What would you do in the name of love? Would you give up everything you had, even your freedom, if it meant your true love would be safe from harm? Would you die for the one you love?
Yesterday I didn't write as much as I usually do. I had a thought of, "how will they get out of this one?" and wound up going to bed frustrated with my writer's block. This morning, however, I woke up and felt inspired. As I wrote, I began to wonder if I would've done the same thing that my heroine was doing.
Imagine you have the odds stacked against you. You're in a situation where the one you love will probably die a horrible death unless something is done. Deep inside you know that you can save them, but it'll require you to sacrifice a part of yourself in the process. Would you do it? What would you give?
The main character in Love In The Air, Sadie, finds that she's in just that kind of situation. The man she loves might die if she doesn't do something about it. Her bravery and conviction are something that I think too few people show these days. In a world full of selfish deeds, one traumatized teen is willing to do more than anyone would ever expect of her. How many of us can say the same?
It's just something to think about the next time you tell someone you love them. What lengths would you take to keep them safe?
Feel free to post your thoughts on this topic in the comments. I look forward to seeing what you have to say. :)
Just keep writing...
Friday, November 30, 2012
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Give me my personal space!
No matter who you are, everyone needs some personal space. For some it's simply a place to go and relax and get away from the world. For others it's somewhere that they can get work/play done without interruptions or distractions. Regardless of the reasons behind it, everyone needs somewhere to retreat to.
This had become very apparent to me last week when my children were home from school. Instead of just having Thanksgiving and the day after off, they had the ENTIRE week! Normally that's not too much of a cause for alarm. I love my children and really don't mind their being home from school. But, when I have a project I'm working on it's not as wonderful.
I need my own space. Somewhere in this house there needs to be a spot where I can go and shut out all the noise. Because not only were the children home from school, my husband also had a 4 day weekend. I tried to write and wound up frustrated instead.
The issue is simple. The family computer (and the only computer in the house that's still working) is in-between the dining room and living room, and also between the kitchen and the door to the back yard, there is no way to escape the commotion that comes with a full house like mine.
The dogs were barking, the kids were yelling/playing/fighting/being goofs, and my husband was watching TV or yelling at the children to behave. I would literally write perhaps a sentence before someone would come up to me to ask a question (hubby included). I would constantly lose my train of thought from the noise in the living room. The TV is visible from where I sit, and my husband likes to watch interesting shows. So, more often than not I would glance over at the TV and totally forget about the story. Needless to say, it was very difficult to stay on track.
The thing is, I do have my own space....sort of. My husband and I share the garage. On one half is his work bench and tools. On the other half is a couch and my easels. So, on Saturday I grabbed my pen and some paper and went into the garage to write. It worked, but that's not the point of this post. The point is that like everyone else, I crave my own personal space to work in.
I've decided that I'm going to take over that area of the garage. I'm going to decorate it and make it my own. I feel that once I get the area looking pleasant then I will feel better about working in there, both with my art and my writing. Before it had been a hang out area. Now it's going to be somewhere for me to retreat to.
I think this is something that everyone should do. Go around your home and property to find an area that you can call your own. Find a way to decorate it so that the area reflects your unique and special personality. I know all too well that some homes are very small and so there isn't much space that you can call your own. However, with a little creativity you can turn any such area into a beautiful expression of who you are and an important spot for you to retreat to when needed.
After all, someone once told me that they want to use a corner of their bedroom closet to make such a space (that conversation sparked the idea for this post). A little light, some pillows, and a curtain would give her a spot she can enjoy herself in.
My question to you, dear readers, is what sort of place in your home do you use for your personal space? If you don't have one, then what area do you think would work? Don't forget, you can even write about your dream space. :)
Just keep writing...
This had become very apparent to me last week when my children were home from school. Instead of just having Thanksgiving and the day after off, they had the ENTIRE week! Normally that's not too much of a cause for alarm. I love my children and really don't mind their being home from school. But, when I have a project I'm working on it's not as wonderful.
I need my own space. Somewhere in this house there needs to be a spot where I can go and shut out all the noise. Because not only were the children home from school, my husband also had a 4 day weekend. I tried to write and wound up frustrated instead.
