Relationships influence and affect how each of us relates to the larger world. It makes sense, then, that stories manifest our relationships. Even the lack of interactive relationships are a fun road to travel in the writing world, as Wilson reminds us every day—though that is a type of relationship in and… Continue reading
Last time, I described the key ingredients to investing in a good hero. Now, let’s flip it around and talk villains. Because creating a convincing villain is, in my opinion, one of the hardest challenges as a writer. That being the case, this might be a big longer than my… Continue reading
Everyone loves a hero, am I right? A story’s centerpiece. The person destined to save the world. Likable. Relatable. Practically flawless at times… Earlier this year, I wrote about a TED Talks video with J.J. Abrams. Around 12:20, Abrams advises us to invest in our characters. He says the focus… Continue reading
About a year ago, I stumbled across this TED Talks video from J.J. Abrams, creator of television’s ALIAS and LOST. He has, and continues to be a positive inspiration to my own writing. This video illustrates a few reasons why he remains influential to me. Subtleties of Film Abrams’ talk epitomizes the impact his creations have had… Continue reading
I’ve reached the end of my college career. I’m shocked to admit, though, that few of the classes I took matched [my] expectations of a “higher” education. In fact, of over fifty courses across four years, I’d say a half-dozen were actually worth my time. How can this be, you… Continue reading
I don’t know about the rest of you, but my school had a required class for all new students. A “welcome to college” adjustment period, if you will. My section, led by an easy-going grad student, quickly became more of a social hour than anything. Sure, we held the occasional… Continue reading
It’s hard to imagine actively enjoying a class that starts at 7:30 in the morning. Three times a week. Especially with Final Semester Fever running amok. Yet I somehow have a professor who has managed to help me do just that… Scientists Vs Writers Our class recently read Fitz-James O’Brien’s… Continue reading