Mirages
Thursday, December 10, 2009
No Excuses
I hate to admit it but, I got to a point where I had no clue what was going to happen next. I'm still looking for some fresh inspiration.This chapter is mostly about writing so the music was just inspirational and songs I like. There are some odd numerical coincidences in this chapter.
Mirages
Mirages
Friday, October 30, 2009
Chapter 22
No beating around the bush here. I am just going to present the chapter.
I did want to say I did not name Rhett after the character in Gone With The Wind but, when I realized he had the same name as a well known literary character I decided to play around with it some more.
Also a note on IVBs web serial. I have decided not to post it as I write it. In my bootleg NANOWRIMO I will write it out and give you all an update on the word count and then post it when I am done editing it in December. This will give me time to really just write and get story out which is the philosophy of Nano and then I can go back and share a finished version. So, we will see how long it takes me to get to 20,000 words which is about 5 UL chapters so, we will see.
This chapter had no real playlist to go with the sections so, I made a general one. Dreaming With A Broken Heart is not one of the songs but, I wanted to see if anyone else saw any similarties between that song and the one above it. Just in the first 10 seconds or if it was just me.
Okay now on to the chapter
Words
I did want to say I did not name Rhett after the character in Gone With The Wind but, when I realized he had the same name as a well known literary character I decided to play around with it some more.
Also a note on IVBs web serial. I have decided not to post it as I write it. In my bootleg NANOWRIMO I will write it out and give you all an update on the word count and then post it when I am done editing it in December. This will give me time to really just write and get story out which is the philosophy of Nano and then I can go back and share a finished version. So, we will see how long it takes me to get to 20,000 words which is about 5 UL chapters so, we will see.
This chapter had no real playlist to go with the sections so, I made a general one. Dreaming With A Broken Heart is not one of the songs but, I wanted to see if anyone else saw any similarties between that song and the one above it. Just in the first 10 seconds or if it was just me.
Okay now on to the chapter
Words
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Chapter 21
Hi,
Alright so I am surprised by how long it took for this chapter to finally get done. I knew where I wanted this chapter to go but, getting there was hard.
I have to say I have become so excited about United Light and the new "deeper" level I want to take it to that I feel like I have neglected IVB but, I may take a sick day and work on it. I am not sure what level I want IVB at.
There are lots of little (and some irrelevant) hints and easter eggs. I didn't want to say anything about them because I didn't want readers looking to hard for them but, they are there. I don't have much else to say.
And no, JB did not write any of this chapter. He is away on tour this week and we all wish him the best !
The playlist pretty much goes that the number after 21 goes with the song. So, 21.1 is song 1. The only one that is really matched up is that last one.
Pretend
Alright so I am surprised by how long it took for this chapter to finally get done. I knew where I wanted this chapter to go but, getting there was hard.
I have to say I have become so excited about United Light and the new "deeper" level I want to take it to that I feel like I have neglected IVB but, I may take a sick day and work on it. I am not sure what level I want IVB at.
There are lots of little (and some irrelevant) hints and easter eggs. I didn't want to say anything about them because I didn't want readers looking to hard for them but, they are there. I don't have much else to say.
And no, JB did not write any of this chapter. He is away on tour this week and we all wish him the best !
The playlist pretty much goes that the number after 21 goes with the song. So, 21.1 is song 1. The only one that is really matched up is that last one.
Pretend
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Behind The Chapter 19&20
Hello
JB
So, I have heard that me working with Joel has caused more stir than we intended so, I thought I would give you all the full story behind that. If you look through my entries you will notice how busy I have become and then I threw another challenge at myself with the IVB project but, I really wanted this next chapter told. I had an outline and all the messages and I decided to let Joel do the writing because I love his style (he devolped the line about Juliana having strings) and I know he has been itching to write something. Now, obviously he changed his style to emulate mine more but, I was more than happy to have him write some of this chapter.