The issue is simple. The family computer (and the only computer in the house that's still working) is in-between the dining room and living room, and also between the kitchen and the door to the back yard, there is no way to escape the commotion that comes with a full house like mine.
The dogs were barking, the kids were yelling/playing/fighting/being goofs, and my husband was watching TV or yelling at the children to behave. I would literally write perhaps a sentence before someone would come up to me to ask a question (hubby included). I would constantly lose my train of thought from the noise in the living room. The TV is visible from where I sit, and my husband likes to watch interesting shows. So, more often than not I would glance over at the TV and totally forget about the story. Needless to say, it was very difficult to stay on track.
The thing is, I do have my own space....sort of. My husband and I share the garage. On one half is his work bench and tools. On the other half is a couch and my easels. So, on Saturday I grabbed my pen and some paper and went into the garage to write. It worked, but that's not the point of this post. The point is that like everyone else, I crave my own personal space to work in.
I've decided that I'm going to take over that area of the garage. I'm going to decorate it and make it my own. I feel that once I get the area looking pleasant then I will feel better about working in there, both with my art and my writing. Before it had been a hang out area. Now it's going to be somewhere for me to retreat to.
I think this is something that everyone should do. Go around your home and property to find an area that you can call your own. Find a way to decorate it so that the area reflects your unique and special personality. I know all too well that some homes are very small and so there isn't much space that you can call your own. However, with a little creativity you can turn any such area into a beautiful expression of who you are and an important spot for you to retreat to when needed.
After all, someone once told me that they want to use a corner of their bedroom closet to make such a space (that conversation sparked the idea for this post). A little light, some pillows, and a curtain would give her a spot she can enjoy herself in.
My question to you, dear readers, is what sort of place in your home do you use for your personal space? If you don't have one, then what area do you think would work? Don't forget, you can even write about your dream space. :)
Just keep writing...
Monday, November 26, 2012
The Grand Old Creative Process
Every artist--be they an author, painter, musician, etc--has a process they go through when creating a piece of art. Recently I found myself describing a bit of my personal process to a fellow writer. It occurred to me that some who stumble upon my humble blog may be interested in what that is as well.
For myself, writing is a very complex yet simple task. It's simplicity is often what others think of when I tell them about what I do to get my story out onto the page. Most tend to ignore the complex nature of the book itself. I do more than just sit at the computer and type away. Not a while lot more, but there is a definite process.
---
I have several steps when creating a story.
It all begins with a daydream. Before I have any idea about what I'm going to write, I sit and let my imagination wander. Through the chaos in my own head, the foundation for a story begins to emerge. I may visualize a little about the plot or about one of the characters. Whatever it is, I try not to interfere as the shapes that make up a story begin to form in my mind.
Next, I sit down with a notebook and pen and begin to write about the characters. I begin with whomever I saw in my daydream. I sort of build them up the way I would a roleplaying character, except without the 20 sided dice. In most of my stories, the main characters tend to have some special ability or power. What that might be gets written down along with basic stats, what sort of home they grew up in, and anything else about them that would be useful.
With each character I daydream some more. I imagine what the character would tell someone if they were talking about themselves and their past. While I do this, I try to see their personality shine through in their words. This is a little more directed than the first daydreams as I imagine random scenarios and see what they would do in each one. I make sure to write down everything that seems significant.
While I'm dreaming up the characters, more of the story will emerge in my mind. By this point I have a good idea as to the environment, the world that the characters live in, and how the story will begin. I take notes on this as well. Most of the notes I take in both character creation and in this stage have information that may never appear in the novel once I write it. Some of it will even be thrown in the trash, never having a chance to influence the story. It's hard to discard some of them as they're great daydreams. Unfortunately it's up to my muse and not myself.
Finally I'm ready to write. Yes, I'm sure. I don't use an outline and I don't try to picture a middle and ending for the story. I just sit and let the words flow. This is the most exciting and enjoyable part for me. There is a lot of daydreaming as I come upon new scenes and adventures. Eventually the story begins to unfold. Usually when I'm around the middle of the novel I will have a good idea of what the ending will be. As it was with my notes, not all of these daydreams will end up in the novel. It all depends on which direction my muse directs me.
