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Astinus August 5th, 2013 8:10 PM

Random Writing Nonsense
 
This thread can technically be considered the DCC for Fanfiction & Writing. In this thread, we can post our thoughts on anything to do with writing. Talk with your fellow writers, share tips, discuss anything that comes to mind.

Only requests are to stay on-topic and only posts related to writing in this thread.

This post can be updated at any time with any changes, which I will announce.

Happy posting!

Astinus August 6th, 2013 8:27 PM

It's rather fun doing research on various things for my stories. I can get so easily distracted.

For instance, I was writing a fanfic, and wanted to get the correct layout of a character's apartment. This first lead to me quickly watching a few minutes of the show to get information from the canon source. While I got my answer, I went a little further. I looked up various Japanese apartment buildings and their floor plans, because I knew that there was an apartment building that looked like the one from the show in pretty much the exact location as it does in the show. Unfortunately, I couldn't get any farther than that for more information.

But it did lead me to continue researching Japanese apartments, and I found one that will work for another fic, with the proper amount of bedrooms and a floor plan that works for the family. I looked up the location of the apartment complex on Google maps and found that the buildings are located right across the street from a little bakery. Now I know that this family will be eating well (since the mother works in a restaurant and there's a bakery right down the street!)

There are a few other writers out there who get distracted by research. Or there are some that find just the strangest things. For instance, my friend found out that Grotle's nuts taste bad to humans.

Does anyone else out there research this much while writing? Or are there some who just don't research and use whatever information sounds right for the story? I'm not sure how well the latter would work, because there always seems to be the one person who will read your story, catch you where it's wrong, and will point it out to you. And besides, research is fun, and you learn so many things.

Whenever I am finding myself on Google maps, studying the streets of Japan while I'm supposed to be writing, I'm always wondering if I'm the only person who does that.

Khawill August 6th, 2013 9:15 PM

When I write, I don't usually use actual places, especially when Ive never been there. I feel like researching would never justify the place. Though I do research scientific, historic, and linguistic things about general areas so I can at least imply an area. I don't get carried away while researching because I usually look up what I need as I need it and then go back to writing. It is always more fun to make things up as well (different universes/planets are much better for me to write about, even if it seems like another earth)

When I research other things for fun though, I will get carried away. Things like actors, animes, movies, or objects can lead me on a Wikipedia adventure that can easily drain a few hours of my free time.

Cutlerine August 7th, 2013 1:59 AM

It depends. If I'm writing fanfiction, I generally don't need to look up much other than a couple of political histories to get a sense of the backstory for my regions. (Most of which, I noticed, are former colonies or mandates of one empire or another.)

If I'm setting things in the real world, or a version of it - then yes. London is the setting for what I'm working on right now, and I do know it reasonably well, but there are quite a few things I find myself having to research while writing - the Ravenmaster of the Tower, for instance, or the origins of the Koh-i-Noor, or the borough history of Finsbury to see whether or not I can conveniently replace it with a rift leading down into Hell. A few hours later, I usually look up from a study into book theft in British libraries as compared to American libraries, and wonder exactly how I got from searching for the original layout of the Reading Room of the British Museum to that.

For the most part, I try not to depend too much on my research - I want my version of Edwardian London to have the ring of verisimilitude about it, but given all of the supernatural elements I've added to it, I don't want to restrict it to the truth; I want to give it scope to change. I research the history, and deviate from it in places where I think elements I've added would have changed the course of history, and generally explain other deviations from reality in terms of their relation to that point.

As far as floor plans of buildings go, I have several stock plans in my head that I sort of twist into new shapes whenever I need a new one. Although I'm not usually that detailed; often, I only need to mention a couple of rooms, and as long as I'm consistent in the way I describe characters moving from one to the other I don't mind so much about the specifics of how it works. I suppose I don't really describe things and people in that much detail unless they're really important; while I'll always try and lay out the rules and structures of my worlds as clearly as possible (without obstructing the narrative, hopefully), I generally don't give much in the way of description of people or buildings unless it's necessary. 250 pages into this story, for instance, and all we know of one of my main characters' appearance is that he has sandy hair, a curved mouth and bright eyes; I tend to focus more on showing what he does and how he acts. No matter what description an author gives a reader of a person or place, they always end up picturing them in their own way, often in a way that contradicts the description - even if they try not to contradict it. With that in mind, I've mostly dispensed with that sort of description, and focus more on getting across a broader sensation of the thing in question.

Wow, I digressed quite a lot there. I'll, er, see myself out before I derail the conversation.

Thergox August 7th, 2013 5:37 AM

I hate researching. It's such a pain. Because of this I usually base all of my topics off of something completely nonsensical or imaginary and build my fantasy worlds off of that. Of course, there are irritating essays and other such writing papers that get in the way of those, but I still drive my finesse into those as well. That said, I don't really write fanfictions because of how knowledgeable you must be with the story you're basing it off of.

I once collaborated with a friend on Young Justice and Full Metal Alchemist. . . That went terribly. I had no idea what Young Justice was, and, frankly, I was somewhat annoyed by how she made all the characters know everything and kill the entire point of the plot, and I only saw three episodes of FMA. We eventually dropped that when we figured out that neither of us could write what the seven sins would do. And that, my friends, is why I rarely do fanfictions.

However, there are often other projects that require attention to details around characters, too. For one of mine, I am including Marley, Riley, and Cynthia in it, but I'm not quite sure if I've quite knacked their personalities. Even with research (I suppose I'm a terrible researcher), I can't quite get them to be as they are.

Trev August 7th, 2013 9:43 AM

I think researching to an extent is good for your story, but keeping it close to the truth is really boring. There needs to be an author's originality in a story, and in the case of fanfiction, if the story is all 100% canon and 0% fanon, well, doesn't that defeat the purpose?

As for floor plans and settings though, I feel like those should never be researched or thoroughly described. Personally, it's more fun to leave it to the reader to imagine those settings to what they see fit. I usually don't like books or stories that lay out the entire setting word for word, because that's no fun. If they toss in a few minor details, I'm good with that, and I usually just create my own settings. That's technically the whole point of books, isn't it? To let the reader imagine their own world with a specified plot.

Idk that's just me. I'm sure very few people actually like not describing a setting intensely. I think it just ruins the fun of reading tbh.

Astinus August 7th, 2013 7:39 PM

Despite the fact that I do all the research that I mentioned, it never fully comes out through my writing. I research the general area of the real world city that I'm writing about, because nothing pulls me out faster of a fanfic that takes place in Japan than the mentioning of full-sized, multiple-roomed, sprawling houses with front yards, back yards, and outdoor pools in Odaiba, a subsection of Tokyo.

The thing with house/apartment floor plans is because I'm absolutely obsessed with those. Any house that I see ends up with me trying to figure out how it's laid out, how people can move around in it. So as I'm writing, although I might only say "He walked from the entrance directly into his bedroom", I know that the character has to take two steps up from the entryway, head straight a few steps, and then turn immediately to the left to reach his bedroom. It helps me as a writer, but will never reach the readers.

That's really what it's all about, and the advice I've always heard applied to research. Do it so the writer knows the details, but the reader isn't bored by the writer's knowledge.

Quote:

When I write, I don't usually use actual places, especially when Ive never been there. I feel like researching would never justify the place.
It will be interesting for me, because I have two stories planned where one takes place where I currently live and the other takes place where I'm planning to move. I'd like to see how much information I'd have to research or how much translates to the story when I write those pieces.

Though my Pokemon stories get very little research done to them. Only the attacks a Pokemon could possibly learn and maybe what each town has in it, and everything else is just me winging it.

PJBottomz post reminds me of a quote I found, which doesn't fully match what he said, but I was still reminded of it.

Quote:

I think a big part of why I read way more fanfiction than books is that there’s just a hell of a lot less exposition

the first 10 pages of most books are always “these are the main characters and here’s some background on each of them and this is the setting etc etc” and it’s such a ****ing hassle getting to the plot sometimes

fanfic is just like “**** it you know all of this already let’s go”

bobandbill August 9th, 2013 6:20 PM

I do some research on various aspects. A current fic I'm working on I actually put stuff on hold because I knew I was going to Japan shortly at the time, during which it was full swing of winter. And I wanted to feel what it was like again before writing too much on winter, given it was a good number of years since I've experienced snow.

Overseas travel certainly isn't available usually though, haha. But it's hard to beat a real experience. For everything else, there's mastercard google!

I can't say I've done particular research into floor plans ever before, but then it hasn't really been something that I've had to consider with any of my writing, really.

Sheep August 9th, 2013 6:43 PM

I usually write stories for fandoms that I know like the back of my hand so research usually isn't necessary. There are times when I forget minute details and need to look things up, though, since I'm a perfectionist and want everything to match up. 8D; I'm thinking of doing an original series sometime but right now the details are a little foggy.. but I do need to write sometime since I've been a bit rusty due to laziness, sigh.

Fairy August 9th, 2013 6:46 PM

Well, I can definitely say I learned something new! Which is silly, because common sense would have lead me to this conclusion, but I guess I just didn't have much foresight lol.

I never really thought that writers (outside of journalists) would use research tools, or even go so far as to travel to obtain information for their works. Which, again, is kinda silly considering that artists don't always draw apples form their imagination. But part of me always assumed that being able to write about an environment, make it come to life, and do so accurately, strictly limited to one's imagination was somewhat of an achievement for writers.

Actually, that inspired a question. For writers, what's more valuable, authenticity or creativity? Or does that depend on the genre?

bobandbill August 9th, 2013 7:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alexial (Post 7777251)
Well, I can definitely say I learned something new! Which is silly, because common sense would have lead me to this conclusion, but I guess I just didn't have much foresight lol.

I never really thought that writers (outside of journalists) would use research tools, or even go so far as to travel to obtain information for their works. Which, again, is kinda silly considering that artists don't always draw apples form their imagination. But part of me always assumed that being able to write about an environment, make it come to life, and do so accurately, strictly limited to one's imagination was somewhat of an achievement for writers.

Actually, that inspired a question. For writers, what's more valuable, authenticity or creativity? Or does that depend on the genre?

Well, again it was more coincidence that I actually was travelling and writing a fic that had relevance to it, haha. But it's certainly something authors do - travel about if they want to know more about a setting. Plus it lets you see more on how people behave in a different culture and environment. It's not something writers just do as well, I'd say it extends far beyond that. Take Pokemon for instance! Masuda took a team of developers to France for a while to research it given they're basing Kalos on it.

Research is most certainly what I did with my Colosseum parody fic, but not much was done outside of Pokemon research itself. ;p Ie playing through the game again, and also using Pokemon that I used in a fic (seeing how they attacked or whatnot helped in some regards too). I took a bunch of notes as well of various parts to see if I could include them in the fic and in what manner.

But on the flip side, a lot of what I wrote in that fic was on the spot! I had a general direction and plot in various parts, but the finer details often came from just writing sessions, and I changed a bunch of events on the go too if it felt that it'd work out better. Which is probably why my fic ended up so darn long compared to my original (naïve) expectations. =p


As for the question - I would say it depends (not just on genre but also the writing style, topic, etc), but creativity is one I might value more. Authenticity is good to keep things real, and have the reader be immersed rather than think 'what is going on/this is wrong' or the like, but if what you are writing doesn't offer anything new or exciting or the sort, then that's no fun to read either. And it's what brings the magic or charm, so to speak, into a story. Pick your poison, I suppose. Of course, a balance tends to be the best. ;p

Cutlerine August 10th, 2013 3:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alexial (Post 7777251)
Actually, that inspired a question. For writers, what's more valuable, authenticity or creativity? Or does that depend on the genre?

