Someone asked me how I come up with my music and really it is more of an adventure. For instance I really enjoyed Sara Bareielles sound so, I listened to all her music and that's where I got Many the Miles. Then by using websites I found other artist who have her same sound and that is how I came across Ingrid Michaelson and Colbie Colbait. And then sometimes I like Linda steal songs from TV, she has me hooked on SYTYCD and that is where I got A Beautiful Mess. I wish I had a better system but, I don't. That is why I don't always have music. I also occasionally hoard songs, that I like and keep them until a perfect moment (I almost kept Beautiful Mess to myself for a few more chapters.)
I have decided I wanted to have some concept of time in this story so, I have just created a time line.
I think I will post this on the webpage somewhere
March 20th -- Juliana turns 18
April 5th -- Juliana and Sawyer meet and get married
April 10th --Juliana moves to San Costa with Sawyer
April 20th -- Caine gives them an ultimatum. Elisa has to stay at the commune.
April 30th -- Sawyer is arrested
May 1st -- Cecelia and Sam's wedding
May 2nd -- Sawyer goes to jail
May 9th -- Juliana quits the Sunset Diner and The Penthouse to stay Brad
June 2nd -- Sawyer is released from jail early
June 5th-- Juliana leaves Brad and is diagnosed with encephilates
June 9th -- Juliana meets Cortland
I made this as a reference for myself but, decided to post it. I did for a while consider ignoring time constraints but decided against it. Giving myself more challenges.
Wish I had something more for you all, I'll update soon !
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Almost at 40 !
Chattering
I don't have an update for you but, I do have some things to share. While the last few chapters were not as much as a labor as 13 it still took a lot of work because I honestly felt like I had no story left and seriously considered just ending it their like a TV show canceled mid-season.
I couldn't keep the adventure going so,I went back to what I knew which is the coming of age kind of fiction but, as I have said I don't think it will be this way forever. I have a lot of plots and things I want to do but, I can't honestly say I know how to end this I have everything but how this can end. I almost feel like this could only end if I wrote about what happened to every single character until the day they died. One of the things I realized was haltering me was I was making this Juliana's story again but, I realized once I let us go inside the head of Sawyer and Elisa , there was no way this could just be Juliana's story. These sections are really about aftermath and it's not just Juliana who has it but Sawyer too. In a way these chapters are about them looking for closure or trying to figure out how they fit back into their lives.
Inspiration
1. Funny story about Juliana buying the dress. It's based on a true story. I went online to Macy's.com to look for the prices and styles of swimsuits and I came across the dress by mistake and I knew I had to use it in the story. I saw it in an ad but, I wasn't able to find it in the online catalog so, that's why the picture is an ad.
2. Somebody mentioned that I had teenage boys down to a tee. I will say that I got a lot of research and inspiration from watching True Life : I'm In a Summer Share 2. I actually watched it twice and took notes because, I have honestly never lived that kind of life (wasn't much of a party girl) I hate writing a lot of underage drinking but, I guess we all know it happens. I myself was actually surprised by the culture that can exist on beaches, it seems like fun.
3. Not only do I Web Md a lot but, I also Wikipedia a lot and during a rousing game of wikipedia tag (or whatever it is called when you click on link after link in wikipedia until you get to a certain page) I came across an old movie called Baby Doll which is about a 19-Year Old girl who is a year into what I assume an arranged marriage to someone older.,I myslef have not seen all of it but, I saw a clip and have been basing Juliana's voice slightly off of Carroll Baker in this film, I also use Baby Doll (Carroll's character) as some inspiration for Julinana for her look of innocence just in the way she carries herself but, in reality she isn't at all.
I don't have an update for you but, I do have some things to share. While the last few chapters were not as much as a labor as 13 it still took a lot of work because I honestly felt like I had no story left and seriously considered just ending it their like a TV show canceled mid-season.
I couldn't keep the adventure going so,I went back to what I knew which is the coming of age kind of fiction but, as I have said I don't think it will be this way forever. I have a lot of plots and things I want to do but, I can't honestly say I know how to end this I have everything but how this can end. I almost feel like this could only end if I wrote about what happened to every single character until the day they died. One of the things I realized was haltering me was I was making this Juliana's story again but, I realized once I let us go inside the head of Sawyer and Elisa , there was no way this could just be Juliana's story. These sections are really about aftermath and it's not just Juliana who has it but Sawyer too. In a way these chapters are about them looking for closure or trying to figure out how they fit back into their lives.
Inspiration
1. Funny story about Juliana buying the dress. It's based on a true story. I went online to Macy's.com to look for the prices and styles of swimsuits and I came across the dress by mistake and I knew I had to use it in the story. I saw it in an ad but, I wasn't able to find it in the online catalog so, that's why the picture is an ad.
2. Somebody mentioned that I had teenage boys down to a tee. I will say that I got a lot of research and inspiration from watching True Life : I'm In a Summer Share 2. I actually watched it twice and took notes because, I have honestly never lived that kind of life (wasn't much of a party girl) I hate writing a lot of underage drinking but, I guess we all know it happens. I myself was actually surprised by the culture that can exist on beaches, it seems like fun.
3. Not only do I Web Md a lot but, I also Wikipedia a lot and during a rousing game of wikipedia tag (or whatever it is called when you click on link after link in wikipedia until you get to a certain page) I came across an old movie called Baby Doll which is about a 19-Year Old girl who is a year into what I assume an arranged marriage to someone older.,I myslef have not seen all of it but, I saw a clip and have been basing Juliana's voice slightly off of Carroll Baker in this film, I also use Baby Doll (Carroll's character) as some inspiration for Julinana for her look of innocence just in the way she carries herself but, in reality she isn't at all.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Still trotting Along
Someone made a metaphor that I was getting back on the horse and I may be taking it to far.
I went back to my usual route of writing about health and I kind of went into a House mode. In chapter 12 and 13 I created a bunch of symptoms for Juliana but I didn't really think of what they meant. Originally she was going to be pregnant then she was going to have Stockholm Syndrome and then it was going to be drugs but I realized I wanted how she was acting to be the result of a medical issue and not something that was her own fault. I couldn't get to my usual medical contacts so, I Webmd'd, my way to any condition that can cause personality changes. When I needed to pick which infection gave her encephilatis, herpes was the only one that could fit. I had no intentions of giving her an STD but, I suppose it does happen.
I will also throw out there (not that I take sides with characters) that she most likely got it from being a prostitute and not from working in the actual club so, it really isn't Sid's fault. As a matter of fact I don't think Sid knew what she was doing.
Someone asked my inspiration for Cortland and to be honest there wasn't one because up until the beach scene Cortland was just a 21-year-old background character who asked one question in the car. I originally was going to have Patrick take her to the beach but, as soon as I began writing the scene I realized it wouldn't work out because, I don't think Juliana would ever trust Patrick and it just seemed off , what with her relationship to his father. So, instead of making anew character I gave Cortland a bigger role at the dinner scene and let him take Patrick's place. Then when I read Linda's work I was going to take the beach scene out and take the concept of Juliana having someone do something nice for her and tweak it. For a few minutes Cortland was an orderly at the hospital but, it just didn't stick. In the end I defaulted back to what I had written (I have dates to prove I wrote it before she posted, lol) because there is no way you can have a story in Miami without talking about the beach !
Cortland is inspired by that look of old-time young movie stars , I would say he is most based on the fRebel Without A Cause James Dean was an inspiration.
For all you non-nostalgics , who have no idea who I am talking about, I do find that Robert Pattinson can pull off the look to. It's all in the cheekbones. Odd . . . now I find Robert Pattinson attractive in a strictly platonic way. . .
(the man on the far right is Marlon Brando, couldn't crop him out the pic)
Also that little football themed weekend tidbit was inspired by a true story
I have a lot more "behind-the-page" if you will but, I will spread it out over the chapters.
I did throw together a playlist, I like the songs but, they all may not be perfectly in tune with the story just, in general.
Okay now on to Chapter 15
Playlist :
12.1-- Stop and Stare One Republic
12.2 -- Where the Stars Go Blue (OTH version, guess who suggested it ?)
12.3 Beautiful Mess Jason Mraz(I heard this song because it goes off on JB's blackberry whenever his significant other calls)
I went back to my usual route of writing about health and I kind of went into a House mode. In chapter 12 and 13 I created a bunch of symptoms for Juliana but I didn't really think of what they meant. Originally she was going to be pregnant then she was going to have Stockholm Syndrome and then it was going to be drugs but I realized I wanted how she was acting to be the result of a medical issue and not something that was her own fault. I couldn't get to my usual medical contacts so, I Webmd'd, my way to any condition that can cause personality changes. When I needed to pick which infection gave her encephilatis, herpes was the only one that could fit. I had no intentions of giving her an STD but, I suppose it does happen.
I will also throw out there (not that I take sides with characters) that she most likely got it from being a prostitute and not from working in the actual club so, it really isn't Sid's fault. As a matter of fact I don't think Sid knew what she was doing.
