Today, I have a consultation call with David Sterry and Arielle Eckstut, The Book Doctors. I will pitch my fiction manuscript, Box of Dreams, to them. As I mentioned in a previous posting, I attended their "Pitchapalooza" event last month. It was a great opportunity to hear other writers pitch their manuscripts to an expert panel.
In the meantime, the non-fiction project has been slightly delayed by the blizzard. Four hours shoveling snow and a house full of wives, kids, puppies, cats and fish are not ideal conditions for writing. Just kidding. I only had one wife, one kid, one puppy and one cat at home yesterday, though it seemed like I had more at times.
I was able to finally finish reading "Dracula" by Bram Stoker. I can strike that one off my list of classics to read before I croak. I think I've now read about half of a list of 100 greatest novels of all time, depending on the list.
I realize perhaps for the first time that even classic novels are not perfect. It's a bit subjective, but it's possible to find flaws. However, classic novels are highly regarded for a variety of attributes that one may possess over the other. The reader can accept the strengths without regard for the weaknesses.
Lawrence Block talks about "suspension of disbelief" in his book entitled "Telling Lies for Fun and Profit". This is the ability of a writer to develop characters, plot and setting that are plausible for the reader. Stated differently, the reader may relate to these elements very easily. Fiction is inherently flawed by the establishment of characters, events and setting that are often far beyond the boundaries of reality. They are creations that the reader will either accept or reject. Therefore, the art of writing fiction is the ability to suspend disbelief so perfection in fiction, like reality, is not possible. The ability to convince the reader becomes a measure of the writer's ability to create plausible characters.
Bram Stoker does this with Dracula. But, I was surprised at some of the underlying themes. Somehow, in my mind, the vampire stereotype was applied to Stoker's Dracula. I never saw him as a creature to be pitied, yet Stoker does present him as a victim. It is also a love story with erotic undertones. I was most surprised at the underlying Christian theme in the story. It is a classic story of good versus evil that passes through a variety of contemporary genres.
Having participated in a writer's group for over a year, I can appreciate the value of reading a story with a critical eye. Nonetheless, I will not allow my attention to detail alter my perspective as a casual reader. That is, I will continue to enjoy a story despite the inevitable flaws that exist in any work of fiction. I enjoyed "Dracula" very much, but I can set aside the critical analysis of the work with the understanding that all fiction has strengths and weaknesses.
So, what was wrong with it? Actually, nothing is WRONG with it. It is a compelling story in which I was able to suspend disbelief. That is, I was able to visualize and relate to characters that are....at least for most of us....nonexistent. BUT, I would say that the story is relatively flat at points. The reason? In some parts, the story offers vivid images with stunning character developments while other parts are repetitive with very little action. In other words, I began to expect the same level of intensity throughout the story. The story was slightly unbalanced in this regard. The end of the story again becomes highly compressed with action and intensity, but the final events end a little too quickly for me. It seemed that Stoker was a little rushed at the end of his story.
These are minor weaknesses for a story written in the 1800's. Sadly, today's writer must maintain a level of interest among readers who are overstimulated and attention deficit. Today's reader expects consistency and highly compressed information from a novel. Nonetheless, "Dracula" belongs in the Top 100 Novels of All Times for its originality and images that continue to inspire a variety of similar stories with similar characters.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
The new writer
New relationships are forming between artists and their fans. It is growing out of an increasing need for artists to market themselves, whether signed or unsigned. From my limited perspective, it seems that the curtain has been lifted to reveal an industry that once thrived on mystique. Today's artist is much more likely to expose various parts of their lives in return for fan loyalty.
With expanded communications, artists now have the potential to access many people. Videos, blogs, and podcasts have become an accepted part of world culture. It is exciting, but it is also a bit intimidating because the playing field is much larger. Unless you reside on the popular end of Chris Anderson's distribution curve, you must devote a significant amount of time developing various forms of marketing collateral to promote brand "you". This is the new competitive landscape for the arts. Without marketing infrastructure, the new artist must create a buzz for themselves which takes valuable time away from writing or performing. Today's artist is working around the clock trying to penetrate a diluted market.