This strikes me as a bit of an odd question. I mean, authenticity and creativity aren't mutually exclusive; in fact, they work together: creativity brings a story to life, and authenticity keeps it believable. Finding a way to make something feel authentic requires creativity to begin with; after all, if you're going to have a character do something like slay a dragon or forge a skateboard out of a chunk of the sun in order to skate through space, you need to think pretty hard to come up with a way to make that seem authentic.

I guess it depends on what you mean by authenticity. I'm interpreting it as 'aspects of a story that make it feel real', so if that's not what you meant then ignore everything I'm writing. It's fairly independent of genre; a story needs to be more than a straightforward recounting of the minutiae of everyday life (unless you're Proust, I guess, but if you're Proust you certainly shouldn't be taking writing advice from me), but it does need to remain believable to the reader. A reader shouldn't start thinking, Well, this is silly halfway through, even if they are reading about the aforementioned solar spaceboard.

Er... I guess I'm just repeating what bobandbill said by this point. I'll stop, but after just this last observation: I think enough creativity brings its own authenticity. It self-organises: enough creativity and it tends to not only establish its own world and characters, but rules for them that bind them into a reasonable approximation of the real world, or at least into a coherent world that follows its own laws. That gives it its own authenticity, apart from that of reality - China Miéville, for instance, rarely sets his novels in anything approximating the real world, and never outright explains the laws of his settings - but they follow the rules and, almost without noticing, you adapt to the odd terminology and accept how the book works.

So, to conclude: authenticity and creativity are, well, inextricable. I'm not sure I could separate them into disparate parts of the storytelling experience.

Astinus August 16th, 2013 6:08 PM

Earlier today, I found that I can not listen to a livestream of people playing video games while writing. A part of this is due to the people playing the video games eating crunchy food. But it leads me to wonder what other people listen to while writing.

I have a playlist of songs that are either instrumental or that I've heard hundreds of times that I can just block them out. Some of these songs are from video games (Dangan Ronpa), remixes of video game soundtracks (Overclocked Remix's Final Fantasy VII), or random songs that I particularly enjoy ("Summertime" by DJ Jazzy and the Fresh Prince).

What about everyone else? Do you have a writing playlist? A particular set of songs to put on while writing? Or do you prefer the natural sounds of your writing area?

Phantom August 16th, 2013 6:25 PM

^

I don't particularly listen to anything while writing, but I can't write in silence. I usually turn on the tv, random channel, just for background noise. Oddly enough it really helps me out. I've always been able to work better with the tv on in the back, even when I was in school doing homework. Half the time I don't even know what show it's on.

As for the previous talks about research, I love it way too much. As someone else said, I usually only write for fandoms I know really well, or far too well, but there's always that bit more of research you can do. And sometimes it can pop up some REALLY good ideas. I know at least one of my favorite characters I made wouldn't be here if I hadn't done my research.

Trev August 17th, 2013 9:03 PM

Oh god, I love listening to music when writing. I like to listen to a lot of uplifting and fast-paced songs because it keeps me awake and eventually they drown out but I still get the motivation. Many a stories have been written over Katy Perry.

Something interesting I've always noticed is that my writing skills deteriorate during the nighttime and replenish the next day. Around 12:30 PM - 4:00/5:00 PM is usually when my writings skills are at their peak. That makes me wonder, does everyone else have a "writing time" in which their skills are better than other times?

There's also other things like weather, temperature, outside influence from others, distractions, location, etc. that can affect writing greatly. I think the perfect writing conditions would be a rainy day, sitting on a plush, cool couch in a comfortable sitting position with music playing at a soft volume, home alone. At least, that's what I want. I dunno how it works for others.

Nolafus August 17th, 2013 9:50 PM

I can't listen to anything while I write. I concentrate on the music rather than what I'm writing. Even for instrumental songs I can't write to because I listen to every melody and try to pick out each individual instrument. I just can't do it.

As for specific times I write I usually write right before I go to bed since that's when most ideas come and I suffer from mild insomnia so I have nothing else to do. Since I write late at night I re-read what I write sometime during the next day to cover any obvious mistakes I made. I can also write while it's raining locked away in my room where no one can disturb me. PJBottomz just described the perfect writing scenario minus the music.

Astinus August 17th, 2013 10:04 PM

I'm incapable of writing during the day. The best time for me to do any writing is after 11 at night, when I am settled in after coming home from work and no one is expecting me to do anything. If I try to write during the day, I'm either constantly interrupted or I feel guilty because the sun is up and I should be outside doing something. I'm more of a night person anyhow.

Best writing scenario for me is a rainy summer night where I have my window open, the sound and smell of rain coming into my room, and no cats to pull down the screen of my open window.

Sheep August 18th, 2013 4:35 PM

Ahh I almost couldn't find this thread because it wasn't in the main writing board, nor was it stickied.

But I totally agree with the above. I feel that ideas come to me much more naturally at night so most of my writing is done past 9 or 10PM.

Fairy August 18th, 2013 5:52 PM

My anxiety tends to act up around 8 - 10pm, so my creativity tends to fluctuate during that period. Sometimes, when I get anxious, writing/drawing is the only thing I can do to cope with it. Other times, I can't even imagine writing or picking up a pencil. It really just depends.

I find I write better under pressure though. When I have extra time, I tend to just waste it lol.

Squirrel August 18th, 2013 6:35 PM

I always prefer writing with a deadline. If I'm writing with an unlimited amount of time I never feel pressured to finish it so I always end up delaying and eventually forgetting about the work, but if I've got a deadline to meet I find it much easier to work effectively. Usually I'll get a friend or family member to help out by providing some kind of ultimatum if x amount of work isn't done by a certain date, but it's been a long time since I've done any serious writing haha.

moon August 18th, 2013 11:11 PM

I always listen to music when I write! I always listen to music when I do anything, actually. Most often soundtracks, if I'm doing something where I just want some music to set the mood rather than actually listen to it.

I don't write much fiction at all these days, I guess I don't have the patience for it. RPing is more rewarding imo because even though you can't control the story completely, you get so much input from what the other players do and you never quite know what comes next. Plus, the interactions and relationship building is something you can't have in the same way when you write a fic on your own.

Just something I thought about xD

Nolafus August 19th, 2013 1:18 AM

I find it harder and harder to continue with a huge writing project if it doesn't have a deadline. If it does have a deadline, then I normally get it done early, like my Current World Issues paper I turned in two weeks early. A good quote I got from one of my LA teachers is that writing is never done, it's due.

bobandbill August 19th, 2013 3:00 AM

I like to listen to music when I write. Sometimes a certain artist or album puts me in a pretty good writing mood.

Deadlines... sometimes they work for me, sometimes they don't. I seem to be pretty mixed with them. Then again a bunch of deadlines that failed for me was in part due to other obligations I had. But I think if I need something done I worked better by setting x amount of time a day to do it rather than try and have it all done by some date.

Squirrel August 19th, 2013 5:04 AM

You guys can listen to music whilst writing? I've always found that hugely distracting - it always makes me want to start including themes akin to the song's lyrics or to even implement the lyrics themselves, or use the music video etc. I'm not the most creative person so I guess when I'm writing and I hear an external story like song lyrics I instantly muddle it with my own thoughts, so silence for me haha.

alisaie August 19th, 2013 8:03 AM

When I'm writing anything I can't really listen to anything with words. However, non-lyrical music is fine and it helps me concentrate and, depending on what music I'm listening to at the time, helps me get into the feel of what I'm writing. I haven't written a story in the longest time but it helped me from time to time when I was roleplaying or writing an essay of some sort.

Fairy August 19th, 2013 10:13 AM

See, I fluctuate so much lol. Sometimes music is great for me (some Simon & Garfunkel yeahhh BD) and I find it very inspirational and motivating. Other times it just occupies my mind and I can't concentrate on the task at hand.

I'm excited about this next upcoming semester. Taking a class on Shakespeare. Super happy cause I already know what I want my midterm/final essay to be about and I'm really prepared for it. Gonna do the evolution of the roles of women in society~ etcetcetc.

bobandbill August 19th, 2013 3:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AlexOzzyCake (Post 7792850)
You guys can listen to music whilst writing? I've always found that hugely distracting - it always makes me want to start including themes akin to the song's lyrics or to even implement the lyrics themselves, or use the music video etc. I'm not the most creative person so I guess when I'm writing and I hear an external story like song lyrics I instantly muddle it with my own thoughts, so silence for me haha.

To be fair, I can't just listen to any kind of music, and often ones without lyrics (or lyrics I can't understand, alternatively =p) are what I resort to. But I don't often find lyrical songs to be too distracting. I avoid using youtube for that if only because the music video/s can be distracting as is having to change songs (or with playlists, not liking what is offered halfway through... and then internet dropping out pausing the song).

In a way, getting ideas from music is what I want too. A lyric or theme or tone of the song can help provide an idea or direction for me to take in the middle of a scene.
Quote:

Taking a class on Shakespeare. Super happy cause I already know what I want my midterm/final essay to be about and I'm really prepared for it. Gonna do the evolution of the roles of women in society~ etcetcetc.
I wasn't too much of a fan of Shakespeare, but part of that probably has to do with doing it every single year in high school, and trying to apply certain ideas or concepts to plays like As You Like It (a play I didn't, funnily enough, like =p) seemed like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. Especially considering Shakespeare apparently said of that play it was more a simple humour for the audience (hence the title) and not a work he particularly liked himself...

Macbeth and the likes was fine, but not that. And I would have preferred studing some different authors more often.

Bay August 19th, 2013 6:34 PM

I can be able to write a lot mostly in the evening as during the day I'm often away and busy with other things. Sometimes I can be able to write quickly late morning before I have to leave, but that usually depends if I have a fic idea I want to focus on for a bit.

I pretty much needed some background noise when writing as I don't like the silence, lol. Song with lyrics don't distract me too much.

Only read a few Shakespeare plays and kinda okay with his works I guess. I know my high school teacher sophomore year loves Julius Caesar, haha.

Nolafus August 20th, 2013 12:59 AM

On second thought, I can listen to a few song that I have already picked apart and dissected to death. My brain is weird like that, I automatically start dissecting each and every decision I make, and those around me. Is that weird?

Anyway, back on topic. There are a few songs I could listen to as long as they're instrumental. They can't have a complicated, always moving, melody either. I just can't seem to focus on the task at hand and just start moving with the beat (I would call it dancing, but...). Before I know it, the idea that was in my head suddenly flew out of the window. In other words. I'm easily distracted. :P

Astinus August 21st, 2013 7:30 PM

I could never work under a deadline. That's one reason why I never did well in school. I'm perfectly fine doing something on my own time, but as soon as someone tells me I have to get it done by a certain time, I just stop doing it. Now, with my writing, I write without a deadline looming over me, and I feel much more free. Just a few months ago, I thought about working on one of my stories so I could get it done in a month. That never happened, and I just stopped writing for a few weeks.

Quote:

I wasn't too much of a fan of Shakespeare, but part of that probably has to do with doing it every single year in high school
Quote:

I know my high school teacher sophomore year loves Julius Caesar, haha.
I never studied Shakespeare in high school. Each year was a different book by a different author.

Freshman year: Of Mice and Men
Sophomore year: Nothing, since my grade went through four different teachers the entire year
Junior year: The Great Gatsby
Senior year: Don't remember

It wasn't until I was out of school that I read some Shakespeare. Last play I read was "The Taming of the Shrew" for a fanfic I was writing where the characters performed that play. I wanted to get some quotes from the play to use in the story. Also, I've read retellings or reimaginings of the plays written as young adult fantasy novels.