I don't really see that happening again because I have never had such a clear but objective for a chapter like that before. It was nice getting to work with him. I suppose our thinking was that we would ghost write it like Tom Clancy Novels or Nancy Drew. I would personally love to have Joel's influence in my story another time because I think he could add excellent depth to some of the characters but, he is getting ready to go on tour so United Light will continue to be a solo venture !
Canon
As I hinted at during an event for JB's autobiography I did a significant change in the sequencing of the story with Caine. In the beginning I made him into his late 40's but I changed it so that Caine is actually about 36 and the age difference between Juliana and he is not so big. I know that 18 years is still a jump but it's close to TomKat's which is 17 years and not not as scary as some of Warren Jeff's wives who were 36 years younger than him.
OT, it's funny how no one made a big deal out of TomKat as they did Aston and Demi.
Anyway that is why I did that I also created a backstory for Caine--that he inherited UL from his father. In a lot of ways these changes help facilitate the story because Juliana's parents saw Caine as this great son-they-never had and that is why they are so loyal to him.
Just pick any actor in their 30's who is considered handsome (Mark Whalberg or Jude Law) and that is who Caine is based on now.
Influences
I have to thank Linda for giving me the idea to actually turn on my TV for influences ! Much of the United Light thinking and way of life is based on MSNBC's Cult Sunday documentaries, mostly on the Jonestown one. While most events I have created are fictional I have always stayed away from cult activity because I did not know how they actually acted but after learning a bit I have to say I was very surprised what people will be okay with.
I won't say too much because I may use some of it in later chapters.
I really wanted my depections of cults to be very accurate so I did research into other organizations that people may deem as cults but actually aren't like Quiverfull (which people believe the Duggars are members of o: ) , the FDLS, Scientology (no relation to the TomKat comment above) and to the more extreme the Manson Family. And one thing I have noticed between all of these are the specific gender roles more importantly between females so I did want to incorporate that into this as well. Somone made the Manson Family refernce in a comment and while that was not my intention it was pretty close.
In reality Polyandry is something that would probably never happen because it's easier to have more children with multiple wives but, that neither here nor there right now.
Easter Egg
I will now let you all in on something I was going to have happen but will not. I was originally going to make Juliana pregnant by Cortland. That's why I made refrences to birth control and Juliana forgetting to make her class assignment the right font. There is a saying that says 'if teens can't remember to bring a pencil to class how can they remember to take a pill everyday.' However when Linda made her character pregnant ,where ever she is going with that (read: update Ms. Leigh !!!) I decided I didn't want to do the same thing because there is so much overlap in our readers. Also, in a sense it would have been an easy plot point so I challenged myself and took it out. Not that I blame Linda at all but I think it would have added more to the violet story when I was ready to move on to the dark blue.
Whats Next
I have to say I tell myself to put UL on the back burner after this one last chapter and come back to it later but I always end up with another chapter so, I will most likely keep UL up for longer than I thought. I am just as addicted to it as you all are !
IVB
As far as IVB goes, I intended to do an entire outline of the whole story but all I have is a beginning so, this one may be like UL, in that I will have no idea where it is headed!
Pictures
I don't have many pictures but I know how much you all like them so, I decided to post a few.
Despite never seeing Smallville Rosa's look is based on Kristin Kreuk because of her ethnic-blend
Here is the enitre image of the ponytail. I though Hilary Duff looked very Juliana in this picture.
I could not remember this actors name for a long time but, this was the look I base Sawyer off of, I got him confused with the actor from Terminator.
The TL uniforms are based on the Marine Service Uniform except with the longer jacket . I couldn't find a better pic.
Speaking of TL's I imagine Rhett as being based on Daniel Radcliffe. I couldn't find an image of him with shorter hair but, just that look.
I'll probably have more later.
I put a lot of thought into my chapters but it is always hard for me to pick out which parts or inspirations to share. I always get an idea when writing comments but then I forget it later. So, if you all have an specific questions about chapters or plot feel free to ask in comments.