For writers, this also applies to the manner in which we approach agents and the publishing business. A writer must write compelling material, but must also rise above the masses just to speak with an agent. Developing marketing collateral is vitally important to gain the attention of a prospective agent or publisher in this highly competitive environment. It is an indicator of both personal commitment and potential success.
So, what does this mean? I believe it signals changes in attitude for everyone on the lower end of the distribution curve. Writers cannot afford to approach the market with a superstar attitude. Today's writer is more likely to mow their own lawn and buy Girl Scout Cookies, rather than live in a 10,000 sq ft. home in Beverly Hills surrounded by a security fence.
With expanded communications, artists now have the potential to access many people. Videos, blogs, and podcasts have become an accepted part of world culture. It is exciting, but it is also a bit intimidating because the playing field is much larger. Unless you reside on the popular end of Chris Anderson's distribution curve, you must devote a significant amount of time developing various forms of marketing collateral to promote brand "you". This is the new competitive landscape for the arts. Without marketing infrastructure, the new artist must create a buzz for themselves which takes valuable time away from writing or performing. Today's artist is working around the clock trying to penetrate a diluted market.
For writers, this also applies to the manner in which we approach agents and the publishing business. A writer must write compelling material, but must also rise above the masses just to speak with an agent. Developing marketing collateral is vitally important to gain the attention of a prospective agent or publisher in this highly competitive environment. It is an indicator of both personal commitment and potential success.
So, what does this mean? I believe it signals changes in attitude for everyone on the lower end of the distribution curve. Writers cannot afford to approach the market with a superstar attitude. Today's writer is more likely to mow their own lawn and buy Girl Scout Cookies, rather than live in a 10,000 sq ft. home in Beverly Hills surrounded by a security fence.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Indie film and marketing
I love the movies. However, in recent years, I have more interest in independent film. Yes, I still enjoy the high end magic of Hollywood film making, but I have developed a taste for unique stories and some of the techniques that are now used by indie film makers. I don't think I'm the only one.
Three independent film channels are now available on Comcast (IFC, Sundance and INDIE). In addition, Robert Redford, founder of The Sundance Film Festival, said that 45 films were sold following the 2011 Fest, up from 14 in 2010. He cites a growing public interest in independent film. Redford Relieved This Year's Sundance Is Ending.
For independent film makers, this is good news. Hopefully, this trend will result in an expanded market for independent film makers and many of those who work to support independent film, including songwriters and writers.
Last year, I worked on a short film project. I wanted to explore the possibilities for creating video to help promote writers, aspiring actors and independent music. Again, I don't think I'm alone.
Thousands of people are now creating entertaining videos and posting them online. Justin Bieber launched a successful career from a viral video. Also, video has become a viable marketing tool that also has applications outside of entertainment. For example, I am currently working with a non-profit organization to help produce video that we hope will raise the awareness of PACT, Inc. PACT provides valuable resources to families with disabled children, requiring private donations to supplement diminishing public support.
Video has also become a popular way for writers to promote themselves. Some writers are creating trailers like the previews for movies. These trailers help to raise the awareness for their unsold manuscripts. In short, many new opportunities now exist for self promotion.
Three independent film channels are now available on Comcast (IFC, Sundance and INDIE). In addition, Robert Redford, founder of The Sundance Film Festival, said that 45 films were sold following the 2011 Fest, up from 14 in 2010. He cites a growing public interest in independent film. Redford Relieved This Year's Sundance Is Ending.
For independent film makers, this is good news. Hopefully, this trend will result in an expanded market for independent film makers and many of those who work to support independent film, including songwriters and writers.
Last year, I worked on a short film project. I wanted to explore the possibilities for creating video to help promote writers, aspiring actors and independent music. Again, I don't think I'm alone.
Thousands of people are now creating entertaining videos and posting them online. Justin Bieber launched a successful career from a viral video. Also, video has become a viable marketing tool that also has applications outside of entertainment. For example, I am currently working with a non-profit organization to help produce video that we hope will raise the awareness of PACT, Inc. PACT provides valuable resources to families with disabled children, requiring private donations to supplement diminishing public support.
