There are many plotting/outlining systems out there on the market. If you are having issues with plotting/outlining your novel, I highly recommend you take a look at a couple and take what works for you.
The following is a list (and is in no way complete).
- Snowflake Method
- Marshall Plan
- 30 Days to First Draft
- Book in a Month
- You Can Write A novel by James V. Smith Jr.
- 50 Cent Method
- Steve Manning Method
- Rob Parnell Method
As an interesting project for this year, I will focus on one method a month and post my results. Please, work along with me if you so desire. At the end of the month, I'll discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each system. Man this is going to be tiring!
Okay, well tomorrow is April 1st. I guess I need to decide what method ...
And of course, the final episode ... Dan Wells ladies and gentlemen
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Doc of the Month - The Long Way Around and The Long Way Down
I'm a sucker for a good documentary. If you pay attention to my Netflix queue you'll seem them pop-up now and again. So, I though I'd start sharing what I've enjoyed.
This past month, my wife and I became engrossed in Charley Boorman and Ewan McGregor's road trip series. As a fan of travel, and as someone who spent about a year on the road in the 90s, I couldn't pass up this series.
With a wife, two children, a mortgage, ... I just can't pick up and take-off. So, I can now live vicariously through these two guys.
After watching, how can you not become a fan of Ewan McGregor.
Listen, do yourself a favor and watch them. Each series is only 10 episodes. And who knows, maybe that travel bug will bite you ...
This past month, my wife and I became engrossed in Charley Boorman and Ewan McGregor's road trip series. As a fan of travel, and as someone who spent about a year on the road in the 90s, I couldn't pass up this series.
With a wife, two children, a mortgage, ... I just can't pick up and take-off. So, I can now live vicariously through these two guys.
After watching, how can you not become a fan of Ewan McGregor.
Listen, do yourself a favor and watch them. Each series is only 10 episodes. And who knows, maybe that travel bug will bite you ...
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Plotting - Resources
Steps 1+2+3 are how I start plotting my novel. You may have your own system. Find what works for you and enables you to complete your work and get it in the mail. That's the bottom line.
Anyway, the following are some resources you may want to check out:
Online Articles:
Randy Ingermanson's Snowflake Method
Stephon's Star Writing Novel Writing Diagram
Plotting Your Novel by Stella Cameron
Lee Masterson's Plotting Your Novel
Notecarding:Plotting under Pressure by Holly Lisle
Learn How to Create a Professional Plot Outline by Holly Lisle
Stretching the Tension by James Scott Bell
The Top 10 Plot Problems by Alicia Rasley
Free Outling/Organizing Software:
Freemind
StoryBook
WikidPad
Books:
Story by Robert MckKee
20 Master Plots by Ronald B. Tobias
The Writer’s Journey by Christopher Vogler
Writing the Breakout Novel and Workbook by Donald Maass
Stephen King on Writing
First Draft in 30 Days by Karen S Wiesner
From First Draft to Finished Novel by Karen S. Wiesner
You Can Write a Novel by James V. Smith, Jr.
Building Better Plots by Robert Kernen
Plot and Structure by James Scott Bell
Story Structure Architect by Victoria Lynn Schmidy
The Marshall Plan for Novel Writing and Workbook by Evan Marshall
The Easy Way to Write a Novel in 30 days by Rob Parnell
How to Write A Book on Anything in 14 Days or Less by Steve Manning
And of course ... Dan Wells
Anyway, the following are some resources you may want to check out:
Online Articles:
Randy Ingermanson's Snowflake Method
Stephon's Star Writing Novel Writing Diagram
Plotting Your Novel by Stella Cameron
Lee Masterson's Plotting Your Novel
Notecarding:Plotting under Pressure by Holly Lisle
Learn How to Create a Professional Plot Outline by Holly Lisle
Stretching the Tension by James Scott Bell
The Top 10 Plot Problems by Alicia Rasley
Free Outling/Organizing Software:
Freemind
StoryBook
WikidPad
Books:
Story by Robert MckKee
20 Master Plots by Ronald B. Tobias
The Writer’s Journey by Christopher Vogler
Writing the Breakout Novel and Workbook by Donald Maass
Stephen King on Writing
First Draft in 30 Days by Karen S Wiesner
From First Draft to Finished Novel by Karen S. Wiesner
You Can Write a Novel by James V. Smith, Jr.