Someone asked my inspiration for Cortland and to be honest there wasn't one because up until the beach scene Cortland was just a 21-year-old background character who asked one question in the car. I originally was going to have Patrick take her to the beach but, as soon as I began writing the scene I realized it wouldn't work out because, I don't think Juliana would ever trust Patrick and it just seemed off , what with her relationship to his father. So, instead of making anew character I gave Cortland a bigger role at the dinner scene and let him take Patrick's place. Then when I read Linda's work I was going to take the beach scene out and take the concept of Juliana having someone do something nice for her and tweak it. For a few minutes Cortland was an orderly at the hospital but, it just didn't stick. In the end I defaulted back to what I had written (I have dates to prove I wrote it before she posted, lol) because there is no way you can have a story in Miami without talking about the beach !
Cortland is inspired by that look of old-time young movie stars , I would say he is most based on the fRebel Without A Cause James Dean was an inspiration.
For all you non-nostalgics , who have no idea who I am talking about, I do find that Robert Pattinson can pull off the look to. It's all in the cheekbones. Odd . . . now I find Robert Pattinson attractive in a strictly platonic way. . .
(the man on the far right is Marlon Brando, couldn't crop him out the pic)
Also that little football themed weekend tidbit was inspired by a true story
I have a lot more "behind-the-page" if you will but, I will spread it out over the chapters.
I did throw together a playlist, I like the songs but, they all may not be perfectly in tune with the story just, in general.
Okay now on to Chapter 15
Playlist :
12.1-- Stop and Stare One Republic
12.2 -- Where the Stars Go Blue (OTH version, guess who suggested it ?)
12.3 Beautiful Mess Jason Mraz(I heard this song because it goes off on JB's blackberry whenever his significant other calls)
Sunday, September 27, 2009
I'm still here
I can not believe the break I am coming off of. I will say the United Light started as a kind of cat and mouse thriller in concept but it more and more turning into a coming of age piece but, for an older crowd. This may feel like a bit of a different story writing wise because I am trying to invest more into who may characters are and what they would be like.
I realized I have done somethings that like, Linda I could take slack for and it's nothing you would notice unless you really thought about it.
I do not have a playlist for this because, making playlists takes up a lot of my time and unless I have a few good songs it's easier not to scramble and find music. Even though it is great when you find that perfect song. I will say you could use No Envy No Fear ny Joshua Radin for the first section.
I hope you all enjoy Chapter 14.
I realized I have done somethings that like, Linda I could take slack for and it's nothing you would notice unless you really thought about it.
I do not have a playlist for this because, making playlists takes up a lot of my time and unless I have a few good songs it's easier not to scramble and find music. Even though it is great when you find that perfect song. I will say you could use No Envy No Fear ny Joshua Radin for the first section.
I hope you all enjoy Chapter 14.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Another one of those times
I can't believe I have gone 5 days without a post ! I wish I had an update for you all but, I don't. I do however still want to blog a little. I have been catching up on my Spirits & Angels and I understand how hard it can be to be left on a cliffhanger. I forget that I know what is going to happen but, you don't.
The thing is I am having another hard time, getting enough content and story to push me forward, again. I have very vauge ideas about what I want to happen but, it's hard believing them alive, if you will. I actually have multiple storylines that I have started and abandoned half way through for multiple reasons. It's funny if you read some of the draft you would notice names, chronology and things change mid-story, it's quite funny when I read it again really. As I have thought about it, I may see a solution in sight.
I will say it is absolutely crazy how similar Linda's stories are getting. It actually challenges me to change some elements and to think outside my box. While I intend to work on United Light more (I am having a hard time letting it go !)
I have noticed that even though this is Juliana's story, I have realized that she as a person ( I do not call them 'characters' because to me they are people) very underdeveloped and I want to work on her as a person more. It may create some BIG contradictions but, nothing to bad. I won't even mention it unless someone points them out. Or I run out of entries.
I wanted to address one topic in this post. Someone asked me why I don't write in third person and it is really because I like the characters to tell their own stories. When I first started writing my short stories I felt like writing in 3rd person reminded me of "Fairytale writing". It was like a storyteller saying "Once upon a time a girl did this . . . " and I could never get into that. I like my characters to tell the story, I like putting on their eyes and living the story through their eyes and experiences. In an seemingly unrelated note I think I may have to see this new Surrogate movie. I hope that explains a little into my mind. When I start writing I tend to get a little crazy.
Additionally. I do have a surprise I will announce in October.
And no it is not a horror story web-serial or zombie version of anything (although that could be fun . . .) because I could not do that.
Update you all soon !
The thing is I am having another hard time, getting enough content and story to push me forward, again. I have very vauge ideas about what I want to happen but, it's hard believing them alive, if you will. I actually have multiple storylines that I have started and abandoned half way through for multiple reasons. It's funny if you read some of the draft you would notice names, chronology and things change mid-story, it's quite funny when I read it again really. As I have thought about it, I may see a solution in sight.
I will say it is absolutely crazy how similar Linda's stories are getting. It actually challenges me to change some elements and to think outside my box. While I intend to work on United Light more (I am having a hard time letting it go !)
I have noticed that even though this is Juliana's story, I have realized that she as a person ( I do not call them 'characters' because to me they are people) very underdeveloped and I want to work on her as a person more. It may create some BIG contradictions but, nothing to bad. I won't even mention it unless someone points them out. Or I run out of entries.
I wanted to address one topic in this post. Someone asked me why I don't write in third person and it is really because I like the characters to tell their own stories. When I first started writing my short stories I felt like writing in 3rd person reminded me of "Fairytale writing". It was like a storyteller saying "Once upon a time a girl did this . . . " and I could never get into that. I like my characters to tell the story, I like putting on their eyes and living the story through their eyes and experiences. In an seemingly unrelated note I think I may have to see this new Surrogate movie. I hope that explains a little into my mind. When I start writing I tend to get a little crazy.
Additionally. I do have a surprise I will announce in October.
And no it is not a horror story web-serial or zombie version of anything (although that could be fun . . .) because I could not do that.
Update you all soon !
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Writing Process
On a sidenote about the playlist-- It is funny how when I find songs that go with everything but, what I am writing. I always find songs for what could happen next. Anyway I often make a playlist for myself with just random songs to help me write. I didn't realize it would instantly update the one I have on the blog. So, if there are some random songs on that one, that is why. I will probably rename/recreate a new playlist with each post. Apparently I can have as many as I want !
I have said I wanted to get into my writing process a bit, so I created this entry. As I started really thinking about how I write I realized there are more steps than I thought ! If you hate this kind of thing, skip the purple writing. The first thing I do obviously, is have an idea. When it comes to United Light the idea is usually what I want to happen. It can be just a beginning scene or an ending but, I usually have some kind of inspiration point. Then I do the following steps 1. I write a very rough version of what I want to happen. I sometimes won't write out entire dialogues but, just general idea. I'm not very descriptive and don't worry about writing good. If I can't think of a word to describe something I usually leave ... 2. Then I edit to add dialogue, descriptions and all over better writing.Sometimes I will also add motives. This is also where I would change the plot points and then go back and add foreshadowing for the new plot device. This is also where little details that a certain character would never know (like Juliana knitting the blanket she has in chapter 12) are taken out. 3. I put the text online and I re-read it as you all read it, adding things to make it better. And that's the basic process. With that in mind in chapter 13, I did a lot of things in Stage 1 that I did not like. I had written all of the story from Juliana's POV. I realized later that it would be better told through someone else's eyes because I could not really grasp on Juliana's actions. I know that probably doesn't make much sense. I was hoping that might explain some of the gaps in transitions.
The point is, I decided to do a stage 2 version of the original story and share it. In reality both versions exist in the UL canon.
It was actually a challenge for me to take this story and translate it to how Sawyer was seeing it. In reality this is more of the original than an alternate.
Before anyone asks yes, I am working on an update.
Another Alternate Version.
I have said I wanted to get into my writing process a bit, so I created this entry. As I started really thinking about how I write I realized there are more steps than I thought ! If you hate this kind of thing, skip the purple writing. The first thing I do obviously, is have an idea. When it comes to United Light the idea is usually what I want to happen. It can be just a beginning scene or an ending but, I usually have some kind of inspiration point. Then I do the following steps 1. I write a very rough version of what I want to happen. I sometimes won't write out entire dialogues but, just general idea. I'm not very descriptive and don't worry about writing good. If I can't think of a word to describe something I usually leave ... 2. Then I edit to add dialogue, descriptions and all over better writing.Sometimes I will also add motives. This is also where I would change the plot points and then go back and add foreshadowing for the new plot device. This is also where little details that a certain character would never know (like Juliana knitting the blanket she has in chapter 12) are taken out. 3. I put the text online and I re-read it as you all read it, adding things to make it better. And that's the basic process. With that in mind in chapter 13, I did a lot of things in Stage 1 that I did not like. I had written all of the story from Juliana's POV. I realized later that it would be better told through someone else's eyes because I could not really grasp on Juliana's actions. I know that probably doesn't make much sense. I was hoping that might explain some of the gaps in transitions.
The point is, I decided to do a stage 2 version of the original story and share it. In reality both versions exist in the UL canon.
It was actually a challenge for me to take this story and translate it to how Sawyer was seeing it. In reality this is more of the original than an alternate.
Before anyone asks yes, I am working on an update.
Another Alternate Version.