Video has also become a popular way for writers to promote themselves. Some writers are creating trailers like the previews for movies. These trailers help to raise the awareness for their unsold manuscripts. In short, many new opportunities now exist for self promotion.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
KINYARWANDA wins World Audience Award at Sundance!
Congratulations to Alrick Brown and everyone associated with the film Kinyarwanda after winning the Sundance World Audience Award. A member of my writer's group, Charles Plath contributed to this film and I am especially happy for him.
"At the time of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, the Mufti of Rwanda, the most respected Muslim leader in the country, issued a fatwa forbidding Muslims from participating in the killing of the Tutsi. As the country became a slaughterhouse, mosques became places of refuge where Muslims and Christians, Hutus and Tutsis came together to protect each other. KINYARWANDA is based on true accounts from survivors who took refuge at the Grand Mosque of Kigali and the madrassa of Nyanza. It recounts how the Imams opened the doors of the mosques to give refuge to the Tutsi and those Hutu who refused to participate in the killing."
The message of this film is powerful and could not come at a better time. All people should learn from this valuable lesson of love and tolerance in a world of hate. Please check out the website at KINYARWANDAMOVIE.COM.
"At the time of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, the Mufti of Rwanda, the most respected Muslim leader in the country, issued a fatwa forbidding Muslims from participating in the killing of the Tutsi. As the country became a slaughterhouse, mosques became places of refuge where Muslims and Christians, Hutus and Tutsis came together to protect each other. KINYARWANDA is based on true accounts from survivors who took refuge at the Grand Mosque of Kigali and the madrassa of Nyanza. It recounts how the Imams opened the doors of the mosques to give refuge to the Tutsi and those Hutu who refused to participate in the killing."
The message of this film is powerful and could not come at a better time. All people should learn from this valuable lesson of love and tolerance in a world of hate. Please check out the website at KINYARWANDAMOVIE.COM.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Draft first pages
The writer's group offered some very good comments on my first chapter last night. Originally, I planned to include a Preface with an overview of the book along with my reasons for writing it. After receiving many requests from the group, I realize an overview should be part of the main body of the book. Besides, a lot of folks skip over the Preface. So, I will attach the draft version of my Introduction to this post.
INTRODUCTION
The process of creating a story and writing a novel can be intimidating. We all have a story to tell, but the development process seems needlessly shrouded in mystery. At least, that was my perspective prior to writing my fiction novel, Box of Dreams.
I have over 20 years experience in engineering, project management and new business development, but I am also a writer. I know, I know, you are probably saying, “Well.... that’s just crazy talk! Engineers don’t write novels!” Not so fast there, Mr. Liberal Arts Major! Kurt Vonnegut studied mechanical engineering at the Carnegie Institute of Technology and the University of Tennessee. He also looked a little bit like Albert Einstein.
Holistic Approach
Writing is not pure art. That is, writing involves a process. On the other hand, writing is certainly not pure science. The process of writing is a combination of art, science and nature. It has a conceptual phase, a development phase and an execution phase, all bound by a particular environment, much like a project in the business world. It involves all of the brain. Having wonderful, creative ideas is simply not enough without a process. Understanding process is simply not enough without creative ideas.
In business or engineering, a successful project begins with a conceptual phase of development in which ideas are allowed to flow freely. It often involves brainstorming, which is a process of tossing ideas around until a viable solution begins to form.
This approach is used frequently in the automobile industry. It is the integration of art and engineering. Furthermore, designers may begin with a particular body style, which is an art form. The body style might determine the space requirements for designing the interior of the car as well as the mechanical aspects. So, the overall design of the car may be confined to limitations of space, due primarily to aesthetics.
Building design often follows a similar process of art and engineering. An architect may begin with an overall building design that is both interesting and pleasing to the eye. The structural engineer must then find a way to design within the overall parameters set by the architect. Keep in mind, if the architect’s design does not consider the principles of physics or market conditions, then the project will likely fail. If the structural engineer does not work within the confines of the architectural design, then beams stick out of windows and the whole thing just gets ugly!