Building Better Plots by Robert Kernen
Plot and Structure by James Scott Bell
Story Structure Architect by Victoria Lynn Schmidy
The Marshall Plan for Novel Writing and Workbook by Evan Marshall
The Easy Way to Write a Novel in 30 days by Rob Parnell
How to Write A Book on Anything in 14 Days or Less by Steve Manning
And of course ... Dan Wells
Plotting - Step 3
So now you should have a nugget summary of your entire story and a paragraph summary of each act. Does your nugget summary still apply? If not update it. It will change and there are no problems with updating it. Toss that old note card aside and write a new one.
Step 3 is about fleshing out your plot.
I look at deepening my plot by working in the following categories:
• Characters
• Plot Archetypes
• Basic Outline
• Subplots
• Transitions between acts
• Pacing
Characters are essential to the plot. There are plot driven and character driven novels, but most fall in between. So, you need to have well crafted characters that are unique and memorable. Think of them as real people and make sure they have all the foibles that we do. You want your readers to have an emotional connection to them. Readers don’t have to like your characters, they just have to be vested and interested in their story.
• I’ll write a paragraph summary describing my characters on one side of a notecard and their own personal story arc on the backside
Plot archetypes. The overall structure is 3 acts, but there are some major plot archetypes that add depth to the three act structure. People debate how many archetypes there are and I’ve seen numbers ranging from 1 to a lot. Make it easy on yourself pick up the 20 Master Plots by Ronald Tobias and hey, while you’re at it buy the Hero’s Journey by Christopher Vogler. I keep these as reference and use them as guidelines to make sure my story has the common items related to the genre I’m writing in.
• I’ll go back to my 3 Acts paragraph summaries and update them at this point
Basic Outline. Now I take my 3 acts summaries and break them out into about 7 – 10 Major Scenes/plot points and write a paragraph about each. You are beginning to sketch out your plot. Iif need be adjust your nugget and your act summaries at this point do so. Like I said before, I usually start at the end and work backwards. But if I get stuck, I’ll start at the beginning and move forward see if that helps.
• I’ll end this step with 7 -10 summary paragraphs of the major plot point/scenes
Subplots. All great stories have subplots. They add diversion and create tension. They provide character development and back story. They assist in developing the theme. So, I’ll review my character summaries and my major plot point summaries and start creating some subplots. My rule is that when adding subplots they enhance the main plot by adding more conflict, tension, complications
• I’ll go back to my 3 acts summaries and add the subplot information
• I’ll write plot points for the subplots on notecards and add them to my 7-10 major plot point note card stack
Transitions - How you move from Act 1 to Act 2 from Act 2 to Act 3. Transitions are important and I try to make sure each act ends on a twist. Usually, I start a brainstorm sheet and list what I think would typically happen at the end of each act. Then I try to list everything else no matter how outlandish it sounds that also might happen. I’ll then choose a twist from that list as opposed to the humdrum normal act ending list. Don’t do the normal. Find something that twists your plot.
• Once I’ve decided I will add a line or two at the end of each act summary and then update the master plot point note cards.
Pacing. You want your readers to turn the page. So at his point, I review everything else and make sure there are enough tension, conflict, complications, crisis and intriguing characters. I then look at ways of enhancing the pacing. One way is to make sure I am starting my story as close to the end as possible. Then, I’ll look at other ways, such as using a ticking clock, a calendar, seasons, as my chapter headings.
• I’ll update my major plot point summary note cards at this point
Okay, do I have to say it, Dan Wells …
Step 3 is about fleshing out your plot.
I look at deepening my plot by working in the following categories:
• Characters
• Plot Archetypes
• Basic Outline
• Subplots
• Transitions between acts
• Pacing
Characters are essential to the plot. There are plot driven and character driven novels, but most fall in between. So, you need to have well crafted characters that are unique and memorable. Think of them as real people and make sure they have all the foibles that we do. You want your readers to have an emotional connection to them. Readers don’t have to like your characters, they just have to be vested and interested in their story.
• I’ll write a paragraph summary describing my characters on one side of a notecard and their own personal story arc on the backside
Plot archetypes. The overall structure is 3 acts, but there are some major plot archetypes that add depth to the three act structure. People debate how many archetypes there are and I’ve seen numbers ranging from 1 to a lot. Make it easy on yourself pick up the 20 Master Plots by Ronald Tobias and hey, while you’re at it buy the Hero’s Journey by Christopher Vogler. I keep these as reference and use them as guidelines to make sure my story has the common items related to the genre I’m writing in.
• I’ll go back to my 3 Acts paragraph summaries and update them at this point
Basic Outline. Now I take my 3 acts summaries and break them out into about 7 – 10 Major Scenes/plot points and write a paragraph about each. You are beginning to sketch out your plot. Iif need be adjust your nugget and your act summaries at this point do so. Like I said before, I usually start at the end and work backwards. But if I get stuck, I’ll start at the beginning and move forward see if that helps.