Struggles
Okay, so as many of you know I had a hard time continuing this story. Incidentally enough, it was chapter 13 that was giving me such a hard time (wooooo). I admit, I am still pretty stumped about what will be going on.
I realized what I was writing could never be a true ending but, it couldn't be a beginning for a new story either. As a matter of fact if this was a novel I was writing this would be the point where I shelve it and bring one of the characters into another piece. However writing in this medium forces me to be creative and dig down.
I do feel terrible for writing that last entry because it makes this chapter different, I don't know if it raises or lower the bar. I want this chapter treated as any other chapter though. Although as the title suggests this chapter was a struggle.
Anyway I did sense some difference in this chapter so, I did make some small visual changes to signify a shift.
This chapter only has 3 songs that really go with it.
Eyes on Fire -- Blue Foundation
Pride -- Syntax
The Good Kind--The Wreckers (again)
Instead of making them into a tiny playlist I added them to the main playlist on the sidebar on the top.
Chapter 13
I realized what I was writing could never be a true ending but, it couldn't be a beginning for a new story either. As a matter of fact if this was a novel I was writing this would be the point where I shelve it and bring one of the characters into another piece. However writing in this medium forces me to be creative and dig down.
I do feel terrible for writing that last entry because it makes this chapter different, I don't know if it raises or lower the bar. I want this chapter treated as any other chapter though. Although as the title suggests this chapter was a struggle.
Anyway I did sense some difference in this chapter so, I did make some small visual changes to signify a shift.
This chapter only has 3 songs that really go with it.
Eyes on Fire -- Blue Foundation
Pride -- Syntax
The Good Kind--The Wreckers (again)
Instead of making them into a tiny playlist I added them to the main playlist on the sidebar on the top.
Chapter 13
Friday, September 18, 2009
Seperation Anxiety
So, I have been having a bit of separation anxiety with United Light. As many of you have noticed it is reaching it's end and while I want to keep it going I am having a hard time keeping the integrity of the story. I have cycled through 3 different options for the continuum but, I think United Light will have to end. I have written myself into a corner.
Of course I say that but, the characters won't leave me alone so I am thinking I will have to pull a Linda Leigh and create a new series following the same characters.
I am tentatively thinking of calling it Ultra Violet and having it deal with some of the more illicit parts of United Light. I do have a general idea but, I will admit the words aren't flowing and it is actually hurting me more than I thought. I am having postpartum depression or something, lol.
I can reveal now that the overarching theme for United Light was about "The existence between good and evil or light and dark." I wanted to challenge people's perceptions of every character. We think drug dealers are bad people but, can we see Sawyer as a bad person ? I posed United Light as a type of "cult" but, can they really be called bad ? That was what I was playing on.
I just realized I have writer's block.
7 Novels and 4 short stories later it was bound to happen. I need a Venti Salted Hot chocolate.
Sorry to post such a downer.
Of course I say that but, the characters won't leave me alone so I am thinking I will have to pull a Linda Leigh and create a new series following the same characters.
I am tentatively thinking of calling it Ultra Violet and having it deal with some of the more illicit parts of United Light. I do have a general idea but, I will admit the words aren't flowing and it is actually hurting me more than I thought. I am having postpartum depression or something, lol.
I can reveal now that the overarching theme for United Light was about "The existence between good and evil or light and dark." I wanted to challenge people's perceptions of every character. We think drug dealers are bad people but, can we see Sawyer as a bad person ? I posed United Light as a type of "cult" but, can they really be called bad ? That was what I was playing on.
I just realized I have writer's block.
7 Novels and 4 short stories later it was bound to happen. I need a Venti Salted Hot chocolate.
Sorry to post such a downer.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Inside Chapter 12
Let me first say thank you for the comments and support and I'm sorry but, no update.
I'm also sorry I forgot to put the link in the entry, it slipped my mind.
I did say in my last entry I like to answer questions within comments but, so many of the comments were tied around similar ideas I figure I may as well do an entry about it.
However I want to knock out 2 big things
First of all as far as length goes I am so glad I am able to get where I am, it really just comes out of me. Also, to Linda I don't want to know which song I stole from you but, I have a guess which one it is ! Speaking of Linda it amazes me the similarity our stories tend to take on but, I praise the similarities not see them as something bad. It's funny Cecelia's last name was Leigh for a while and I could not figure out where I got that name from and then I remembered it and changed it.
2nd of all, unless the story gets very convoluted or I get a really good new web serial idea I have no intentions of ending United Light. I would not do that to you all. I am a fan of Spirits and Angels so I understand what it is like to be a fan and I never want Spirits and Angels to end so, I will attempt not to end United Light but, also keep it a good story. If I was going to end it, around this time I would have ended it. I have realized that there are characters who I want to introduce and I am always thinking of new things so, hopefully this will not be a huge issue.
The reason this chapter is told from Sawyer's point of view and was written the way it was is because I wanted us to understand Juliana's month as Sawyer understood it. I wanted there to be a veil of mystery and very vauge. There is supposed to be an unknown element about Juliana and Brad's relationship and whatever else she did that month. I wanted her to tell enough of the story to answer Sawyer's questions. So, that is why some parts seem less fleshed out. I never intended to do Juliana's POV but, I also didn't want any monologues either.
Also, not everything we see in her 'flashbacks' is not necessarily what she tells Sawyer exactly.
Many things surprised me in writing retrospectively. The radio originally served no purpose,except to show she listened to a lot of music because she did not like the images on TV but, and Patrick was added during stage 2 of the process and so was her stealing the radio. I'm not saying it means anything but, just a glimpse.
While I have a general idea of why Brad liked her and what they did I myself do not have exacts. I am sure it will reveal itself though.
I knew a reunion was coming soon and after listening to many love songs I finally decided I wanted to create a romantic moment. A bit of fluffif you will (just a bit). I knew the reunion was coming actually, The reunion between Elisa and Sawyer was written 3 chapters ago when I heard the song "Many the Miles."
As for the Elisa/Sawyer and Sawyer/Juliana shippers I have nothing to say about that. I have no clue what will happen and while I enjoy writing both I myself do not have an agenda. However if you are keeping up
Elisa Loves Sawyer
Sawyer Loves Elisa
Juliana Loves Sawyer
As far as romantic relationships for a while I considered there being one between Rosa and Elisa but, I figured there was enough going on as it was.
I know many things happened in this chapter and I have no idea what they will mean or what will become important.
Now on to the questions I can answer, I'm sorry if I don't credit you.
Isn't it like a jail cliche to start reading Pablo Narudo ? I don't know, I've never been to jail. All I know is I heard some of his poetry on TV and I wanted to use it. On another not, I'm sure with google you can figure out the two poems I used.
Sawyer is trying to cheer up Julianna but he seems to still be a little selfish. I have started more on chapter 13 and we will here more about what was going on with Juliana and he but, I wanted to focus on Sawyer and Elisa. He has not left her, he still cares very much about her and her happiness. Sawyer is a bit self-centered though, he was singing in the car to keep himself awake not to cheer her up. He is very concerened about her and feels responsible.
I'm calling Elisa and Sawyer getting married. Elisa has said she will never get married and as far as I am concerned she will not go back on that. I feel like there have already been to many weddings in this piece. If I had known Cecelia was going to get pregnant, Rosa would not be engaged. I just needed something to distract Elisa so she would stay on the commune. However, I have no idea what will happen because this entire piece is about marriage afterall.
I bet Rosa's family made the quilt for her, it would be cute if she had it since she was a child. Actually,-- Juliana made the quilt, I was trying to add it in but, it didn't fit. I occasionally take things out because they are stilted. Only Juliana knew she made the quilt and since I wasn't using her POV, I could not add this fact.
How can Elisa work in Criminal Justice knowing what he did ? She is very upset at him but, she is also happy to see him. That's why she ecspecially tells him don't ever do anything like that again. Elisa herself is still a student but if anything she sees Sawyer as proof that the penal system works.
I love the GSC action, they are so corny. I'm also loling at how Cecila is right in the middle of it. It's GCS and that is why she calls it that, again something I took out because it was obvious.
How did Sawyer get a car, wouldn't they run some checks ? He went to Big Sands (the place where he sold his original car) and he remembered them so, he didn't bother. I was going to make this a scene but, I saw no point in writing it.
OMG, seriously Sawyer ? Why is he leaving the state he is just going to have to go back, he should have just sent Julie home. He had to see Elisa, he had been thinking about her a lot. He just wants to get to her and hopes no one notices he is gone.
Sawyer should have noticed she wasn't living at the Inn. You are right but she had been staying there occasionally. The only indication that she had been living better was her hair, which was professionally done. I know there is some high end conditioner that smells like mint. As it has been said Sawyer is very independent (his relationship is new) so he is not used to looking out for other people.
I think that straightens most things out. These recent updates have been very long and I have found that when I let the story swim around it comes out best. I will have an update but, I am attempting to write 2 0r 3 ( 5,000-9,000 words in length) at a time. However most of my word count comes from the dialouge. So, I will be back but, I will also be blogging on more than just when I update.