Nolafus August 21st, 2013 8:25 PM

Oh, Shakespeare. The woe of students everywhere. My favorite play is Macbeth. We had to study it for my senior year and I feel like if we didn't spend three months dissecting EVERY line in there, I would have liked it a lot more. I was a part of a drama play my sophomore year where we did Much Ado About Nothing and another play my senior year where we did The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Abridged. The last play wasn't a play written by Shakespeare, but it was a parody of just about every one of his plays fit into an hour and a half. It got especially funny when we did Romeo and Juliet only using two people. Both of them were guys and one of them had to put on a fat suit.

Fairy August 22nd, 2013 5:11 AM

It's not so much Shakespeare's works I like as much as his cultural significance and the impact his plays had on society. Of course, I adore many of his pieces (12th Night omg), but it's the history of it that I really enjoy. Haha, which is funny considering History is something I usually avoid like the plague.

Mana August 22nd, 2013 5:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alexial (Post 7793291)
See, I fluctuate so much lol. Sometimes music is great for me (some Simon & Garfunkel yeahhh BD) and I find it very inspirational and motivating. Other times it just occupies my mind and I can't concentrate on the task at hand.

I have the exact same thing :( normally, if I consciously play music whilst trying to write, then it ends up being a distraction.

If I just don't think about it and the radio/iTunes happens to be playing it helps loads though - normally means I end up writing for longer.

As to Shakespeare - Twelfth Night is probably the one I know the best (from school, and seen it performed a few times). Generally though, school-English really put me off certain classics. Being forced to read and dissect a book/play/poem in a specific way was really off putting.

NameMeansAll August 22nd, 2013 12:57 PM

When I will begin to write I try to get some of the general idea in my head first then write it down. Or look up info online if it involves some elements of real things. Always if getting stuck or tried I take breaks then come back to it. Or if taking a break write some side note to where I left off or what I was thinking next to put. Listening to music and actually watching movies help me get my imagination going.

I don't really write fanfics mostly my own short stories or poems.

Cutlerine August 22nd, 2013 2:12 PM

Sounds like English was approached differently at my school than it was at you guys'; with us, we'd read a book and the class would analyse it among ourselves as we went along, taking it in whatever direction we wanted, and occasionally directed a bit by the teacher. I guess that's probably why I love taking literature apart and putting it back together again; I was taught to do it for fun, in the context of a lively debate among a group of people having a good time. There was never more than a little prod in terms of direction from the teacher, and by the end of the year we'd invented more than enough material to pass our exams by ourselves - we just had to sort through it all and see what fitted the themes we were supposed to be studying.

We read all sorts, too. I think in the course of four years I studied The Canterbury Tales (with particular emphasis on "The Pardoner's Tale"), Macbeth, Hamlet, Frankenstein, Dubliners, Things Fall Apart, Enduring Love, The Merchant of Venice, The Great Gatsby, a selection of poems by Tennyson, and more poems that I don't remember. The main point is, pretty much all of our material we developed ourselves, which I think is a pretty good way to study English and sharpen your critical skills, and probably why I'm about to head off to uni to study English Literature now.

As for music... I always listen to it while writing, if I can. Something weird but without too many words is good (Nox Arcana is an old standby, though it does tend to make me introduce Lovecraftian horror into my work, and hence can be credited with creating the entire plot of A Smell of Petroleum Pervades Throughout by accident) but if I can't think of anything I'd like to hear in particular, I put my music on shuffle and just use it as soothing background noise to think to.

That is, unless it's raining. If it's raining, then all the music is off and the house is as silent as I can make it. Rain is the best sound to write to ever.

TheTorraRegion August 22nd, 2013 5:41 PM

Igloo here.

I love writing, and I'm wondering whether or not to write a wolf story on here. I'm all about wolves, and a nice story about them can help drive away misconceptions that most people have. Maybe I should put my main story on here. I think I might. I love to rp and I have a wolf character for myself with a really nice story. I think I will! Lol I feel bad for all you people, having to listen to my ranting.

Nolafus August 22nd, 2013 6:02 PM

If you have a story, post it! I'm sure you'll get some feedback and suggestions. It's always nice to improve after all. :)

Despite the fact I love to write, whenever I was assigned a writing project, I hated it. I would put it off and mumble and grumble whenever I was writing it. It wasn't until last year that I discovered I actually liked to write. It's just that something is fun, until it's forced. Being forced to do something sucks all the fun right out of just about any activity. The only writing project I seem to have completed early with a great deal of effort put into it was my Current World Issues paper, which I got to choose the topic of, so that's probably why I could finish it early.

Astinus August 22nd, 2013 6:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cutlerine (Post 7798934)
Sounds like English was approached differently at my school than it was at you guys'; with us, we'd read a book and the class would analyse it among ourselves as we went along, taking it in whatever direction we wanted, and occasionally directed a bit by the teacher. I guess that's probably why I love taking literature apart and putting it back together again; I was taught to do it for fun, in the context of a lively debate among a group of people having a good time. There was never more than a little prod in terms of direction from the teacher, and by the end of the year we'd invented more than enough material to pass our exams by ourselves - we just had to sort through it all and see what fitted the themes we were supposed to be studying.

This actually reminded me of something that happened my junior year of high school. My class went through two teachers that year too, and the first one had us read Ethan Frome. At the end, the only time we discussed symbolism found in the book was when the teacher assigned us a project to find our own symbolism. She didn't tell us anything. My group did a project that focused on the mention of Orion in a scene in the book, and the teacher loved how we reached that conclusion on our own. It was way more fun discovering it on our own than being told what the symbolism was.

I can't believe I forgot that.

Slayr, that sounds like me. I like writing, but when forced to do it, I just loathe it. The only school papers I could finish easily were ones where I was more free in what to write about or how to write it.

Igloo (can I call you Igloo? I'll call you Igloo), post your story here! You can get some feedback on your writing all while clearing misconceptions about wolves. It's a win-win situation!

Nathan August 22nd, 2013 6:48 PM

JNathan here. My first time stepping here actually. I've been wanting to post stories but something bugs me : I can't make chapters. Yes, I don't know when and where to end a chapter.

Bay August 22nd, 2013 10:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JNathan (Post 7799300)
JNathan here. My first time stepping here actually. I've been wanting to post stories but something bugs me : I can't make chapters. Yes, I don't know when and where to end a chapter.

You don't have to post chaptered fics here. You can post one shots here too (basically a story not meant to be with chapters). Lately in other places I write one shots that range from 200 to over 5,000 words. If you still want to do a longer piece, I tend to end my chapters during a dramatic point (sometimes cliffhangers, mostly not) or after. I would also end a chapter if I know the next part will take place at a different time (hours, days, weeks. months later). Otherwise you can always still write your story and worry about how to break it into parts later. Wish you luck!

My high school English classes I read a range of books as I was in both honors and AP classes. I'm counting books I read during the summer too, lol.

9th grade

The Education of Little Tree, The Pearl, The Chocolate War, Romeo and Juliet, Separate Peace

10th grade

Great Expectations, Les Miserables, Julius Caesar (again, my teacher loves it ._. ), Fahrenheit 451, Animal Farm, The Good Earth,

11th grade

Great Gatbsy, Frankenstein, Brave New World, 1984, Catcher in the Rye. I think The Bell Jar also.

12th grade

Hamlet, Pride and Prejudice, Native Son, Canterbury Tales, Old Man and the Sea

I also read Huck Finn (for summer reading) and Heart of Darkness, but can't remember when haha.

Astinus August 23rd, 2013 12:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JNathan (Post 7799300)
JNathan here. My first time stepping here actually. I've been wanting to post stories but something bugs me : I can't make chapters. Yes, I don't know when and where to end a chapter.

Neither do I. A while back, I was working on the final chapter of a fanfic and I just didn't know when to stop. Finally, I just decided to end on a good line that would lead into the sequel while also closing out the first book.

Like Bay said, you can think about where your next chapter might begin to get an idea where your current chapter might end. For instance, my current work right now is one chapter equaling one day in the story. It keeps things kind of tidy, where the chapter starts with the characters' school day/set-up for the next plot point and ends when things are solved or it's nighttime.

Cliffhangers are a good way to end your chapters. They make the reader want to keep reading, to see what will happen next.

Or just write your story, read over it, and arbitrarily decide where to begin and end chapters!

Nathan August 23rd, 2013 12:37 PM

Thanks a lot for the advices. Maybe I'll post it soon.

bobandbill August 23rd, 2013 4:11 PM

Another way to think about it is that a chapter should be roughly like a tv series episode or the like. But there's usually multiple ways to split things up, haha.

Quote:

Sounds like English was approached differently at my school than it was at you guys'; with us, we'd read a book and the class would analyse it among ourselves as we went along, taking it in whatever direction we wanted, and occasionally directed a bit by the teacher. I guess that's probably why I love taking literature apart and putting it back together again; I was taught to do it for fun, in the context of a lively debate among a group of people having a good time. There was never more than a little prod in terms of direction from the teacher, and by the end of the year we'd invented more than enough material to pass our exams by ourselves - we just had to sort through it all and see what fitted the themes we were supposed to be studying.

We read all sorts, too. I think in the course of four years I studied The Canterbury Tales (with particular emphasis on "The Pardoner's Tale"), Macbeth, Hamlet, Frankenstein, Dubliners, Things Fall Apart, Enduring Love, The Merchant of Venice, The Great Gatsby, a selection of poems by Tennyson, and more poems that I don't remember. The main point is, pretty much all of our material we developed ourselves, which I think is a pretty good way to study English and sharpen your critical skills, and probably why I'm about to head off to uni to study English Literature now.
I am kinda envious. :<

Let's see... in my high school years, we covered from Shakespeare A Midsummer's Night Dream, Macbeth, As You Like It, King Lear, Romeo and Juliet and The Tragedy of Julius Caesar. One for each year. We applied various themes to them like feminism and etc, even if they didn't quite fit too well. =/ We didn't have too much freedom - maybe some, but a lot was 'right, here's these themes. You can see this by ___' - the themes more assigned to us than us coming up with them. My year 11/12 teacher was better than others though.

Other non-shakespeare works include The Canterbury Tales (although mostly just one story from that and only in extension English! - we also did The Road and part of The Odyssey in that), Heart of Darkness, Bridge to Terabirthia, Frankenstein (but not the book, more movies of that...), poetry extending as far as Wordsworth and friends and... more modern ones or Aboriginal poets mostly doing the same theme. On that note every year in English we also did a major study of an Aboriginal work, and I don't have much against the idea if only they didn't seem to keep choosing subpar works from that range! =|

We only started touching creative writing in year 10, and again in year 12. By then forums had taught me everything that was covered in the course, and more. Plus creative writing over here isn't so fun when you're told to work off a specific theme and whatnot. -_-

I guess I'm still disappointed/bitter by the English schooling system over here. =p

Nolafus August 23rd, 2013 6:07 PM

Don't worry Bobandbill, the same goes for the US (or at least my school). Except we never really covered creative writing. Literally every day was consumed by learning how to write essays. I'm surprised I still like to write after that. Of course I did get into an argument with my senior year LA teacher about when we were going to learn about actually writing books. He just said writing essays was more important for college. Yup, because four years is really going to outweigh the rest of my life. :/

CreativeVision September 5th, 2013 3:31 AM

fascinating discussions here. And I have to say that my highschool expierence was much like Slayr. The last and only time we touched creative writing (poetry) was in primary school and well, you can imagine the quality of that... even though when I showed it in highschool, people believed I stole it from the internet...