That's the simple part. What I didn't tell my author friend, or many people for that matter, is that there is a more mathematical approach that is also taken. Now, before any of you do what my husband does and groan about 'formula books' and how they suck, let me say that it's not like that at all. At least not in my mind.
This is where it gets difficult to explain so bear with me a moment.
I prefer for my novels to be around 100,000 words (not to go below 90,000 or above 120,000). I prefer my chapters to be between 2,000 and 3,000 words. Neither of these are set in stone. If a chapter is less than or more than this I don't worry about it. The same is true for the novel itself. This is just a guideline that helps me to know if I'm moving too fast and alerts me to any issues I may have. Sounds silly that a word count can do that, but it does.
Each chapter is broken down into what I call 'scenes' and 'connectors'. The scenes are usually daydreams that I've had about the novel and the connectors are the areas that connect it all together. Easy. I like to say that my novels are "daydreams that have been sewn together to make a story." I try to make sure that each chapter has a beginning that connects it to the previous one, at least 2 scenes where something significant happens, and an ending that ties it all together.
The novel itself is also broken down into sections. I think of the story in terms of thirds, fourths, and halves and use the word count to keep myself on track. Remember, I don't use an outline so this is the only way for me to make sure the pace of the story moves as well as the chapters move. I have a vague idea as to whether or not I'm at the proper point in the story each time I reach it. The word count lets me know if I'm staying on track. Nothing more, nothing less.
Aside from the basic formula I have, most of this is all based off of how the story feels. Does it feel like it's at the 1/3 point? Yeah, so lets get back to writing. Usually it's on par, but I still like to use the basic formula to make sure.
---
What I love most about writing is that writing the story is as entertaining for me as reading it is for my readers. As I said, when I start the story I have absolutely no idea what's going to happen passed that chapter. The more I write the more daydreams I have. Eventually I'll have an idea of what's going to happen in the next 3 or 4 chapters but usually no more than that.
I don't know how others write, to be honest. I know that most authors use an outline to keep their story on track. Some will even go as far as to add what will happen in each and every chapter. I used to write this way and for me it just didn't work. My stories felt stiff and didn't flow right at all. I'm glad that it works for others, but for me it's more of a "writing by the seat of your pants" sort of thing.
For those of you who write, be it professional or amateur, go ahead and share in the comments a bit about your own creative process. I find it fascinating to hear how others create their stories.
Just keep writing...
For myself, writing is a very complex yet simple task. It's simplicity is often what others think of when I tell them about what I do to get my story out onto the page. Most tend to ignore the complex nature of the book itself. I do more than just sit at the computer and type away. Not a while lot more, but there is a definite process.
---
I have several steps when creating a story.
It all begins with a daydream. Before I have any idea about what I'm going to write, I sit and let my imagination wander. Through the chaos in my own head, the foundation for a story begins to emerge. I may visualize a little about the plot or about one of the characters. Whatever it is, I try not to interfere as the shapes that make up a story begin to form in my mind.
Next, I sit down with a notebook and pen and begin to write about the characters. I begin with whomever I saw in my daydream. I sort of build them up the way I would a roleplaying character, except without the 20 sided dice. In most of my stories, the main characters tend to have some special ability or power. What that might be gets written down along with basic stats, what sort of home they grew up in, and anything else about them that would be useful.
With each character I daydream some more. I imagine what the character would tell someone if they were talking about themselves and their past. While I do this, I try to see their personality shine through in their words. This is a little more directed than the first daydreams as I imagine random scenarios and see what they would do in each one. I make sure to write down everything that seems significant.
While I'm dreaming up the characters, more of the story will emerge in my mind. By this point I have a good idea as to the environment, the world that the characters live in, and how the story will begin. I take notes on this as well. Most of the notes I take in both character creation and in this stage have information that may never appear in the novel once I write it. Some of it will even be thrown in the trash, never having a chance to influence the story. It's hard to discard some of them as they're great daydreams. Unfortunately it's up to my muse and not myself.