I have a hard time describing things (which is why I use dialouge alot) so, I do often use pictures of minor things in the story and it helps me describe the objects. So, here are some of the images I used :
This is a piece of lingerie, actually but I think it is very cute that I would actually buy it just to sleep in. Anyway, that is what I based Juliana's nightgown of off.
This is the crystal necklace Juliana is wearing (it's a gift from Brad, if that wasn't obvious). Yes, that is Tinkerbell but, I wasn't sure if Juliana would know who that was. This necklace is actually only about 125$.
This is the car they are driving, I believe it's a 4 seater. Atleast it's going to have to be.
I'm also sorry I forgot to put the link in the entry, it slipped my mind.
I did say in my last entry I like to answer questions within comments but, so many of the comments were tied around similar ideas I figure I may as well do an entry about it.
However I want to knock out 2 big things
First of all as far as length goes I am so glad I am able to get where I am, it really just comes out of me. Also, to Linda I don't want to know which song I stole from you but, I have a guess which one it is ! Speaking of Linda it amazes me the similarity our stories tend to take on but, I praise the similarities not see them as something bad. It's funny Cecelia's last name was Leigh for a while and I could not figure out where I got that name from and then I remembered it and changed it.
2nd of all, unless the story gets very convoluted or I get a really good new web serial idea I have no intentions of ending United Light. I would not do that to you all. I am a fan of Spirits and Angels so I understand what it is like to be a fan and I never want Spirits and Angels to end so, I will attempt not to end United Light but, also keep it a good story. If I was going to end it, around this time I would have ended it. I have realized that there are characters who I want to introduce and I am always thinking of new things so, hopefully this will not be a huge issue.
The reason this chapter is told from Sawyer's point of view and was written the way it was is because I wanted us to understand Juliana's month as Sawyer understood it. I wanted there to be a veil of mystery and very vauge. There is supposed to be an unknown element about Juliana and Brad's relationship and whatever else she did that month. I wanted her to tell enough of the story to answer Sawyer's questions. So, that is why some parts seem less fleshed out. I never intended to do Juliana's POV but, I also didn't want any monologues either.
Also, not everything we see in her 'flashbacks' is not necessarily what she tells Sawyer exactly.
Many things surprised me in writing retrospectively. The radio originally served no purpose,except to show she listened to a lot of music because she did not like the images on TV but, and Patrick was added during stage 2 of the process and so was her stealing the radio. I'm not saying it means anything but, just a glimpse.
While I have a general idea of why Brad liked her and what they did I myself do not have exacts. I am sure it will reveal itself though.
I knew a reunion was coming soon and after listening to many love songs I finally decided I wanted to create a romantic moment. A bit of fluffif you will (just a bit). I knew the reunion was coming actually, The reunion between Elisa and Sawyer was written 3 chapters ago when I heard the song "Many the Miles."
As for the Elisa/Sawyer and Sawyer/Juliana shippers I have nothing to say about that. I have no clue what will happen and while I enjoy writing both I myself do not have an agenda. However if you are keeping up
Elisa Loves Sawyer
Sawyer Loves Elisa
Juliana Loves Sawyer
As far as romantic relationships for a while I considered there being one between Rosa and Elisa but, I figured there was enough going on as it was.
I know many things happened in this chapter and I have no idea what they will mean or what will become important.
Now on to the questions I can answer, I'm sorry if I don't credit you.
Isn't it like a jail cliche to start reading Pablo Narudo ? I don't know, I've never been to jail. All I know is I heard some of his poetry on TV and I wanted to use it. On another not, I'm sure with google you can figure out the two poems I used.
Sawyer is trying to cheer up Julianna but he seems to still be a little selfish. I have started more on chapter 13 and we will here more about what was going on with Juliana and he but, I wanted to focus on Sawyer and Elisa. He has not left her, he still cares very much about her and her happiness. Sawyer is a bit self-centered though, he was singing in the car to keep himself awake not to cheer her up. He is very concerened about her and feels responsible.
I'm calling Elisa and Sawyer getting married. Elisa has said she will never get married and as far as I am concerned she will not go back on that. I feel like there have already been to many weddings in this piece. If I had known Cecelia was going to get pregnant, Rosa would not be engaged. I just needed something to distract Elisa so she would stay on the commune. However, I have no idea what will happen because this entire piece is about marriage afterall.
I bet Rosa's family made the quilt for her, it would be cute if she had it since she was a child. Actually,-- Juliana made the quilt, I was trying to add it in but, it didn't fit. I occasionally take things out because they are stilted. Only Juliana knew she made the quilt and since I wasn't using her POV, I could not add this fact.
How can Elisa work in Criminal Justice knowing what he did ? She is very upset at him but, she is also happy to see him. That's why she ecspecially tells him don't ever do anything like that again. Elisa herself is still a student but if anything she sees Sawyer as proof that the penal system works.
I love the GSC action, they are so corny. I'm also loling at how Cecila is right in the middle of it. It's GCS and that is why she calls it that, again something I took out because it was obvious.
How did Sawyer get a car, wouldn't they run some checks ? He went to Big Sands (the place where he sold his original car) and he remembered them so, he didn't bother. I was going to make this a scene but, I saw no point in writing it.
OMG, seriously Sawyer ? Why is he leaving the state he is just going to have to go back, he should have just sent Julie home. He had to see Elisa, he had been thinking about her a lot. He just wants to get to her and hopes no one notices he is gone.
Sawyer should have noticed she wasn't living at the Inn. You are right but she had been staying there occasionally. The only indication that she had been living better was her hair, which was professionally done. I know there is some high end conditioner that smells like mint. As it has been said Sawyer is very independent (his relationship is new) so he is not used to looking out for other people.
I think that straightens most things out. These recent updates have been very long and I have found that when I let the story swim around it comes out best. I will have an update but, I am attempting to write 2 0r 3 ( 5,000-9,000 words in length) at a time. However most of my word count comes from the dialouge. So, I will be back but, I will also be blogging on more than just when I update.
I have a hard time describing things (which is why I use dialouge alot) so, I do often use pictures of minor things in the story and it helps me describe the objects. So, here are some of the images I used :
This is a piece of lingerie, actually but I think it is very cute that I would actually buy it just to sleep in. Anyway, that is what I based Juliana's nightgown of off.
This is the crystal necklace Juliana is wearing (it's a gift from Brad, if that wasn't obvious). Yes, that is Tinkerbell but, I wasn't sure if Juliana would know who that was. This necklace is actually only about 125$.
This is the car they are driving, I believe it's a 4 seater. Atleast it's going to have to be.
About Chapter 10 & 11
I am just shocked by the progress I have made in this web serial I just want to put that out there.
Pictures
I do have a few photos from these chapters. First off all Sam is based very loosely on Brad Beyer (Aquaman, anybody ?) and the dress I used as Juliana's wedding dress, minus the bow.
Did You Catch It ?
I do put meaning behind any of the photos and I want to stress that what Juliana ans Sawyer did was breaking bad for them. I used the apple as a photo (original sin ?? anybody get that ?) because I was creating imagery of almost all of the 7 deadly sins in one.
Other than that I have nothing to say and I love to answer questions in comments too, that seems to work out well and makes these entries shorter.
I have a playlist for Chapter 12 and of course I have chapter 12 here. There are some weird things going on with the asterisks but they mean nothing (Atleast I think ?) .
This is another chapter where I actually think it would help to listen to the songs during the section they are paired with, with the exception of 12.1.
12.1 -- City by Sara Bareilles
12.2-- The Way I Am -- Ingrid Michaelson
12.3 -- Many The Miles by Sara Barielles (I told you I used lots of her music for inspiration !)
12.4 -- Realize Colbie Colbait
Pictures
I do have a few photos from these chapters. First off all Sam is based very loosely on Brad Beyer (Aquaman, anybody ?) and the dress I used as Juliana's wedding dress, minus the bow.
Did You Catch It ?
I do put meaning behind any of the photos and I want to stress that what Juliana ans Sawyer did was breaking bad for them. I used the apple as a photo (original sin ?? anybody get that ?) because I was creating imagery of almost all of the 7 deadly sins in one.
Other than that I have nothing to say and I love to answer questions in comments too, that seems to work out well and makes these entries shorter.
I have a playlist for Chapter 12 and of course I have chapter 12 here. There are some weird things going on with the asterisks but they mean nothing (Atleast I think ?) .
This is another chapter where I actually think it would help to listen to the songs during the section they are paired with, with the exception of 12.1.
12.1 -- City by Sara Bareilles
12.2-- The Way I Am -- Ingrid Michaelson
12.3 -- Many The Miles by Sara Barielles (I told you I used lots of her music for inspiration !)
12.4 -- Realize Colbie Colbait
Friday, September 11, 2009
What ? An Update
I know it's been a while as some of you have pointed out but, I do not have an update for you all today.
I have 2.
I was not holding out so,let me explain. I have gotten in to the habit of turning of my page and word count so I can work on just story and not a numbers game. When I was done getting out the rough story I turned the word count back on and I was shocked by the number over 10,000 !
So, it took me a while to edit it and then I decided to break it into 2 different chapters at the last minute.
And I do have a playlist. If any of you remember the playlist to the right was my inspiration before I even knew the story so, I will occasionally pull songs from it.
This playlist is a little different in that, some chapters are silent and others are surrounded by the music. I will explain it later.