On a different note: usually when I write it has to come from myself and in such a situation Im in full control of characters and everything. That is how I began my latest story.

Imagine my surprise when I noticed the story just wouldn't flow in the direction I imagined. It actually drifted farther from that point with each line that naturaly followed on paper. And when I thought of the new direction and revised my original plan, it still wouldn't flow in that direction.

The other side to this is that even though I didn't plan to write it like this, it flows, it fits, perfectly even. The nuance of earlier lines can be seen later on.
In short, I have no idea where Im going with that, but it feels right; the direction it takes, almost by itself.

Have you guys encountered this in your own writing? What are your thoughts on this?

Cutlerine September 5th, 2013 4:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CreativeVision (Post 7818645)
The other side to this is that even though I didn't plan to write it like this, it flows, it fits, perfectly even. The nuance of earlier lines can be seen later on.
In short, I have no idea where Im going with that, but it feels right; the direction it takes, almost by itself.

Have you guys encountered this in your own writing? What are your thoughts on this?

Story of my life. I never plan ahead - or if I do, I only do so in order to later disagree with myself. I make pretty much everything I write up as I go along, and, usually without any effort on my part, the themes and plotlines fall into place. There's even foreshadowing, sometimes - how, I have no idea, since it pretty much by definition requires forethought - but it's there.

No story I've posted online has ever had anything of a plan to it, except for a few instances where I thought It'd be cool if something like this happened when the characters got to that place. I'm told my writing flows well and fits together, but what happens next is as much a surprise for me as to anyone else. Maybe by the time I'm three quarters of the way through I'll have worked out the main points of the climax, but I still won't know how to get there. If I drop cryptic hints in the course of a story, well, they're as opaque to me as to anyone else.

I suppose some people don't work like that, but I'm not sure how it would work. For me, writing is a game - a fun expenditure of time and effort, but not one that precludes intellectual engagement. I guess that approach to constructing a story goes some way towards explaining why it is that any plans I make for a story always collapse.

Astinus September 9th, 2013 7:55 PM

Like I told you before, CreativeVision, I don't plan out my stories. How I write is I think of an end goal for my characters to end up at, sit back, and write down what they do. Everything comes together much better than anything I have planned, so that's my method of writing and I'm sticking to it.

Can I admit that my dreams apparently give me clichéd fanfic ideas?

Spoiler:
I had a dream where Giovanni wanted to kidnap a teenage boy whose uncle used to be in Team Rocket but died. The boy had a choice of where he wanted to be in Team Rocket, and he wanted to be a grunt in order to escape easier from Giovanni. But Giovanni kept chasing the boy down, and just before I woke up, the boy was demanding that Giovanni would leave him alone.

Apparently, the boy was also me because the name of the dead uncle was the same as one of my uncles who died years ago, and I saw everything in the dream from the point of view of the teenage boy.

Nolafus September 9th, 2013 10:10 PM

It seems that I map out my entire story, get to the second chapter, then trash the map completely and write whatever comes to me. I still try to make the main events happen, so I guess it's more like guiding the story through these checkpoints, rather then me driving the story around under complete control.

As far as dreams go, I think they could be great for story ideas. In fact, I try to see if I can twist my dream around to see if I can make an original story out of it. Unfortunately, I have a very active imagination and it's hard to make a story that makes sense when your dream consists of driving a monster truck through your old high school's marching band camp, into the new band director's house, and then flying away on a dragon to a moon made of jello. XD

bobandbill September 10th, 2013 12:35 AM

A whole bunch of my dreams get very wacky and I have no idea how I would write a story out of them that would have much coherence behind it. Oh well?

I plan ahead often, or rather I try to. But what I do plan is more of a loose overview of the events, and quite often I change things or more often get more ideas that 'threaten' to take the story in quite a different direction. I didn't have this problem too much in my parody of Colosseum in part because the framework for plot was already there, I suppose, but with some newer stories I'm trying to write in spare time, it's certainly popping up a lot. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it is extending the writing time by quite a bit when I keep thinking new ideas and I don't even have the time to finish writing them up before they change further. :V

MTG September 13th, 2013 12:53 PM

currently, i'm writing a crossover AU of Ignition-Shipping and i guess i'll share some out to you guys before i post a thread. cause to me, the writing/fanfiction forum looks dead. ^^;

Astinus September 13th, 2013 4:48 PM

Great to see a new member willing to share their work! Welcome to PC and FF&W!

We have a thread here where you can share bits of your writing and (maybe) get some comments on it.

MTG September 13th, 2013 5:05 PM

oh ok, thank you Astinus! :D

Cutlerine September 14th, 2013 1:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Astinus (Post 7825672)
Can I admit that my dreams apparently give me clichéd fanfic ideas?

Oh, you can totally admit that. I haven't based any stories on dreams myself, but I'll certainly say it's possible - recently, I've started to dream in full stories, with discernible, sensible plotlines and even character development. (I think it might be a result of having devoted myself so much to narrative this summer; since March, I've written well over 200,000 words.) I've never thought a dream could form anything more than the mere basis of a story before, but some of these dreams I've had could be turned into stories just by transcribing them. It's pretty weird, and a new phenomenon for me.

Quote:

Originally Posted by MTG (Post 7831508)
currently, i'm writing a crossover AU of Ignition-Shipping and i guess i'll share some out to you guys before i post a thread. cause to me, the writing/fanfiction forum looks dead. ^^;

Welcome! It's a slow forum, yeah, but it isn't quite dead, and we're happy to see new people coming in. I hope you enjoy your stay.

MTG September 14th, 2013 1:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cutlerine (Post 7833026)


Welcome! It's a slow forum, yeah, but it isn't quite dead, and we're happy to see new people coming in. I hope you enjoy your stay.


oh thank you for the warm welcome, Cutlerine. i hope i can at least stay on this forum than any other ones. i do need to learn some new tricks on writng.

moon September 15th, 2013 1:54 AM

I'm wondering, how much do you guys review the stories of others here compared to how much you post your own?

Cutlerine September 15th, 2013 3:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Red's Hawt Chibi Pelippers (Post 7833648)
I'm wondering, how much do you guys review the stories of others here compared to how much you post your own?

Honestly? Not at all enough. I'm speaking for myself here, but I suspect a lot of other people are the same.

It sounds like a terrible thing to say, but it's probably because of the similarity of errors across the board - many of the stories here that are flawed have the same flaws, most of which could be fixed with just a little research into grammar and some careful thought on the part of the writers about the story they're trying to tell. There's also more than a few stories that try too hard to be writerly, which is always vaguely painful to read.

I feel very bad for pointing all these things out, and the feeling's compounded when I realise that I'd have to repeat them over and over. So I guess the infrequency of my reviews is sort of down to guilt - that, and the fact that I know I'm not a particularly good editor or reviewer, so I know I'll mostly be pointing out obvious flaws rather than giving any really constructive criticism.

Frankly, I think people posting here deserve better reviews than that, and so mostly I abstain from giving them. Although I suppose at this point, people are glad to receive any response to their work at all.

Edit: Ooh, I just noticed this was my thousandth post. Hooray for life's small achievements!

Nolafus September 15th, 2013 3:35 AM

Quote:

I'm wondering, how much do you guys review the stories of others here compared to how much you post your own?
I currently have one story on here (that isn't dead), and I try to review just about every new story that comes my way.

It's definitely nerve-wracking writing reviews because you're always worried about whether or not you're actually giving them good advice. I've learned that leaving your thoughts on a story is only half of what you're doing. What you're really doing when reviewing is letting the writer know that you think their story is worthwhile. You're letting them know that there is someone out there that actually cares enough about their story to post on it. Encouraging the writer to not only keep up with their story, but to improve as a whole. That's why I review, because I was sick of stories written for no one. I wanted to give a reason for the writers to continue writing, and not feel like they could just stop without anyone caring. Although my writing isn't that strong, I still put reviews out there because everyone has something they can contribute. I'm just making sure I'm submitting my piece.

My first reviews were probably lackluster to say the least, but I feel that I've gotten better at them and now I'm even proofreading various things for friends in real life. It's hard picking apart stories at first, but it gets easier as you start gaining more experience. It's always terrifying when reviewing works you know are better than yours by a long-shot. I just remember that the author is looking for any advice anyone can give.

Well this turned out to be a lot longer than expected, oh well.

moon September 15th, 2013 5:12 AM

Thanks for the replies :3 So, I don't have to feel super bad if my first proper review attempts aren't the best? Haha. I've only done a few in the past. Like Cutlerine says, it's often the same kind of errors authors here do. I doubt I'd take the time to correct every spelling error, rather I'd just tell them to double check again. I'm worried myself that if I post a story, someone will remark on my grammar. Since I know I don't fully grasp English and possibly never will.

And um, I'm usually hanging around the Roleplay Corner but I've... Lost my spark. So, I thought I'd try to write something on my own to try and find it again. I know how I want to feel about writing, and I'm struggling to not expect too much from myself because then it becomes hard work rather than fun.

Nolafus September 15th, 2013 7:40 AM

There are plenty of people who write stories on here that don't fully grasp the english language, so I don't think you'll have anything to worry about. Honestly, I would have never guessed you struggled with english a little bit. Grammar mistakes are common and nothing to be embarrassed about, mistakes happen and you're not going to catch every single one you make.

You should post your story here! We don't bite, well... I'm trying to stop at least. Just write at whatever pace you feel like.

bobandbill September 16th, 2013 2:54 AM

I've been very slow on reviews of late, but it's in part a burn out of the recent competition coupled with a rather hectic uni semester. Haven't done as much writing as I'd have like to of late too, in part because what I am writing is of the form of project reports rather than fics. Hopefully I will be able to get back into reviewing later on.

Normally I'd be at least trying to review a few things a month at least. And certainly I think that overall I review more than I write, haha.

goldengyarados September 16th, 2013 5:42 AM

I've been lurking these forums for quite some time now and have read many a fiction. I'd certainly like to write one of my own but I've been struggling to come up with original idea, or maybe my obsessive pursuit of originality is stifling my creativity. Perhaps a good story is not necessarily born from of a single moment of inspiration but rather many smaller ideas all cleverly stitched together to form a cohesive narrative, but even is this is the case, some definitive starting point is still necessary. I'm going round in circles here and most probably over thinking things. Hmmm...maybe I should just start writing and see where that takes me.

What do you think?

moon September 16th, 2013 5:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by goldengyarados (Post 7835213)
I've been lurking these forums for quite some time now and have read many a fiction. I'd certainly like to write one of my own but I've been struggling to come up with original idea, or maybe my obsessive pursuit of originality is stifling my creativity. Perhaps a good story is not necessarily born from of a single moment of inspiration but rather many smaller ideas all cleverly stitched together to form a cohesive narrative, but even is this is the case, some definitive starting point is still necessary. I'm going round in circles here and most probably over thinking things. Hmmm...maybe I should just start writing and see where that takes me.

What do you think?

I always have tons of ideas in my head. Some get used for roleplays, others could become fics if I put some effort in them.

But one thing that can definitely make a good base for a story, and sometimes even let the plot unfold in your head easily as you type and plan, is characters. Characters and histories and personalities and relationships. Create a few defined characters in your mind (or on paper, if you prefer to write while you think, I sometimes do) and think about how they would interact. And maybe you can realize that they probably grew up this or that way, and there could probably be something in that history that could be built on to make a plot and something in this or that character's personality that makes it likely that they would act in that plot and make a story.

