Writing Advice

[HeavyMetalSunshineSister]

Cats as a species, not an individual character.

[Protohuman]

Today my brain gave birth to an idea for a story that even the afterbirth was brilliant!10 MonthsA Sci-Fi Soap Opera Tragedy series which follows various (human) people around the universe as they live out the remainder of their lives, because the universe is set to be torn apart in 10 months. Basically, something like the universe is already falling apart but if left to die naturally it will last for hundreds of years and it will be torture for everyone; so the human race developed the technology to destroy the universe in a split second, quick and painlessly for everyone. And the machine will detonate in 10 months, giving everyone a chance to live out their lives while the universe is still healthy.Basically, the plot revolves around several different people in different places. So far I'm including a pregnant woman who gives birth by the end, two elderly people who fall in love, two men who are bitter enemies who end up forgiving each other by the end, an a la Buddhist monk who struggles to find inner peace in time for the end, and some more.It's a sad atmosphere, getting to know and love these characters knowing they're all going to die at the end of the book.

[BenLuke]

Are people okay with the whole "Lets blow up the universe to put ourselves out of out misery" thing? Unless there's only one governing body that controls the entire populated universe there's some group that will disagree and try to stop the universe destroyer guys.Either way there's going to he mass hysterics, rioting in the streets and attempts to overthrow the government, because (unless people in your universe have screwed around with DNA so that they age slower.), the people currently alive won't live to see the less quick end, and so will probably prefer to continue their existence, thank you.I would nitpick about the plausibility of such of a device, and the fact that a couple hundred year is minuscule in the cosmic scheme of things, but you're probably not focusing on scientific plausibility.

[Jean Valjean]

I think that there really won't be much focus on the government aspect of the story and that part of the narrative will be presented more as just a "powers that be".Next time I post I'll go into great detail describing my top 10 inspirations and then some more, focusing on how each of them influences my stories.Your Honor,Emperor Kraggh

[Protodite Karzahni]

So, for a college project worth one AS Level and a lot of recognition at universities, I intend to finally make a start on a novel, a first draft of course. My intentions are to create a whole new world, just as many people have been discussing a while ago. Of course, if I really want to make everything seem so perfect like a culture that had existed together for centuries, there are a lot of minuscule details that one has to think out and fully develop. So far, I imagine the world to be your traditional medieval England-esque fantasy land, the Kazyshian isles (Yes, I'm taking a few names from TBKS for a while. Until I think up something better.) I've thought out some details such as the Gods, who exist as spirits and imbue those dedicated to certain arts with the ability to perform elemental based magic, whereupon those individuals will be referred to as Students of X. Necromancy would be an art that was at one time popular, before their God (The God of death and shadow, naturally) rebelled leading to a war which resulted in the eradication of all of those who studied under those arts. Several reasons such as hatred over fallen relatives and lewd allegations about necromancers prevents citizens from attempting to learn those ways again. But besides from the general history, I know there's individual tidbits I need to consider and I'm wondering how I could go about developing these. Obviously laying them all down and considering them is important, but I was wondering if there are outside sources I could consider. My intentions so far are to read non-fiction books and several history based novels to gain an inkling on what times in that kind of era were like. I knew I should have taken History...One other issue I'm considering is just what to write. So far, it's a toss up between two intended narratives. The first of which is almost your typical coming of age novel with a twist, centring around a young lad who has spent his life overshadowed by his brother who was labelled as the "chosen" one by a prophecy, who would lead the world from darkness. Made bitter by jealousy, the protagonist then settles for a life of inadequacy, before one fateful night in which a sorcerer stumbles into his life, on the verge of death. The protagonist discovers that the newcomer is in fact a necromancer, one of the last who lived in hiding, and proceeds to convince him to impart his knowledge of the art, under the promise that he would use the magic to right the wrongs of the past. The protagonist naturally agrees, but his already embittered enough to want to use his powers in a manner similar to the villains in the novels he adored as he grew. The narrative then follows the protagonist through his education until he becomes confident in his powers, whereupon he tries his hand at villainy. Humorously, his attempts then proceed to do more good than bad for the people, which leaves both him and his heroic brother frustrated. The other idea is something I'm currently playing around with in the BZPRPG and more canonically in my epic(s). At the moment I'm only creating characters, but I'm creating the backstory of a ragtag group of mercenaries and thieves who fought by each others side at one point. This second narrative follows them from a young age highlighting their devotion to each other and their aims for glory. The older they get, the more these desires grow until they begin to wage a clandestine war against other gangs and criminals over territory, hoping to become underground rules of this particular land of Kazyshia. As their luck begins to shine, the murder of one of their own sparks a mystery murder-esque subplot and provokes unrest and uneasy feelings amongst the group. From there, the book will then proceed to get more and more depressing as they investigate the murder and begin arguing and eventually fighting amongst each other. So, I guess the question is, which of these two would you think has the most potential to be an interesting read. Would you suggest I change anything soon or immediately? Did I say too much? Not enough? I'm open to all feedback and criticism.