JB
So, I have heard that me working with Joel has caused more stir than we intended so, I thought I would give you all the full story behind that. If you look through my entries you will notice how busy I have become and then I threw another challenge at myself with the IVB project but, I really wanted this next chapter told. I had an outline and all the messages and I decided to let Joel do the writing because I love his style (he devolped the line about Juliana having strings) and I know he has been itching to write something. Now, obviously he changed his style to emulate mine more but, I was more than happy to have him write some of this chapter.
I don't really see that happening again because I have never had such a clear but objective for a chapter like that before. It was nice getting to work with him. I suppose our thinking was that we would ghost write it like Tom Clancy Novels or Nancy Drew. I would personally love to have Joel's influence in my story another time because I think he could add excellent depth to some of the characters but, he is getting ready to go on tour so United Light will continue to be a solo venture !
Canon
As I hinted at during an event for JB's autobiography I did a significant change in the sequencing of the story with Caine. In the beginning I made him into his late 40's but I changed it so that Caine is actually about 36 and the age difference between Juliana and he is not so big. I know that 18 years is still a jump but it's close to TomKat's which is 17 years and not not as scary as some of Warren Jeff's wives who were 36 years younger than him.
OT, it's funny how no one made a big deal out of TomKat as they did Aston and Demi.
Anyway that is why I did that I also created a backstory for Caine--that he inherited UL from his father. In a lot of ways these changes help facilitate the story because Juliana's parents saw Caine as this great son-they-never had and that is why they are so loyal to him.
Just pick any actor in their 30's who is considered handsome (Mark Whalberg or Jude Law) and that is who Caine is based on now.
Influences
I have to thank Linda for giving me the idea to actually turn on my TV for influences ! Much of the United Light thinking and way of life is based on MSNBC's Cult Sunday documentaries, mostly on the Jonestown one. While most events I have created are fictional I have always stayed away from cult activity because I did not know how they actually acted but after learning a bit I have to say I was very surprised what people will be okay with.
I won't say too much because I may use some of it in later chapters.
I really wanted my depections of cults to be very accurate so I did research into other organizations that people may deem as cults but actually aren't like Quiverfull (which people believe the Duggars are members of o: ) , the FDLS, Scientology (no relation to the TomKat comment above) and to the more extreme the Manson Family. And one thing I have noticed between all of these are the specific gender roles more importantly between females so I did want to incorporate that into this as well. Somone made the Manson Family refernce in a comment and while that was not my intention it was pretty close.
In reality Polyandry is something that would probably never happen because it's easier to have more children with multiple wives but, that neither here nor there right now.
Easter Egg
I will now let you all in on something I was going to have happen but will not. I was originally going to make Juliana pregnant by Cortland. That's why I made refrences to birth control and Juliana forgetting to make her class assignment the right font. There is a saying that says 'if teens can't remember to bring a pencil to class how can they remember to take a pill everyday.' However when Linda made her character pregnant ,where ever she is going with that (read: update Ms. Leigh !!!) I decided I didn't want to do the same thing because there is so much overlap in our readers. Also, in a sense it would have been an easy plot point so I challenged myself and took it out. Not that I blame Linda at all but I think it would have added more to the violet story when I was ready to move on to the dark blue.
Whats Next
I have to say I tell myself to put UL on the back burner after this one last chapter and come back to it later but I always end up with another chapter so, I will most likely keep UL up for longer than I thought. I am just as addicted to it as you all are !
IVB
As far as IVB goes, I intended to do an entire outline of the whole story but all I have is a beginning so, this one may be like UL, in that I will have no idea where it is headed!
Pictures
I don't have many pictures but I know how much you all like them so, I decided to post a few.
Despite never seeing Smallville Rosa's look is based on Kristin Kreuk because of her ethnic-blend
Here is the enitre image of the ponytail. I though Hilary Duff looked very Juliana in this picture.
I could not remember this actors name for a long time but, this was the look I base Sawyer off of, I got him confused with the actor from Terminator.
The TL uniforms are based on the Marine Service Uniform except with the longer jacket . I couldn't find a better pic.
Speaking of TL's I imagine Rhett as being based on Daniel Radcliffe. I couldn't find an image of him with shorter hair but, just that look.
