Writing Excuses 10.4 – Q&A on Ideas

Podcast notes: It is *definitely* okay for new authors to write derivative work! DO IT! Use it to figure out plat structure, characters, etc. Screenwriters literally write spec scripts based on existing shows. Write fan fiction. If someone else does your idea...

Writing Excuses 10.3: Lovecraftian Horror

Podcast notes: Sherry Priest (sp?) – writes in the genre of “Lovecraftian” horror. Lovecraft walked away from the trope that characters needed to make stupid decisions in order for the horror plot to unfold…Lovecraft’s horror was about...

Writing Excuses 10.2 – I have an idea, what now?

Podcast Notes: Take each of your ideas, and look for which one has the most built-in or clearest CONFLICT SIMPLE conflict is always the best. Convoluted is implausible Questions with ideas: what could go wrong? How could this thing go south? Dig deeper than just the...