washing dishes?! That’s multitasking at its finest 🙂
      I think being discerning isn’t snobbish, time is precious; and I’m happy you spend some of it on reading my blogs 🙂

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      1. Ahh, my name. That’s a funny story. A long time ago, I was very much into playing World of Warcraft. I was a guild leader and we had a ventrilo server we used to talk to each other. The men in my guild loved my voice. Quite a few actually used it as a recruiting tool. I was told, several times, in several ways creative ways, how awesome it was. So, my screen name, lumosvox, means basically light voice.

        And yes, even while washing dishes! I have sometimes had a thought banging so hard against the inside of my head that I’ve had to stop mid-wash to write it down!

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      2. I’ve never played WoW, but lumosvox is exactly the kind of name I’d want – not sure I’d get given it though, foghornvox maybe 😉

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  15. Pingback: Tell Me All About You – at Milliways with a pen

  16. If you are a blogger, how would you describe what you write about? Are there specific themes you stick to or a style you use? (feel free to add a link)

    – I blog about my personal experience with mental illness, and am currently blogging through my journey to overcome anxiety and fear. Everything I write is deeply personal, and I try to keep it very raw and honest.

    Do you write driven by inspiration or do you struggle to find things to say?

    – I typically write driven by inspiration. Often I am telling stories from my life or sharing things that I have learned along the way.

    Which kinds of posts do you most like writing? Do other people like reading them?

    – I don’t know! I just love writing! My favorite experiences with writing happen when the inspiration comes to me as I write it. I don’t necessarily start with a plan, but by the end, something magical has taken place. This happened to me today in the following blog post: https://braverthanbefore.com/2017/02/09/do-whatever-it-takes-a-better-future-awaits/

    What wouldn’t you ever write about? Why?

    – I am pretty open and enjoy finding a way to relate to most topics! That being said, I tend to stay away from politics.

    What’s your favourite post that you’ve written? (again, add a link if you like) What did you like about it? Did other people ‘get’ it?

    – Yikes! I’m not sure. This is hard. I have really enjoyed writing all of my posts, and I have had lots of feedback on most of them, leading me to believe that people are really resonating with the subject matter. My favorite might be “A Story and an Invitation”, simply because this is where it all began. https://braverthanbefore.com/2017/01/24/a-story-and-an-invitation/

    What’s your favourite post that someone else has written? What about it caught your attention?

    – Oh my goodness, I have read so many amazing and inspiring blogs! How could I possibly decide? What catches my attention more than anything is honesty and vulnerability.

    Do you keep a blog because you want it to lead somewhere? Or do you just like writing?

    – I am writing to work through my mess, and hopefully to encourage and inspire others who are on the same kind of personal journey as me.

    What sort of blogs do you most like to read? Personal? Stories? Factual? Pictures?

    – I love reading the blogs of people I can relate to, people going through the same kinds of struggles as me.

    What kind of posts put you off reading? Is there anything else about a blog that puts you off (eg fonts, popups)?

    – I struggle with blogs that are all one big paragraph! I find them very visually difficult to concentrate on!

    When do you write and read blogs? From work? On the toilet? Inside a volcano?

    – I write blogs in the morning from my home office (typically between 7:30-8:30) before work. Then I will use my lunch hour to finish up, if needed, and share them on social media. I read blogs in the evening before bed!

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    1. Interesting answers, and I really like your blog! I think it’s the healthiest way to write – for yourself, but if other people enjoy it or it helps them, great. 🙂 It also good to see someone talking honestly about anxiety. Long may you blog!

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    1. I’m a great believer in fiction being our way of processing difficult situations, so to me it makes perfect sense that you’d head in that direction. Your original blog idea also sounds interesting though.

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