That's how I do it in my head. But I'm not really a seasoned fic writer, so maybe others have better ideas for how to actually get an idea growing and out into written form. As my ideas most often don't :p And if there's something else you have as a key plot for a fic, I still think creating well developed characters that you know you want to have in the story somewhere is a good driving force for eventually realizing how the plot should unfold.


Something about narrative though, because that's important in forum RPing as well - don't strain yourself too hard to write well or beautifully or complicatedly. Less is more, sometimes, unless there is a mood or setting you really really want to convey to the reader. But even then, I'd say write what feels right.

Then, there are writers who want to struggle with every word and sentence to make them perfect, I guess. Everyone finds their own style.

Nolafus September 16th, 2013 12:24 PM

Basically to back up what Red's Hot Chibi Pelippers said, just write down your ideas on paper so you don't forget them. Try to map out the various characters that are going to appear. Maybe include a main event or two. I wouldn't do a full map of the story because when I did that, by chapter two I had completely strayed from it and even changed some characters. The only thing I would make sure to do, is make sure you know how it's going to end. Otherwise, you might get a little lost on how you want to write it out.
Quote:

Then, there are writers who want to struggle with every word and sentence to make them perfect, I guess. Everyone finds their own style.
This is definitely me. I don't want to struggle, but I'm at that part of the story where I don't really know what to do. I know what to do after this part, but I need to get past this part first. Oh writers block, will you ever leave me alone?

Cutlerine September 16th, 2013 1:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Red's Hawt Chibi Pelippers (Post 7833828)
Thanks for the replies :3 So, I don't have to feel super bad if my first proper review attempts aren't the best? Haha. I've only done a few in the past. Like Cutlerine says, it's often the same kind of errors authors here do. I doubt I'd take the time to correct every spelling error, rather I'd just tell them to double check again. I'm worried myself that if I post a story, someone will remark on my grammar. Since I know I don't fully grasp English and possibly never will.

Of course! Don't feel bad at all. I mean, there's no reason why you'd have to do a fantastically detailed review. It's just as valid for you to leave a few words of feedback, as long as you mention specific things you liked or disliked. No one expects anyone to go around dissecting every story minutely - that's great if you want to do it, but it isn't necessary. Your review can be as basic or as complex as you like.

(The guilt builds. I must review some things this week.)

As for posting your own stories here, a reviewer probably would remark on the grammar, as well as everything else - but if they're doing it right, they won't crucify you for it or anything. No one expects your work to be perfect, but if a reviewer can give you any help in getting it to a more perfect state, then that's what they'll do.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Red's Hawt Chibi Pelippers (Post 7833828)
And um, I'm usually hanging around the Roleplay Corner but I've... Lost my spark. So, I thought I'd try to write something on my own to try and find it again. I know how I want to feel about writing, and I'm struggling to not expect too much from myself because then it becomes hard work rather than fun.

I wouldn't worry about it. It happens to everyone now and again, and I can say from experience that
these things do pass. You just work on something else, or take a break and then try to work through the barrier - honestly, there are a few different ways of surmounting the problem, and I've no idea what will work best for you in this case. But if you want to write and share here, that's as good a place to start as any.

Quote:

Originally Posted by goldengyarados (Post 7835213)
I've been lurking these forums for quite some time now and have read many a fiction. I'd certainly like to write one of my own but I've been struggling to come up with original idea, or maybe my obsessive pursuit of originality is stifling my creativity. Perhaps a good story is not necessarily born from of a single moment of inspiration but rather many smaller ideas all cleverly stitched together to form a cohesive narrative, but even is this is the case, some definitive starting point is still necessary. I'm going round in circles here and most probably over thinking things. Hmmm...maybe I should just start writing and see where that takes me.

What do you think?

I often start with no idea of a narrative at all, actually, unless I'm adapting one of the games into a fic. I start with a place, or a person.

For instance, I have a story going around in my head that started a few days ago with the idea of a small city that had a man who busked in it by giving out random facts, rather than playing music. So I just wrote about someone walking past him, and didn't let myself stop writing, and I ended up creating a protagonist out of that someone. And from there a story has sort of started to come together. I won't keep that original piece of writing in the finished story, in all likelihood, but it got the ideas flowing and gave rise to a story.

In other words - don't be afraid to just write, as you put it. You can't go wrong, and whatever you write you can change, or use as the base for something else. Take one image, of any sort, and write, and see what stories emerge. It might take a couple of tries to get something, but if you're stuck for ideas, you could do a lot worse than just start.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Red's Hawt Chibi Pelippers (Post 7835228)
But one thing that can definitely make a good base for a story, and sometimes even let the plot unfold in your head easily as you type and plan, is characters. Characters and histories and personalities and relationships. Create a few defined characters in your mind (or on paper, if you prefer to write while you think, I sometimes do) and think about how they would interact. And maybe you can realize that they probably grew up this or that way, and there could probably be something in that history that could be built on to make a plot and something in this or that character's personality that makes it likely that they would act in that plot and make a story.

Definitely. I always either start with a world I want to write about, or a person. The last major story I wrote started with a world - a twisted alternate version of Edwardian London. This next story started with a person, and their story - an exploration of their experience as a human being and what would happen to them if someone were to leave a very large dead fish in their apartment.

moon September 16th, 2013 11:28 PM

Quote:

an exploration of their experience as a human being and what would happen to them if someone were to leave a very large dead fish in their apartment.
This might be one of the most interesting premises I've ever heard of.

Nolafus September 16th, 2013 11:53 PM

You want to know what I just realized? I just realized that there's nothing like the feeling of being stuck on how to continue for a couple weeks. It's so aggravating seeing the story you worked so hard on collect dust because you can't think of a way on how to continue. Today, I just broke through my writer's block and wrote probably my favorite part of my entire fic. I realized that there isn't a feeling like that and I get a certain rush when I write, a rush that I want to feel again and again. But the most important thing I realized, is that starting college wanting to become a mechanical engineer might not be the best thing for me. I realized that writing might just be the thing I want to do for the rest of my life.

I feel bad that that this post was all about me, but I just had my epiphany and I want to have my moment and share it with the world. I'll sleep on it tonight and see if this feeling is just temporary or not (I'm kind of hoping it's not temporary).

Quote:

an exploration of their experience as a human being and what would happen to them if someone were to leave a very large dead fish in their apartment.
I've got to agree with RHCP (sorry, didn't feel like typing out your entire name) on this one, you should quote this in your signature, you'll probably get more attention. I'm guessing that this pertains to you current fic, "Cracked, or how the love of seafood saved Unova"?

moon September 16th, 2013 11:56 PM

Quote:

I realized that there isn't a feeling like that and I get a certain rush when I write, a rush that I want to feel again and again. But the most important thing I realized, is that starting college wanting to become a mechanical engineer might not be the best thing for me. I realized that writing might just be the thing I want to do for the rest of my life.

I feel bad that that this post was all about me, but I just had my epiphany and I want to have my moment and share it with the world. I'll sleep on it tonight and see if this feeling is just temporary or not (I'm kind of hoping it's not temporary).
I want to get back to this feeling too ;; been years since I felt like that truly. I'm becoming a chemist now, haha, but I doubt I'd ever be successful in the writing world anyways. We do it mostly for ourselves and to let our wild imagination be expressed instead of banging on our heads from the inside, maybe.

Cutlerine September 17th, 2013 1:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Red's Hawt Chibi Pelippers (Post 7836765)
I want to get back to this feeling too ;; been years since I felt like that truly. I'm becoming a chemist now, haha, but I doubt I'd ever be successful in the writing world anyways. We do it mostly for ourselves and to let our wild imagination be expressed instead of banging on our heads from the inside, maybe.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Slayr231 (Post 7836762)
You want to know what I just realized? I just realized that there's nothing like the feeling of being stuck on how to continue for a couple weeks. It's so aggravating seeing the story you worked so hard on collect dust because you can't think of a way on how to continue. Today, I just broke through my writer's block and wrote probably my favorite part of my entire fic. I realized that there isn't a feeling like that and I get a certain rush when I write, a rush that I want to feel again and again. But the most important thing I realized, is that starting college wanting to become a mechanical engineer might not be the best thing for me. I realized that writing might just be the thing I want to do for the rest of my life.

There's nothing to stop you two doing both. In fact, it's probably better for someone who wants to write to have another, more applicable skill; writers have bills to pay and food to buy as much as anyone else, and they don't make much money. We'd all like to be writers and just writers - but success of even the minor sort is hard to come by in that world, and it's much more realistic to keep on going towards something else in the meantime. Something that will provide an income.

I have zero expectation of ever attaining any measure of success at all in any field of art; that doesn't mean I'm not going to try. It just means that I'm going to have to do something else in the meantime, and write at the weekends and at midnight.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Slayr231 (Post 7836762)
I've got to agree with RHCP (sorry, didn't feel like typing out your entire name) on this one, you should quote this in your signature, you'll probably get more attention. I'm guessing that this pertains to you current fic, "Cracked, or how the love of seafood saved Unova"?

Nope. That's been going on since last year; the story I'm referring to there is only a few days old, and not even fully formed in my mind. It's pretty different from anything I've written before, and I'm not sure I even have the skill to write it yet - but that's not going to stop me from trying.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Red's Hawt Chibi Pelippers (Post 7836743)
This might be one of the most interesting premises I've ever heard of.

Thank you. It does get weirder. As is so often the case, the fish is not all that it seems to be.

Nolafus September 17th, 2013 10:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cutlerine
and I'm not sure I even have the skill to write it yet - but that's not going to stop me from trying.

Yeah, that's right, you go for it! I wasn't sure if I was ready to start writing another book when I started writing Alien Poverty. Normally, I get bored while writing the second chapter and give up on the idea. This is the first time I've ever progressed through that break. I was actually going to wait until after college to write it, but after letting the idea sit for two years, I just couldn't wait to write it anymore.

After sleeping on it, I think it would be best for me to go ahead with the mechanical engineering degree, maybe with a minor in writing, because let's face it. Those roller coasters aren't going to design themselves.

goldengyarados September 17th, 2013 10:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Slayr231 (Post 7837288)
After sleeping on it, I think it would be best for me to go ahead with the mechanical engineering degree, maybe with a minor in writing, because let's face it. Those roller coasters aren't going to design themselves.

I must say, I do admire the US education system in that respect. Were I able to I would do a minor in some kind of writing then I definitely would. It's hard having equal interests in literature and science, but chemistry it is.

Bay September 17th, 2013 11:41 PM

Backtracking a bit~

Over the planning topic, I tend to plan a bit of beginning and ending, but the middle I would make up as I go. The ending would then often change, haha. Guess what I'm saying is I would plan a bit and sometimes I'll go with the ideas and sometimes it'll change.

Quote:

I'm wondering, how much do you guys review the stories of others here compared to how much you post your own?
Kinda depends on fandom for some reason. For Pokemon I reviewed more than post my own, but it's been so long since my last Pokemon fic. Other fandoms it's either the same or I write more than review. The latter I should start commenting more as I can let them know how much I enjoy their work.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Red's Hawt Chibi Pelippers (Post 7835228)
Something about narrative though, because that's important in forum RPing as well - don't strain yourself too hard to write well or beautifully or complicatedly. Less is more, sometimes, unless there is a mood or setting you really really want to convey to the reader. But even then, I'd say write what feels right.

Then, there are writers who want to struggle with every word and sentence to make them perfect, I guess. Everyone finds their own style.