• I’ll end this step with 7 -10 summary paragraphs of the major plot point/scenes
Subplots. All great stories have subplots. They add diversion and create tension. They provide character development and back story. They assist in developing the theme. So, I’ll review my character summaries and my major plot point summaries and start creating some subplots. My rule is that when adding subplots they enhance the main plot by adding more conflict, tension, complications
• I’ll go back to my 3 acts summaries and add the subplot information
• I’ll write plot points for the subplots on notecards and add them to my 7-10 major plot point note card stack
Transitions - How you move from Act 1 to Act 2 from Act 2 to Act 3. Transitions are important and I try to make sure each act ends on a twist. Usually, I start a brainstorm sheet and list what I think would typically happen at the end of each act. Then I try to list everything else no matter how outlandish it sounds that also might happen. I’ll then choose a twist from that list as opposed to the humdrum normal act ending list. Don’t do the normal. Find something that twists your plot.
• Once I’ve decided I will add a line or two at the end of each act summary and then update the master plot point note cards.
Pacing. You want your readers to turn the page. So at his point, I review everything else and make sure there are enough tension, conflict, complications, crisis and intriguing characters. I then look at ways of enhancing the pacing. One way is to make sure I am starting my story as close to the end as possible. Then, I’ll look at other ways, such as using a ticking clock, a calendar, seasons, as my chapter headings.
• I’ll update my major plot point summary note cards at this point
Okay, do I have to say it, Dan Wells …
Monday, March 29, 2010
Plotting - Step 2
So on my last plotting entry I wrote about my first step and the four phases that made it up. Once again, my process is consolidated from a lot of other authors and writers and it is what works for me. Give it a shot, modify it, or just toss it out and find what works for you.
Anyway, now we have our plot nugget. Next, we’re going to take that nugget and add some structure to it. Remember plot is not just the events of your story, it is the events you choose, how you recount them, and how you orchestrate them all together.
Let me pause at this point. There are a lot and I mean a lot of plot and structure books you can purchase to help you along the way. I suggest that if you plan on being a writer you start growing your reference library with one or two of these books:
20 Master Plots by Ronald Tobias
Story Structure Architect by Victoria Schmidt
Plot & Structure by James Scott Bell
Building Better Plots by Robert Kernen
Listen, when all is said and done, unless you are trying to write some avant-garde literary meta-fiction, you have to follow some of the basic plot and structure guidelines for your genre.
And, the cornerstone of guidelines … the 3 Act Structure.
Act 1: The opening of the story.
· Set the stage for the story
· Introduce the main character and the opposition
· Set up motivation.
· Present your world.
· Establish the tone
· The inciting incident
· Add some background if needed
Overall you are acclimating your audience to the situation of your story. And, please remember to start as close to the end of your story as possible. A lot of writers get bogged down in so much back story that readers are not compelled to move forward. I can’t define ‘as close to the end as possible’ as it will be different from everyone. What I am trying to convey is that if you start too far away readers will stop reading.
Remember the inciting incident needs to be strong enough and meaningful enough to send our main character on a journey. The stakes have to be high otherwise … why read it.
Act 2: The meat of your plot.
· Conflict
· Crisis
· Complications
· Trials and Tests
· Setting up Climax
A lot of writers fail at this point, me included. This is the big part of your novel and you don’t want to let the pressure or tensions down. An easy way is to divide the Act into several smaller more manageable plot points. Use these plot points to throw the audience off the trail, raise the stakes even higher, and add more complications.
I can’t remember who said this or where I read it, but someone far more skilled then I once described the 3 act process as follows
Act 1: Put your character up a tree
Act 2: Throw rocks at your character
Act 3: Get them down from the tree
What I’m trying to say is throw a lot of rocks at your character.
Act 3: Final movement of climax and resolution.
· Tie up all loose ends
· Feeling of resonance
· Change
· Promises to readers must be fulfilled
· Satisfy genre
I suggest that when you are plotting that you start with Act 3 and work backwards. And remember your main character must change, his or her state at the end of the novel must be diametrically opposite of his or her state at the beginning of the novel. Otherwise, what was the point?
At this point I write a summary paragraph for each act.
Once again, Dan Wells …
Anyway, now we have our plot nugget. Next, we’re going to take that nugget and add some structure to it. Remember plot is not just the events of your story, it is the events you choose, how you recount them, and how you orchestrate them all together.
