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A spread of ripe watermelons which represent the blog review: In Watermelon Sugar

From Beat to Surrealism: How Kerouac and Brautigan Transformed American Literature.

The Beat Generation: Discovering Jack Kerouac It is only every so often you come across an author who challenges what you thought was possible. Richard Brautigan is one such author. I remember becoming fascinated with the life of Jack Kerouac. More so his lifestyle and influence on the literary world than anything. Inspired by Rimbaud, Celine and later, musicians like Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker whose jazz beat, influenced Kerouac’s prose. This style later went on to be known as

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Story Structure

Unlocking the Magic of Stories: A Reader’s Guide to Understanding Structure

I’ve not always been an avid reader. Nor have I always been an avid writer. However, there has always been one thing that captivated me, and that’s the power in understanding story structure. And whether it’s a book, or a movie the stories have remained with me for life. All while some have completely vanished from the recesses of my mind. I’m guessing you’ve had similar experiences, but have you ever stopped to wonder why? The fact is there’s a

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Creative writing advice

Why I Write: Explore the Power of Story and Creative Expression

Introduction: The question which matters I’ve been writing—creatively—for several years now. But have never stopped to ask, this seemingly cliché’d question: why do I write? Reflecting on the power of storytelling in creative writing, it appears that the ability to shape narratives holds a significant influence over our emotions and perspectives. To me, the answer would always seem quite obvious: because I love it! Yet, isn’t that as cliché’d as the question itself. However, I’ve grown as a writer over

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Stale Crumpets and cheese; a coming of age tale

Finding Hope in Stale Crumpets & Cheese: A Free Coming-of-Age Tale

In the world of literature, some stories have the power to touch our hearts and our souls. Today, I’m pleased to share with you one such coming of age tale, which is now available, as a Free Download, on Book Funnel. Welcome to Stale Crumpets and Cheese.  Here we have a short story, crafted and published by myself, that’s sure to resonate with readers of all ages. This narrative is a classic coming of age tale. Introducing Coco: A Self

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Contemporary war fiction based in Afghanistan

Afghani: A Contemporary War Fiction With a Captivating Narrative

War is a racket and culture is blind! This fascinating Afghani novel, a piece of contemporary war fiction, features a dual timeline that vividly explores war and culture. Welcome to the world of contemporary war fiction where Brendon Patrick’s “AFGHANI” stands out as a lone, but powerful and uncompromising voice that dares to explore the dark side of military life. Set against the backdrop of Australia’s longest running war, in Afghanistan, this captivating novel offers readers a visceral journey through

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Unlock creativity through reading and journaling

Unlock Your Creativity with Reading and Journaling

Reading would have to be the simplest pastime known—universally. I mean, you can do it anywhere. You can do it at the departure lounge while you wait for your flight. You can do it on the bus. You can do it on a train. You can even do it standing on your head. However, I would leave that to the more advanced readers out there. One way to unlock creativity with reading and journaling is to make these activities a

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Genre hopping books

Genre Hopping: Unlocking Literary Diversity and Personal Growth Through Reading

In my late teens and twenties, I barely read, gravitating towards non-fiction and newspapers. It wasn’t until I began writing my debut novel, ‘Afghani,’ that I discovered the transformative power of exploring different literary genres. Each genre offers a fresh perspective, inviting us to view the world through diverse lenses. This blog post will delve into why we often get stuck in our reading ruts and how stepping outside our comfort zones can enrich our lives. Join me on this journey to unlock literary diversity and personal growth through the magic of reading. Happy reading!

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Story Structure basic

5 Simple Steps to Understand How Stories Work

When I was younger, I didn’t understand how stories work—but I still devoured them. Some stayed with me for days, weeks, or even years after I turned the final page. Others were enjoyable but fleeting, leaving me wondering: What makes one story unforgettable and another easily forgotten? The answer, I’ve learned, lies in understanding how stories work.  Authors use specific tools—structure, characters, and themes—to connect with us on a deep, emotional level. The more I uncovered these techniques, the more I enjoyed reading and,

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About Me

Brendon Patrick is the author of ‘Afghani’, a historical fiction novel, and other short stories.

Now settled in Brisbane, Brendon is a self-taught writer. Also, as a descendant of the Afghani Cameleers.

A proud Bulldog father, he also runs Bulldog Slef Publishing.

About Me

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