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Literary Forum

This is where we congregate to discuss and share our creative writing.

If you want to share your writing here, you will be required to reply to the critiques ("crits") you receive, and to crit other authors in return. Crits are a tool, helpful and necessary, for every writer to refine his or her skills. All crits must be courteous and constructive -- that's the Golden Rule on the Lit Forum. The focus here is to improve, and to learn the craft of writing. If you have any questions, our Reference Library will hopefully answer them. Thanks for your cooperation, and please don't hesitate to share your opinions or advice, even if you're not posting your writing.

Outlander fan fiction is NOT allowed on this board!

Please be aware that, although, by law, anything you write is copyrighted as soon as it hits the page--there is no way to enforce this. Basically that means POST AT YOUR OWN RISK.

Ideas are NOT copyrightable.

Also, many publishers will not accept any work that has been previously published; this includes on the Web. (Of course, we're not going to tell anyone .)

IMPORTANT!!!
For bandwidth reasons, please bookmark (Netscape) or add to your Favorites (Internet Explorer) this and ALL the boards. Please do NOT use the web site as a stepping stone to the boards. Thank you.

Published Ladies of Lallybroch!

Vicki Stirm, Cindy Brandner, Jeanne Treat

Lit Forum Library

I just did it -- Larnsturt, 20:49:15 04/08/13 Mon
Hey everyone!

Well, after several rejections (translation: all of them) I decided to self-publish my book and have been doing relatively well with it. I thought you guys might want to know, since you all saw the very beginning of it! It was this forum that got me seriously thinking about writing. Chapter 24 was originally a homework assignment!

I know the board isn't as active as it used to be, but I wanted to stop by and say thanks.

Oh, and here's the link to the book!

http://amzn.com/B00BEQZP8G

Thanks again, guys. Keep typing away! I know I am going to keep it up.

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Replies:
- Congratulations!!! -- Lady Morilka, 07:56:12 04/09/13 Tue
- Congratulations! I just bought it! :-) (NT) -- JustGina, 15:12:07 04/11/13 Thu
- Good on you! I will buy it! I like the 'tone' of it already! (NT) -- SueP, 05:48:35 04/15/13 Mon
- Good for you, Larn! And good to hear from you. (NT) -- susiej, 15:03:48 04/16/13 Tue
Weathered Stone -- Lady Morilka, 13:39:29 03/16/13 Sat
As so often this is a short piece that came from an unusuall inspiration but stuck wth me till right now it found the best form.
As usuall posted for critic purpose only does not constitute publication, copyright by me.

Weathered Stone

I'd rather be the weathered stone
than the never changing polished gem.
I proudly bear the marks of time
that tell the story of my life.

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Replies:
- Oh, I like this. And I agree. (NT) -- susiej, 12:56:14 04/17/13 Wed
  - The funny thing is the story how that poem came to life ;) >>> -- Lady Morilka, 14:50:42 04/23/13 Tue
Hello?????? -- Myxtress, 16:14:20 11/14/12 Wed
Where did everyone go? The chairs are empty.

Okay. I’m feeling a bit nostalgic, and yes, sad when I scroll down the page and can see two years of activity on the main board. I miss…so much. What’ll it take to get some help to pick up the chairs? Who wants to sit in them? And who wants to have some fun with the craft?

I have a few ideas that I’d like to incorporate onto the board, but I need to have some participation. So…this is my plan – I’m going to experiment. And I’m going to post. And I’m going to keep my fingers crossed that I am not alone.

So in keeping with all that, in the first reply you will find a bit of something to read.

And so that’s that.

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Replies:
- This way please >>> -- Myxtress, 16:18:15 11/14/12 Wed
- Re: Hello?????? -- Lady Morilka, 10:06:49 01/25/13 Fri
  - It's a girl!!! -- Lady Morilka, 14:46:52 05/19/13 Sun
HOMEWORK! for Sept 3, 2012 -- Myxtress, 13:35:51 09/06/12 Thu
Hey all. It’s been a heck of a summer in my real world. Between the kids, DH and his month long holiday, my work schedule and filling in for others that actually take vacation…ah, the life of a …

Okay, I’m not going there. To the good stuff. School is back in session, today being the first full day. The DH is back at work. And I’m determined to get back into some sort of word routine.

And obviously, we are long past due for another assignment and different wallpaper. Which I honestly meant to post on Monday, and of course, that means this homework is late.

Sure. Why not? Let’s run with it.

Late. Yup. Something is late. Your character. A flight. Your date. A phone call. This list could go on endlessly. Use your imagination and play around with it. Bring out the angst. The relief. Just don’t forget to acknowledge the price to be paid and/or the saving to be collected.

Blank page. Full of possibilities, endless promises, and rewards beyond belief. It’s a new world waiting to be discovered. You have two pages/2000 words to make me feel a part of it. What is the most important experience?

The one word prompt this time around is embark. Follow where it leads.

Guidelines can be found in the Library. Past assignments are also available if these ones don't motivate or inspire.

Hope to see some words soon!

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HOMEWORK! for July 16, 2012 -- Myxtress, 12:45:41 07/16/12 Mon
Well, if I had realized chaos would rein in my life these last two months, I might have been more prepared. Mondays should be my days off, but that hasn’t worked out for me very well. Ever. As it is, either things are starting to settle down, or this pandemonium is becoming normal, so I am able to catch up on what I neglected. Obviously, I can’t make up for the lost assignments, but I can post a new one and get rid of that ancient phone/wallpaper. *G*

Okay, here’s the deal. Three assignments. Write. Post. Guidelines are in the Lit Library if you want to click on the link.

1. Body language. Have two characters communicate without any dialogue. Are these subtle movements/indicators correctly interpreted or totally misread? What does it lead to?

2. Recognize the redeeming characteristics in your antagonist and then show us what they are. Bonus points if it changes how we feel about them.

3. The one word prompt this time around is Rebel.

And that’s it. Have fun!

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Hello again! -- Larnsturt, 20:57:26 07/02/12 Mon
Hey guys! I know it's been forever since I've been here (like...2010? I'm the worst) but I have some good news!

I've really, actually, truly finished my novel! I'm now going through that wonderful stage of letting/making people I trust read it. And going though various publishing houses and looking at agents and what not. It's enough to make the room spin.

Anyways, I'm sure this has been asked before, but I haven't been able to find anything like it in the archives, so I'll ask it again.

Any one here that's published and has words of wisdom? I've been all over Preditors and Editors, Literary Market Place, etc., but does anyone had success with a particular house or agent? Or, miracle upon miracles, know an agent or house looking for new manuscripts?

Trying to avoid standard romance publishers, as my book's in the first person and most romance houses require it to be in the third person. I'm looking mostly at women's lit and the like. It's got sexy times in it, but it's more of a place-under-the-sun kind of novel. I think it may be a hard sell to traditional romance publishers.

I'm sad/relieved this one is done. ON TO THE NEXT ONE! And I do plan on hanging out around here more often. I missed you guys, and I only have myself to blame!

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Replies:
- I swear I are good at grammar. Jeeze. (NT) -- Larn, 20:58:58 07/02/12 Mon
- CONGRATS!!! - and fingers crossed for finding a publisher! (NT) -- Oatcake, 16:34:57 07/09/12 Mon
- Congrats, Larn. Its good to see you. I haven't been around in forever myself so its nice to come back and "see" you. Wish I had words of wisdom. Good luck!! -- susiej, 14:54:07 07/10/12 Tue
- Yay! Congratulations! (NT) -- JustGina, 17:15:28 07/13/12 Fri
- Hey Larn! Congrats! The only thing I can think of is to go to your public library and get the latest and greatest list of publishing houses and writing markets. Sorry I can't be of more help. And please do stop by more often. We miss you. Hugs! (NT) -- Myxtress, 10:54:53 07/16/12 Mon
- Re: Hello again! -- Darren, 00:42:14 07/17/12 Tue
HOMEWORK! for May 6, 2012 -- Myxtress, 16:01:22 05/06/12 Sun
It's been another month, and so it's time for another assignment.

1. You’re on your new cell phone and you either haven’t mastered the new touch screen or there was a problem with the sync and your contacts haven’t been transferred over. The point is…you either dialled the wrong number or from memory. The result?