Let me pause at this point. There are a lot and I mean a lot of plot and structure books you can purchase to help you along the way. I suggest that if you plan on being a writer you start growing your reference library with one or two of these books:
20 Master Plots by Ronald Tobias
Story Structure Architect by Victoria Schmidt
Plot & Structure by James Scott Bell
Building Better Plots by Robert Kernen
Listen, when all is said and done, unless you are trying to write some avant-garde literary meta-fiction, you have to follow some of the basic plot and structure guidelines for your genre.
And, the cornerstone of guidelines … the 3 Act Structure.
Act 1: The opening of the story.
· Set the stage for the story
· Introduce the main character and the opposition
· Set up motivation.
· Present your world.
· Establish the tone
· The inciting incident
· Add some background if needed
Overall you are acclimating your audience to the situation of your story. And, please remember to start as close to the end of your story as possible. A lot of writers get bogged down in so much back story that readers are not compelled to move forward. I can’t define ‘as close to the end as possible’ as it will be different from everyone. What I am trying to convey is that if you start too far away readers will stop reading.
Remember the inciting incident needs to be strong enough and meaningful enough to send our main character on a journey. The stakes have to be high otherwise … why read it.
Act 2: The meat of your plot.
· Conflict
· Crisis
· Complications
· Trials and Tests
· Setting up Climax
A lot of writers fail at this point, me included. This is the big part of your novel and you don’t want to let the pressure or tensions down. An easy way is to divide the Act into several smaller more manageable plot points. Use these plot points to throw the audience off the trail, raise the stakes even higher, and add more complications.
I can’t remember who said this or where I read it, but someone far more skilled then I once described the 3 act process as follows
Act 1: Put your character up a tree
Act 2: Throw rocks at your character
Act 3: Get them down from the tree
What I’m trying to say is throw a lot of rocks at your character.
Act 3: Final movement of climax and resolution.
· Tie up all loose ends
· Feeling of resonance
· Change
· Promises to readers must be fulfilled
· Satisfy genre
I suggest that when you are plotting that you start with Act 3 and work backwards. And remember your main character must change, his or her state at the end of the novel must be diametrically opposite of his or her state at the beginning of the novel. Otherwise, what was the point?
At this point I write a summary paragraph for each act.
Once again, Dan Wells …
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Plotting - Step 1
It is hard to nail down the definition of plot even after reading a stack of plotting books. So, let us just start with a dictionary definition
“The plan or main story of a literay work.” – Webster’s New Collegiate dictioniary
That helps a little, but what I’ve synthesized is the following, plot + structure + characters = story. I’m sure there are plenty who would disagree, but in summarizing a great many books I feel pretty confidant in that formula.
Of course you can go and add
+ theme
+ location …
And feel free to do so, make your own equation, but I’m going to stick with above for now.
So now, I have my basic equation and I am ready to plot out a story.
I have a four stage process I start with in my plotting endeavor. Once again, it is through synthesizing a lot of other methods, but it works for me.
(1) Brainstorm Phase – I’m not going to go into detail here. I plan on doing a couple blog entries to help you out. But, I assuming you’ve already spent some time thinking about your story and plot.
(2) The Why Phase – I think about why people will want to read my book. Readers want to escape when they read genre fiction; they want an experience that is other than their normal lives; they want an emotional response to what they read. For example, people read fantasy because they want the excitement of exploring another world, people read thrillers because they want to experience the emotional roller coaster ride of danger, people read horror because they want to be scared. Readers will constantly ask themselves why should I read this, why should I keep reading, why should I care. It is your job to answer those questions and the best way is through:
· Vivid description and imagery
· Focused plot and story
· Tension and Pacing
· Interesting subject matter with a fresh view
· Character we care about
Now, I know a lot of writers say they don’t write for readers. They write what they want and if someone likes it well swell. And that is a valid perspective, it is just not mine … it could be yours.
(3) The Focus Phase – At this point, I answer a couple questions that help me focus on what my plot will be and what it will not be.
· What is my subject?
· What do I want to write about and why?
· What are my thoughts and feelings on the subject?
· What is my purpose for writing this story?
· How will my answers be incorporated into my plot
(4) The Nugget Phase – Finally, I write a sentence and paragraph summary of my plot on a note card to keep in front of me while writing. There are a lot of different names for this method. I;ve heard everything from LOCK, CCR, Jacket copy. Regardless of name, it is the basic plot of you novel condensed. And remember it is not written in stone. Hell, I change my all the time while writing. But, it will act as a guiding light. It needs to contain
· Protagonist
· Objective for the Protagonist
· Conflict, Crisis, and Complications
· Grabber of an ending
I’ve attached a video of Dan Wells speaking about plotting and structure at the annual Life, the Universe, and Everything writing symposium in Utah.