[BenLuke]

The first sounds more fleshed out as a concept, although it's something I'd be less likely to read. The second is a bit vague and lacks very many details. OF course, the important thing is to start writing, so just pick a idea and start writing.

[Jean Valjean]

I really like the idea of the first, primarily because of the relationship I perceive between the brothers. It's uses traditions nicely and plays upon recognizable archetypes.Studying history, by the way, is a brilliant idea. Majors I'm currently considering are history and psychology because of how much storytelling potential I can see those subjects leading into.EDIT: By the way, I would appreciate comments on this little comedy of mine.Your Honor,Emperor Kraggh Edited May 10, 2012 by Emperor Kraggh

[Athmos]

Can't believe I just noticed this slice of COT. I guess there is some gold among all the lead. Yeah, I write as well. Not too good, mind you, but much better then 2 years ago. *shudders*

[Protohuman]

I'm working on a story that would appeal to creative people and socially awkward teenagers. And this is NOT some petty teenage drama.Basically two 17 year olds, boy and girl, are absolute geniuses and are at the apex of creativity. They've known each other since they were 3 or 4, and grew up together making projects in many forms of art, including animation, music and comics. Charles Rene and Ellie Hawkins are two geniuses who are pretty much each other's only friend, and have a brother and sister-like relationship. One day, their work becomes so popular on the internet, that they get an interview (either on radio or online; undecided). The interviewer asks them if the are going out, and they're like "What?! Nah, we're just friends, we never even considered it!"But after the interview, when they both return to their homes, they start to secretly consider their possible attraction to each other; even though they don't tell each other straight away. But the next day, Charlie tries to get the idea out of his head, and instead asks her if she wants to see other people, and says that they spend too much time together. While Charlie is enthusiastic about it, Ellie is secretly offended because she is only just starting to question her attraction to him; but she forces herself to agree. The next day in college, Charlie joins a college band during a music lecture. Basically, over the weeks, Charlie manages to make a considerable number of new friends, but deep down he doesn't feel comforatble around them; and Ellie is too shy to socialise like him.Later on in the story, Charlie's band gets their first gig at a bar. At the gig, he sees a girl he recognises from his bus, who turns out to be attracted to him. While his band perform, Ellie is at the front of the audience, but Charlie gives increasing eye contact to the other girl. After his performance, he and the girl go outside and talk, leaving Ellie on her own. Later, she gets a hint that her best friend and possible point of affection is getting chatted up outside. She quickly rushes out to see them both kissing, and she's like "Oh no! Like, what?!" because her heart's broken and stuff. Before they see her, she goes back inside and calls her mum and asks for a lift home. When her lift comes, Charlie sees her getting into the car, and asks her why she's leaving early. She says she doesn't like this enviroment, and that she doesn't want to do projects with him anymore. Charlie's like "What are you talking about man?!", but she's all like "Bye Charlie" and gets in the car and goes home.WHOA! BIG DRAMA GOING ON HERE GUYS!Later on in the story, Charlie has doubts about his new girlfriend, thinking that she's annoying and embarrasing to be around, with her constant popularity and over confidence. At one point, she asks him if he's seen Ellie recently, and he replies saying that he doesn't do all that art-y stuff anymore. She says "Yeah, probably about time you got a life..." This sets off a match in Charlie, and he realises that he's hanging around with the wrong people. "Get a life", meaning stop being creative? If you think that, you can #### off out of my life! He immediately dumps her, and contacts Ellie asking if she wants to meet.He goes to her house, and they catch up in a serene manner. She has been socialising too, but never felt entirely comfortable with the people she was with (omg dat iz da saem stori az charlie!!). He tells her that she is the person he feels most comfortable around, and she tells him likewise. A short conversation of emotional outpouring and revelations and such, and then they decide to continue work on a project together. The project is a music album which they were working on at the beginning of the story, but they couldn't imagine what kind of final track to end it with. Now they decide to finish it. They write lyrics and compose piano, flute and violin parts. Ellie sets her automatic keyboard to play a single piano riff, and picks up the violin, while Charlie picks up the flute. They switch on the microphone and start to play. Ellie sings in her beautiful voice, and they both play their instruments very passionately. (The meaning of the song is so far undecided, but will go along the lines of always staying with those who understand you, or some emotional moral rubbish). Near the end of the song, Charlie stops playing the flute and speaks (with Ellie still playing the violin, and the microphone still recording), "Ellie, I know we spend practically 90% of our time together, but that doesn't mean I don't enjoy it. We've always had each other's shoulder to cry on, or to be best person to laugh with. And I am glad that I have that second half of my life at our age," he resumes the flute, while Ellie stops the violin and says something along the similar lines. Basically the tell each other's feelings. They're going out now. Horray!!!Yeah I didn't really tell (most of) the story very well, but this is only parts of it. But I have a pretty good image in my head of how it looks.It was inspired by people and events in my own life, with added bits ^^