I do have a playlist in my head for the next few chapter so I have a pretty good direction and I can't wait to write it.
With that said here is Chapter 10 and Chapter 11
10.1 - "I'm Yours" - Jason Mraz
I have 2.
I was not holding out so,let me explain. I have gotten in to the habit of turning of my page and word count so I can work on just story and not a numbers game. When I was done getting out the rough story I turned the word count back on and I was shocked by the number over 10,000 !
So, it took me a while to edit it and then I decided to break it into 2 different chapters at the last minute.
And I do have a playlist. If any of you remember the playlist to the right was my inspiration before I even knew the story so, I will occasionally pull songs from it.
This playlist is a little different in that, some chapters are silent and others are surrounded by the music. I will explain it later.
I do have a playlist in my head for the next few chapter so I have a pretty good direction and I can't wait to write it.
With that said here is Chapter 10 and Chapter 11
10.1 - "I'm Yours" - Jason Mraz
"Sleeping Beauty Waltz"- Tchaikovsky
" Green Light" -- John Legend
10.2 - "Better Day" -- Saving Jane
11.1 - "Look After You" The Fray -- you may have to play it multiple times !
11.2- "I Gotta Feeling" Black Eyed Peas
11.3 - "Let me take you there"- Plain White T's
11.4 - "Umbrella" - Plain White T's Cover
" Green Light" -- John Legend
10.2 - "Better Day" -- Saving Jane
11.1 - "Look After You" The Fray -- you may have to play it multiple times !
11.2- "I Gotta Feeling" Black Eyed Peas
11.3 - "Let me take you there"- Plain White T's
11.4 - "Umbrella" - Plain White T's Cover
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
A little organization
I kind of want to put a little order in my story because I have introduced a lot of characters and I don't want some details to go unnoticed. So, yes this is a filler entry.
Our Hereos
Sawyer Miller
Age:23
Relation to UL-- His parents subscribe to the ideology but, have never forced it on to Sawyer until he was told to marry Juliana. He was told he had to either marry her or abandon his life and become a tranquility light for Caine. Sawyer has to do this because he is Caine's son, something he also learned recently. Sawyer moved to San Costa originally to study chemistry but, he fell in love with the little town and decided to stay as a manager (and worked as partial owner when the owner went on to retire) of Sunset Diner
Juliana Miller (nee Reese)
Age: 18
Relation: She was born and raised under United Light in their protected living community with parents who were very protective of her. The only thing in life she has ever wanted to do is make her parents happy but, she has some dislike of the seclusion of United Light and had begun to sneak out to the library. She was eager to get out into the world and with Sawyer, have a friend for the first time.
A/N : I almost considered making her 16 or 17.
Elisa Valdes:
Age:22
Relation to UL: She is being held in the commune as 'collaterol'. She has been placed to live with Cecelia. Elisa is allowed to do whatever she wants but she cannot leave the commune. She does go to town with Rosa but, only because they take tranquility lights with them. Before that Elisa was living in San Costa working at Sunset Diner while on Summer Break from Coastal Florida.
The Floridians:
Sidney Fox
Age: 26
Sid worked as a cashier at Sunset and kind of took Sawyer 'under his wing' but, now the scales have tipped the other way. Sid enjoys life and spends weekends and nights at Miami bars and clubs, he can be seen doing illicit substances but he is not an addict. His new position as manager allows him to spend more time at his newest investment a gentlemens club. Sid is somewhat arrogant and talks about himself a lot.
The United Light
Simon Caine
Age: 54
Caine started the United Light way of life and part of that includes having some people live in a commune with him. He drives a Lexus but, not much is known about him.
Cecelia Winston-Hills
Age: 27
Cecelia is a member of United Light and another one of Caine's children but, they are not close she was raised by 2 other people. Cecelia has been married to Greg for 4 years. She is busy planning her second marriage to Sam, someone she has yet to meet.
Greg Hills
Age:27
Greg is married to Cecelia and works as a tranquility light for Caine. He does simple tasks like accopanying people to town or watching over the commune (like a neighborhood watch).
Rosa Erickson
Age:25
Rosa has lived on and off of the commune. She studies photography at University of Georgia but, couldn't let go of a feeling she'd be happier on the commune. She stays with her mother and makes clothing that she sells at local boutiques.
I actually don't have an exact time line because it is kind of abstracted by them being in two places at once. However this whole thing is taking place during the summer.
I'd also lay out the money situation but, I think Juliana could do it better than me.
Our Hereos
Sawyer Miller
Age:23
Relation to UL-- His parents subscribe to the ideology but, have never forced it on to Sawyer until he was told to marry Juliana. He was told he had to either marry her or abandon his life and become a tranquility light for Caine. Sawyer has to do this because he is Caine's son, something he also learned recently. Sawyer moved to San Costa originally to study chemistry but, he fell in love with the little town and decided to stay as a manager (and worked as partial owner when the owner went on to retire) of Sunset Diner
Juliana Miller (nee Reese)
Age: 18
Relation: She was born and raised under United Light in their protected living community with parents who were very protective of her. The only thing in life she has ever wanted to do is make her parents happy but, she has some dislike of the seclusion of United Light and had begun to sneak out to the library. She was eager to get out into the world and with Sawyer, have a friend for the first time.
A/N : I almost considered making her 16 or 17.
Elisa Valdes:
Age:22
Relation to UL: She is being held in the commune as 'collaterol'. She has been placed to live with Cecelia. Elisa is allowed to do whatever she wants but she cannot leave the commune. She does go to town with Rosa but, only because they take tranquility lights with them. Before that Elisa was living in San Costa working at Sunset Diner while on Summer Break from Coastal Florida.
The Floridians:
Sidney Fox
Age: 26
Sid worked as a cashier at Sunset and kind of took Sawyer 'under his wing' but, now the scales have tipped the other way. Sid enjoys life and spends weekends and nights at Miami bars and clubs, he can be seen doing illicit substances but he is not an addict. His new position as manager allows him to spend more time at his newest investment a gentlemens club. Sid is somewhat arrogant and talks about himself a lot.
The United Light
Simon Caine
Age: 54
Caine started the United Light way of life and part of that includes having some people live in a commune with him. He drives a Lexus but, not much is known about him.
Cecelia Winston-Hills
Age: 27
Cecelia is a member of United Light and another one of Caine's children but, they are not close she was raised by 2 other people. Cecelia has been married to Greg for 4 years. She is busy planning her second marriage to Sam, someone she has yet to meet.
Greg Hills
Age:27
Greg is married to Cecelia and works as a tranquility light for Caine. He does simple tasks like accopanying people to town or watching over the commune (like a neighborhood watch).
Rosa Erickson
Age:25
Rosa has lived on and off of the commune. She studies photography at University of Georgia but, couldn't let go of a feeling she'd be happier on the commune. She stays with her mother and makes clothing that she sells at local boutiques.
I actually don't have an exact time line because it is kind of abstracted by them being in two places at once. However this whole thing is taking place during the summer.
I'd also lay out the money situation but, I think Juliana could do it better than me.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
About the Chapter 9 Alternate
I wanted to talk a little bit about the alternate verison of chapter 9. I'm actually not sure what to call it because it was written in the early stages and then abandoned but, I prettied it up to post so some key deatails are missing.
I should first explain some of my writing process although it tends to change with every chapter.
1. I tell all the events, actions and most of the dialogue
2. Then I go back and explain more. Like I'd change "the street was empty" to "their were a few groups and pairs of people every few feet." (that was a bad example, it's hard to think of one !)Or I'd delete something that I didn't end up going on
3. Then I edit it again, while trying to find a good "mood" music.
So, I was in stage 1 when I wrote the part that ended up being deleted. I had written that Juliana takes more things out of the duffel bag once she unlocked it including, a lock pick and a hospital access key and that is why she has those things later.
Writing this was sort of getting into the adventure-y-thriller writing, just for fun but I felt like it just didn't make sense. I also new it was getting them in more trouble than they could get out of, I mean the guard would know their faces, there are camera's. Other than that I'm not sure if I have a good reason for not including this but, when I was done writing I just said no and deleted it. Then I pressed ctrl z and thought I might share it with you as an alternate story.
I was shocked by Linda's post putting my writing into numbers. It is actually scaring me because I think I am running out of fuel even though my goal was to make this longer than a novel might be. I hope somewhere in chapter 10 I find a gas station !
I should first explain some of my writing process although it tends to change with every chapter.
1. I tell all the events, actions and most of the dialogue
2. Then I go back and explain more. Like I'd change "the street was empty" to "their were a few groups and pairs of people every few feet." (that was a bad example, it's hard to think of one !)Or I'd delete something that I didn't end up going on
3. Then I edit it again, while trying to find a good "mood" music.
So, I was in stage 1 when I wrote the part that ended up being deleted. I had written that Juliana takes more things out of the duffel bag once she unlocked it including, a lock pick and a hospital access key and that is why she has those things later.
Writing this was sort of getting into the adventure-y-thriller writing, just for fun but I felt like it just didn't make sense. I also new it was getting them in more trouble than they could get out of, I mean the guard would know their faces, there are camera's. Other than that I'm not sure if I have a good reason for not including this but, when I was done writing I just said no and deleted it. Then I pressed ctrl z and thought I might share it with you as an alternate story.