“The plan or main story of a literay work.” – Webster’s New Collegiate dictioniary
That helps a little, but what I’ve synthesized is the following, plot + structure + characters = story. I’m sure there are plenty who would disagree, but in summarizing a great many books I feel pretty confidant in that formula.
Of course you can go and add
+ theme
+ location …
And feel free to do so, make your own equation, but I’m going to stick with above for now.
So now, I have my basic equation and I am ready to plot out a story.
I have a four stage process I start with in my plotting endeavor. Once again, it is through synthesizing a lot of other methods, but it works for me.
(1) Brainstorm Phase – I’m not going to go into detail here. I plan on doing a couple blog entries to help you out. But, I assuming you’ve already spent some time thinking about your story and plot.
(2) The Why Phase – I think about why people will want to read my book. Readers want to escape when they read genre fiction; they want an experience that is other than their normal lives; they want an emotional response to what they read. For example, people read fantasy because they want the excitement of exploring another world, people read thrillers because they want to experience the emotional roller coaster ride of danger, people read horror because they want to be scared. Readers will constantly ask themselves why should I read this, why should I keep reading, why should I care. It is your job to answer those questions and the best way is through:
· Vivid description and imagery
· Focused plot and story
· Tension and Pacing
· Interesting subject matter with a fresh view
· Character we care about
Now, I know a lot of writers say they don’t write for readers. They write what they want and if someone likes it well swell. And that is a valid perspective, it is just not mine … it could be yours.
(3) The Focus Phase – At this point, I answer a couple questions that help me focus on what my plot will be and what it will not be.
· What is my subject?
· What do I want to write about and why?
· What are my thoughts and feelings on the subject?
· What is my purpose for writing this story?
· How will my answers be incorporated into my plot
(4) The Nugget Phase – Finally, I write a sentence and paragraph summary of my plot on a note card to keep in front of me while writing. There are a lot of different names for this method. I;ve heard everything from LOCK, CCR, Jacket copy. Regardless of name, it is the basic plot of you novel condensed. And remember it is not written in stone. Hell, I change my all the time while writing. But, it will act as a guiding light. It needs to contain
· Protagonist
· Objective for the Protagonist
· Conflict, Crisis, and Complications
· Grabber of an ending
I’ve attached a video of Dan Wells speaking about plotting and structure at the annual Life, the Universe, and Everything writing symposium in Utah.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Comic-Con ... Moving to Anaheim or Los Angeles
You know I'm a geek. I've gone to Comic-Con down in San Diego more times than I can even remember. Over the past 5 years, it has really exploded. In fact, it made the frontpage of the Los Angeles Times Business section this past Saturday. (Click on the link for the full article.)
Comic-Con flirts with Anaheim and Los Angeles
Anyway, I love San Diego ... and honestly who doesn't? But, as a father of two, I'd love it if it moved closer.
Intuition tells me that Anaheim and Los Angeles will be testing the water in the months to come. In fact, Anaheim will be hosting Wizard-Con in April. (Yep, I'm going) and Pasadena will be hosting a Con in May. (Yep, I'll probably go to that as well.)
And honestly, I think if you have never been. You got to go at least once. Add it to your bucket list. You won't be disappointed.
Comic-Con flirts with Anaheim and Los Angeles
Anyway, I love San Diego ... and honestly who doesn't? But, as a father of two, I'd love it if it moved closer.
Intuition tells me that Anaheim and Los Angeles will be testing the water in the months to come. In fact, Anaheim will be hosting Wizard-Con in April. (Yep, I'm going) and Pasadena will be hosting a Con in May. (Yep, I'll probably go to that as well.)
And honestly, I think if you have never been. You got to go at least once. Add it to your bucket list. You won't be disappointed.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Heinlein's Rules for Writing
1. You must write.
2. You must finish what you write.
3. You must refrain from rewriting, except to editorial order.
4. You must put the work on the market.
5. You must keep the work on the market until it is sold.
These rules appeared in the 1947 essay "On the Writing of Speculative Fiction."
You do know who Robert Heinlein is ... right?
2. You must finish what you write.
3. You must refrain from rewriting, except to editorial order.
4. You must put the work on the market.
5. You must keep the work on the market until it is sold.
These rules appeared in the 1947 essay "On the Writing of Speculative Fiction."
You do know who Robert Heinlein is ... right?
Superstars of Writing Seminar - Recap
The Superstars of Writing Seminar was expensive but well worth it. I highly recommend it!