Writing a book is very similar. During the early stages of a story, concepts may be shaped like clay before a writer must commit valuable time to further development. In addition, design and scheduling techniques may be used to develop a compelling story.
I demonstrate my unique process for integrating the craft of writing with engineering and business and apply it directly to writing my novel. It worked for me and it can work for you. I also provide an example by which you might develop your own unique process. After all, it is your thought process that is most important.
About the Book
In this book, I describe the steps used for writing my fiction story, “Box of Dreams”, using very specific examples that follow each stage of manuscript development. Perhaps more importantly, I share a method I developed specifically for developing and writing my story. I also describe the most fundamental elements of writing and share my thoughts on the writing business. Finally, I describe how I developed my unique method and suggest steps for tailoring your own process to your specific needs.
I kept copious notes while writing “Box of Dreams”. My intent was to record the information obtained along with the individual steps for writing my manuscript in case I might want to follow a similar process at some point in the future.
I was fearful of forgetting what I had learned because some of the information was very new to me. Also, I had struggled to find a single source of information that addressed all of my questions concerning the writing process and the business of writing.
After completing my fifth revision, I realized I had collected a respectable amount of information consisting of my methods and my research into the topic of writing. In addition, I realized I had a compelling story and that my process could be used by others.
This application is presented in very plain language, but it is also condensed and arranged into a logical sequence that I believe will help an aspiring writer to better understand the process of writing. It is, in essence, a roadmap through a variety of issues that writers face with a particular method that I developed as a tool to help simplify the process. Stated differently, it is a perspective of an aspiring writer approaching a venerated profession, which has value as a unique point of view.
Organization
This book is organized to reveal the simultaneous development of my process and book in chronological order. I will begin with a little about my writing background. Then, I will provide the initial inspiration for writing “Box of Dreams” which is a short story entitled “The Vase”. From there, I will describe each element used to develop the story while referencing some of my resources. These elements will be introduced separately but will continue development throughout the book. Finally, I will describe the editing process and begin to offer the results of my research on a variety of topics related to the writing business.
INTRODUCTION
The process of creating a story and writing a novel can be intimidating. We all have a story to tell, but the development process seems needlessly shrouded in mystery. At least, that was my perspective prior to writing my fiction novel, Box of Dreams.
I have over 20 years experience in engineering, project management and new business development, but I am also a writer. I know, I know, you are probably saying, “Well.... that’s just crazy talk! Engineers don’t write novels!” Not so fast there, Mr. Liberal Arts Major! Kurt Vonnegut studied mechanical engineering at the Carnegie Institute of Technology and the University of Tennessee. He also looked a little bit like Albert Einstein.
Holistic Approach
Writing is not pure art. That is, writing involves a process. On the other hand, writing is certainly not pure science. The process of writing is a combination of art, science and nature. It has a conceptual phase, a development phase and an execution phase, all bound by a particular environment, much like a project in the business world. It involves all of the brain. Having wonderful, creative ideas is simply not enough without a process. Understanding process is simply not enough without creative ideas.
In business or engineering, a successful project begins with a conceptual phase of development in which ideas are allowed to flow freely. It often involves brainstorming, which is a process of tossing ideas around until a viable solution begins to form.
This approach is used frequently in the automobile industry. It is the integration of art and engineering. Furthermore, designers may begin with a particular body style, which is an art form. The body style might determine the space requirements for designing the interior of the car as well as the mechanical aspects. So, the overall design of the car may be confined to limitations of space, due primarily to aesthetics.
Building design often follows a similar process of art and engineering. An architect may begin with an overall building design that is both interesting and pleasing to the eye. The structural engineer must then find a way to design within the overall parameters set by the architect. Keep in mind, if the architect’s design does not consider the principles of physics or market conditions, then the project will likely fail. If the structural engineer does not work within the confines of the architectural design, then beams stick out of windows and the whole thing just gets ugly!
Writing a book is very similar. During the early stages of a story, concepts may be shaped like clay before a writer must commit valuable time to further development. In addition, design and scheduling techniques may be used to develop a compelling story.