2. It was one heck of a night. You wake up with no memory of what happened. Physical side effects aside, the queasy sensation in your gut tells you something isn’t right. The phone rings…you don’t want to deal. The caller is persistent. You give up and answer. And wish you hadn’t when you hear your best friend frantic on the other end. “How could you?”

3. The one word prompt this time is – Communication

The library can answer any questions you have and if not fill out the contact info and we'll get back to you.

Have Fun!

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Replies:
- I haven't been here in YEARS, but I popped on and #3 tied in with a little something I threw together a few days ago. It's a little odd, but I thought it would be fun to throw out there>>> -- JustGina, 17:10:53 07/13/12 Fri
  - Welcome Back!! Hope you pop in more often! And, of course, throw things out here! *G* This way please >>> -- Myxtress, 10:41:07 07/16/12 Mon
    - Thanks, Esther! And it is nice to meet you! :) I'll try to show up more often! (NT) -- JustGina, 13:36:32 07/16/12 Mon
Hey! Care to Share? -- Myxtress, 15:52:33 05/01/12 Tue
And just what does that mean? Well…let’s see. Once upon a time, long, long ago… there was a discussion about something I referred to as a check-in. So what happened? Let’s just say my motion was defeated.

But, years later, I still believe a check-in has some viable points that would work on this board.

So are you wondering what a check in is?

As it’s stated in the first sentence, right under the Literary Forum title, this is where we congregate to discuss and _share_ our creative writing.

I would like to encourage such sharing. Like the bulletin post on the Social Board, the purpose of a check-in post is simple – to share. Not to be repetitive, but there is a theme here. *G*

A quick scroll down the board shows not too much posting happening. In the past there have been basically two kinds of posts. Critiques and homeworks. Don’t get me wrong, each has their place. Each has a valuable purpose. But…that’s not to say that we always have a piece we want a crit on. Or that with our limited time that we would put a homework over our real life or take time away from our WIP. There’s always choices to make.

To me a check-in is a way to post something we’ve spent time on during the week/month that we might consider sharing. The usual ‘rules’ of responding to all the posts on the main page don’t apply, because it’s just an individual taking advantage of the opportunity to say hey, I haven’t totally flown the coop. It’s a way for us to say, look at us! We’re writing! It’s a way to motivate us. It should be fun. It should unite us as writers sharing the joy of exploring our craft. And hey, here’s a thought. It’s a way to get lurkers to lurk, and perhaps invite them to comment and get involved. Heck, it’s a way to get us to contribute. The only expectation of a check-in is that someone read it. Perhaps comment on it and by doing so provide encouragement that shows we’re not alone in our endeavours.

As far as I’m concerned, it won’t hurt to try it. And if it doesn’t work, well…nothing ventured, nothing gained.

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Replies:
- I'll go first >>> -- Myxtress, 16:03:39 05/01/12 Tue
  - Re: I'll go first >>> -- Oatcake, 17:36:10 05/02/12 Wed
    - Re: I'll go first >>> -- Oatcake, 04:51:08 05/04/12 Fri
      - No apologies Oatcake, I understand completely and I hope your little one is feeling better. >>> -- Myxtress, 16:00:44 05/04/12 Fri
        
        Re: No apologies Oatcake, I understand completely and I hope your little one is feeling better. >>> -- Oatcake, 17:07:33 05/04/12 Fri
- Worked a lot the last few weeks. Including some writing again, finally. -- Lady Morilka, 15:40:17 05/15/12 Tue
  - Emily is an amazing girl. And this is a great tribute to her. Thanks for sharing! (NT) -- Myxtress, 10:58:41 05/19/12 Sat
    - I am working on more, I have a song i stuk in my head that is bugging me to get finished ;) (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 06:47:01 05/21/12 Mon
Hi, folks. I thought you might find this blog entry from Lawrence Block of interest........ -- Judie, 13:44:22 04/22/12 Sun
.
.
http://lawrenceblock.wordpress.com/2012/04/22/all-changed-changed-utterly/

Lawrence Block has been a writer forever. So he knows what he's talking about. I find it fascinating even though I don't write. But ebooks I find fascinating.

Anyway, I thought you might find his tale enjoyable. And, hopefully, it will give you all some ideas for yourselves. :)

Judie

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Replies:
- Thanks Judie! It was a great blog post. I definitely think ebooks are the way to go! (NT) -- Myxtress, 12:49:43 05/01/12 Tue
- Thanks, definitly an interesting read. (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 15:35:18 05/15/12 Tue
Published Aussie author at your service :) -- Darren Groth, 15:11:10 04/14/12 Sat
Hi All

On the back of my new Kindle book release on Amazon, mighty LOL, Judie, advised me to come on and say hi. I thought this might be a good place to begin conversing, given I've worked with a lot of aspiring writers and emerging authors.

If you'd like to know a bit more about me, feel free to check out any or all of the following:

Blog - http://darrengroth.com/

Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Darren-Groth/e/B007TS0YES/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1

Twitter - https://twitter.com/#!/darrengroth

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/pages/Darren-Groth-Author/166862616687299

Cheers and I look forward to having a chat :)

Oh, btw, consider me the much less famous 'DG' writer!

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Replies:
- Hi, Folks. Yes, this is Darren Groth, one of our family friends to boot! I've read The Umbilical Word and just bought the Kindle version of The Focus and the Freak by Darren and his brother Simon. Looking forward to reading that! Welcome, Darren! :D (NT) -- Judie, 16:22:35 04/14/12 Sat
  - Love the Wallpaper! :D (NT) -- Judie, 16:23:04 04/14/12 Sat
    - Re: Love the Wallpaper! :D -- Darren Groth, 17:49:55 04/14/12 Sat
    - Thanks Judie! It's kind of fun, not to mention time consuming, scrolling through pictures. And you wouldn't believe how many closet pics consist of some celebrity posing with all their shoes! :-) (NT) -- Myxtress, 12:07:15 04/16/12 Mon
- Hi there, nice to see new faces here. (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 08:19:06 04/15/12 Sun
  - Didn't have time to answer properly this afternoon, so I am doing it now ;) Just added you on twitter (the crazy german knitter ;)) and I am looking forward to your insights as a published author. I am the one doing mostly poetry here so this will be an interesting different view again. Hope you enjoy it here. (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 13:36:00 04/15/12 Sun
    - Re: Didn't have time to answer properly this afternoon, so I am doing it now ;) Just added you on twitter (the crazy german knitter ;)) and I am looking forward to your insights as a published author. I am the one doing mostly poetry here so this will be an interesting different view again. Hope you enjoy it here. -- Darren Groth, 20:11:19 04/15/12 Sun
- Welcome Darren! Grab your drink of choice and follow me >>> -- Myxtress, 12:02:55 04/16/12 Mon
  - Re: Welcome Darren! Grab your drink of choice and follow me >>> -- Darren Groth, 23:28:28 04/16/12 Mon
    - Well geez! Sorry Darren, I thought I had replied earlier. I meant to anyway. >>> -- Myxtress, 13:42:47 05/01/12 Tue
Happy Easter everyone! -- Lady Morilka, 08:04:32 04/09/12 Mon
Easter (copyright by me, if you want to use it just ask)

Little nest
under the tree,
colorful eggs
waiting for me.