I'm one of those writers that wants every word and sentence flow well together haha. Part of the reason is I would see other writers on Tumblr get complimented on their "perfect words" and get frustrated how my writing won't be as good (. I also get nervous over my reputation in fandom (if my work is mediocre I'm a mediocre fan). <.<; Tumblr can make you feel like that sometimes.

But yeah, if I just write and worry about making the words right later I would have gotten a lot more done.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Slayr231 (Post 7836762)
You want to know what I just realized? I just realized that there's nothing like the feeling of being stuck on how to continue for a couple weeks. It's so aggravating seeing the story you worked so hard on collect dust because you can't think of a way on how to continue. Today, I just broke through my writer's block and wrote probably my favorite part of my entire fic. I realized that there isn't a feeling like that and I get a certain rush when I write, a rush that I want to feel again and again. But the most important thing I realized, is that starting college wanting to become a mechanical engineer might not be the best thing for me. I realized that writing might just be the thing I want to do for the rest of my life.

You already mentioned thinking about doing your mechanical degree (yay roller coasters! :P ) and if you think you can also do a minor in writing go for it!

Want to add that I also hate it when I get stuck in a story. Often times I would write another scene or a different story entirely and that works usually.

Nolafus September 18th, 2013 12:17 AM

Quote:

You already mentioned thinking about doing your mechanical degree (yay roller coasters! http://www.pokecommunity.com/images/templates/smilies/cerulean/12.%20tongue.gif ) and if you think you can also do a minor in writing go for it!
I think I'll at least try. What's the worst that could happen? Flush a couple grand down the toilet!

Quote:

Want to add that I also hate it when I get stuck in a story. Often times I would write another scene or a different story entirely and that works usually.
I'm a stubborn person, so if I have decided to write about a certain scene, then there isn't a single thing on this Earth that could change my mind.

Getting back to reviewing. I wonder why some people don't review, and why some people that do review, don't on some stories.

I'm guilty of leaving some stories out to dry while I give another complete and total attention. For me, if a story has several chapters out, I won't review it because it seems like it would take way too long. On others, if it seems to be an exact copy of a game plot, then I'll skip it. I'll also skip out on reviewing if someone else has already reviewed it, but to be honest, that doesn't happen a lot.

Astinus September 19th, 2013 12:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Slayr231 (Post 7838210)
I wonder why some people don't review, and why some people that do review, don't on some stories.

There is that length issue for me. A fic that has quite a bit posted to it already won't be as likely to get a review from me because I don't always have the time to read through all of it and give a decent review. There are also some stories where I don't have something substantial to say for a review about the story, so I read it and then just kind of move on.

I obviously review more than I post my own stories. I've become a terribly slow writer in recent times, and in order to have some presence in this section, I review here and there rather than falling off the face of the planet. But also in recent times I've become slow when it comes to reviewing, and I'm just kind of taking a break from stressing out about fandom things and what-not.

Though I am still working on a fic I've just started. The unfortunate thing is that I planned out this fic last year and didn't get a chance to write it until now, and I've forgotten a few things about what I wanted to do in the story and who I wanted to include. But I remembered and that helped get things back on track. I was stuck like Slayr, where one scene was holding me back from continuing the story, and I didn't know how I wanted to write that particular scene. Remembering a particular character in the story and planning what he was going to do in the story got me past everything, and now I'm doing pretty good.

Quote:

Often times I would write another scene or a different story entirely and that works usually.
When I was stuck on my current story, I wrote the ending chapter because it was stuck in my mind. It's the one part of the story that's remained with me, and I just wanted to get it out of the way. I'll edit it when I write the rest of the story to fit in any changes. Doing that did tempt me to write the entire story backwards, starting from the last chapter and ending at the beginning. But I decided against that for a few reasons.

Quote:

I'm one of those writers that wants every word and sentence flow well together haha. Part of the reason is I would see other writers on Tumblr get complimented on their "perfect words" and get frustrated how my writing won't be as good (. I also get nervous over my reputation in fandom (if my work is mediocre I'm a mediocre fan). <.<; Tumblr can make you feel like that sometimes.
Tumblr can be kind of treacherous to poke around, and there are some writing blogs there that made me feel bad about some habits I have about writing. Of course, there are some blogs on Tumblr that could just make you feel bad in general, so...

Bay September 19th, 2013 9:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Slayr231 (Post 7838210)

Getting back to reviewing. I wonder why some people don't review, and why some people that do review, don't on some stories.

I'm guilty of leaving some stories out to dry while I give another complete and total attention. For me, if a story has several chapters out, I won't review it because it seems like it would take way too long. On others, if it seems to be an exact copy of a game plot, then I'll skip it. I'll also skip out on reviewing if someone else has already reviewed it, but to be honest, that doesn't happen a lot.

Like Astinus the length can be an issue if I jump into a story late. In forums I'll probably just do an overview review of what's posted and maybe thoughts on the last chapter or two. However, if FFnet or AO3 I might be able to do chapter by chapter as the system made it for the readers to review that way and the story will still be there.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Astinus (Post 7839764)
Though I am still working on a fic I've just started. The unfortunate thing is that I planned out this fic last year and didn't get a chance to write it until now, and I've forgotten a few things about what I wanted to do in the story and who I wanted to include. But I remembered and that helped get things back on track. I was stuck like Slayr, where one scene was holding me back from continuing the story, and I didn't know how I wanted to write that particular scene. Remembering a particular character in the story and planning what he was going to do in the story got me past everything, and now I'm doing pretty good.

I usually try to write/post my story ideas if I have my notebook/computer with me (I like saving my ideas on google docs now these days). However, can understand if you got your ideas from work/commuting and weren't able to write it down somewhere.

Quote:

When I was stuck on my current story, I wrote the ending chapter because it was stuck in my mind. It's the one part of the story that's remained with me, and I just wanted to get it out of the way. I'll edit it when I write the rest of the story to fit in any changes. Doing that did tempt me to write the entire story backwards, starting from the last chapter and ending at the beginning. But I decided against that for a few reasons.
Don't think I can do an entire story backwards, haha. Writing out of order I can do as I'm usually good at stringing scenes together later.

Quote:

Tumblr can be kind of treacherous to poke around, and there are some writing blogs there that made me feel bad about some habits I have about writing. Of course, there are some blogs on Tumblr that could just make you feel bad in general, so...
It's less of writing blogs and more of blogs from fanfic writers that have others complementing on their writing (long version under spoilers).

Spoiler:
It got started when I found a group of people writing the same fandom and pairing as me and let me join them. They would then say nice things to one another and I started to feel lonely when they didn't give the same compliments to me. I let my feelings spill out about that and lost a "friend" or two because of that. These past few months I thought it was unusual as I never felt like this when writing for the Pokemon fandom. But enough of that lol.


I only follow two writing blogs (one is Jax's and the other is more so positive writing advice), but I do know a couple people that would get upset over the writing blogs, especially those that talk about media representation. You don't have diverse characters in your fantasy world? You should feel bad because fantasy worlds rarely get person of color. You're a white person that has diverse characters and researched their culture well? You should feel bad because there are PoC writers that aren't able to break out in the publishing world. I'm all for social justice and media representation is good, but it seems you can never please a certain crowd on Tumblr, and this is coming from me who is a person of color.

Daenerys1 September 19th, 2013 9:46 AM

I write a lot. I have written as science fiction, fantasy, as well as horror and romance. Some times I get an awesome idea for example pirates in our time and if the idea is just like that, I'm looking for ALL the information I can get on the Internet, in books, interviews etc. :)

moon September 19th, 2013 9:56 AM

I don't at all look up enough background information for my settings. I just go with my imagination and don't bother much if something is historically or realistically incorrect. Maybe I should work on that, haha.

Nolafus September 19th, 2013 6:29 PM

I don't really do much research either. Considering most fics I attempt are original fictions and some even take place on other planets, I don't think that's necessary. At least for geographical locations, you could still get some inspiration for the creatures that inhabit said planet through creatures here on earth. Basically, when I do research, it's mostly for inspiration rather than facts.

CoffeeDrink September 21st, 2013 12:46 AM

CoffeeDrink's 60 second poem, koff~

I fly in the sky as even people die
Through the poison dye I am so high
Nigh is the word for the end of times
I am evil
I am explode

Poem makes not much sense but I did type it in under a minute, koffi~

edit: oh, I do have some work strewn about the place. I wonder if anyone would like to see it?

Nolafus September 21st, 2013 12:59 PM

If you have other works, why not create your own poetry thread? Threads on each individual poem aren't allowed, unless the poem is insanely long, but a thread containing several poems is. Why not give it a shot?

CoffeeDrink September 21st, 2013 2:47 PM

Hmm, koffi~

I might take you up on that. Thanks for the info, koff~

moon September 21st, 2013 2:50 PM

I AM WRITING. And it is so much fun, I don't care that my grammar isn't perfect yet haha. I had forgotten how free you can feel when you don't have to follow RP rules or chapters and can just play god over your characters and throw anything and everything at them and let an intricate/weird plot build up on its own almost.

Cutlerine September 21st, 2013 2:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Red's Hawt Chibi Pelippers
I don't at all look up enough background information for my settings. I just go with my imagination and don't bother much if something is historically or realistically incorrect.

(Parenthetical note: Have I ever told you how good your username is? I keep meaning to. It's the sort of username people would fight each other for.) You don't necessarily need to do a great deal of research, though - as long as you're able to conjure a world in enough detail to feel real to the reader, I don't see why you ought to be constrained by anything as petty as historical accuracy. Although perhaps don't dismiss the idea altogether - very often, the truth is, as they say, stranger than fiction. The Siege of Tyre, the Year Without A Summer - stuff like that is as weird and wonderful as any historical fiction.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Slayr231
I don't really do much research either. Considering most fics I attempt are original fictions and some even take place on other planets, I don't think that's necessary. At least for geographical locations, you could still get some inspiration for the creatures that inhabit said planet through creatures here on earth. Basically, when I do research, it's mostly for inspiration rather than facts.

I always start something really alien with the idea that I won't need much research, then end up doing much, much more than I ever anticipated. That may be because I usually end up getting quite detailed and technical in putting together my extraterrestrial worlds and the systems that operate on them, and that usually means borrowing the knowledge of someone with more of it than myself in one way or another.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Red's Hawt Chibi Pelippers (Post 7843382)
I AM WRITING. And it is so much fun, I don't care that my grammar isn't perfect yet haha. I had forgotten how free you can feel when you don't have to follow RP rules or chapters and can just play god over your characters and throw anything and everything at them and let an intricate/weird plot build up on its own almost.

That's the spirit! I hope it continues to be every bit as fun as it is now. I always love starting stories, and I'm pretty good when I'm in the middle as well - but, er, when I get to the end, I feel a bit like I'm tying a brick to the accelerator, closing my eyes and praying I don't hit anyone. But the beginning, though... that wonderful sense of possibility, of a story somehow writing itself without much help from you - I really don't think there's much to beat it.

Nolafus September 21st, 2013 3:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Red's Hawt Chibi Pelippers (Post 7843382)
I AM WRITING. And it is so much fun, I don't care that my grammar isn't perfect yet haha. I had forgotten how free you can feel when you don't have to follow RP rules or chapters and can just play god over your characters and throw anything and everything at them and let an intricate/weird plot build up on its own almost.