[WriterofReapers]

Hmm... Sounds like fairly interesting, but your main characters may be difficult to characterize properly. if they are really so smart and creative, you will have to think of ways to show that lest their intelligence simply becomes an informed ability.

[Protohuman]

There are scenes where they work on their projects =)Using proper language corresponding to those forms of artThey also have individual creative aspects;Ellie is a detailed artist, including sketches and painting. She plays violin, piano and guitar, and is an amazing singer.Charlie is a cartoonist. He plays bass, flute and other such woodwind instruments. He is also an actor and programmer.They are also both animators.

Edited May 18, 2012 by Protohuman

[WriterofReapers]

I had figured that there would be scenes like that based off of your summary. However, the point I'm really trying to make is that you have created two characters that are "geniuses" that excel in many different fields. Unless you are also like that, writing these characters can be difficult because you as the writer don't know the things your characters "know". However, I may be mistaken (and I probably am).I feel like I'm doing a bad job explaining this...

[Protohuman]

Lol nah, I based these characters talents off my own =)

[WriterofReapers]

Okay, then knock yourself out. Although I can't say I'm expecting something amazing, it should be good.

[Jean Valjean]

That reminds me a bit of where I go with Four-I's, since I try hard not to make anything up and do my research behind everything these nerds do. Actually, I always figured that I'd share my writing about them with other nerds interested in contributing.Anyway, time to explain my sources of inspiration. An expanded, better organized version of this list might appear on my blog sometime.1. Star WarsJust about everything in this franchise inspires me. The music, the opening scene, the characters, the universe, and so forth. I guess I'll start with the music:It's great. John Williams knows his stuff, and George Lucus worked very carefully with the great composer to make sure the score was perfect, as well as iconic. The music is actually a major part of the narrative and it's almost a story in and of itself, which is what makes it so great. It forms its own characters, creates its own scenes, and generated its own conflicts. The leitmotifs are instantly recognizable and universally loved, even used in earnest, such as The Imperial March, to the point where they are real-world anthems in their own right I love how versatile it is, how it makes full use of the orchestra and all its parts, and how it is worthy of comparison to the classic composers. All the while, it captures it as purely as possible as only John Williams can.As for the opening scene, I can only hope to create something that epic, simple, iconic, easy to emulate, and representative of the what going to the theatre is all about. It's recognizable on its first note, distinct, grand, and unmistakable. It's copied throughout all the movies because it's classic. It gives the perfect excuse to offer the grand music. If I were to see my IDES series make it to the big screen, I'd like to capture all of these elements, and I constantly ponder how I might do that.Its use of archetypal characters and conflicts is also inspiring. George Lucus wasn't afraid to create Luke, a simple everyman, the archetypal hero, and Han Solo, the archetypal antihero. Besides Count Dracula, there will never be a villain more iconic than Darth Vader. There will never be a princess like Leiah. There will never be a mentor like Obi Wan. Even once you get outside the basic archetypes in the first film, there's Palpatine, whose hideous face and unspeakable evil need no explanation, Grievous, Yoda, and so forth, creating a great pantheon of characters to help fans focus their fandom. I have something similar going on, where I have many distinct personalities in one universe, and hopefully each of them will be good enough to earn their own fan following.The universe is also amazing. It's big, grand, and completely autonomous. There's no reference to our own. It's been advanced for so long that everything is taken completely for granted, even by the viewer. The history of interstellar travel has gone back for hundreds of thousands of years, enough time for entire species to evolve. It's been advanced for so long that technological advancement is no longer an issue. The technology has been around for so long that it's become part of ancient cultures. Wookies turn it into a form of art. Yet, primitive ways still exist. Anakin Skywalker found time to carve a simple talisman for Padme when not working on droids and pod racers. General Grievous' people still wear bone masks and tribal clothing. One of the bounty hunters wears a turbine when he could be wearing a special helmet. I also like that some people wear robes, while others wear robot suits, and others still wear robot suits combined with robes. Style has evolved completely apart from our ideas on Earth, and there's not a tie to be found. Even though the world is so technological, it's still ancient, and in some areas more ancient than others, or less prosperous. Ultimately, once taken to the expanded universe, it becomes so huge, with over 90,000 Wookiepedia entries, that it's as real as Earth.Furthermore, I like that its unique styles, having evolved on their own, are completely authentic and can be imitated on Hhalloween, for they make very memorable and original costumes.I also like that a decent number of the characters are alien. That's inspired me. So has the fact that the humans have been around for so long that nobody knows