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Replies:
- Love it! (NT) -- Oatcake, 15:05:13 04/09/12 Mon
  - Welcome Oatcake! So glad you stopped by and commented. Hope to see you back soon! (NT) -- Myxtress, 17:26:16 04/09/12 Mon
  - Thank you, it just apperared in my mind an after a few minutes of playing around with the words emerged. I guess it didn't want to come late for easter. Did I read it crrectly at the kirk that you are from Germany, too? (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 08:19:16 04/13/12 Fri
- Happy Easter to you, too! Love your poem...although now I'm going to have to go hunt some eggs myself! *G* (NT) -- Myxtress, 17:16:38 04/09/12 Mon
  - On twitter (Name Strickwerk) you can see the knitted eggs I produced for our little one this year ;) They surely were colorful :D (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 13:55:37 04/10/12 Tue
    - Well...aren't you the crafty one! They're so cute! Just loved the one with the feet, especially the colour of the egg! (NT) -- Myxtress, 10:58:07 04/11/12 Wed
      - I love that color too, but the feet aren't my work, thes belong to an eggstand for the brekreasttable, I didn't have a plain one and wanted to show the size beeing that of a normal bigg egg. (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 14:39:25 04/11/12 Wed
- ...um...hi ladies! I don't really come here often - mainly because I haven't yet figured what this board really is about...(I have to admit I've not spent a lot of energy to find out). Anyway, it seems to be mostly you (Myxtress & Lady Morilka) that run the place. If ye need another German or another Esther around here: I am both of that ;o) I'm not sure about other helpful characteristics, though... (NT) -- Oatcake, 16:54:30 04/26/12 Thu
  - Sounds like a good way to start here. If you have a sense for words and are wellcome to give opinions and chritics, than you'r a good addition :) But you can stay your own german self around here ;) And other characteristics will show over time (and posts) so keep posting ;) By the way where in Germany are you? (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 02:40:04 04/27/12 Fri
    - Thanks for inviting me so warmly to this place, lass! >>> -- Oatcake, 16:19:02 04/27/12 Fri
      - I forgot: where are you? (NT) -- Oatcake, 16:20:34 04/27/12 Fri
        
        DOn't think I mentioned it before ;) I'm close to Bielefeld aproximatly 100km south of Hannover. And I'm no native speaker either and coment on their stuff. I'f your not sure about the wordings or so, just give impressions that already may help tons since the technical things can be found by lectors and others as well. But sometimes it just helps to point out that there is something missing or pointed out too much and things like that. (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 05:23:10 04/28/12 Sat
  - Hey Esther! We can always use another fellow LOLer around here! We love company! >>> -- Myxtress, 13:09:44 05/01/12 Tue
HOMEWORK! for April 3, 2012 -- Myxtress, 12:44:04 04/03/12 Tue
Another month, another homework.

1. Empty shelves. The truth is flat surfaces don't stay bare for long. Clean your clutter. Or have your characters do it for you. Show them interacting in their environment. Are they the kind to put something down 'temporarily' and it's never seen again, or are they tidy to the point of excess? Perhaps somewhere in between? The point of this exercise is to get to the bare bones. Er...Shelves.

2. Skeletons in the closet. The door opens and...?

3. The one word prompt this time around is Secrets.

And that's it. The Library link can answer all your questions. And don't forget, homeworks don't expire, so check out the assignment tab if you're looking for inspiration.

Happy Writing!

Last edited by author: Tue April 03, 2012 13:06:38 Edited 1 time.

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Replies:
- Option 3 but different ;) -- Lady Morilka, 14:17:42 04/18/12 Wed
  - WOW Lady M! That's awesome!! I'm so happy for you! -- Myxtress, 14:10:09 05/01/12 Tue
Okay! Input please! -- Myxtress, 13:07:49 03/06/12 Tue
It is probably safe to say that this board needed a little updating. I've gone ahead and made some changes, some more obvious than others.

Wallpaper. Yeah. It's different. I just want to mention that I would prefer that it is changed on a regular basis. And I would welcome any suggestions. Otherwise, I'll attempt to change it to fit the latest homework assignment.

I've also re-created the Library, and if you read the blurb up top, you'll see I've updated the links as well. So here is where I need some input. If you could take a few minutes to go through it, I'd greatly appreciate it. Look for the usual spelling mistakes and typos, and content as well. If you want something added, let me know. If you think something needs to go, let me know that as well. And please, let me know your opinion on having an author tab, perhaps with a link to their blog, and a bit of background and what stories have been posted on the lit.

And that should be it. Thanks in advance!

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Replies:
- Re: Okay! Input please! >>> -- Lady Morilka, 10:30:48 03/07/12 Wed
  - Thanks Lady Morilka! This I can do! And I'm on it! (NT) -- Myxtress, 10:33:15 03/08/12 Thu
    - UPDATE!!! I’ve gone through the archives and have updated the site as per your suggestion, adding the dates. Let me know if you think of anything else. (NT) -- Myxtress, 02:58:04 04/08/12 Sun
Since it is so darn quiet here I thought I just start with a new assingment. -- Lady Morilka, 14:52:30 02/27/12 Mon
Today it is al about space ;)
1. Think about space. Write scene where space is important, it doesn't matter why. It can be someone who is claustrophobic (sp?) and is in need of space or someone alone in a wast and enmpty space or just someone admiring/dreaming. The important thing is that without the impression of space the scene would be less.

2. One of your charakters has hidden something and another one finds that hidden space.

3. Ok, I tried to go with one word but "space" is to open to interpretations as may be seen above so the words ttoday are "space - the final frontier"

Let's see if we can get this board rocking again.

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Replies:
- Lady Morilka! It's so good to see you! >>> -- Myxtress, 09:22:22 02/28/12 Tue
  - a very fitting wallpaper ;-) (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 14:37:09 03/03/12 Sat
- Thought I'd post my homework here rather than as a new post. Check it out >>> -- Myxtress, 13:23:56 04/03/12 Tue
  - Re: Thought I'd post my homework here rather than as a new post. Check it out >>> -- Lady Morilka, 07:14:25 04/06/12 Fri
    - Hey LadyM! Glad you could stop by >>> -- Myxtress, 22:11:51 04/07/12 Sat
HOMEWORK! for December 5, 2011 -- Myxtress, 12:40:15 12/06/11 Tue
‘Tis the Season. Busy. Busy. Busy.

Heck, who am I kidding. Life is busy, busy, busy. So, what’s to do? Or new?

It’s been my opinion that the homework assignments be split among us whom participate. That has not happened. And my track record is clear – I cannot seem to post every two weeks, despite my best intentions. So, my concession to ease my guilt, is to post every four weeks instead of two. If anyone is interested in picking up the missed week, please let me know. I’d love to share the joy!

So…back to ‘Tis the Season. Your choices this time around include:

It’s a holiday! Share a story! Yes, one you’ve written. Whether a new story written for this assignment or a past story from years gone by, post it and let us share it with you. My only request is that you wait to post this one until December 20th, as I intend (there’s that nasty word again) to start the post with some glittering Christmas graphics. But just think, that gives you 14 days to get something ready!

On writing – Where did all the words go, or why aren’t you writing. For this exercise, go about your daily routine, except at the end of the day, take a few minutes to chronicle what you’ve done. Do this for seven days. At the end of the week, assess how your time is spent. Does the time devoted to each activity match what you’d like to be doing? Where does your writing fit in?

One word writing prompt – Memories. And look at that. You could combine with the holiday story! ; -)

Please remember to have fun with these, and by all means get as close to that 2000 word limit as possible.

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Replies:
- Homework Archives >>> -- Myxtress, 12:46:06 12/06/11 Tue
HOMEWORK! Yes, it's back! -- Esther, 12:18:27 11/07/11 Mon
I don’t know where to start. Or what to say. I mean, how many times can I do this?

My sincerest apologies for my two plus months hiatus. Every time I post, I intend to have a homework posted every two weeks. To comment on the posts in a timely fashion. Here’s a good one. To actually write something. But then, it’s like my good intentions are paving my way into the dark, because, just because, something always comes along to screw with them. And so I’d say to myself, when this is done, I’ll do this. Then something else happens, then another, and after yet another full circle, here I am right where I started from. Numerous Mondays have past me by, and somehow it’s now November! But I haven’t missed this Monday by golly.

So…forgetting my past transgressions, I believe it’s time we move forward. I have a couple ideas that I think will be fun, and not too time consuming so we can contribute something without having to spew thousands of words. Of course, the more people who play along, the better it will be, but hey, I have faith that this board has a loyal following of prolific writers. And to bring back our lurkers, we have to give them something to read.

Starting with a homework assignment…

1. A day in the life…describe/live a typical day in the life of whomever you choose. If it’s anything like my experiences, something always happens. Take me away.

2. Must I? Yes, you must. Despite the feelings on this, whatever it is, it must be done. What is it? What approach is taken? Does it work? Any consequences or rewards?

