The Soul and Science of Great Writing with Mara Eller

What makes some writing feel alive? And how can we bring that quality into our own work?

In this episode, I explore the “soul” of great writing, both descriptively—what that looks like on the page—and prescriptively—what writers can do to cultivate it.

We talk about the role of vulnerability, where writers go wrong in pursuit of authenticity, and how words can become a bridge to connection.

Plus, I share practical tips for tending to your writer soul and a sneak peek of what’s coming up next month!

Mentioned in this episode:

• Goodgoodgood.co and on Instagram
• Rebel Ridge
• What We Carry (there’s also a link to download a discussion guide, but careful—it contains spoilers!)

Send me a voice message with your questions or comments!

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Come join the discussion!

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And visit my website to learn more about my editing services, book coaching, and upcoming courses.

In this first full episode, I ask a deceptively simple question: what is great writing? If you’re like me, great writing is something you recognize on an intuitive level, but when you try to articulate what makes that writing great, things get . . . complicated. 

In this episode, I offer a way of thinking about great writing that cuts across genre and style—a simple framework, both descriptive and prescriptive, for naming what sits at the heart of every truly great work of literature.

Mentioned in this episode:

• “Introduction to Poetry” by Billy Collins
• The Writing Life by Annie Dillard (paraphrase from Chapter 7)
• Thomas Merton’s discussion of “the false self” in Chapter 2 of New Seeds of Contemplation

Send me a voice message with your questions or comments!

___________________________________

Come join the discussion!

Instagram

TikTok

Threads

Substack

And visit my website to learn more about my editing services, book coaching, and upcoming courses.

What makes writing great? Is it the spark of inspiration, unique voice, and intangible soul that breathes life into the words? Or is it the careful structure, repeatable strategies, and attention to detail that shape an idea into something readers can’t put down? 

In truth, it’s both. The Soul and Science of Great Writing brings creativity and craft together, both dissecting and reveling in the power of language.

We'll explore the qualities that set great writing apart, the challenges every writer faces, and the habits, strategies, and mindsets that help writers grow their creative craft. 

With a blend of solo deep-dives and conversations with authors, editors, and publishing professionals, each episode will offer both inspiration and practical tools to support your writing life—plus the occasional dip into literary and pop culture analysis to spark fresh inspiration.

Weekly episodes will begin dropping in January 2026!

Send me a voice message with your questions or comments!

___________________________________

Come join the discussion!

Instagram

TikTok

Threads

Substack

And visit my website to learn more about my editing services, book coaching, and upcoming courses.