where they originated from, which I have done in my own story after the 53,000,000 year jump.There's also the matter of having a brotherhood for the cause of good, the Jedi, and another faction that believably espouses a philosophy of evil. I find the latter case particularly interesting, for that's essentially what I wish to have in my own series, and I'm glad to see that the idea has been realistically - and successfully - portrayed.I think I'll end there, since I can really go on and on. Suffice to say, there's no one answer to why Star Wars is my biggest inspiration. It's just a given.2. Lord of the RingsThe main thing I love about the films in particular is how authentic they are. It was a fully realized world, and like Star Wars, the technological level is taken for granted, being at the place that it's always been for as long as anyone can remember, and going as far as it will go as far as anyone cares. Tolkien invented languages from scratch, created cultures, and wrote a comprehensive history. Though the films don't explain it all, it still shows. That there's meaning behind everything is obvious. I don't understand everything that goes on in the film, but I know that there's a full and complete backstory explaining everything I see and that things that seem deep are actually twice as deep as they seem, even if they're not explained.The architecture is beautiful. The scenery is wonderful. The battle scenes are plentiful. Each and every aspect is something to be emulated, and has fallen into my definition of "epic". The storytelling is in tune with the visuals, and tells an equally epic conflict.Also, the authenticity of the sets once more amazes me.3. BionicleBy this I refer specifically to years 2001-2003.I love that, once more, there's a universe that's at a certain level that isn't questioned. As far as the audience is concerned, everyone has, is, and will always be at their technological level. Their history isn't questioned. Rather, the amazement of the universe is taken in as it is. It took me in as a child, and it also showed me amazing things that heroes can do. It got me to dream big, get excited, and think that I could do things. It also invited me into a culture that I really loved to imagine that I was a part of.Makuta was another major element I walked away with after seeing MNOG, the idea of an ever-present, unconquerable villain. He was rarely ever confronted, and had his fair share of Dragons underneath him to be the heavy, but somehow they never outshone the man behind the man, and when it came down to it Makuta was the main man. The same can't really be said for Palpatine, who is often outssone by his more iconic apprentice, Darth Vader. This makes Makuta rather unique among villains, and a role model for my bigger villains.The other thing that amazed me about Bionicle that still fascinates me is the mystery. The mystery wasn't in the plot so much as it was in the background. Even though there was a willing suspension of disbelief, there was a fascination with the Tohunga and how they came about. There was a fascination behind the mysteries of the island that not even the Tohunga knew about, things that would otherwise seem deus-ex-machina but weren't. How did the masks appear? What was the sphere next to Makuta's chamber doing there? What was the story behind the sundial underground, which also turned into a chamber with a hologram, which in turn also happened to be a secret passageway? What was with the crystals and the hidden temples that Hahli found in MNOG 2? What was with the Red Star?My explanation was a bit more along the lines of 2001: A Space Odyssey, as for me the music was more cosmic than what Greg Farshtey had in mind, in part because of the leitmotif associated with the Red Star. They were the five notes played while looking through the telescope. They played again in MNOG 2 when opening the gates leading to the Crystal of Prosperity in the Great Mine. If you don't know what I'm talking about, look up MNOG Red Star Music and click on the first result. It was creepy, distant, and cosmic. Perhaps that was because I was looking at the stars, but overall it got me to love the idea of a cosmic mystery and great forces that don't allow themselves to be explained. That music, that scene, and the various elements of Bionicle's mystery have inspired me ever since.While I'm on that note, I must also note that I've been inspired by the music in general.4. 2001: A Space OdysseyI said that at points Bionicle reminded me of this, since 2001 is the quintessential example of the cosmic mystery. I love the simple geometry behind the Monolith, the start imagery the movie uses to create its own symbolism, and its mastery of intuitive storytelling. Nothing's ever explained, but somehow it all seems to make sense. I have the sense that there are beings who are one with the cosmos and all that.My interpretation of this film has really gone on to inspire a major background plot within my own story, one that I'm never sure if I fully want to explain, though I have it fully figured out. I guess I'll go down the road of Lord of the Rings, where the audience will know that there's a deep explanation for some of the mysteries, and the style of Bionicle, where they often present themselves in odd, unexplained plot developments.5. FantasiaWalt Disney was really onto something here. He saw movies in a way that no one else had bothered to see them, and from this he derived one of the grandest artistic visions ever. This is pure art.I love how this perfectly captures archetypes. The opening of the first film perfectly captures the beauty of the mind itself. The Sorceror's Apprentice perfectly captures mischief. The