3. The third is a word. Instigate.

Remember homeworks have a 2000 word limit, and do not expire. And that's it. Go forth and write.

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HOMEWORK if you can believe it! -- Esther, 14:38:33 08/23/11 Tue
Wow! It’s been awhile. I haven’t posted since June 7th, and I’m the board hog. *G* I hope that all this quiet is indicative of everyone having a busy couple of months. As for me, it seemed like everyday was drama, drama, drama. Yup, that sums it up about right.

I managed to keep it together. And I managed to get down a few words here and there. Not enough, though. Not nearly enough. Everything has felt remote, and while writing is a solitary endeavour, that doesn’t mean that I’m alone.

So, is everyone/anybody ready for a new homework assignment?

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Replies:
- Check it out >>> -- Esther, 14:55:13 08/23/11 Tue
  - Option 1 (more or less) This little poem/song has been bugging me for years now and I still havn't found the right words to polish it but maybe your crits and suggestions may help.>>>> -- Lady Morilka, 04:11:16 08/25/11 Thu
    - Yikes- its been so long, i can't remember my password but hello! and iinside>>>> -- susiej, 11:20:55 10/04/11 Tue
      - Ahhh, so someone is still awake here :) (I was on vaccation the last week ;)) -- Lady Morilka, 17:58:43 10/15/11 Sat
HOMEWORK for 06-06-2011 -- Esther, 12:20:23 06/07/11 Tue
We're all busy. There's no denying that. So, I'm going to attempt to keep the homework assignment short and sweet.

1. Think of your favorite hero/heroine. What about them appeals to you? List ten things, whether positive or negative, that draws you to them and makes you remember them.

2. During anything you do during the day, take a conscious five minutes to notice what's happening around you. It could be in the supermarket, your child's school, the dentist, while you're walking the dog, work, in the garden, etc. Describe how you perceive two things for each of the five senses.

3. When you hear the word storm, where does it take you?

And that's it. Hope to see some posts on this one.

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HOMEWORK for 09-05-2011 -- Esther, 12:36:09 05/09/11 Mon
I just seem to like themes of three, so once again, there will be three choices to choose from.

1. If these walls could talk, what would they say? What secret could they reveal? What happens behind those closed doors?

2. Ask yourself this question - Why do I write? This is a self-assessment exercise borrowed from Lady Lala. To this day, when I need to motivate myself, I revisit my response to her assignment. Even if you choose not to post it, I highly recommend writing out the answer.

3. A one word prompt. This time the word is ancient.

Remember there is a 2000 word limit, with no critique provided unless specifically requested. These assignments do not expire. And let’s all play nice. If someone takes the time to read and respond, please take a moment to say thank you.

Okay. That’s it.

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Replies:
- Since I've already done option #2, I'm going to post it before I have a chance to forget >>> -- Esther, 12:49:17 05/09/11 Mon
- Option 2 -- Lady Morilka, 06:51:31 08/21/11 Sun
  - Hey Lady Morilka! It's great to see you! >>> -- Esther, 15:44:06 08/23/11 Tue
    - Glad you got something out of my posting as it was actually quite personal and I was hesitant to post it at all. (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 03:08:55 08/25/11 Thu
Okay, let's check in -- Esther, 14:45:46 05/05/11 Thu
It appears things have been rather quiet on the writing front. And as you have gathered, my track record isn't the greatest for posting a homework assignment every couple weeks. My apologies. April is my busiest month of the year, and everyday felt like a Monday. But here's my promise that I'll be here with bells on Monday morning to post an assignment.

Until then, how about maybe just sharing what's been happening with us. Let's check in. Is anyone writing or is life too hectic?

And then, let's talk goals. Yes, it's the fifth today, but there's enough month left to make it count. It's easy to sluff off when we're all alone. Right?

I would also like to point out, that homeworks don't expire. And that means they are always welcome on the board. So please feel free to post. Let's get out of lurkdom.

Okay, that's it. Now spill. *G*

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Replies:
- School, work, work, work, school... -- Debi, 22:29:49 05/06/11 Fri
- Here's mine >>> -- Esther, 14:47:26 05/07/11 Sat
- Oh heck, where did the time go, I wanted to reply here weeks ago. -- Lady Morilka, 05:15:00 05/30/11 Mon
The little song I wrote about is now mor or less finished, or at least I don't find any better ideas any more. -- Lady Morilka, 07:58:21 04/18/11 Mon

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Replies:
- In here>>> -- Lady Morilka, 08:14:19 04/18/11 Mon
  - A sweet lullaby -- Debi, 13:38:33 04/20/11 Wed
    - Hmmm, showing light and dark, I like that idea, maybe I'll add that somehow. And you got the idea of the song perfectly! (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 02:06:36 04/21/11 Thu
  - Well, I think it's beautiful. Despite this being a translation it flows well. And I love how it's so positive. Come, I'll show you the wonder. Thank you. (NT) -- Esther, 11:25:55 04/21/11 Thu
HOMEWORK for 11-04-2011 -- Esther, 13:35:18 04/11/11 Mon
Me again.

1. Silence is golden. Write about a moment of serenity.

2. Crossroads. Your character is at the infamous junction that can either lead him/her to salvation or down the road to darkness. Which way to go? What influences the choice?

3. Third choice is the one word writing prompt. This time the word is wet/whet.

And that’s it. Remember, 2000 word limit, no crit expectation, and no expiry. It’s for fun. I’ll show you mine if you show me yours. ;-)

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Replies:
- Not really serenity, or particularly silent...but it kinda fits -- Debi, 22:09:13 04/14/11 Thu
  - Very poignant, Debi >>> -- Esther, 03:15:27 04/18/11 Mon
- Hmmmm, why is it that if I have something homework fitting in my poetry stack it is allways something I allready posted ;) (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 07:56:39 04/18/11 Mon
  - Well, I wouldn't complain if you posted it again, because I do enjoy your poetry. And you know, there might be some that haven't read it before. So I say post away! (NT) -- Esther, 12:06:47 04/21/11 Thu
  - Ok, here I go. .oO( Good thing there is no minimum word count) -- Lady Morilka, 03:38:18 04/24/11 Sun
    - Hey! This is familiar! And I agree it flows very well. And the fact that it is so short only makes the message that much more clear. Thanks for posting again! (NT) -- Esther, 14:41:27 04/29/11 Fri
- Re: HOMEWORK for 11-04-2011 -- Italics, 12:24:49 04/28/11 Thu
  - ITALICS!!! Yup! It's me from sooooo long ago! And of course I remember you! How've you been? Whatcha doing? Geez, but it's good to see your pixels! (((((Hugs))))) (NT) -- Esther, 14:38:13 04/29/11 Fri
HOMEWORK -- Esther, 13:44:16 03/14/11 Mon
How did this happen? I lost an entire week somewhere! Yikes! And how come no one posted a new assignment when one wasn’t forthcoming? Cause I have to tell you, this thinking up assignments is kind of fun. Everyone should try it at least once.

Since this is a week late, we’re on a tighter schedule. Your challenge therefore, is to complete one of the three options by next Monday. Just kidding, because we all know homeworks don’t expire. But there will be bonus points for actually posting it. *G* And time is a wasting, so let's get to it. The choices this time round are as follows:

1. Let’s ask a basic question. What if? That’s it. Go dig into your WIP and ask one of your characters. How would their story change? How would yours? Delve into the possibilities and show us the before and after.

2. You know the blurb on the back of all those books we read? The one we scrutinize to discover if _this_ book is _THE_ book? Well…write one. Not only should these few paragraphs rivet us, but they should make us wish there was a way we could get an ARC in our greedy little hands.

3. And this one is just a prompt. Follow where it leads. The word this time around is regret.

And that’s it. Go forth and be prolific!

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Replies:
- Book blurb, short and sweet -- Debi, 15:17:14 04/02/11 Sat
  - And the rewrite on my class story... -- Debi, 13:09:56 04/04/11 Mon
    - I'll just answer for the both here >>> -- Esther, 03:33:31 04/18/11 Mon
HOMEWORK -- Esther, 16:47:36 02/22/11 Tue
Okay. There were no takers so you're stuck with me doing the assignment. Please don't make me do it again. *G*

Option 1: Write a scene that deals with physical force and the aftermath of it. The possibilites are endless.