Finally I'm ready to write. Yes, I'm sure. I don't use an outline and I don't try to picture a middle and ending for the story. I just sit and let the words flow. This is the most exciting and enjoyable part for me. There is a lot of daydreaming as I come upon new scenes and adventures. Eventually the story begins to unfold. Usually when I'm around the middle of the novel I will have a good idea of what the ending will be. As it was with my notes, not all of these daydreams will end up in the novel. It all depends on which direction my muse directs me.
That's the simple part. What I didn't tell my author friend, or many people for that matter, is that there is a more mathematical approach that is also taken. Now, before any of you do what my husband does and groan about 'formula books' and how they suck, let me say that it's not like that at all. At least not in my mind.
This is where it gets difficult to explain so bear with me a moment.
I prefer for my novels to be around 100,000 words (not to go below 90,000 or above 120,000). I prefer my chapters to be between 2,000 and 3,000 words. Neither of these are set in stone. If a chapter is less than or more than this I don't worry about it. The same is true for the novel itself. This is just a guideline that helps me to know if I'm moving too fast and alerts me to any issues I may have. Sounds silly that a word count can do that, but it does.
Each chapter is broken down into what I call 'scenes' and 'connectors'. The scenes are usually daydreams that I've had about the novel and the connectors are the areas that connect it all together. Easy. I like to say that my novels are "daydreams that have been sewn together to make a story." I try to make sure that each chapter has a beginning that connects it to the previous one, at least 2 scenes where something significant happens, and an ending that ties it all together.
The novel itself is also broken down into sections. I think of the story in terms of thirds, fourths, and halves and use the word count to keep myself on track. Remember, I don't use an outline so this is the only way for me to make sure the pace of the story moves as well as the chapters move. I have a vague idea as to whether or not I'm at the proper point in the story each time I reach it. The word count lets me know if I'm staying on track. Nothing more, nothing less.
Aside from the basic formula I have, most of this is all based off of how the story feels. Does it feel like it's at the 1/3 point? Yeah, so lets get back to writing. Usually it's on par, but I still like to use the basic formula to make sure.
---
What I love most about writing is that writing the story is as entertaining for me as reading it is for my readers. As I said, when I start the story I have absolutely no idea what's going to happen passed that chapter. The more I write the more daydreams I have. Eventually I'll have an idea of what's going to happen in the next 3 or 4 chapters but usually no more than that.
I don't know how others write, to be honest. I know that most authors use an outline to keep their story on track. Some will even go as far as to add what will happen in each and every chapter. I used to write this way and for me it just didn't work. My stories felt stiff and didn't flow right at all. I'm glad that it works for others, but for me it's more of a "writing by the seat of your pants" sort of thing.
For those of you who write, be it professional or amateur, go ahead and share in the comments a bit about your own creative process. I find it fascinating to hear how others create their stories.
Just keep writing...
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Sunday Storytelling
I've decided to add a feature to my blog. On every Sunday I'll post an excerpt from my latest project for you to enjoy. Since there's still 45 minutes left till Monday, I figured I would start today.
***
“In local news, two men are dead and two others are in critical condition after an attack by a small group of supernaturals in the downtown area yesterday afternoon. There has been no word as to whether or not a Paranormal and Supernatural Investigation Team—or PSI Team—has been called in to investigate. Police are asking that anyone with information come forward so these dangerous people may be apprehended and turned over to the proper authorities.”
Sadie jumped as Michael yelled, “God Fucking damnit! Shit!”
He continued to swear as he turned off the TV and paced about the room. Fester made no sound, he didn’t even swear. The combination of Michael pacing and Fester’s silence worried Sadie. Obviously the woman on the television was talking about them. Sal had mentioned something about PSI earlier. Sadie could only assume that whatever this PSI Team was, they probably worked for the government in some way. The thought filled her with intense fear.
***
There you have it. Feel free to leave a comment about what you think will happen to Sadie and the others. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. Don't forget to check back next week for more!
Just keep writing...