ending, Night On Bald Mountain renders the best depiction of evil that I have ever seen, and like Makuta has made major contributions to how I interpret my biggest villain, Death. The opening to Fantasia 2000 perfectly captures a battle between good and evil, with good literally coming through from deus ex machina (or so I interpret it). Firebird features characters who are literal, primal forces of creation and destruction, and I love that the firebird needs no explanation for wanting to destroy everything and hating the Spring Sprite.The way these capture such basic concepts through such simple imagery, telling the stories in ways that dig up our intuition and instinct by the root, is amazing, and it's something I will always try to capture in my stories, for these scenes are the definitive examples of their archetypes.6. BoneI love that this book seems really big, like Lord of the Rings, and yet is also so small, for it focuses on only several characters. In spite of how basic their story is, it's one of the greatest examples of the basic Hero's Story I've ever read. They go out, they reluctantly accept an adventure, and they go back home. Somehow, it all worked. Even though I never saw their home, I felt that they almost did belong there, and it closed on the perfect note.Amazingly, I can see this be the basis for an equally good sequel, doing the Hero's Story a good bit of justice as a reliable format. I don't know how much I would want to lean on this and how much of what happens in Bone translates into my own work, but I like that it's an amazing piece of classic fairytale storytelling that stands completely on its own while at the same time not ruining the possibility of an equally good sequel. This might be one of my bigger inspirations for how to write an ongoing series of large books.Harry Potter has inspired me in this regard, too, though the first book wasn't nearly as big as Bone. Still, it gets credit for creating seven books that flew together perfectly to create one giant story.7. TitanicThis is what happens when a storyteller decides to do his research. This movie is flooding (pun intended) with authenticity. Normally, people will suggest that authors ignore realism because no one will notice or care about small inaccuracies. While it is true that people don't notice inaccuracies that much, this film gives a distinct sense of realism that it's lack of inaccuracies can be felt. What's more, it didn't take way form the excitement. It made the film better.Also, I'm a sucker for how they made the entire set. That's always something I appreciate. Then there's the length of the film, another thing I'm a fan of.8. AnimorphsWithout compromising our faith in the goodness of the characters, the author mercilessly strips away their innocence. They are forced to kill, make tough decisions, and hurt others. Yet, they are completely sympathetic, and I don't think of them as violent people. I haven't read The Hunger Games, but I can't imagine it exploring the morals of violence as well as Animorphs, for it amazingly explored these morals without ever truly appealing to the little beast inside of us that like's to read stories preaching against violence as an excuse for illustrating violence.These books have inspired me not just as an author, but as a person. They all have to face tough decisions, and they all are forced to make the ugly choices more often than they'd like. More than once they had to allow innocent people to die, and they often had to figure out their priorities. I give this series an A++ when it comes to using the genre of science fiction to explore more than just philosophical questions and deal with tangible, everyday ethical questions. The ideas that it provokes are real and relevant.Overall, the biggest thing that came to me through this series was utilitarian ethics, that which for the longest time I've called "military-mindedness". Basically, "The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few".9. SmallvilleChloe Sullivan.No wait, she's not an inspiration, sorry. I just felt the urge to say her name for some reason.Anyway, the reason why this inspires me as an author it because of its beautiful way of chronicling the life of an extraordinary teenager who deals with equally extraordinary problems. Clark Kent is a wholesome individual, plagued by various griefs and the problem of never being able to tell his friends the truth about himself. Why can't relate to that?Overall, this show is what made me fall in love with Superman and helped me realize that even when the hero is overpowered and totally nice, he's still not perfect. He's a great role model, and yet instead of coming in the guise of a mentor, Smallville delivers the role model in the form of a relatable teen. To think, at first I thought that this was bad storytelling, but now I've come to see that this is one of the most precious types of characters you can have, for Clark, like Luke, is the everyman.The other major inspiration I take from this film is 10. Titan A.E."Why this film?" you might ask. Well, it shamelessly hops around fascinating new planets, jumps between many a surprising alien, kicks dozens of tropes in the behind, and has fun with it all. Seriously, I love that this film creates astounding visuals for the sake of being cool, and somehow I don't accuse it of being shallow. It helps, of course, that the story is good, and so are the characters.Ultimately, this film taught me to have fun with sci-fi concepts and remember that no matter what, they should always be cool. I mean, look at the Drej. Everything about the Drej's blueness is awesome.Your Honor,Emperor Kraggh Edited May 21, 2012 by Emperor Kraggh