I demonstrate my unique process for integrating the craft of writing with engineering and business and apply it directly to writing my novel. It worked for me and it can work for you. I also provide an example by which you might develop your own unique process. After all, it is your thought process that is most important.
About the Book
In this book, I describe the steps used for writing my fiction story, “Box of Dreams”, using very specific examples that follow each stage of manuscript development. Perhaps more importantly, I share a method I developed specifically for developing and writing my story. I also describe the most fundamental elements of writing and share my thoughts on the writing business. Finally, I describe how I developed my unique method and suggest steps for tailoring your own process to your specific needs.
I kept copious notes while writing “Box of Dreams”. My intent was to record the information obtained along with the individual steps for writing my manuscript in case I might want to follow a similar process at some point in the future.
I was fearful of forgetting what I had learned because some of the information was very new to me. Also, I had struggled to find a single source of information that addressed all of my questions concerning the writing process and the business of writing.
After completing my fifth revision, I realized I had collected a respectable amount of information consisting of my methods and my research into the topic of writing. In addition, I realized I had a compelling story and that my process could be used by others.
This application is presented in very plain language, but it is also condensed and arranged into a logical sequence that I believe will help an aspiring writer to better understand the process of writing. It is, in essence, a roadmap through a variety of issues that writers face with a particular method that I developed as a tool to help simplify the process. Stated differently, it is a perspective of an aspiring writer approaching a venerated profession, which has value as a unique point of view.
Organization
This book is organized to reveal the simultaneous development of my process and book in chronological order. I will begin with a little about my writing background. Then, I will provide the initial inspiration for writing “Box of Dreams” which is a short story entitled “The Vase”. From there, I will describe each element used to develop the story while referencing some of my resources. These elements will be introduced separately but will continue development throughout the book. Finally, I will describe the editing process and begin to offer the results of my research on a variety of topics related to the writing business.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
To do lists and productivity
Yesterday was a very productive day. I wrote a new draft chapter about developing a premise for a long story. I also rewrote my original short story, "The Vase", which was the inspiration for writing the longer story. I've changed it to present tense and improved the language from the original, which was really a draft as I had forgotten to go back and edit it. I reposted it on this blog. Hey, I'm not complaining. I like having a lot of writing on my to-do list. As for my non-writing to-do list, I actually knocked a few items off yesterday as well. I repaired some trim molding on a kitchen cabinet and finished the repaired sheetrock where a handrail pushed through the wall over the holidays. Actually, I stumbled while carrying Rufus, our new Shih Tzu puppy, up the stairs. Rufus is completely traumatized by the incident and refuses to go up or down the stairs now. Add carrying the dog up and down the stairs to my list.
This morning I woke up around 3:30 a.m. and had a few thoughts about my first chapter as well as a new draft chapter. If the mood strikes, I try to take advantage of it. Besides, I went to bed early last night, so I feel rested. It is now 6:45 and I have a revised first chapter along with a new chapter on nodes. In all, I have six draft chapters and a Preface written.
When the publisher asked for a few more sample chapters, it was not immediately clear to me that I needed to draft most of the book before submitting the additional chapters. But, now it seems like a good idea. Why? I think it makes sense to get a draft of most of the chapters to avoid redundancy and to improve the overall flow of the work. The notes I kept for the fiction work is detailed in places but my outline for the non-fiction is general. I suppose I could go back and attempt a more detailed outline, but it is sometimes fun to just sit down and write what I want to say. I can always make revisions, but the flow is what I am after. I want the non-fiction book to be readable and maybe a little bit entertaining. This was the method used for the initial two chapters that were included in the book proposal, so I would like to maintain the same feel if possible. Stated differently, I don't want it to read as a data dump of facts. I would much rather put it into a conversational context.
I also had some ideas about retitling the book as well as a few of the chapters. I'm thinking "Write of Way" as a potential title with chapters with names like "Writes of Passage". I'll kick it around. Ultimately, it matters little what I think. I am open to suggestions from the publishing folks. Gotta go wake up David, carry the puppy down the stairs, make coffee, etc.