“In local news, two men are dead and two others are in critical condition after an attack by a small group of supernaturals in the downtown area yesterday afternoon. There has been no word as to whether or not a Paranormal and Supernatural Investigation Team—or PSI Team—has been called in to investigate. Police are asking that anyone with information come forward so these dangerous people may be apprehended and turned over to the proper authorities.”
Sadie jumped as Michael yelled, “God Fucking damnit! Shit!”
He continued to swear as he turned off the TV and paced about the room. Fester made no sound, he didn’t even swear. The combination of Michael pacing and Fester’s silence worried Sadie. Obviously the woman on the television was talking about them. Sal had mentioned something about PSI earlier. Sadie could only assume that whatever this PSI Team was, they probably worked for the government in some way. The thought filled her with intense fear.
There you have it. Feel free to leave a comment about what you think will happen to Sadie and the others. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. Don't forget to check back next week for more!
Just keep writing...
Up before the dogs...
This morning I woke up at 5 am. Try as I might I just couldn't fall asleep. The house was quiet, even the dogs were well into their dreams. When I realized that I wouldn't be able to go back to sleep, I carefully got out of bed and headed into the dining room where we have our computer. I felt it would be a good idea to use this time wisely. It was time to write.
For the past few days I hadn't been able to get any writing done. The children, the dogs, and even my husband tend to make far too much noise about the house. I have difficulty concentrating on the words when there are so many distractions. When I write, I prefer to have as much silence as possible. This was perfect.
Sitting at the computer I began to type away. The words flowed from my fingertips and flooded the page. I didn't stop until my children woke up and the dogs begged to be let out. I'm extremely thankful that I had that time, even if I'm not much of a morning person. At least I was able to write 2244 words. If I'm able to get any writing done the rest of the day then I'll definitely make my 3000 word quota for the day. Considering that over the past 3 days I was lucky to get even 2000 words total, this is a huge victory.
Now it's time to feed the kids and the dogs and start my day. Who knows, perhaps the next time the kids are home from school I should wake up this early again. At the very least it'll keep me productive on those days where nothing ever seems to get done.
I was going to post a bit that I wrote today. Unfortunately, with how far into the book I am (a little more than halfway through) I thought it might be too much of a spoiler. There are many scenes in the story that I would love to share on here, or anywhere. What do you think? Would posting a snippet from the middle of the book ruin it for you? Feel free to let me know in the comments.
Just keep writing...
For the past few days I hadn't been able to get any writing done. The children, the dogs, and even my husband tend to make far too much noise about the house. I have difficulty concentrating on the words when there are so many distractions. When I write, I prefer to have as much silence as possible. This was perfect.
Sitting at the computer I began to type away. The words flowed from my fingertips and flooded the page. I didn't stop until my children woke up and the dogs begged to be let out. I'm extremely thankful that I had that time, even if I'm not much of a morning person. At least I was able to write 2244 words. If I'm able to get any writing done the rest of the day then I'll definitely make my 3000 word quota for the day. Considering that over the past 3 days I was lucky to get even 2000 words total, this is a huge victory.
Now it's time to feed the kids and the dogs and start my day. Who knows, perhaps the next time the kids are home from school I should wake up this early again. At the very least it'll keep me productive on those days where nothing ever seems to get done.
I was going to post a bit that I wrote today. Unfortunately, with how far into the book I am (a little more than halfway through) I thought it might be too much of a spoiler. There are many scenes in the story that I would love to share on here, or anywhere. What do you think? Would posting a snippet from the middle of the book ruin it for you? Feel free to let me know in the comments.
Just keep writing...
Saturday, November 24, 2012
All I wanted was to get something...
It's amazing how something as simple as a trip to the store can spark a plot for a novel and even a few scenes. I constantly find this happening. The difference is that now I'm finally writing down these ideas for future novels.
I was just driving to 7-11 to get milk and whatnot when my car made a strange noise. It was a very distinct squeak from the trunk. I knew it was something in there that probably rubbed up against something else (my trunk is packed from facepainting at fairs). No big deal. However, that simple sound lit up my imagination.