Yay! Have you rediscovered that spark you were talking about earlier? It seems that you have. Maybe a little break may be that thing you needed. I hope the fun stays, I'll be sure to get to your new chapter later. A few people have decided to update their stories today and I mainly only review at night. Don't worry! I'll get to it.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cutlerine
That's the spirit! I hope it continues to be every bit as fun as it is now. I always love starting stories, and I'm pretty good when I'm in the middle as well - but, er, when I get to the end, I feel a bit like I'm tying a brick to the accelerator, closing my eyes and praying I don't hit anyone. But the beginning, though... that wonderful sense of possibility, of a story somehow writing itself without much help from you - I really don't think there's much to beat it.

I always seem to lose my momentum at the middle. If I can break through that "wall", then I can continue. I don't know what it's like to finish! Alien Poverty is the furthest I've ever made it. I just hope I finish it. I want to know what that feels like!

CoffeeDrink September 21st, 2013 4:56 PM

I think the biggest thing I have to worry about are distractions, koffi~

I get bored fairly easily and then go to bed. Or do something else. I think I find it best to write on pen and paper, then transfer my stuff over to the computer, koff~

Bay September 21st, 2013 7:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cutlerine (Post 7843391)
You don't necessarily need to do a great deal of research, though - as long as you're able to conjure a world in enough detail to feel real to the reader, I don't see why you ought to be constrained by anything as petty as historical accuracy. Although perhaps don't dismiss the idea altogether - very often, the truth is, as they say, stranger than fiction. The Siege of Tyre, the Year Without A Summer - stuff like that is as weird and wonderful as any historical fiction.

The thing with fantasy worlds as I mentioned in my last post is diversity. Writers at Tumblr are really serious when it comes fantasy worlds not with person of color characters. If your world is only white characters or the PoC characters aren't well created, it won't feel real to them. You might also get lectures on how there are colored people in medieval times (which is true), etc. I know several people on Tumblr afraid their characters will be "default white" and kept asking writing blogs how to research color cultures.

For instance, there's a post on Tumblr I shall concerning a character on Legend of Korra. She's based on a white redhead actress in the 1920s, but because the Avatar/Legend of Korra fantasy world is filled with Asian culture, a lot of people were very angry the redhead actress was used for inspiration instead of an Asian actress.

As you can tell, I'm pretty nervous about writing original fantasy worlds as I'll have people on Tumblr hound me for having "default white" characters/not do good research. D:

Quote:

Originally Posted by CoffeeDrink (Post 7843559)
I think the biggest thing I have to worry about are distractions, koffi~

I get bored fairly easily and then go to bed. Or do something else. I think I find it best to write on pen and paper, then transfer my stuff over to the computer, koff~

I can't write on pen and paper as I rewrite sentences all the time and my handwriting is chicken scratch haha. I have problems with distractions too, but usually what I do is set myself a goal (whether to finish a scene or specific word count) and then reward myself like browsing the internet.

Astinus September 21st, 2013 8:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CoffeeDrink (Post 7843559)
I think I find it best to write on pen and paper, then transfer my stuff over to the computer, koff~

I used to do this myself. I would always be writing my stories with a pen and paper and then, after editing, type them onto the computer. I found, though, that I write better from the start on the computer, so now I write right onto the computer, edit, and then copy over with pen and paper so I have a hard copy.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bay Alexison (Post 7843743)
The thing with fantasy worlds as I mentioned in my last post is diversity. Writers at Tumblr are really serious when it comes fantasy worlds not with person of color characters. If your world is only white characters or the PoC characters aren't well created, it won't feel real to them. You might also get lectures on how there are colored people in medieval times (which is true), etc. I know several people on Tumblr afraid their characters will be "default white" and kept asking writing blogs how to research color cultures.

For instance, there's a post on Tumblr I shall concerning a character on Legend of Korra. She's based on a white redhead actress in the 1920s, but because the Avatar/Legend of Korra fantasy world is filled with Asian culture, a lot of people were very angry the redhead actress was used for inspiration instead of an Asian actress.

As you can tell, I'm pretty nervous about writing original fantasy worlds as I'll have people on Tumblr hound me for having "default white" characters/not do good research. D:

Ugh, yes, this is the poison that I meant when it comes to Tumblr. If you're white/male/cis/het, you can never do anything correctly and everything is your fault. They want more minorities represented in media (which I'm all for) but yell at anyone who does so if they don't do it correctly or if the author isn't a minority themself. And then when the author does ask for research, they get yelled at for being ignorant and that minorities are not there for answering questions. Which I can also give some understanding to, but sometimes not answering questions that are okay leads to more problems, and we never get out of this hole we're in.

EDIT: Of course, looking around on other places on the Internet, you can't win no matter what you do. Write fanfiction? You uncreative hack. Write original works? You need to get a real job. Enjoy a hobby that random person doesn't like? Random person will insult you until you leave the Internet forever.

Fairy September 21st, 2013 9:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Astinus (Post 7843811)
I used to do this myself. I would always be writing my stories with a pen and paper and then, after editing, type them onto the computer. I found, though, that I write better from the start on the computer, so now I write right onto the computer, edit, and then copy over with pen and paper so I have a hard copy.

This may sound silly, but you should invest in a fountain pen (not like those fancy 17th century super flex pens everyone's probably thinking of though). My boyfriend restores and repairs fountain pens in his spare time, so I've got access to a lot of really nice, simple, and affordable pens that may interest you! I swear, I write so much more comfortably (and more in general) when using a writing instrument that I actually spent money on, maintain, and care for myself. I feel it gives me a much more intimate relationship between pen and paper and I enjoy the actual act of writing because of it. And it really just makes me smile to use it. :)

May be worth looking into if you ever want to go back to the pen.

/sorryofftopic

bobandbill September 21st, 2013 9:11 PM

I suppose it's screwed if you do, and screwed if you don't! Sorry to hear about that problem though, Bay, it sounds kinda annoying. =/

As for writing, I do it primarily on the computer. I did take some notes on paper for my parody of Pokemon Colosseum when I was playing it, but it was more for ideas than actually written scenes (at most I'd write a line or two if something came to mind there and then that sounded 'right').

moon September 21st, 2013 11:38 PM

I am a white female. Thus, I by default see people as white females. Well, not really but yeah actually. Most people around me are white (Swedes are pretty bland people) so it's not weird that I identify most with that. I often throw in black characters in my RPs though, because dem hawt. But it's really just an aesthetic choice for me.

I used to write with pen and paper when I was younger. Much like Astinus though, I realized that it's so much more easy to edit on the computer. You can print it out if you want a hard copy later.


The most difficult thing for me when I'm writing for others to read is that I do it online, where everyone speaks English. So I write in English. But writing in Swedish isn't the same thing - my brain works slightly differently in Swedish. I know that because I've typed up a story in Swedish and translated it afterwards, and it had a different feeling from stories I've written directly in English. Not sure if that's a bad or good thing :/ All my practice in RPing here has been in English. I know I can still write Swedish stuff, but I kind of get into the feeling better if it's in English. Hm.

Nolafus September 22nd, 2013 12:22 AM

I'm a white male, so I tend to see characters like that. Unless the story gives me reason to think otherwise. In my writing, I try to include a variety of people, but I'm still working at description so I don't exactly know how to describe people yet. I'll work on it.

I always write on the computer. I find that it's so much easier to edit, so I mainly do it for the convenience. If I do write something down on paper, it's either for school, or I have an idea for my fic and don't want to forget about it. I remember I was in class when I thought of a pretty good idea, so I started writing it down. The teacher thought I was taking notes and was so proud of me that he announced to the entire class how they should be more like me and take notes. I'm just glad the teacher didn't ask me to share my "notes".

As far as other languages go, I can only speak/write English well. I tried learning French, but I was horrible at it. Je n' aime pas parle francais. I just tried to write "I don't like speaking french" in french. I'm pretty sure I didn't do too well (je ne parle pas francais, apres tout). It's a shame I don't know how to do the various accents on a computer. I'm glad that english is mainly used on this site, otherwise, I would be in a lot of trouble. XD

Cutlerine September 22nd, 2013 3:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bay Alexison (Post 7843743)
The thing with fantasy worlds as I mentioned in my last post is diversity. Writers at Tumblr are really serious when it comes fantasy worlds not with person of color characters. If your world is only white characters or the PoC characters aren't well created, it won't feel real to them. You might also get lectures on how there are colored people in medieval times (which is true), etc. I know several people on Tumblr afraid their characters will be "default white" and kept asking writing blogs how to research color cultures.

That's a whole different kettle of fish. My earlier statement was about historical accuracy, not about representation - that does require research. I can be, er, fairly vociferous about media representation at times myself, being mixed-race, genderqueer and asexual, and I have to say that I tend to hover on the border between sides with that argument. I dislike having to explain my experience of the human condition to other people as much as any other person, especially when my experience seems so obvious to me. I do have to remind myself that it isn't so obvious to everyone else, rein myself in and make myself explain patiently.

In large part, it depends where you are. I live in a small village in the south of England where the number of people of colour can pretty much be counted on the fingers of both hands - and if you go a few hours west, there are simply none at all. Go east half an hour to London, though, and suddenly you're surrounded by people from all over the world. Largely homogeneous worlds do exist, and it's natural that stories set in them would reflect that - I wouldn't expect a story set in a village like mine to necessarily feature a hugely diverse cast. (It would mostly be old, white people. So many old people.) If it did have a massively diverse cast, and wasn't set in some kind of more progressive future, I'd probably say that it didn't feel real to me - even as someone who advocates media representation for all sorts of overlooked and cast-aside groups.

Then there are other areas which have less diversity of ethnicity than traditional centres of immigration like Britain or America. I have a friend who studied in a large city in China last year; aside from the people on his course, he saw virtually no other white people than himself - and I'd find a story set there that didn't reflect that demographic a little odd, unless it focused specifically on the expat community of that city.

But in a wholly invented fantasy world, where all the rules of demography can be rewritten, it's a different matter entirely. There's no reason not to be diverse there. And yes, researching different cultures can be intimidating for people, but without trying writers won't get anywhere. Of course, mistakes are going to be made - that's just how exploring an area works. Some people may cite these mistakes as proof that the writer hasn't done the research properly and attack them over it, and that's taking it slightly too far, I feel - the writer is learning something new, and I think when any writer is learning something new they need balanced critical feedback rather than outright accusations of inadequacy. No one can be perfect on the first try: to expect that from anyone is expecting too much. What writers who are making mistakes with their characterisation of people of colour, LGBTQA+ people and others need is actual reviewers who understand both the problems of writing and the problems facing PoCs or other minority characters in fiction. And Tumblr, despite its many attractions, has never seemed to me to be the right place to find that sort of person.

Quite apart from anything else, Tumblr often serves the function of a space where oppressed and minority groups can be openly angry, which is something they can't be in the predominantly white, patriarchal, cisnormative and heteronormative society that pervades the West. That sort of 'rant space' isn't really compatible with the sort of atmosphere aspiring writers need in order to grow and develop. Stories are fragile things, and need attentive gardeners if they're ever to reach fruition.

Tl;dr: I always find it good to bear some thoughts from Tumblr in mind while writing - but I never take writing into Tumblr. It's just not the right environment.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Red's Hawt Chibi Pelippers (Post 7844063)
I am a white female. Thus, I by default see people as white females. Well, not really but yeah actually. Most people around me are white (Swedes are pretty bland people) so it's not weird that I identify most with that.

Quoting that because it provides an example of a place that's not a massive centre of immigration, and therefore doesn't necessarily have a hugely diverse demographic.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Slayr231 (Post 7844115)
I'm a white male, so I tend to see characters like that. Unless the story gives me reason to think otherwise. In my writing, I try to include a variety of people, but I'm still working at description so I don't exactly know how to describe people yet. I'll work on it.