I was shocked by Linda's post putting my writing into numbers. It is actually scaring me because I think I am running out of fuel even though my goal was to make this longer than a novel might be. I hope somewhere in chapter 10 I find a gas station !
Monday, September 7, 2009
Digging into Chapter 9
I thought the other layout was a bit much and I really do just love this one. It is simple but not to template-y looking. So, I think unless I happen to see one I like this one is here to stay. I 'm going to attempt to label ach topic so, it doesn't look like I am just rambling (which, I am) !
So, I know Chapter 9 was not the most fun chapter in the world but, it was a place I knew I was going. With this chapter I knew where I was going but, I had a hard time getting there but, I'll get to that later.
Sid and Sawyer
When I write these I usually read through the chapter to see if there is anything I wanted to shed some light on. I realize I should give a brief background on Sid and Sawyer's relationship. I realize that trying to write it all into the story makes the writing very stilted.
Sid and Sawyer have worked together for a while. Sawyer came to Florida Costal when he was 18 and woked at Sunset Diner in San Costa for extra money, with Sid who was 21. They were both cashiers and Sid took Sawyer to one or two parties in the city. Sawyer experimented with drugs some but nothing addictive he did however make friends with Sid's friends who used illicit substance alot. So, Sid knew Sawyer had used drugs
However as distinctions between their positions grew their friendship faded. As Sawyer got older he cut out the irresponsible behavior but, Sid didn't and he has some resentment for that.
They are actually opposites. Sid wants to get out of San Costa but, Sawyer wants to stay.
Poetic License
The reason I invented San Costa was because I never wanted to have to explain Miami's urban structure but I somehow ended up there. Miami does have a Metro but, it only has one line and the stops that Juliana passes are the stops that are on it. And for those of you who have any ideas brewing, bounty hunting is illegal in Florida.
On a funny note, I did find out Miami had the most environmental programs for any US city so, Green Forward could be real.
Inspirations
I am going to destroy the 4th wall here by calling out some of my sources when I write these things. I feel bad when I don't list them. I usually have doctors who I talk to like when I wrote my other books but, I do this one on my own (I am getting cyberhypochondria) so, I want to list the places I use to get a lot of my information.
AssociatedContent.com
AllNurses.com
Prisontalk.com
Ths chapter is very much WYSIWG, so I do not have much to talk about it. I have many inspirations but, most of them are so insignificant or not well known I wouldn't bother listing them
The Twist
I knew Juliana was going to be using her body for money since I invented Sawyer's meth dealing That is why I put in the scene with her at the check cashing place, because she is just coming aware of her sexuality . I had intended to save this vice but then I heard "Stay Away" and I couldn't hold it off. I knew she had to end up there but I had a hard time figuring it out. I actually wrote her agreeing to do it before I figured out what would make her agree to it and what would make Sawyer not try to stop her. However that was very early in the process and with that said :
There exists an alternate timeline of United Light. This was an example of me writing into a corner but, I was able to catch it early enough. I wrote a small section of chapter 9 that is different from what I published and may explain a few tiny things(or maybe make you more confused). This is a small chunk after Juliana breaks into the car and goes back to see Sawyer. Everything remains the same except one big detail. I won't put a link on the site but I will put it here.
So, I know Chapter 9 was not the most fun chapter in the world but, it was a place I knew I was going. With this chapter I knew where I was going but, I had a hard time getting there but, I'll get to that later.
Sid and Sawyer
When I write these I usually read through the chapter to see if there is anything I wanted to shed some light on. I realize I should give a brief background on Sid and Sawyer's relationship. I realize that trying to write it all into the story makes the writing very stilted.
Sid and Sawyer have worked together for a while. Sawyer came to Florida Costal when he was 18 and woked at Sunset Diner in San Costa for extra money, with Sid who was 21. They were both cashiers and Sid took Sawyer to one or two parties in the city. Sawyer experimented with drugs some but nothing addictive he did however make friends with Sid's friends who used illicit substance alot. So, Sid knew Sawyer had used drugs
However as distinctions between their positions grew their friendship faded. As Sawyer got older he cut out the irresponsible behavior but, Sid didn't and he has some resentment for that.
They are actually opposites. Sid wants to get out of San Costa but, Sawyer wants to stay.
Poetic License
The reason I invented San Costa was because I never wanted to have to explain Miami's urban structure but I somehow ended up there. Miami does have a Metro but, it only has one line and the stops that Juliana passes are the stops that are on it. And for those of you who have any ideas brewing, bounty hunting is illegal in Florida.
On a funny note, I did find out Miami had the most environmental programs for any US city so, Green Forward could be real.
Inspirations
I am going to destroy the 4th wall here by calling out some of my sources when I write these things. I feel bad when I don't list them. I usually have doctors who I talk to like when I wrote my other books but, I do this one on my own (I am getting cyberhypochondria) so, I want to list the places I use to get a lot of my information.
AssociatedContent.com
AllNurses.com
Prisontalk.com
Ths chapter is very much WYSIWG, so I do not have much to talk about it. I have many inspirations but, most of them are so insignificant or not well known I wouldn't bother listing them
The Twist
I knew Juliana was going to be using her body for money since I invented Sawyer's meth dealing That is why I put in the scene with her at the check cashing place, because she is just coming aware of her sexuality . I had intended to save this vice but then I heard "Stay Away" and I couldn't hold it off. I knew she had to end up there but I had a hard time figuring it out. I actually wrote her agreeing to do it before I figured out what would make her agree to it and what would make Sawyer not try to stop her. However that was very early in the process and with that said :
There exists an alternate timeline of United Light. This was an example of me writing into a corner but, I was able to catch it early enough. I wrote a small section of chapter 9 that is different from what I published and may explain a few tiny things(or maybe make you more confused). This is a small chunk after Juliana breaks into the car and goes back to see Sawyer. Everything remains the same except one big detail. I won't put a link on the site but I will put it here.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Chapter 9
When writing Chapter 9 I did create a new playlist and yes, most of these are from sitting with Joel in his office listening to "Where The Stars Go Blue" while he found meaning that I am pretty sure wasn't there. These are the things we will remember, right ?
Anyway I have sectioned the songs but, Sara Bareilles's City is really the overall theme for this chapter. I have to say her music is actually going to be the theme for the rest of this serial because I have already thought of the future for these characters (I'm not sure if they agree though) based on her music.
****I highly recommend listening to Stay Away- by the Honorary Title when reading section 9.3. It was written based on this song****
Anyway here is the playlist and how I sectioned it
9.1 -- City by Sara Bareilles
9.2 - The Good Kind by the Wreckers
9.3 - ***Stay Away- by the Honorary Title*** Highly reccomend listening when reading
9.4 - Everyday Stranger -- Sara Bareilles
I guess that is actually pretty simple to figure out on your own though, oh well. Here it is
Anyway I have sectioned the songs but, Sara Bareilles's City is really the overall theme for this chapter. I have to say her music is actually going to be the theme for the rest of this serial because I have already thought of the future for these characters (I'm not sure if they agree though) based on her music.
****I highly recommend listening to Stay Away- by the Honorary Title when reading section 9.3. It was written based on this song****
Anyway here is the playlist and how I sectioned it
9.1 -- City by Sara Bareilles
9.2 - The Good Kind by the Wreckers
9.3 - ***Stay Away- by the Honorary Title*** Highly reccomend listening when reading
9.4 - Everyday Stranger -- Sara Bareilles
I guess that is actually pretty simple to figure out on your own though, oh well. Here it is
Saturday, September 5, 2009
A Bit About Chapter Eight
As a published author at Cobalt, we often put the manuscripts through test groups and change things as need be or to help make the book better.
I do not have this luxury with United Light and it makes writing this a little bit more challenging for. There are some things in this chapter I would have taken out or altered but overall I am happy. There are also little things I would change like I have realized there are not 2 n's in Juliana.
One of the biggest things I never intended to (and I believe I said this in some comments) do was have Juliana and Sawyer have such a big fight over the money. When writing it I struggled between the words "pulled down" and "tackled" to describe how he grabs her but, I want to put across that it was not supposed to be violent. It would be similar to how siblings fight but, they are not trying to hurt each other (unless you were in my house,lol). I also have some regret with Juliana at the end of chapter 8 but, she is just feeling lonely and as I have said my characters have a mind of their own.
I know this part of the story was somewha depressing but, once they had the challenge before them I knew this story was going to have somewhat of a downfall of the two characters. The parts of the story about Sawyer and Juliana's living condition were inspired byLa Parure or The Necklace by Guy Maupassant. The short story is about a couple who lose everything and suffer for 10 years to replace a lost necklace. I have always hated the end of this short story and I would never treat my characters as poorly (or would I? I don't know) but, it has always been my inspiration and now I can share that.
I have done the broke college student thing for longer than most (I ended up deciding to get another degree in my 5th year) so, I am fully aware that companies like Suave and VO5 make wonderful shampoos for l.50 or less. But, their argument wasn't about money, they were both tired and stressed and letting our some bottled emotions. I was using the argument, the police showing up, the allergy medication and even the mention of explosions in the news last chapter as a way to put the ideas in your head.