This morning I woke up around 3:30 a.m. and had a few thoughts about my first chapter as well as a new draft chapter. If the mood strikes, I try to take advantage of it. Besides, I went to bed early last night, so I feel rested. It is now 6:45 and I have a revised first chapter along with a new chapter on nodes. In all, I have six draft chapters and a Preface written.
When the publisher asked for a few more sample chapters, it was not immediately clear to me that I needed to draft most of the book before submitting the additional chapters. But, now it seems like a good idea. Why? I think it makes sense to get a draft of most of the chapters to avoid redundancy and to improve the overall flow of the work. The notes I kept for the fiction work is detailed in places but my outline for the non-fiction is general. I suppose I could go back and attempt a more detailed outline, but it is sometimes fun to just sit down and write what I want to say. I can always make revisions, but the flow is what I am after. I want the non-fiction book to be readable and maybe a little bit entertaining. This was the method used for the initial two chapters that were included in the book proposal, so I would like to maintain the same feel if possible. Stated differently, I don't want it to read as a data dump of facts. I would much rather put it into a conversational context.
I also had some ideas about retitling the book as well as a few of the chapters. I'm thinking "Write of Way" as a potential title with chapters with names like "Writes of Passage". I'll kick it around. Ultimately, it matters little what I think. I am open to suggestions from the publishing folks. Gotta go wake up David, carry the puppy down the stairs, make coffee, etc.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Lessons in writing and the writing business
As I indicated yesterday, I kept copious notes as I wrote my fiction manuscript. I wanted to have a record so I might gain from the overall experience. I expected I would eventually choose the elements of greater value and dismiss those elements or steps that did not work or that produced unsatisfactory results.
I am now going back and reviewing my notes along with books and articles that had an influence on me. I believe my expectation was correct. In short, I did make mistakes, but I was very fortunate to find a wealth of information as well as many valuable techniques. My intent is to condense this information as I believe it will be very useful for other aspiring writers.
In the meantime, I am finding even more value in the process of reviewing the materials used along the way. It is a summary of lessons learned, but also a review of the key elements that I found to be most valuable. Yes, there is a lot of information, but there was not a single source for the very specific information that I needed at the time. I realize that many of the issues that I faced are common as I talk among other aspiring writers. Perhaps there is a need for such a reference of common issues. I hope so.
Of course, I realize I am merely providing a road map that addresses very specific issues. It is not a substitute for greater experience and knowledge, but I think it is very fresh in my mind and quite possibly relevant to a new generation of writers. Furthermore, these fundamental elements of writing and the writing business offers the development of my manuscript as an example. As my fiction book nears completion, the results of my work shall become apparent. The success of my non-fiction book will likely rest on the success of my fiction book. However, if I fail, I will have something of value for my efforts. I will have an education in the craft of writing through the direct application of methods I plan to document for future use.
I am now going back and reviewing my notes along with books and articles that had an influence on me. I believe my expectation was correct. In short, I did make mistakes, but I was very fortunate to find a wealth of information as well as many valuable techniques. My intent is to condense this information as I believe it will be very useful for other aspiring writers.
In the meantime, I am finding even more value in the process of reviewing the materials used along the way. It is a summary of lessons learned, but also a review of the key elements that I found to be most valuable. Yes, there is a lot of information, but there was not a single source for the very specific information that I needed at the time. I realize that many of the issues that I faced are common as I talk among other aspiring writers. Perhaps there is a need for such a reference of common issues. I hope so.
Of course, I realize I am merely providing a road map that addresses very specific issues. It is not a substitute for greater experience and knowledge, but I think it is very fresh in my mind and quite possibly relevant to a new generation of writers. Furthermore, these fundamental elements of writing and the writing business offers the development of my manuscript as an example. As my fiction book nears completion, the results of my work shall become apparent. The success of my non-fiction book will likely rest on the success of my fiction book. However, if I fail, I will have something of value for my efforts. I will have an education in the craft of writing through the direct application of methods I plan to document for future use.
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