[Athmos]

Awesome choices Kraggh. You make me wanna watch those again.

[Jedi Knight Krazy]

I definitely agree about the assumed tech level - I love it when stories un-apologetically create a world, without feeling like they need to explain it. Hunger Games is another good recent example - but sadly these types of stories are becoming less common.

[Protodite Karzahni]

If nobody minds, I'd just like to raise a point I've been considering over the course of the day. A while ago I posted a couple of plot summaries for a novel I've been considering and I have effectively decided that the Necromancer storyline is the strongest. As they say, stick with what you know and what I don't know is how gang warfare functions. Anyway, what I've been considering is that the protagonist's main motivation is his thirst for villainy and how he wants to be like his childhood "heroes". While he inadvertently starts doing more good than bad, I'm aware that if I proceed like this, what I'm doing is creating a completely unrelateable character, and possibly alienating the reader who might be turned off by the idea of following the story of a character whose only reason for the actions he performs is a want for mayhem and grief.I'm wondering if there's actually any truth to that concern? Would any of you read a novel with such a sociopath in the leading role, even when his actions have the opposite effect intended? And if so, is there anything you might recommend?

[WriterofReapers]

I'd read it. All I can really recommend is to make certain that most of the other characters dislike him as much as the reader will. In addition, having a secondary protagonist (like someone who is trying to capture your necromancer character) will ensure that people won't disregard your story just because the main character is a sociopath; he'll have somebody to balance him out.

[Jedi Knight Krazy]

I would say a couple things could help balance it out. An unrelateable character can still be highly entertaining in a story that doesn't take itself seriously. If you do want a more serious story, then try a different strategy: don't compromise his character, but make him disturbingly relateable. Let your readers squirm as they realize how much they have in common with this sociopath. Let them wonder, "If I had powers like him, would I end up as a villain, too?"

[BenLuke]

If you do want a more serious story, then try a different strategy: don't compromise his character, but make him disturbingly relateable.

For instance, I Am Not a Serial Killer.

[Jean Valjean]

I have someone similar, Deleta, the only character with whom I write about in first person, barring journal entries. The purpose to his character is that his mindset is so completely and utterly alien, being perfect at everything he does, a supergenius, but chaotic in the way that he uses his free will, being completely apathetic, that he's a bit disturbing. He doesn't even care whether or not he goes to Heaven or ######, even though he knows his immortal soul will care once he goes there. I try to represent an extreme through him, and I don't know how much that's relatable, but I'm trying my best to get the audience's heads wrapped around an idea that I myself find difficult to comprehend.Ultimately, what I think makes him work as a character is not that he's relatable, bu that he's intriguing. He's a bit of a mystery, even when you read of him from first person perspective. Also, he's not introduced until over halfway through the series, meaning that hopefully my more basic strategies for attracting an audience up to that point will keep them going because they like to read about the ongoing story regardless.Your Honor,Emperor Kraggh

[Protohuman]

I've made the climax of the Ellie and Charlie story a house party scene.Basically, after a month of ignoring each other they are both invited to the same party. They approach each other politely and have a brief catch up before going in. When they go in, they split up and head to different parts of the house with their own friends. While Charlie is out in the garden with his male friends, chatting up some girls, Ellie is in the living room with her female friends. Her female friends dance in a sexually provocative way which she finds uncomfortable to be around. They encourage her to join in, but she is too nervous. After a moment or so, she starts to dance, and then gets more energetic and starts to border on sexual. But then a bunch of boys wolf whistle at her, and she stops immediately, full of embarrassment. She gave the whole "sexy girl" thing a try and she hated it.As soon as she stops, one of the boys gets up and starts to dance with her. She continues, but in a more fun loving way. Meanwhile Charlie is enjoying himself in the garden with the group of girls; at one point one of them mounts his back and rides him round the garden. He and his male friends engage in other crazy physical activity with the girls.Back in the living room, Ellie sits down at the sofa with the boy and they chat for a while. After a few minutes, he tries to kiss her; she resists and says she's not interested, but he keeps on trying. As Charlie is going back inside, he sees the boy throwing himself at her and shouts across the room to him, telling him to get his hands off her. He storms over and drags him off her, and she gets up and backs up against the wall; he warns the boy to stay away from her. Both of their friends throw comments at how boring they are, and how that they are always focusing on college work rather than having "real fun". One person asks what they actually do when they're not in college, and makes a stupid joke which causes the whole room to laugh at them. By this time they are both backed up against the wall, and without realising at first, holding hands. They are both distressed and scared, until they get a new surge of bravery.They go over to the computer which is hooked up to the telly, and shut off the music. They broadcast their online portfolios of their music and art and animations; they tell everyone that they made all of these between the two of them, and that they have millions of views online and have a good future ahead of them. The only reason that they haven't told anyone at college is because they're modest.(Everyone's reaction to this is so far undecided. I'd like to give them a respectful one, but one that says "Get off and switch the music back on!" would be more believable... These people are all drunk and stoned! While I want this to be believable, I'd also like it to be satisfying. Help?