I have to say in writing this chapter I have learned a lot more about making crystal meth and it's consequences than I ever hoped to know. If you ever need proof of the Freedom of Speech, Google how to do something illegal.
I knew from the time Caine gave Juliana and Saywer the ultimatium I knew Sawyer was going to do something illegeal. I was writing this during a Law and Order marathon (I love Benson, she is my style icon) and I was planning on making him a callboy but I decided him making drugs was a better option and was something that is actually a big problem in Miami.
Someone commented that Sawyer was wasting his degree but as a back story (atleast in my mind) Sawyer has worked at the diner all through college and while he applied for jobs in his field he wasn't ready to move away from Elisa or take an office job.
As far as the playlist I only have comments on some of the music.
I love the sound of Sara Barielle's and Saving Jane's voice. I was going to use Saving Jane's One Girl Revolution but, it was a bit to edgy. I may use it later.
The song "Ordinary" was really for Rosa, who wants to befriend Elisa and help her see they are the same.
Superchick's "One Girl Revolution" was what I imagined playing during the photoshoot ( I know cliched).
I think the rest of the songs can speak for themselves, those were the only knew ones I added.
I hope that explains some of the things in the web serial, one of my fears with this web serial is I will write myself into a corner and not be able to get out of it without altering reality or something.
I loved being able to give stellar updates and I may start writing out large chunks and then posting it in bits so, I can update keeping 2-3 times in a row.
Once again, if you have any quesitons I would be more than happy to answer.
I need to find a better way to organize these posts
I do not have this luxury with United Light and it makes writing this a little bit more challenging for. There are some things in this chapter I would have taken out or altered but overall I am happy. There are also little things I would change like I have realized there are not 2 n's in Juliana.
One of the biggest things I never intended to (and I believe I said this in some comments) do was have Juliana and Sawyer have such a big fight over the money. When writing it I struggled between the words "pulled down" and "tackled" to describe how he grabs her but, I want to put across that it was not supposed to be violent. It would be similar to how siblings fight but, they are not trying to hurt each other (unless you were in my house,lol). I also have some regret with Juliana at the end of chapter 8 but, she is just feeling lonely and as I have said my characters have a mind of their own.
I know this part of the story was somewha depressing but, once they had the challenge before them I knew this story was going to have somewhat of a downfall of the two characters. The parts of the story about Sawyer and Juliana's living condition were inspired byLa Parure or The Necklace by Guy Maupassant. The short story is about a couple who lose everything and suffer for 10 years to replace a lost necklace. I have always hated the end of this short story and I would never treat my characters as poorly (or would I? I don't know) but, it has always been my inspiration and now I can share that.
I have done the broke college student thing for longer than most (I ended up deciding to get another degree in my 5th year) so, I am fully aware that companies like Suave and VO5 make wonderful shampoos for l.50 or less. But, their argument wasn't about money, they were both tired and stressed and letting our some bottled emotions. I was using the argument, the police showing up, the allergy medication and even the mention of explosions in the news last chapter as a way to put the ideas in your head.
I have to say in writing this chapter I have learned a lot more about making crystal meth and it's consequences than I ever hoped to know. If you ever need proof of the Freedom of Speech, Google how to do something illegal.
I knew from the time Caine gave Juliana and Saywer the ultimatium I knew Sawyer was going to do something illegeal. I was writing this during a Law and Order marathon (I love Benson, she is my style icon) and I was planning on making him a callboy but I decided him making drugs was a better option and was something that is actually a big problem in Miami.
Someone commented that Sawyer was wasting his degree but as a back story (atleast in my mind) Sawyer has worked at the diner all through college and while he applied for jobs in his field he wasn't ready to move away from Elisa or take an office job.
As far as the playlist I only have comments on some of the music.
I love the sound of Sara Barielle's and Saving Jane's voice. I was going to use Saving Jane's One Girl Revolution but, it was a bit to edgy. I may use it later.
The song "Ordinary" was really for Rosa, who wants to befriend Elisa and help her see they are the same.
Superchick's "One Girl Revolution" was what I imagined playing during the photoshoot ( I know cliched).
I think the rest of the songs can speak for themselves, those were the only knew ones I added.
I hope that explains some of the things in the web serial, one of my fears with this web serial is I will write myself into a corner and not be able to get out of it without altering reality or something.
I loved being able to give stellar updates and I may start writing out large chunks and then posting it in bits so, I can update keeping 2-3 times in a row.
Once again, if you have any quesitons I would be more than happy to answer.
I need to find a better way to organize these posts
Friday, September 4, 2009
I might be crazy
I have decided to do two updates in a row. I really do want honest criticism for this chapter and I mean brutal but, I have to say this chapter is like my baby that I have been carrying for a long time and get to share with the world. I feel like I have to say I that but, I still want honesty.
I would love to find the perfect playlist for this chapter but, I am not the musical guru Linda is (I hear she has 27 new songs !). Anyway between looking at artist on my playlist, Linda's playlist and your suggestions I have put together a playlist for this chapter, for those of you who like to read along with one.
It is really an update/re-ordering of the one on the left so, it should be there already in order.
Now, this one is less conceptual but I have tried to put a new spin on some of the music.
For the next chapter (which I have yet to think about, yikes !) Joel said we would listen to the One Tree Hill CD's (not DVD's, I know) at lunch and I would find some new music and inspirtation.
I did try something a teensy bit new with the layout and style of the story to make the playlist easier to understand.
I have also taken some liberties with the style and format of the body of work on this chapter and I may continue to do it with other chapters. I feel like it helps me tell the story.
Now, You can listen to this playlist or you can do my personal suggestion and listen to Winter Song through the whole thing.
Okay, I am taking a deep breath because once I post this I will have nothing and I have to find time to get in the zone to start writing again but, here it is.
Elisa Part 1
- Ordinary by Saving Jane
Elisa Part 2
- One Girl Revolution-Superchick
-Better Day by Saving Jane
Juliana Part 1
- This Woman's Work by Maxwell
- Stand in the Rain- Superchick
-Gravity - Sara Barielles
Juliana Part 2
- Bella's Lullaby by Carter Burwell
- Winter Song- Sara Barielles
- Belief- Gavin Degraw ( This song has what I guess is a "club version" so there are two on the playlist)
I would love to find the perfect playlist for this chapter but, I am not the musical guru Linda is (I hear she has 27 new songs !). Anyway between looking at artist on my playlist, Linda's playlist and your suggestions I have put together a playlist for this chapter, for those of you who like to read along with one.
It is really an update/re-ordering of the one on the left so, it should be there already in order.
Now, this one is less conceptual but I have tried to put a new spin on some of the music.
For the next chapter (which I have yet to think about, yikes !) Joel said we would listen to the One Tree Hill CD's (not DVD's, I know) at lunch and I would find some new music and inspirtation.
I did try something a teensy bit new with the layout and style of the story to make the playlist easier to understand.
I have also taken some liberties with the style and format of the body of work on this chapter and I may continue to do it with other chapters. I feel like it helps me tell the story.
Now, You can listen to this playlist or you can do my personal suggestion and listen to Winter Song through the whole thing.
Okay, I am taking a deep breath because once I post this I will have nothing and I have to find time to get in the zone to start writing again but, here it is.
Elisa Part 1
- Ordinary by Saving Jane
Elisa Part 2
- One Girl Revolution-Superchick
-Better Day by Saving Jane
Juliana Part 1
- This Woman's Work by Maxwell
- Stand in the Rain- Superchick
-Gravity - Sara Barielles
Juliana Part 2
- Bella's Lullaby by Carter Burwell
- Winter Song- Sara Barielles
- Belief- Gavin Degraw ( This song has what I guess is a "club version" so there are two on the playlist)
Quick Update
No, I do not have chapter 8 up (check in a few hours, though).
Playlist
I wrote chapter 7 as the set up for chapter 8 (which is the one I was warning you all about) so, that is why chapter 8 is coming up so quickly but, I didn't want to post them together. I was very surprised how easily these chapters came about once I started on them.
As far as playlist go,I have had the hardest time finding music for these chapters but, I suggest you listen to Lina Leigh's play list especially Winter Song (my new ringtone) and Come Round Soon by Sara Barielles. As I have said my playlist are more conceptual so they go with the over all story and I pretty much use the same one when I write each chapter. If you know a song that you think would fit the story, feel free to tell me because I am done even looking for songs, it takes up to much time I don't have. If I happen to hear or see something that I like I may add it to the playlist and tell you all about it.
This is another behind the chapter post.
Images:
Someone suggested I put pictures of more than just the people I imagine playing the characters. I only really have one and that is for Cecelia's dress :
I snapped this pic when I went to a vintage dress shop in LA. I was turned on to the shop by someone I knew, it's actually the one Mr.Baker's wife gets some of her clothes from.
I know in this chapter the characters sleep alot so, that is why I chose that image I did for the top. It was merely conceptual.
Story:
I have been trying to keep Elisa and Julianna's timelines in sync with each other but, I may be abandoning that soon, it can be very hard to keep their lives at the same pace. I don't know how confusing that may be so I might abandond Elisa's POV for a while and then go back to her. Or I may just use my poetic licesnce and do whatever I want with the timelines. I think that is what will ultimatley happen in chapter 8.