Listen, you get a lot of people giving you advice in life, be it career, your writing, or whatever. I appreciate advice coming from people who have made it. Kevin, Rebbecca, Brandon, David, and Eric all make a substantial living as writers. I've been to other seminars and classes were the person leading the session hasn't published anything
Now, that being said, I still think you can get wonderful/practical advice from others, just be a little more finicky. I mean, I'm giving you advice aren't I?
Overall it was a mini-graduate degree in the business of writing. Think MBA in the publishing industry.
On an odd note, the Knife Expo and the National Autograph Expo were going on at the same time ...I mean I'm attending a sci-fi/fantasy writing conference and I'm saying the other two attracted an odd lot.
All right. If you get a chance to take their class do so. On my resource tab, I have links to Brandon and David's websites.
Listen, you get a lot of people giving you advice in life, be it career, your writing, or whatever. I appreciate advice coming from people who have made it. Kevin, Rebbecca, Brandon, David, and Eric all make a substantial living as writers. I've been to other seminars and classes were the person leading the session hasn't published anything
Now, that being said, I still think you can get wonderful/practical advice from others, just be a little more finicky. I mean, I'm giving you advice aren't I?
Overall it was a mini-graduate degree in the business of writing. Think MBA in the publishing industry.
On an odd note, the Knife Expo and the National Autograph Expo were going on at the same time ...I mean I'm attending a sci-fi/fantasy writing conference and I'm saying the other two attracted an odd lot.
All right. If you get a chance to take their class do so. On my resource tab, I have links to Brandon and David's websites.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Abraham Lincoln - Vampire Hunter
I know a lot of people have griped about this "mash-up" phenomenon. Honestly, I wished I had thought up "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies". I've had to watch the 6 hour A&E version hundreds of times since my wife picked it up. (In reality, I've never watched the complete 6 hour episode in one sitting. By catching 5 minutes here and there over the course of 7 years, I get the gist of it.) So, in a lot of ways Jane Austen owes me. But all that aside, I heard Seth Grahame-Smith on NPR this morning and I was impressed. And then, I found out he'll be doing a signing at Vroman's in Pasadena this coming Thursday. I figure all go and listen to the man speak. Maybe pitch him my Warren Harding- Monster Stomper book.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
ISFF - 2010 - Saturday, March 21
International Surrealist Film Festival - 2010
Date: Sunday, March 21 @ 8:00PM
Location: Downtown Independent, Los Angeles
Cost: $10
I would have loved to go to this, but I'm attending Superstars of Writing the same weekend. I just read a brief write-up in the Calendar section of today's LA Times and thought I'd share it.
I think their mission statement sums up what you would expect:
Andre Breton notoriously declared: "The simplest Surrealist act would be to go down into the street, gun in hand, and shoot at random, for as long as possible, into the crowd." THE INTERNATIONAL SURREALIST FILM FESTIVAL is searching for the filmmaker who has done this…in spirit.
Date: Sunday, March 21 @ 8:00PM
Location: Downtown Independent, Los Angeles
Cost: $10
I would have loved to go to this, but I'm attending Superstars of Writing the same weekend. I just read a brief write-up in the Calendar section of today's LA Times and thought I'd share it.
I think their mission statement sums up what you would expect:
Andre Breton notoriously declared: "The simplest Surrealist act would be to go down into the street, gun in hand, and shoot at random, for as long as possible, into the crowd." THE INTERNATIONAL SURREALIST FILM FESTIVAL is searching for the filmmaker who has done this…in spirit.
Superstars Writing Seminar - This Weekend
Okay, I am thrilled to go to this seminar. The price tag was pretty hefty, but I've been saving up for awhile. My main reason for going is to see Kevin J. Anderson. I've been a fan since he gave me one of his books for attending a discussion many years ago. I believe it was the paperback for the Saga of the Seven Suns - book 1. He knows how to create fans. After his generosity and willing to speak with me for a bit, I was pulled in. To me, it was clear that he really understands the business-side of writing.
Anyway, I'm looking forward to the three-day seminar in Pasadena. Also, no "dad" duty for me this weekend, thank god my mother-in-law and sister-in-law are in town.
Anyway, I'm looking forward to the three-day seminar in Pasadena. Also, no "dad" duty for me this weekend, thank god my mother-in-law and sister-in-law are in town.
Script Frenzy - April
The people behind the National Novel Writing Month have stared a similar 30 day adventure for the month of April. Here are the details:
The Challenge
Write 100 pages of original scripted material in the 30 days of April. (Screenplays, stage plays, TV shows, short films, and graphic novels are all welcome.)
When: April 1-30
Cost: Free
Who: Everyone (worldwide) is welcome. No experience required.