Option 2: Have one character observe another. Include physical detail and internal thoughts, but not any dialogue. See what you can convey through the senses.

Option 3: A writing prompt. This time your word is innocence.

And that's that. Have fun!

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Replies:
- Hola! I'm back from the land of brain dead. It could be I've posted this scene before, but if so, it was long enough ago that even I don't remember. Don't hold back on me. I've been going to a crit group where you have to read aloud in front of about 15, mostly male action /adventure/spy readers- believe me, they don't hold back. -- susiej, 18:04:16 02/27/11 Sun
  - Good imagery! -- Debi, 10:29:54 03/12/11 Sat
- Option 2 -- Debi, 09:48:13 03/12/11 Sat
  - Giggling like a school girl >>>> -- susiej, 19:39:22 03/12/11 Sat
Hello ladies...seeking some writing advice... -- Lady Stormwing, 11:19:34 02/20/11 Sun
I've been writing a sort of fictional autobiography. Fictional in the sense that a lot of the people involved in the original situations have gone through name changes, personality changes, melds with other people, etc. The timing of some events has changed, but essentially, what the main character goes through is almost exactly what I went through in high school and college. It's been an interesting look back through time.

However, for a good chunk of my working life, I've been employed by two major international entertainment companies and their partners, none of which have ever been hesitant to send out a lawsuit for any reason. Additionally, I've signed multiple confidentiality agreements with all these companies (sort of "what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas" sort of thing).

So when I get around to writing the scenes that involve my life and work there (it was something that had social repercussions far beyond the jobs themselves), do you have any suggestions on going about it? Change the names of the companies? Change the nature of the work itself? Make up something completely new? About the only option not viable is omitting that part of my life, and thus, the character's life, completely.

I'm looking forward to your thoughts! Thanks, ladies!

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Replies:
- This reminds me of The Devil Wears Prada >>> -- Fi, 13:24:26 02/22/11 Tue
- Hey Lady Stormwing! This way please >>> -- Esther, 13:32:11 02/22/11 Tue
- Thank you! I'll be keeping these thoughts in mind when I get to writing those sections. :) (NT) -- Lady Stormwing, 20:15:14 02/25/11 Fri
- I'm no lawyer but I say write the story as you think it should be written- changing names to protect the innocent (that would be you) and let the agent/publisher that will most likely LOVE this help you with those legal issues- what might have to be edited, etc. Good luck! It sounds great. (NT) -- susiej, 18:10:58 02/27/11 Sun
Sorry this isn't homework... -- Debi, 09:45:30 02/18/11 Fri
...but actually, it is. I've been writing furiously on this the past few days. It's to be the last story for my writing class/workshop and I like it a lot so far. It may need something here and there, but I think I've got the story down. Any and all suggestions and crits are welcome and thanks for taking the time to read it. I know how busy everyone is.

See the rest behind the cut.

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Replies:
- I'll Fly Away -- Debi, 09:52:04 02/18/11 Fri
  - Re: I'll Fly Away -- Fi, 13:17:49 02/22/11 Tue
    - Thanks! -- Debi, 23:59:03 02/22/11 Tue
  - Can I ask a quick question? >>> -- Esther, 17:17:02 02/22/11 Tue
  - Probably too late for the class but here's my thoughts. -- susiej, 18:30:48 02/27/11 Sun
    - Not too late, thanks susiej! -- Debi, 08:07:55 02/28/11 Mon
  - Okay, I finally found some time to finish this. My apologizes for taking like forever. >>> -- Esther, 11:51:33 03/14/11 Mon
    - Thanks Esther -- Debi, 11:22:59 03/19/11 Sat
HOMEWORK -- Esther, 13:04:56 02/07/11 Mon
I’m thinking three options, but the first one is super easy. It’s just a way to ensure that everyone here has no excuse not to post one. The second and third are a bit harder.

One. This is just for fun. Pick your favourite homework assignment that has ever been assigned, and post what you wrote. A brief note on why it appeals so much to you would be a great addition as well. And trust me, it doesn’t get any easier than this. If you meant to write something, but getting it done has provided its own challenges and opportunities, now is the time to do it.

Two. Let’s do something with POV. Pick a scene out of any you’ve written with interaction between two or more characters. Then switch it around, and re-write the scene from another perspective. Don’t forget to add in the details for setting and mood etc. etc. We are looking out of completely new set of eyes, and the more contrasts the better. Post both scenes so we can see the differences. This is like a two for one, so double the word count is acceptable. *G*

The third is a word. Passion. Follow where it leads and then post it for us to read and enjoy.

Please remember homeworks are not critted unless specifically requested, each option should be no more than 2000 words, and they should be in their own post. They never expire. And they can be a great deal of fun if there’s participation. So go ahead. Get writing!

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Replies:
- Can we talk? Of course we can. This way please >>> -- Esther, 12:43:43 02/10/11 Thu
- I've done so many homeworks that I can't remember what I've done -- Debi, 09:55:43 02/18/11 Fri
  - So, I know this was a homework anyway. -- Debi, 22:07:10 02/19/11 Sat
    - Yup! It was! I recognize this! >>> -- Esther, 17:08:27 02/22/11 Tue
Latest class homeork -- Debi, 11:44:11 02/05/11 Sat
Why this tormented me so, I don't understand. Dialogue is what I write. But this took some time to come up with and fit the requirements of 2-3 pages and trying to develop the characters through what they say, not so much what they do or think. So here goes!
*************
“What’s it like?”

She rolled to one elbow to face him, smiling when he brushed her hair out of her eyes. “What’s what like?”

“To be alone.”

A sigh, tinged with annoyance, welled out. “It’s the only way I’ve ever been. I might ask you to explain how it feels to be male, or blond. I’m not like you, or like almost everyone else on the planet. I don’t have a twin. I don’t know what to tell you.”

He cocked his head to one side like an inquisitive dog. “Try.”

She pushed herself up, pulling the blanket higher, baring a long expanse of his left leg. He stretched, long and languorous, deliberately letting the cover slide all the way off. Ignoring his display and his question, she got up, dropping the blanket, not to return the tease but to slide into her clothes.

“Where are you going?” He stood, reaching for her but she evaded his grasp, bending down to grab her shoes from the floor.

“Home. To be alone. Where I don’t have to answer silly questions.”

He let his hands drop. “I’m just curious.”

“That’s because you’re like everybody else. You have an identical copy of yourself, you’re in each other’s heads, you’re normal.”

“So are you, you’re just rare since you’re a singleton.”

“Rare.” She snorted, her voice thick with sarcasm. “And so sad. No one to share thoughts with, no secret language, no relationship that predates birth, just me. Everybody always wonders how I can stand being the way I am. But for me, I’m normal.” Scuffing her feet to secure her shoes, she turned on him, eyes narrowed in suspicion. “Is that what this is about?” She flung the blanket back onto the bed. “Curiosity?”

“No!” He caught her arms, letting go when she pulled away and fixed him with another skeptical gaze. “Well, maybe a little.”

“Great.” She took a deep breath. “At least you’re honest.” But she didn’t leave. She poked a finger in his chest in challenge. “You tell me what you think it’s like.”

He blinked, stepping back to sit on the bed. It was quiet for a long moment while she watched his expression scroll through several changes. “I had a friend in high school. His twin died in a car accident right after graduation. Mike was so different after, quiet, like he was listening for Mitch all the time. Listening for a voice he’d never hear again.“ His voice trailed away as he looked back at her, his eyes wide. “Is that it?”

She shook her head but gave him a wry smile. “You can’t miss what you never had.”

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Replies:
- You've still got that ear for dialogue>>> -- Fi, 11:35:30 02/08/11 Tue
- Here's my take >>> -- Esther, 12:25:00 02/10/11 Thu
  - Actually, very much a home run! -- Debi, 20:35:48 02/11/11 Fri
Finished at last. -- Esther, 11:59:39 01/26/11 Wed
It’s been awhile, but I thought posting a homework would be a good way to break back into the groove since this is the first thing I've written for this WIP in a long, long time. I am grateful my characters have such patience with me. *G*

My dilemma, as usual, was the length. As is bound to happen the more I tried to cut, the higher the word count grew. Desperate, I did the only thing I could. I combined both homeworks. Which technically gives me 4000 words to play with. See this is why writing is so great; everything and everything can be twisted into what you want it to be to get something to work. ;-)

And that’s it. Read at your leisure.