I also hope the way I switch between Elisa and Julianna's POV makes sense. There is a reason in the book publishing world you would never get away with first person omnicient, lol.
I have also taken Poetic Liscense with Miami's urban planning. I am a east coast girl and only go to the South to see families. For those of you who don't know in the south lost of Indian Families own and live in motels (Think Denzel Washington in Mississippi Marsala) that have daily rates. This is wear they are staying, they are on the city limits. I choose the name Orange Blossom becacause the state flower of Florida is Orange Blossom. My color choices have nothing to do with OrangeMarlow and Cobalt (are you happy, Joel ?). Also the fact that the Gators colors are blue and orange is also a coincedece. It is actually creepy to me how many coincideces there are in the story.
I also double spaced this entry (to make it look longer,lol) , I wonder if that makes it easier to read ? Also the official word count on this entry is actually . . . 5,769 so , not 6,000 but it's interesting how you all saw this one as longer.
What you've all been waiting for :
The movie Julianna is watching is 300. I knew if I said anything else about it, it would give it away. I was originally going to write my own sex scene but, with all the good ones (and not so good ones) out there I decided to find one (I had to do this at home and not at work though, lol) anyway 300 is rated R and as much as I believe in free speech, if you are under 17 please don't get me in trouble and watch this.
300 - These bloopers are hilarious
If you all have any questions about UL I am more than happy to do a Q&A, I'd love to here these theories! I won't give away any spoilers though. I would update this entry with your Q's and my A's. As I have said Chapter 8 is written and it will not change.
Playlist
I wrote chapter 7 as the set up for chapter 8 (which is the one I was warning you all about) so, that is why chapter 8 is coming up so quickly but, I didn't want to post them together. I was very surprised how easily these chapters came about once I started on them.
As far as playlist go,I have had the hardest time finding music for these chapters but, I suggest you listen to Lina Leigh's play list especially Winter Song (my new ringtone) and Come Round Soon by Sara Barielles. As I have said my playlist are more conceptual so they go with the over all story and I pretty much use the same one when I write each chapter. If you know a song that you think would fit the story, feel free to tell me because I am done even looking for songs, it takes up to much time I don't have. If I happen to hear or see something that I like I may add it to the playlist and tell you all about it.
This is another behind the chapter post.
Images:
Someone suggested I put pictures of more than just the people I imagine playing the characters. I only really have one and that is for Cecelia's dress :
I snapped this pic when I went to a vintage dress shop in LA. I was turned on to the shop by someone I knew, it's actually the one Mr.Baker's wife gets some of her clothes from.
I know in this chapter the characters sleep alot so, that is why I chose that image I did for the top. It was merely conceptual.
Story:
I have been trying to keep Elisa and Julianna's timelines in sync with each other but, I may be abandoning that soon, it can be very hard to keep their lives at the same pace. I don't know how confusing that may be so I might abandond Elisa's POV for a while and then go back to her. Or I may just use my poetic licesnce and do whatever I want with the timelines. I think that is what will ultimatley happen in chapter 8.
I also hope the way I switch between Elisa and Julianna's POV makes sense. There is a reason in the book publishing world you would never get away with first person omnicient, lol.
I have also taken Poetic Liscense with Miami's urban planning. I am a east coast girl and only go to the South to see families. For those of you who don't know in the south lost of Indian Families own and live in motels (Think Denzel Washington in Mississippi Marsala) that have daily rates. This is wear they are staying, they are on the city limits. I choose the name Orange Blossom becacause the state flower of Florida is Orange Blossom. My color choices have nothing to do with OrangeMarlow and Cobalt (are you happy, Joel ?). Also the fact that the Gators colors are blue and orange is also a coincedece. It is actually creepy to me how many coincideces there are in the story.
I also double spaced this entry (to make it look longer,lol) , I wonder if that makes it easier to read ? Also the official word count on this entry is actually . . . 5,769 so , not 6,000 but it's interesting how you all saw this one as longer.
What you've all been waiting for :
The movie Julianna is watching is 300. I knew if I said anything else about it, it would give it away. I was originally going to write my own sex scene but, with all the good ones (and not so good ones) out there I decided to find one (I had to do this at home and not at work though, lol) anyway 300 is rated R and as much as I believe in free speech, if you are under 17 please don't get me in trouble and watch this.
300 - These bloopers are hilarious
If you all have any questions about UL I am more than happy to do a Q&A, I'd love to here these theories! I won't give away any spoilers though. I would update this entry with your Q's and my A's. As I have said Chapter 8 is written and it will not change.
Full Speed Ahead
While my dear friend, Linda is taking time to exhale I am moving full speed ahead. I know I haven't posted in a while but, I figured if I didn't post and update it wouldn't matter.
So, I do have an update for you all and a behind the page picture post I am going to post after this had been up for a day. This one is one of my longest at almost 6,000 words.
I have considered posting chapter buttons up to chapter 12 so I won't have to do it every time I post an update (yes, I manage the site). But, I was afraid it may confuse people so, you may see some changes with that.
Here is the update.
So, I do have an update for you all and a behind the page picture post I am going to post after this had been up for a day. This one is one of my longest at almost 6,000 words.
I have considered posting chapter buttons up to chapter 12 so I won't have to do it every time I post an update (yes, I manage the site). But, I was afraid it may confuse people so, you may see some changes with that.
Here is the update.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
A New Look
So, I have been experimenting on my own with changing this blog's layout. I was trying to make one that would show all of the playlist but, none of them seem to be able to so I will stick with this one for now. I think I will change the layout once a month to keep things interesting and so I can experiment. If I do find one that goes with the playlist gadget it will probably be pretty simple.
Some of the things I like about this layout is it has a bloglist so, I can see when my fellow Cobaltians (we had lunch with Joel today and we all agreed that is a word now) have updated.
One thing I have been forgetting to mention is that the final scene between Julianna and Sawyer when they are eating dinner, that scene was written to Bella's Lullaby, it just happened to be playing when I was imagining that scene.
This story is kind of hard for me to create because I often write retroactively, meaning I write a whole story and then I can go back and fit the tone of the story with the beginning, I can also add foreshadowing and chekov's guns. But with this I can't really do that because I do not know how or when this will end.
That is basically my warning to you about this story taking a different turn. I think my biggest fear is being told I am copying my dear friend and colleauge, Miss Leigh but I have to say when I started United Light (with no intention of making a web serial) I knew it was going to take a change from it's innocent beginning. Now, it won't be like as Miss Leigh puts it, "sex,drugs and rock n roll" but there will be more mature concepts.
I do have an overall theme for this serial, what I want it to be about and to show and that is what I always intended it to be about. I may reveal more about the theme but, it may ruin the possible angles the story could take.
I have to say I wish I could fully explain the process I take to write this series, I find myself quiet literally asking the characters things like what is your last name ? What kind of car do you drive ? and also what happens next. I am not a planner at all because you cannot plan life as it happens, although I suppose you can try.
I am however a reaseracher and it is funny how with this chapter things have come full circle in an ironic way. I will explain about this later because the instance I am talking about may not come about for a few chapters but, I really have no idea.
Like I was saying I'm a researcher I love to use real pictures or items to help me describe things. And it's tiny things like for the body scrub bottle or a dress or something, maybe it is because I have never been a visual persn.
That was me trying to describe my writing process for this project. When I write my books I use a completely different process.
Some of the things I like about this layout is it has a bloglist so, I can see when my fellow Cobaltians (we had lunch with Joel today and we all agreed that is a word now) have updated.
One thing I have been forgetting to mention is that the final scene between Julianna and Sawyer when they are eating dinner, that scene was written to Bella's Lullaby, it just happened to be playing when I was imagining that scene.
This story is kind of hard for me to create because I often write retroactively, meaning I write a whole story and then I can go back and fit the tone of the story with the beginning, I can also add foreshadowing and chekov's guns. But with this I can't really do that because I do not know how or when this will end.
That is basically my warning to you about this story taking a different turn. I think my biggest fear is being told I am copying my dear friend and colleauge, Miss Leigh but I have to say when I started United Light (with no intention of making a web serial) I knew it was going to take a change from it's innocent beginning. Now, it won't be like as Miss Leigh puts it, "sex,drugs and rock n roll" but there will be more mature concepts.
I do have an overall theme for this serial, what I want it to be about and to show and that is what I always intended it to be about. I may reveal more about the theme but, it may ruin the possible angles the story could take.
I have to say I wish I could fully explain the process I take to write this series, I find myself quiet literally asking the characters things like what is your last name ? What kind of car do you drive ? and also what happens next. I am not a planner at all because you cannot plan life as it happens, although I suppose you can try.
I am however a reaseracher and it is funny how with this chapter things have come full circle in an ironic way. I will explain about this later because the instance I am talking about may not come about for a few chapters but, I really have no idea.
Like I was saying I'm a researcher I love to use real pictures or items to help me describe things. And it's tiny things like for the body scrub bottle or a dress or something, maybe it is because I have never been a visual persn.
That was me trying to describe my writing process for this project. When I write my books I use a completely different process.
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