Prizes: Happiness. Creative juices. Pride. Laughter. Bragging rights. A brand-new script.
My brother and I are taking a stab at it this year. Follow our travails and for god sake give it a shot yourself.
Sign-up at Script Frenzy
Find me under username: JLouisY
The Challenge
Write 100 pages of original scripted material in the 30 days of April. (Screenplays, stage plays, TV shows, short films, and graphic novels are all welcome.)
When: April 1-30
Cost: Free
Who: Everyone (worldwide) is welcome. No experience required.
Prizes: Happiness. Creative juices. Pride. Laughter. Bragging rights. A brand-new script.
My brother and I are taking a stab at it this year. Follow our travails and for god sake give it a shot yourself.
Sign-up at Script Frenzy
Find me under username: JLouisY
Friday, March 12, 2010
My very first horror short story
While doing a little spring cleaning, I came across this gem. I honestly can't believe I saved it. I read it aloud to my wife yesterday and we had a good laugh. I want to say I wrote it in seventh grade for an assignment.
Anyway, I've posted it on Scribd. Click on the link below for this fabulous 2 page story.
Panic by J. Louis. Young
Anyway, I've posted it on Scribd. Click on the link below for this fabulous 2 page story.
Panic by J. Louis. Young
Thursday, March 11, 2010
The Indsutry Side: Market Listings
For the newbie writer out there, knowing what markets are open to your flash fiction, short story, novella, and/or novel, is of extreme importance. Today, I want to strictly focus on the free online market listings, I'll do another part regarding Offline and Paid services.
I believe the two best to pursue and get to know are the following.:
Ralan's SpecFic & Humor Webstravaganza
Spend some time on the website, it has an immense amount of information. It is my "go to" site when I begin searching for a place to submit something.
Duotrope Digest
Another valuable site that I check on a regular basis.
Both of these sites are free and take a lot of upkeep, so if you use them, donate some money to the folks.
I believe the two best to pursue and get to know are the following.:
Ralan's SpecFic & Humor Webstravaganza
Spend some time on the website, it has an immense amount of information. It is my "go to" site when I begin searching for a place to submit something.
Duotrope Digest
Another valuable site that I check on a regular basis.
Both of these sites are free and take a lot of upkeep, so if you use them, donate some money to the folks.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Stephen King and Shooter Jennings
The LA Times did a pretty amazing write-up in calendar section this past week on Shooter Jennings new album: "Black Ribbons". I had listened to his father but had so far not listened to any of his music. Well, intrigued, especially since there are very few "concept" albums done in the industry anymore, I purchased the CD at Best Buy. I know ... how old school. But, I wanted the CD case for its design and inserts. (Also, for my wife, I bought Chris Allen's CD ... Yea, she's an American Idol fan.)
Anyway, Stephen King is on the album playing a disk jockey on his last day before he's shut down by "them".
Anyway, Stephen King is on the album playing a disk jockey on his last day before he's shut down by "them".
"Summer of Rage" by Shooter Jennings & Hierophant from Shooter Jennings & Hierophant on Vimeo.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
The Craft Side: Plotting
The month of March is PLOT month in the Craft Side. It is a complex subject matter and there is a lot of info out there. Everyone has their "rules" and "systems". So, I'm going to try to provide what I've synthesized over the next month.
So get your notebook ready as we'll delve into the mysteries of plotting your novel.
So get your notebook ready as we'll delve into the mysteries of plotting your novel.
"To PLOT means to navigate through the dangerous terrain of story and when confronted by a dozen branching possibilities to choose the correct path. Plot is the writer's choice of events and their design in time." - Robert Mckee "Story" pg 43.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Movie Review: The Crazies
So, I went with my brother to see "The Crazies" yesterday at our local Krikorian Movie Theatre. It is what I refer to as a "popcorn" horror movie: fun, decent plotting, nice camera work, decent characterization. Nothing to write home about, but a fun way to spend a raining Sunday afternoon. In the end, didn't mind forking over the bucks to see it.
I have to say there was an interesting audience attending this screening. We were a little shocked, particularly my brother a middle-school teacher, that a family brought there two daughters with them (estimating the ages at 6 and 8). Also, after the first 5 minutes, an elderly couple in some exasperation got up and left. What were they expecting?
Anyway, see it or put it on your Netlfix queue. Also, remember, this is a remake of George Romer's 1973 movie: same title. (He serves as Executive Producer on this 2010 update.) Haven't seen it, but I heard it had a little bit more of a message.