My imagination isn't very obliging when it comes to characters in books. I either see them as if I'm looking at them without my contact lenses through a pane of frosted glass, or I see them in the style of a watercolour-tinted nineteenth-century engraving. I'm not sure if that's a problem. It does mean I rarely have any idea about what ethnicity they're meant to be. I suppose I usually see them as having the same sort of milky-tea-coloured skin as me, if anything.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Slayr231 (Post 7844115)
I always write on the computer. I find that it's so much easier to edit, so I mainly do it for the convenience.

Pretentious creature that I am, I write on a 1957 Empire Aristocrat travelling typewriter, and then type up the draft thus created onto a computer, editing it and rewriting chunks as I go. Especially while wearing contact lenses, staring at a computer screen for a long time leaves my eyes pretty tired, so looking at paper is better; plus, typewriters can only be used to write, and not doodle or connect to the Internet, so it conveniently gets rid of all the usual distractions. I also find I can't write fluidly by hand - the physical act of pressing keys seems to be connected to whatever part of my mind is in charge of creating euphonious prose - so a typewriter solves that problem pretty nicely too.

Plus, it makes an awesome noise. Jajuk-jajuk-jajuk-jajuk-jajuk-jajuk-hwa-DING! It's oddly soothing. For me, anyway. For anyone in the same building as me, it's, er, incredibly irritating.

bobandbill September 22nd, 2013 4:17 AM

Quote:

Especially while wearing contact lenses, staring at a computer screen for a long time leaves my eyes pretty tired, so looking at paper is better; plus, typewriters can only be used to write, and not doodle or connect to the Internet, so it conveniently gets rid of all the usual distractions.
I can see the advantages in that, haha. Never touched a typewriter though, let alone used one. On my long train trips from home to uni though when I have time to spare from study I can get some good writing done as there's no internet to be had during such trips (I don't have portable wifi). On that note, does anyone try to implement internet bans when they write or something to that effect? Or use programs like Write or Die?

Quote:

For me, anyway. For anyone in the same building as me, it's, er, incredibly irritating.
Is that an additional incentive to use a typewriter, depending on who is in the building? ;p

Elaitenstile September 22nd, 2013 4:46 AM

Typewriters have been officially declared obsolete recently and won't be available on stores in my country, sadly. Probably one of the only places that uses them is my mother's office (an article came on the paper, it seems).

Aaand I recently got back into fanfic after some dude (BnB) who ran a magazine (BBS) made me addicted to writing articles. Thanks, BnB!

Nolafus September 22nd, 2013 10:44 AM

I've used a type writer before, only when I was little. I didn't use it to write anything though, I just pushed random keys for the
Quote:

Jajuk-jajuk-jajuk-jajuk-jajuk-jajuk-hwa-DING!
sound. :P

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hoenn
Aaand I recently got back into fanfic after some dude (BnB) who ran a magazine (BBS) made me addicted to writing articles. Thanks, BnB!

Another victim friend! I've enjoyed your articles so far.

Bay September 22nd, 2013 10:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cutlerine (Post 7844242)
That's a whole different kettle of fish. My earlier statement was about historical accuracy, not about representation - that does require research. I can be, er, fairly vociferous about media representation at times myself, being mixed-race, genderqueer and asexual, and I have to say that I tend to hover on the border between sides with that argument. I dislike having to explain my experience of the human condition to other people as much as any other person, especially when my experience seems so obvious to me. I do have to remind myself that it isn't so obvious to everyone else, rein myself in and make myself explain patiently.

Yeah, I knew you were going for historical accuracy, just saying there are those that will still say your story is historically inaccurate because it doesn't have diverse people, even in a fantasy setting. A lot of people were complaining how George R R Martin's Song of Ice and Fire series is historically inaccurate despite it being a medieval fantasy world. I do agree historical accuracy in something based on a certain time period and fantasy settings should be discussed differently and not lump together.

Quote:

What writers who are making mistakes with their characterisation of people of colour, LGBTQA+ people and others need is actual reviewers who understand both the problems of writing and the problems facing PoCs or other minority characters in fiction. And Tumblr, despite its many attractions, has never seemed to me to be the right place to find that sort of person.
Quote:

Quite apart from anything else, Tumblr often serves the function of a space where oppressed and minority groups can be openly angry, which is something they can't be in the predominantly white, patriarchal, cisnormative and heteronormative society that pervades the West. That sort of 'rant space' isn't really compatible with the sort of atmosphere aspiring writers need in order to grow and develop. Stories are fragile things, and need attentive gardeners if they're ever to reach fruition.
Also agreed on both points. Sometimes when people on Tumblr scream at someone asking how they should write this certain character and calling them ignorant, I'm like "um...wow." With that said, sorry if my last post seems to be like those Tumblr folks complaining (I'll stop that now, lol).

Quote:

Originally Posted by bobandbill (Post 7844295)
I can see the advantages in that, haha. Never touched a typewriter though, let alone used one. On my long train trips from home to uni though when I have time to spare from study I can get some good writing done as there's no internet to be had during such trips (I don't have portable wifi). On that note, does anyone try to implement internet bans when they write or something to that effect? Or use programs like Write or Die?

My workplace still has a typewriter, but I used it only if I had to type up something on forms, etc.

I never tried internet bans or Writer or Die. I did writing sprints (write together for a specific time amount) once or twice with others before though and they're fun.

Quote:

Originally Posted by ★Hoenn★ (Post 7844328)
Aaand I recently got back into fanfic after some dude (BnB) who ran a magazine (BBS) made me addicted to writing articles. Thanks, BnB!

Haha great to hear. And hi!

Astinus September 22nd, 2013 11:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cutlerine (Post 7844242)
I can be, er, fairly vociferous about media representation at times myself, being mixed-race, genderqueer and asexual

Hello, fellow genderqueer asexual!

Quote:

Originally Posted by bobandbill (Post 7844295)
On that note, does anyone try to implement internet bans when they write or something to that effect? Or use programs like Write or Die?

I've tried Write or Die and other programs like it. The problem is that, depending on the story I'm writing, I need to hop onto the Internet for research. While I could just ignore whatever I need to research and keep writing, it bothers me to do that. So the Internet has to remain in the background, depending on what I'm writing. Or if I want to listen to some particular music on Pandora or something.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bay Alexison (Post 7844598)
I did writing sprints (write together for a specific time amount) once or twice with others before though and they're fun.

Maybe we could tie NaNoWriMo together with a small free-for-all writing fest for the spirit of competition and camaraderie.

Anyone doing NaNoWriMo this year?

(I originally typed it as "NaNoWriMon", which is a sign I might have been writing a little too much Digimon.)

Quote:

Originally Posted by ★Hoenn★ (Post 7844328)
Aaand I recently got back into fanfic after some dude (BnB) who ran a magazine (BBS) made me addicted to writing articles. Thanks, BnB!

http://i.somethingawful.com/forumsystem/emoticons/emot-cheers.gif

Cutlerine September 22nd, 2013 1:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bobandbill (Post 7844295)
Is that an additional incentive to use a typewriter, depending on who is in the building? ;p

... Maybe. Ssh. Don't let them know.

Quote:

Originally Posted by ★Hoenn★ (Post 7844328)
Typewriters have been officially declared obsolete recently and won't be available on stores in my country, sadly. Probably one of the only places that uses them is my mother's office (an article came on the paper, it seems).

Mine didn't come from a store. It was a gift from some super-awesome friends, so I'm not certain of its origins, but I believe if you're looking to pick up a typewriter the best course of action is to look for adverts in papers or online. Ribbons are still sold online and in stationery shops, too. Although currently my typewriter is suffering from a mechanical failure which stops me actually removing the ribbon, so I haven't been able to change it in a while. I need to get it serviced.

(OK, Cutlerine, shut up about your typewriter now.)

Quote:

Originally Posted by ★Hoenn★ (Post 7844328)
Aaand I recently got back into fanfic after some dude (BnB) who ran a magazine (BBS) made me addicted to writing articles. Thanks, BnB!

That's great! And - hello!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Slayr231 (Post 7844588)
I've used a type writer before, only when I was little. I didn't use it to write anything though, I just pushed random keys for the[/I]sound. :P

That is as valid a reason as any. Type fast enough on a typewriter and it sounds like trains are going past; it gives you a great sense of satisfaction.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bay Alexison (Post 7844598)
Yeah, I knew you were going for historical accuracy, just saying there are those that will still say your story is historically inaccurate because it doesn't have diverse people, even in a fantasy setting. A lot of people were complaining how George R R Martin's Song of Ice and Fire series is historically inaccurate despite it being a medieval fantasy world. I do agree historical accuracy in something based on a certain time period and fantasy settings should be discussed differently and not lump together.

I neither read nor watch A Song of Ice and Fire, so correct me if I'm wrong, but it has dragons in it, right? I think all complaints about historical inaccuracy become void when a story has dragons in it. You put a dragon in a story and no one has the right to complain that it isn't historically accurate.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bay Alexison (Post 7844598)
Also agreed on both points. Sometimes when people on Tumblr scream at someone asking how they should write this certain character and calling them ignorant, I'm like "um...wow." With that said, sorry if my last post seems to be like those Tumblr folks complaining (I'll stop that now, lol).

Oh no, not at all. In fact, I'm afraid I probably came across like a Tumblr complainer - sorry about that. I got quite into the spirit of the debate, and, er, probably went into Tumblr-rant-mode.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Astinus (Post 7844738)
Hello, fellow genderqueer asexual!

Hello! That's an unexpected pleasure indeed. I do not come across others very often at all.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Astinus (Post 7844738)
Maybe we could tie NaNoWriMo together with a small free-for-all writing fest for the spirit of competition and camaraderie.

Anyone doing NaNoWriMo this year?

I'd like to say I will, but I'm not sure if I'll have time. November looks set to be a much busier month than normal for me. If I do have time, though, then a small writing fest sounds like fun. I could certainly do with stepping up my writing output a bit; it doesn't feel like I'm producing enough at the moment.

bobandbill September 23rd, 2013 4:19 AM

Quote:

Aaand I recently got back into fanfic after some dude (BnB) who ran a magazine (BBS) made me addicted to writing articles. Thanks, BnB!
Aw, that's nice to hear. =)

As someone who does not go on tumblr and only hears stories about it... no comment. =p

And as usual NaNo is mean to Australians, especially those doing uni exams as usual during November. (One on my birthday, I might add. >:[). I don't think they could have in general chosen a worse month for us people, really. And even though I'll be finishing a bit earlier this time around, I've a couple small trips in the latter part of the month too. Oh well.

Nolafus September 23rd, 2013 1:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Astinus
Maybe we could tie NaNoWriMo together with a small free-for-all writing fest for the spirit of competition and camaraderie.

Anyone doing NaNoWriMo this year?

I'm afraid I'll probably be too busy. I just realized how busy college is going to make me. I probably have just enough time to write this.

Quote:

Originally Posted by bobandbill
(One on my birthday, I might add. >:[)

Wow, that's rough man.

Okay, just thought I would warn you guys that college is really going to suck up a lot of my free time (a five hour reading assignment on the first day, from one class) so I'm not going to be on as much. I haven't forgotten about you, so don't think that. So... see you next summer. :P

MTG September 26th, 2013 9:22 AM

hmm, i have a question to writers here. if your character(s) curses in your story and you display it here, does it censor the curse words?

sorry if this is a bit off-topic.


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