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Replies:
- Yesterday's song >>> -- Esther, 12:18:36 01/26/11 Wed
  - Long delayed response>>> -- Fi, 12:57:19 02/04/11 Fri
    - LOL Fi! Better delayed than not at all! And my long-winded response is this way >>> -- Esther, 12:29:25 02/07/11 Mon
  - Catching up -- Debi, 11:36:31 02/05/11 Sat
    - Me too...sort of...maybe...*G* >>> -- Esther, 12:42:30 02/07/11 Mon
Has anyone else self-published? -- LisaL, 23:15:50 01/17/11 Mon
Okay, so I have just self-published my first book. Its not my main genre, which is romance/fantasy/etc, but instead a collection of my side passion...erotica. I chose to use a pen name and self-publish because these stories were sitting there in my computer...mocking me. Lol. Not wanting to really connect my real name (which I hope to be published under someday) with my erotic book so I self-published. Question is :Does anyone have any creative ideas on marketing this? I have a couple of good reviews but I'm a little lost as to what to do next.

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Replies:
- No clues or suggestions, but congratulations on getting your work out! (NT) -- Debi, 12:43:28 01/19/11 Wed
- Re: Has anyone else self-published? -- LisaL, 13:23:07 01/20/11 Thu
- Well, I've never self-published, but the more I read about it, the more I think it's the way I'll go when I'm at that point. Inside please >>> -- Esther, 15:37:58 01/20/11 Thu
  - Re: Well, I've never self-published, but the more I read about it, the more I think it's the way I'll go when I'm at that point. Inside please >>> -- LisaL., 14:15:21 01/23/11 Sun
    - Well...I love the cover!!! And your reviews are great and decided me that this is a book I have to have. Unfortunately, I don't own a kindle, so I'll keep my fingers crossed for another format. *G* Keep me posted, and all the best of luck to you! And I'll be back to check out your blog when I can get a few minutes to myself. ;-) (NT) -- Esther, 12:25:05 01/26/11 Wed
      - I believe you can also download it to your pc, not for sure though. Also, I have the kindle app on my phone, that's how I get my kindle books. It was free and its awesome having a book with me no matter where I am! Thanks for the cover compliment, I really stressed about that! (NT) -- LisaL., 10:10:57 01/28/11 Fri
- Re: Has anyone else self-published? -- susiej, 12:28:31 01/27/11 Thu
Hi everyone! -- Debi, 06:26:30 01/12/11 Wed
Wow, the holidaze are over, things are settling down and I'm back in school. This semester promises to be busy but fun, with General Anthropology (my first experience with a large lecture class, there must be 100+ people in there!) and my much smaller creative writing workshop. Our first assignment is already proving interesting so I thought I'd share.
Take a few minutes and write down five attributes about yourself.
1. Physical- something everyone notices about you or that you notice about yourself. For myself I chose 'almost albino', since I can watch my skin burn in mere minutes in the summer.
2. World-view- you stand on the world around you. I was 'oblivious'.
3. Spirituality- the way you feel deep inside. Doesn't have to be about religion. Our instructor described it the way the Greeks did. Imagine a flute. The breath passing through it is the soul, the music coming out is spirit. I was 'earthy'.
4. family role- how your family sees or calls you. 'Brother', 'perpetual child', 'the weird one', I was 'monkey', thanks to my dad.
5. Something about yourself that people don't see or may not realize- I put that I was, despite th facade I display, really quite shy.

Now comes the fun part. Write down the opposite attribute next to each of those above. Then, write a monologue from THAT person's point of view. Tricky, huh? The point is, not to mock or point up differences, but to get inside that person's head and make us get it. Show us their soul.

I'm still working on that part. I'll share as I get it done.

Feels good to be challenged in a new way. Woo Hoo!!!

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Replies:
- Ok, I don't do monologues but I can answer the questiones for the fun of it. -- Lady Morilka, 06:37:39 01/13/11 Thu
  - O dear, I can't even imagne a person with direkt opposing attributes. I didn't think the answers to be so contradicting but finding the exact oposites I would get a quite contradicting character. (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 06:46:09 01/13/11 Thu
- My first draft -- Debi, 10:46:46 01/15/11 Sat
  - Wow Debi, this is a tough one. >>> -- Esther, 10:01:45 01/21/11 Fri
    - Things have changed further since this post -- Debi, 20:35:59 01/21/11 Fri
Homework. I thought I'd use the time for posting this instead of replying down below. I'll do that some other time. -- Lady Morilka, 17:35:57 01/04/11 Tue
Songs and Sayings
1. Songs:
Let one of you characters sing. Wether it is a lullaby, under the shower or a karaoke show doesn´t matter. If your character is unlikly to do so, it can also be humming or drumming a rythm on a table or something else in the musical way.
2. Saying:
There is a saying "Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift, thats why they call it the present." Which of your characters might use that saying and where and to whome?

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Replies:
- Thanks for posting this LadyM! It's been awhile since I've dived into the word pool. Kinda sad in a way that I let something I love be the victim of time. But I do believe I'm ready to see if I still know how to swim. *G* (NT) -- Esther, 14:56:45 01/05/11 Wed
- My musical interlude -- Debi, 11:20:27 01/15/11 Sat
  - Awww! What a wonderful tradition. >>> -- Esther, 09:39:14 01/21/11 Fri
    - A tradition I wish my family shared...;-) -- Debi, 20:38:43 01/21/11 Fri
  - Love this song. I have it on CD with Shane McGowen. Nicely captured moment (NT) -- Fi, 12:59:19 02/04/11 Fri
What’s up? -- Esther, 13:17:52 12/14/10 Tue
‘Tis that time of year. Where our busy lives become even more so, and the pressure we put on ourselves increases.

Where before it was hard to find time to come here and participate, now it is next to impossible.

The consequences? Those dust bunnies are breeding. And it’s time for a sweep-up.

Okay, so how to do that? Simple. Take a few minutes, the time to drink a cup of coffee, and type out something to share. Re-introduce yourselves. Tell us what’s up. What’s doing. What’s the deal.

Yeah, yeah. I know. As writers we observe, ie lurk. But we can’t all do that at the same time or those bunnies, as cute as they are, are going to take over.

I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’d prefer that writers ruled the lit instead of a man-sized-machete-wielding-ball-of-dirt.

Anyone in? Cause I could use some help…

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Replies:
- I’ll go first >>> -- Esther, 13:26:24 12/14/10 Tue
- Me second>>>>>>> -- Page2, 23:45:00 12/16/10 Thu
  - I like the new story idea! -- Debi, 13:26:18 12/17/10 Fri
  - Hiya! This way >>> -- Esther, 10:36:12 12/24/10 Fri
- Tired... -- Debi, 13:30:05 12/17/10 Fri
  - Hey Debi. I hope you enjoy your time off from work and that spent with your family. Hugs! (NT) -- Esther, 11:19:55 12/24/10 Fri
- Hey, old timers! 'Member me?>>>> -- JulieO, 00:12:54 12/23/10 Thu
  - Well...I remember you! Does that make me old??? *G* >>> -- Esther, 11:32:25 12/24/10 Fri
- There is a lot on our plate right now but >>> -- Lady Morilka, 06:27:06 01/13/11 Thu
  - Hey LadyM >>> -- Esther, 10:27:17 01/20/11 Thu
    - Late to the party as usual.... -- Chessie >^..^<, 16:03:13 02/05/11 Sat
Anybody? Bueller? -- Debi, 11:40:16 12/11/10 Sat
Here's homework. If it inspires you to write something, PLEASE SHARE. If you want to post a homework that you like better, PLEASE DO SO.

This place is full of crickets and dustbunnies.