[Athmos]

The ending seems a little.....expected? Although I've seen dozens of chick flicks, so I'm more tuned to that thing.

[Protohuman]

I've started writing a screenplay! I've looked up the professional methods, and used knowledge of films and TV that I've collect over the years. Also I have a few friends who are professional filmmakers, so they could help!I've made the first scene; it's six pages long, and I did a mock table read in my head and timed it on my phone. It was around five minutes! Exactly the length I wanted it to be!It's for my latest story involving the two young geniuses. I hope to produce it within the next 15 years, once I get my company together (it's all being sorted, don't worry xD). It's a drama film, aimed at TV and should run for about an hour and a half.P.S. It's about time someone bumped this thread. It was falling into the pit of lost threads and was about to be eaten by the Monster of Out Of Date! >.<

[Athmos]

So, instead of a novel, you're aiming for a Hallmark movie? xD

[Unauthorized Autobiography]

I'm making an epic. Any suggestion? PS: I dont want to make comics. I want to skip the first part, sorry.

[Protohuman]

I'm British, so hopefully BBC or ITV :L@CaraparUmm, I dunno, think of a plot yourself, silly xDJust give us some kind of idea of what you want to do, and we'll help you ^.^

[Athmos]

BBC? That's very popular as well. Hope it goes well.

[Protohuman]

BBC One would be an honour, as it's Britain's first channel. But then there is concerns of advertising; the story definately includes YT (the site which cannot be named), and I don't really want to change that. I'm still considering anything else; Adobe After Effects, Premier and Flash could possibly included in it, but that would effectively be advertising Adobe. BBC One does NOT allow external advertising, BBC Two I'm not really sure of, but BBC Three does.But BBC Three is SOO.... embarassing to watch. I don't know if I'd get the audience I want with that channel >.<But anyway, a question;Have you ever written a story that became painful to write halfway through? Like a story inspired by a special lady, or something currently happening in your life that got bad halfway through writing about it? It's pretty clear that the best stories are written when the author is feeling the emotion corresponding to the story... Facination, uncaring, energetic, tired, love, hate, ecsatic, depressed, or just any kind of feeling that relates to the story. But when that phase of feeling that emotion is over, the story's writing quality seems to get cut off as soon as it happens. o.O

[Athmos]

You could pitch over here in America on PBS. I think they allow that.@Question: Yes. God, yes. Many times.

[BenLuke]

PBS produces it's own (fictional) content?Where I live, "PBS" might as well stand for "Primarily British Shows".

[Athmos]

PBS produces it's own (fictional) content?Where I live, "PBS" might as well stand for "Primarily British Shows".

Well, PBS sometimes does shows that I don't think they had a hand in making. More independent films, if you will.

[Jedi Knight Krazy]

BBC One would be an honour, as it's Britain's first channel. But then there is concerns of advertising; the story definately includes YT (the site which cannot be named), and I don't really want to change that. I'm still considering anything else; Adobe After Effects, Premier and Flash could possibly included in it, but that would effectively be advertising Adobe. BBC One does NOT allow external advertising, BBC Two I'm not really sure of, but BBC Three does.But BBC Three is SOO.... embarassing to watch. I don't know if I'd get the audience I want with that channel >.<

Wait - there's THREE BBCs in the UK?Three times the Doctor Who!? ...Or does it not work like that?

[BenLuke]

^ From what I've read, no.

[BioGio]

Wait - there's THREE BBCs in the UK?Three times the Doctor Who!?...Or does it not work like that?