I immediately began to daydream about other possibilities for the sound (ones that were entirely unrealistic mind you) and all the sudden I found a plot for a novel. Even though this happens often, I still find it utterly cool.
Now I find myself wondering about the novel that I'm writing. I planned to have it as part of a series but I can never seem to decide on how that series would be written. Is it all from the same point of view? Part of me wants each novel to have a different character's POV, yet they all are in the same world and dealing with the same or similar threats. Occasionally you'll find characters from other novels making a guest appearance. It's something I'm toying with.
If I did it that way then the plot I just thought up could very easily be part of that. If not...well it might still work...or it could spark an entire new series. I don't know for sure and I guess it'll have to wait until I finish this novel before I can finally decide what direction to take.
All I know for sure is that I have to start bringing my notebook with me when I go out. I need to start writing down these spontaneous daydreams.
Just keep writing...
I was just driving to 7-11 to get milk and whatnot when my car made a strange noise. It was a very distinct squeak from the trunk. I knew it was something in there that probably rubbed up against something else (my trunk is packed from facepainting at fairs). No big deal. However, that simple sound lit up my imagination.
I immediately began to daydream about other possibilities for the sound (ones that were entirely unrealistic mind you) and all the sudden I found a plot for a novel. Even though this happens often, I still find it utterly cool.
Now I find myself wondering about the novel that I'm writing. I planned to have it as part of a series but I can never seem to decide on how that series would be written. Is it all from the same point of view? Part of me wants each novel to have a different character's POV, yet they all are in the same world and dealing with the same or similar threats. Occasionally you'll find characters from other novels making a guest appearance. It's something I'm toying with.
If I did it that way then the plot I just thought up could very easily be part of that. If not...well it might still work...or it could spark an entire new series. I don't know for sure and I guess it'll have to wait until I finish this novel before I can finally decide what direction to take.
All I know for sure is that I have to start bringing my notebook with me when I go out. I need to start writing down these spontaneous daydreams.
Just keep writing...
Friday, November 23, 2012
Post-Thanksgiving attempt to write
It's 9 am on the day after Thanksgiving. I've been at the computer for about 3 hours doing research about self-publishing and marketing. I should be working on the novel. Instead I've been formulating a plan for my future as an artist and writer. Finally I'm becoming serious about my craft. But there are things I can't allow myself to forget in the excitement that comes with new pursuits.
My daughter is sitting next to me, waiting patiently to use the computer. She wants her free hour to play Minecraft. I have to limit how often my children are on the computer or they would do nothing else but play games. At least she is being patient this time. An occurrence that is highly rare as of late.
I look down at her and she has her face painted like a creeper from the game. Sometimes when they're bored they'll pretend to be in one of their favorite games. While most parents would probably wonder why their beautiful 7 year old daughter has green all over her face, I just smile at her. I love the creativity and abandonment of social norms that children tend to have.
I was hoping to get some writing done today. However, with how loud the children have been and the 15 times I was asked to get off the computer, I'm not sure I'll get anything done till they're back in school. I wish, for the millionth time, that my laptop was working. Then I could retreat into my "studio" in the garage and work in blessed silence.
Eh...maybe I'll get something done later when the free computer time has been used up. That is, of course, if my husband hasn't stolen the computer by then. :)
My daughter is sitting next to me, waiting patiently to use the computer. She wants her free hour to play Minecraft. I have to limit how often my children are on the computer or they would do nothing else but play games. At least she is being patient this time. An occurrence that is highly rare as of late.
I look down at her and she has her face painted like a creeper from the game. Sometimes when they're bored they'll pretend to be in one of their favorite games. While most parents would probably wonder why their beautiful 7 year old daughter has green all over her face, I just smile at her. I love the creativity and abandonment of social norms that children tend to have.
I was hoping to get some writing done today. However, with how loud the children have been and the 15 times I was asked to get off the computer, I'm not sure I'll get anything done till they're back in school. I wish, for the millionth time, that my laptop was working. Then I could retreat into my "studio" in the garage and work in blessed silence.
Eh...maybe I'll get something done later when the free computer time has been used up. That is, of course, if my husband hasn't stolen the computer by then. :)
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