1. Santa Baby- Gift time! What does your main character want for Christmas/Channukah/Solstice? What are they actually going to get? What are they buying for someone else and why? Do they even shop or celebrate the holiday, or do they lie low until the furor dies back?

2. Line, please!- Use the following line in a short scene from your current work or whatever you want.
"Are you sure that's what you want?"

Try it, you'll like it! Have fun and enjoy the season with friends and loved ones.

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Replies:
- Re: Anybody? Bueller? -- Page2, 22:43:46 12/11/10 Sat
  - Woo hoo Page2! This is great! >>> -- Esther, 11:54:49 12/14/10 Tue
    - THANK YOU!!>>>>>> -- Page2, 23:07:28 12/16/10 Thu
It's been so long, I forgot for a moment how to post a message! -- Larn, 14:03:20 11/26/10 Fri
Is....is that new people I spy with mine eye? Awesome! Hello!

Wow, can I say that this has been an absolutely crazy past few months? I've moved twice since we last spoke (I'm getting good at fitting all my crap in a cargo van) and quit my retail job to chase my dream in Los Angeles. And it's actually working! I'm getting steady employment as a prop master and set designer. LA is finally getting back on its feet, and I'm happy to be a part of it!

It is hard, and a little scary, being self-employed and non-union, but I'm getting by, surrounded by good college friends and making new ones. It doesn't leave much time for writing, though!

Whelp, I've finally got a day off and time to sit and relax and FINISH MY NOVEL! WHOOOOOO!

Ok, ok, so I'm nowhere near actually finishing it, but I did realize that I meet the standard acceptable word count for many publishing houses. And even though there are great big chunks still missing from it, somehow crossing that barrier has made it easier. Sorta like the rest of it just icing or something.

Anyways, I'm having trouble with a fight scene. I just...don't like it. I think I know what I don't like about it, but I'm not entirely sure how to fix it. I've stared at it, put it away and come back to it, sweet-talked it, cajoled it, rewritten it, and cursed at it. Once, I insulted its mother. No good.

I suppose what I'm sayin' is, RIP IT TO SHREDS! Ya know, like, if you feel like it.

Now...to try and get caught up on stuff....

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Replies:
- Stuff here! -- Larn, 14:22:52 11/26/10 Fri
  - $%^&*&^#W#$#$ forum.... -- Debi, 15:08:50 11/29/10 Mon
  - Re: Stuff here! -- Alex, 15:25:26 11/30/10 Tue
  - Don't want to work on Margie's farm no more... -- Fi, 10:13:58 12/03/10 Fri
  - Nailed it, all of you! -- Larn, 21:16:01 12/03/10 Fri
Ok, I promised something new. it is again a short piece. I'll put it inside the first reply none the less, including where the inspiration came from. -- Lady Morilka, 10:32:46 11/24/10 Wed

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Replies:
- In here>>> -- Lady Morilka, 10:38:39 11/24/10 Wed
Deb requested an excerpt, something, anything sooo...>>> -- Page2, 21:57:50 11/15/10 Mon
Hi all,

Debi requested an excerpt from Seren's Angel. Which I will post up. If anyone feels so inclined to crit, go for it. Hard, soft either way. This is a rough draft for the NaNo's. It's the start of Chapter 2 and I am introducing James + Seren.

Let me know what you think. Thanks.

Steph

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Replies:
- A little something from Chapter 2...>>> -- Page2, 22:09:58 11/15/10 Mon
  - James is a hot mess, isn't he? -- Debi, 06:33:10 11/16/10 Tue
    - Yes but he's already mellowing...>>> -- Page2, 13:13:58 11/17/10 Wed
  - Re: A little something from Chapter 2...>>> -- Fi, 08:58:50 11/19/10 Fri
    - Thank you...you are so sweet...>>> -- Page2, 10:05:55 11/19/10 Fri
  - Re: A little something from Chapter 2...>>> -- Lady Morilka, 10:15:28 11/24/10 Wed
  - Interesting. A sentient conscience. I like it! -- Larn, 14:09:46 11/27/10 Sat
Homework bound! -- Debi, 07:59:01 11/13/10 Sat
It's been awhile, there a little more activity, no one else has posted so I'm going ahead with another homework suggestion.

1.Image exercise- (Borrowed from The Writer Magazine) Allow a character that has been through a recent trauma, an accident, loss of a loved one, etc., to describe a place, object or other person. Don't mention the traumatic event.

2. Line, please!- "You dressed yourself?"

Have fun and if you find these suggestion inspiring, please share!

Thanks!
Debi

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Replies:
- No homework here, but if your runnig out of homework ideas, I have some ;) (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 07:45:51 11/14/10 Sun
  - By all means, post away! (NT) -- Debi, 19:37:55 11/14/10 Sun
A little bit of the new ending for Rayne's story -- debi, 06:53:21 11/08/10 Mon
Remember when I was torn between giving her the happy ending with Garoben and making it sad and all tragic like this whole story has tried to be? Well, here's some of the new ending, Rayne's at home at her childhood farm, hugely pregnant, surrounded by friends and family, but no Garoben.

Come this way...

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Replies:
- In here, please... -- Debi, 07:00:15 11/08/10 Mon
  - not a lot to crit here, just a few thoughts. -- Lady Morilka, 08:38:13 11/10/10 Wed
    - Thank you Lady M -- Debi, 13:02:05 11/11/10 Thu
Question?>>> -- Page2, 21:42:12 11/07/10 Sun
Hi All,

So I'm working on my Nano project, which b/t/w at the rate I'm going I'll never hit 50K, and I'm doing dialog bits. When two characters are talking, but with thought only, should it be italicized, or since I've already told the reader they are communicating with thought can I just use the standard "...". I'm not sure which is correct. I'm not letting it bog me down but I'm curious because at some point I will have to (shudder, groan, tumbleweeds roll past) EDIT this story.

For those interested: Current NaNo word count: approx. 6000words I dunno why I did this to myself. Somebody shoot me. Ok I'm off to go back to writing.

Thanks for the help in advance. :-)

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Replies:
- I've seen variations -- Debi, 06:49:30 11/08/10 Mon
  - Thank You>>>>> -- Page2, 20:48:29 11/08/10 Mon
- I agree with Debi>>> -- Lady Morilka, 14:56:33 11/08/10 Mon
I'm a bad person... -- Debi, 19:50:02 11/01/10 Mon
...because I'm completely overwhelmed with work/school. I'm backing out of NaNoWriMo this year beacuse there simply not enough hours in the day. And I've given up on posting homework here. Somebody may read it and it inspires them, but without feedback I have no clue. Should I post more exercises like the character study? That seemed to generate some interest. Because honestly, if I have to dump something in order to get my life back under control, online is a top contender. (Who am I kidding, I'm a junkie...)

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Replies:
- Being busy living your life does not make you a bad person. It makes you a busy person. Believe me, I understand all too well that life is busy >>> -- Esther, 16:51:52 11/02/10 Tue
  - Thanks for the sympathy Esther -- Debi, 06:09:20 11/05/10 Fri
    - I can...>>>> -- Page2, 13:37:00 11/05/10 Fri
      - Please do! -- debi, 19:27:30 11/06/10 Sat
- As one of the worst offenders>>> -- Fi, 12:39:44 11/05/10 Fri
- Fellow junkie going through withdrawal here >>>> -- Page, 13:41:52 11/06/10 Sat
  - Come back from the dark side, Page -- debi, 19:34:01 11/06/10 Sat
    - I wonder who comes up with >>>>> -- Page, 22:17:01 11/06/10 Sat
      - What the hell am I going to do with an English degree? -- Debi, 13:13:33 11/07/10 Sun
- not much of an exucuse here>>> -- Lady Morilka, 12:59:15 11/07/10 Sun
  - Congratulation and don't be shy! -- Debi, 13:27:38 11/07/10 Sun
    - Ok, I can do the acknowledge thing ;) (NT) -- Lady Morilka, 14:30:32 11/07/10 Sun
- Debi! Don't even think the b-word. We all understand or else we'd be posting more. I myself am suffocating right now by motherly demands. i have very little creativity myself but I have been lurking hoping to get inspired. (NT) -- susiej, 18:48:07 11/08/10 Mon
In your opinion.... -- Page, 15:33:22 10/21/10 Thu
Is a chapter with a word count of 1,264 too short? Exhausted author needs your input.