You know how FOX has roughly five . . . hundred channels in America? It's more like that: different programming between channels, but the same ownership.Anyway, to get back on topic, I noticed that Protohuman has some issues with (theoretical) publishers. To what degree do you guys all think about this sort of thing?~ BioGio

[Protohuman]

There's actually four primary BBC channels, then an HD BBC One, a weird Welsh Gaelic channel and load of radio channels...The thing about the BBC is that it's payed for by the tax payers. I'm not yet knowlegable on television economics, but as far as I know BBC One is pretty much payed by the goverment. BBC Alba, the weird Gaelic channel, is full of strange Welsh shows; I watched it once and my mum told me that it's likely I'm one of the only people in England watching it. So from what I can piece together, my film's production could be payed for by the whole of the UK, and no-one would even notice. It's just the trouble of getting it accepted; a LOT of shows requesting to be produced by the BBC get rejected, and moved to a really rubbish and tacky channel like Dave or E4. So really, the aim is to find a producer who works for the BBC who will be willing to produce my film!

Edited June 5, 2012 by Protohuman

[BenLuke]

PBS here in the states is kind of like that, although it isn't as centralized, having different stations in different places. Some stations produce their own stuff but most buy it from others or the BBC.Anyway, I'm not that sure about how the TV business works, either here or in abroad, so I don't know how well I can give advice.

Edited June 5, 2012 by BenLuke-116

[Protohuman]

To be honest I didn't really consider showing it in America xD But that's a good idea I guessI'd say the target market for this film would be modern teenage nerds. I've included many nerdy cultural references, such as Internet slang (there's a specific scene where Charlie's dad uses Internet abbreviations that he's learned from his son in real life to embarrass him), words like "Awesome", and several Dr Who and Anime references. The funny thing is, I didn't even have to research this; all I had to do was the think about the nerdiest of my friends (including me) and think about what they get up to, how they talk and how they act.Other nerdy things include Ellie having a fan-girl approach to pirates, and putting ironic impressions of generic Sci-Fi or Fantasy heros and villains in their everyday dialog.Example:

[opening montage]

The credits have now ended, now that they have both been revealed. They are both in Ellie’s living room.

CHARLIE (confidently, slightly out of breath): Okay, that was awesome! I think I hit a few wrong notes in the middle, but do you think that’s noticeable?

ELLIE (reassuringly): Come on, a few imperfect bars is curse of the multi-instrumentalist!

CHARLIE (mock-dramatically): It was bestowed on us upon birth...!

ELLIE (in same tone): Oooooohhhh!

CHARLIE: (laughs) So anyway, have you perfected the lyrics yet?

[blah, blah, blah, on with the scene]

As these are teenagers, they've got to ACT like teenagers; silly, brief moments of being in their own world, and take pride in weirdness. Be honest, all of you teens here MUST do that with your friends to some extent?Now as for introducing them, I thought it would be best to do most of that through the work they create, and the relationships they have with other people...

[in Ellie’s room]

Charlie crouches down and opens his bag by the matress bed he slept in last night. He gets out the three plactecine models he mentioned which are contained in plastic cases. He also gets out his camera and spider tripod. Ellie carefully takes the models out of their cases and examines them.

ELLIE: These are so detailed! You’re getting good at this...

CHARLIE: Thanks, took all Friday night to make them.

ELLIE (laughing): You realise I’m having a miniature fan-gasm at the pirate?

CHARLIE: I knew you’d appreciate it! I call it Jack Sparroid...

ELLIE: (awed squeal) This would make such an awesome character for World of Apex...!

Charlie encourages Ellie to kneel down next to him with the model. He directs her through the structure.

CHARLIE: I followed your advice and started using two pairs of pliars to bend the wireframes. Right now I’m stuck with large paper clips... I used a £10 acrylic set to paint it, and used the best plasticine I could find. For the machine parts, I just went into my dad’s gararge and got as many tiny pieces of metal I could. But for the robotic eye, I used the old laser eye from the CD drive in my old laptop!

ELLIE (casually astounded): It’s pretty effective...

Just through these objects, I've already showed a lot about their characters. Charlie appears to be the on technical side of things, being a sculpture who also knows his machines. Ellie's nerdy side is shown more in this scene, seeing as her artist side was in another scene beforehand.Do you cats this all this is effective?.....I mean it might help if I post the whole thing so far, but I don't want to waste space and your time xD

[WriterofReapers]

This might sound strange, but I think you might be making them too nerdy. While I understand that you want nerds to be able to relate to the characters, I also believe that of all the people in your intended demographic (that is, British/European nerds), only a fraction of them will be interested in a story like this.Basically, your aim seems a bit too narrow at this point. Of course, that's just my opinion.