I have to say there was an interesting audience attending this screening. We were a little shocked, particularly my brother a middle-school teacher, that a family brought there two daughters with them (estimating the ages at 6 and 8). Also, after the first 5 minutes, an elderly couple in some exasperation got up and left. What were they expecting?
Anyway, see it or put it on your Netlfix queue. Also, remember, this is a remake of George Romer's 1973 movie: same title. (He serves as Executive Producer on this 2010 update.) Haven't seen it, but I heard it had a little bit more of a message.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Books You Should Be Reading: The Imago Sequence and Other Stories by Laird Barron
For a reader, this is nothing more satisfying than coming across a new voice in the huge genre publishing world. I had heard Laird's name mentioned twice at two writing conferences, just casual conversations I overheard. So, when I was perusing the dealer's room at World Fantasy 2009 in Sacramento, I saw his book displayed at the Night Shade Books table. I nabbed it and am now a fan. If you like Lovecraft/Cthulhu weird tales and eldritch fiction, pick up this book. 9 wonderful short stories. And, hey the book one the 2008 Shirley Jackson Award for best collection, so people are noticing. I look forward to further stories by this writer.
Visit him at:
http://imago1.livejournal.com/
For that matter visit Night Shade Books, they have a terrific catalog of authors and their books are beautifuly designed.
http://www.nightshadebooks.com/
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
March 2010 Goals
The following are my writing goals for the month of March. And hey, newbie writers, one of the first things I learned is you need to set goals ... but make them reasonable.
(1) Finish the Rough Draft of "The Oculist" a novella I wrote during last years National Write a Novel in a Month competition.
(2) Read "Mindscape" a novel I finished 80,000 words but then stopped three years ago. I'm going to make notes and see what doesn't work. I'll probably re-outline the entire novel.
Okay, so this is my writing plan for March. Let’s see what I can get done.
Take care.
(1) Finish the Rough Draft of "The Oculist" a novella I wrote during last years National Write a Novel in a Month competition.
(2) Read "Mindscape" a novel I finished 80,000 words but then stopped three years ago. I'm going to make notes and see what doesn't work. I'll probably re-outline the entire novel.
Okay, so this is my writing plan for March. Let’s see what I can get done.
Take care.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Introduction
So what is this blog all about and why in the world should anyone spend time here? I'm sure you have plenty of better things to do with your time. Well, don't you?
First, I’ve started this blog to assist me in taking the next step in my writing career. I’ve completed a novel and a dozen short stories and amassed a sizeable pile of rejection letters. I’ve attended a couple writing conferences. And, I’ve spent a fair amount of time studying the craft and business of writing. But, I’ve been very lazy when it has come to any writing schedule. Over the course of many years, I’ve amassed a filing cabinet of unfinished novels, novellas, scripts, and short stories. My resolution this year was to kick the writing into the next gear and treat it like I treat my own business and get things DONE!
Second, I want to help other newbie writers just starting out, so they don’t fall into the same pitfalls as I did. But, what can I offer as an unpublished author? Information, so you don’t have to recreate the wheel.
Third, as someone who has spent his entire career in the corporate world of finance and consulting, I can provide some insightful information on the business side of your creative passion. I’ve met a lot of writers and artists and very few have an understanding of the business side of writing, which would really assist them in their career.
Fourth, I’m a big fan of genre fiction and entertainment, so the blog will be my mouthpiece for reviews and interesting books, movies, comics, etc…
I’m hoping this journey works out for me and that you stay along for the ride and maybe learn something from my mistakes.
Take care.
First, I’ve started this blog to assist me in taking the next step in my writing career. I’ve completed a novel and a dozen short stories and amassed a sizeable pile of rejection letters. I’ve attended a couple writing conferences. And, I’ve spent a fair amount of time studying the craft and business of writing. But, I’ve been very lazy when it has come to any writing schedule. Over the course of many years, I’ve amassed a filing cabinet of unfinished novels, novellas, scripts, and short stories. My resolution this year was to kick the writing into the next gear and treat it like I treat my own business and get things DONE!
Second, I want to help other newbie writers just starting out, so they don’t fall into the same pitfalls as I did. But, what can I offer as an unpublished author? Information, so you don’t have to recreate the wheel.
Third, as someone who has spent his entire career in the corporate world of finance and consulting, I can provide some insightful information on the business side of your creative passion. I’ve met a lot of writers and artists and very few have an understanding of the business side of writing, which would really assist them in their career.
Fourth, I’m a big fan of genre fiction and entertainment, so the blog will be my mouthpiece for reviews and interesting books, movies, comics, etc…
I’m hoping this journey works out for me and that you stay along for the ride and maybe learn something from my mistakes.
Take care.
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