Thanks, y'all!

Last edited by author: Thu October 21, 2010 15:50:08 Edited 1 time.

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Replies:
- Here's the chapter >>>> -- Page, 15:49:06 10/21/10 Thu
  - Check your email>>>> -- Page2, 22:31:27 10/21/10 Thu
    - Thanks tons! >>>> -- Page, 11:55:19 10/26/10 Tue
  - A chapter can be anmy length you want it to be -- debikm, 06:43:48 10/22/10 Fri
    - This is true >>>> -- Page, 12:00:37 10/26/10 Tue
      - Re: This is true >>>> -- Page2, 21:13:32 10/26/10 Tue
        
        Slashing going on as we speak >>>> -- Page, 13:23:37 11/06/10 Sat
  - Hey Page! Comments this way >>> -- Esther, 12:09:53 10/26/10 Tue
    - You know what? You're spot on! (As always!) >>>> -- Page (who can't seem to stay logged in!), 13:16:44 11/06/10 Sat
It's that time of year... -- debikm, 10:37:49 10/09/10 Sat
Fall has arrived, it's getting cooler and here in the US, Halloween and scary stuff is coming! This week's homework is perfect for it!

1. Psycho redux: You like scary? Here's your chance. You should be able to handle terror and speculation as easily as a casual conversation over burgers.
THE EXERCISE: You or your character are taking a shower at home. You're not expecting anyone and the front door is locked. The bathroom door, however, is not. You/they hear a strange noise in a room beyond the bathroom. Take it from there. Don't spend any time getting into the shower; you/they are already there when the scene starts.

2. Line, please!: "I didn't see what it was, but every hair on my head was standing up."

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Replies:
- Not so scary...story>>> -- Page2, 16:13:19 11/01/10 Mon
  - Good one! -- Debi, 19:52:40 11/01/10 Mon
    - Thank You!>>> -- Pag2, 21:31:00 11/07/10 Sun
Interview with a character>>>> -- Page2, 18:19:15 10/04/10 Mon
Ok... I think I mentioned below I started interviewing my characters. Has anyone else ever done this? I'm finding it very helpful in what they know - how they see/perceive. It's fun. Try it out.

I started Emma's interview but haven't had time to go back. If anyone else has any questions to ask Emma -- fire away. She's quiet on certain topics but not on her abilities and knowledge. She will evolve as the story goes on. In the beginning of the story though she's scared. Interviews,it seems, she's pretty good about answering.

Oh yeah, don't be afraid to ask Seren or James questions neither. :-)

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Replies:
- Re: Interview with a character>>>> -- Page2, 18:27:55 10/04/10 Mon
  - More questions for Emma>>>> -- Fi, 08:56:55 10/05/10 Tue
    - Re: More questions for Emma>>>> -- Page2, 21:33:56 10/05/10 Tue
      - Re: More questions for Emma>>>> -- Fi, 06:57:07 10/06/10 Wed
        
        Answers from Emma -- Page2, 19:48:46 10/06/10 Wed
- Anyone got questions for Richard?>>>> -- Fi, 07:07:27 10/06/10 Wed
  - Couple of questions for Richard... -- Page2, 18:32:01 10/06/10 Wed
    - Re: Couple of questions for Richard... -- Fi, 11:14:33 10/08/10 Fri
Any other crazy people out there? -- debikm, 16:01:34 10/03/10 Sun
So far, Page2/Steph and I have signed up. I'm pretty sure I've lost my mind, since I'll be working and writing a final project for class on top of trying to write 1600 words per day to win Nano.

Old Dogs was my first foray into strictly mainstream fiction, no weirdness, no magic, no supernatural creatures, nothing. My first Nano was with werewolves as the protagonists. But urban fantasy is getting quite a workout these days so I don't know if I want to follow that path again.

I've got an idea about a world in which identical twins, with secret languages, psychic links and ther rest are the norm, and singles are unusual. Aside from that I have no idea what direction to take with it. I don't know if I would have them treated as interesting, much as we do identical twins, or if they would be considered imperfect, since they are isolated unto themselves.

Any ideas? Suggestions? Direct orders? I'm open to anything.

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Replies:
- Some ideas -- Page2, 23:59:04 10/03/10 Sun
  - Could go with something like that... -- debikm, 06:23:00 10/04/10 Mon
    - Even more ideas -- Page2, 08:55:56 10/04/10 Mon
      - LOL Steph! -- debikm, 12:46:23 10/04/10 Mon
- Not doing NaNo this year>>> -- Fi, 10:10:21 10/04/10 Mon
- Random thoughts about twinning>>>> -- Fi, 10:15:56 10/04/10 Mon
  - Ooohhh... more cool ideas -- debikm, 12:57:46 10/04/10 Mon
- Throwing in my two pence (which is almost four whole cents! LOL!) >>>>> -- Page, 16:34:53 10/08/10 Fri
  - Oh, and no NaNo for me. When I'm on a roll I probably write 50,000 words in less than a month, but if I thought I had to I'd freeze up like a deer in headlights! (NT) -- Page, 16:36:54 10/08/10 Fri
    - What a cool idea Page! -- debikm, 19:50:55 10/08/10 Fri
      - The wikipedia page on twins is a good start >>> -- Fi, 08:00:41 10/11/10 Mon
Plots/Summaries/Synopsis/Outline - blah, blah, blah >>> -- Page2, 15:46:31 10/02/10 Sat
So I spent the morning doing more Character Assessment's and refining James. Deb's comments on the CA HW re: James, made me realize there was an element missing - a hole in my story, a weak link. It needed to be fixed pronto. I spent the past week mulling over new twists/turns/ideas to the structure of my story. (TY Deb as I would've hated to be in the middle of the Nano project and find the story wasn't woriking out.) Would I have been able to fix it - probably, but I didn't need downtime thinking about story structure in the middle of a 30day deadline.

So, on top of refining James' character I also typed out a simple synopsis/plot/summary/outline (whatever you want to call it) regarding the story (see below).

I also started Chapter outlines. Yes, I'm trying to be organized before I set the keys flying on Nov. 1st. Though there's a big part of me who wants to just start typing out the story - the characters are speaking (quite loudly I might add), but the smaller side is winning the battle and saying, "No we must wait til November." Emma, James and Seren grumble but I ask them questions then write there answers down to be used later. I'm interviewing them - LOL and it's quite fun actually. They get to talk and I learn more about their story and what they want to say. They won't tell me the end of their story. I originally saw it one way but since I've been retweaking and listening - I'm not sure and they aren't saying. (damn them)

Anyways, I wanted to give a big THANK YOU to Deb for the CA homework assignment - it's helped me in more ways than one. I'm posting up a simple summary of Seren's Angel. Let me know what you think. Ask questions if you have any? The interviews with my characters has been eye-opening. :-) Perhaps a HW assignment can be to give a short summary of one our stories then we can submit back to that person some interview type questions to the characters of that story. Hmmm? It's an idea.

Hope everyone is enjoying their day.

Steph

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Replies:
- SA Synopsis?>>>>>>>> -- Page2, 16:06:41 10/02/10 Sat
  - Wow... this is going to be powerful stuff! -- debikm, 20:09:40 10/02/10 Sat
    - Re: Wow... this is going to be powerful stuff! -- Page2, 20:40:57 10/02/10 Sat
      - I've added you, and signed up, against my better judgement! -- debikm, 00:46:00 10/03/10 Sun
        
        Awww...we're official buddies now>>>> -- Page2, 12:24:45 10/03/10 Sun
        
        Dunno what I want to write... -- debikm, 15:57:48 10/03/10 Sun
  - I agree with Deb -- Fi, 09:18:41 10/04/10 Mon
    - Re: I agree with Deb -- Page2, 18:13:27 10/04/10 Mon
- I'm wso glad I could help! Off to read what you've come up with... (NT) -- debikm, 20:04:58 10/02/10 Sat
- The more I hear about this story, the more I can't wait to read it. It's hooked me from the first time you posted on it! (NT) -- Page, 16:24:17 10/08/10 Fri

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