Observation

Observation is an essential skill for the writer of fiction and it must be practised at all times and under all circumstances in order to gain any understanding of human nature. This means watching the faces of strangers, studying the meaning of their voices, eyes, gestures and mental characteristics and cultivating a healthy curiosity without falling into the trap of indulging in petty inquisitiveness. In all cases, observation should be treated to a carefully chosen dose of inference and reflected upon before any decision is made, Otherwise the dangers of libel and the consequent possibilities of legal action will be hard to avoid.
So far, probably more by luck than judgement, I have managed to steer clear of prosecution and wonder what comments other writers have to make about this subject.

Fiction Writing

Apart from the following elements :
observation
reading critically and creatively
curiosity
reflection
qualities of characters
presentation of scenes
plotting
unifying knowledge
what other items should we consider and develop in writing fiction?

Marketing

I keep trying (in vain) to find some lasting relationship between writing and marketing. The two skills must, inevitably, have direct links to each other, but I haven’t yet been able to arrange a suitable marriage for them. Initially, I see a strong possibility of a lasting partnership, but then I become quickly convinced that there will be too many problems and that separation can be the only outcome.
The interrelationship between matter (writing) and energy (marketing) must exist in the same way that it does in science. Consequently, until I manage to solve this problem, I shall have to learn quantum physics through the medium of Japanese which I’ll probably find more user-friendly.
So, sayonara and e = mc2 for a start…