I'll probably have more later.
I put a lot of thought into my chapters but it is always hard for me to pick out which parts or inspirations to share. I always get an idea when writing comments but then I forget it later. So, if you all have an specific questions about chapters or plot feel free to ask in comments.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Working Harder
I feel like I have used this title before. Anyway I revealed some of my hidden gems at an event with my new best friends Joel Baker but I will go over them again here.
I did a little theming with names as I tend to do, I always look for themes to help me come up with appropiate names. Because I intended UL to be an adventure I purposely named Sawyer after Tom Sawyer. I did later find out that Tom Sawyer had a half brother named Sid, with that information I did name Sawyer's parents after Mark and Olivia Twain.
I can finally reveal to you all that most of what happened in these chapter was originally at the end of the light blue writing. I had shuffled through so many plots at that time. First when I wanted Juliana to actually be pregnant I wrote that Sawyer goes to visit his parents instead of going back to San Costa.
Then I ditched that and decided to have Caine force Juliana to marry him but then I ditched that too. None of it fit and that was the time when I was feeling the most down but, it worked out.
As I have said previously I have been super busy. I barely had time to write chapter 20's outline (yes, I am outlining!) but I keep this story dear to me. While I have a general idea of what I want it to do I still don't know what will happen next.
I feel like I have more to say but, I will save that for future entries. Anyway here is Chapter 20
Here is the playlist, they are not as matchy as I would have liked and been able to do previously but, I like the songs !
20.1 --Somewhere in Between - Lifehouse
20.2 -- Eyes on Fire -- Blue Foundation
20.3 -- No Bravery-- James Blunt
20.4-- Hallelujah-- Imogen Heap
I did a little theming with names as I tend to do, I always look for themes to help me come up with appropiate names. Because I intended UL to be an adventure I purposely named Sawyer after Tom Sawyer. I did later find out that Tom Sawyer had a half brother named Sid, with that information I did name Sawyer's parents after Mark and Olivia Twain.
I can finally reveal to you all that most of what happened in these chapter was originally at the end of the light blue writing. I had shuffled through so many plots at that time. First when I wanted Juliana to actually be pregnant I wrote that Sawyer goes to visit his parents instead of going back to San Costa.
Then I ditched that and decided to have Caine force Juliana to marry him but then I ditched that too. None of it fit and that was the time when I was feeling the most down but, it worked out.
As I have said previously I have been super busy. I barely had time to write chapter 20's outline (yes, I am outlining!) but I keep this story dear to me. While I have a general idea of what I want it to do I still don't know what will happen next.
I feel like I have more to say but, I will save that for future entries. Anyway here is Chapter 20
Here is the playlist, they are not as matchy as I would have liked and been able to do previously but, I like the songs !
20.1 --Somewhere in Between - Lifehouse
20.2 -- Eyes on Fire -- Blue Foundation
20.3 -- No Bravery-- James Blunt
20.4-- Hallelujah-- Imogen Heap
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Ctrl + S is your friend
Hi,
Between working on Cobalt Teen, (which takes up so much of my time) working on Breast Cancer Awareness Committee, the classes I teach at the learning annex and working on my new web serial I have been very forgetful and busy lately that includes forgetting to save my work ! I had this chapter in stage 2 when I up and deleted ): It was soul crushing to have to re-write it from scratch but, I think that is a great exercise for writers (am I making lemonade out of lemons ?). If you have the time I challenge you to write something and then delete it and re-do it. It is painful and hard but, it defiantly changes how you write when you know in detail what will happen.
I have a sense where I want this Web Serial to go to but, I literally (JB would love that) have no time to work on it. But, I will get it out.
United Light
On to United Light matters,
Linda recently posted about her regrets and as I have been developing the next few chapters I have a few of my own and really it is a large portion of the purple font sections. Those chapters were created around the songs "Only Hope" and "Dare you to move" and "Fall for You". I heard those sings and suddenly the relationship between Juliana and Cortland (who was originally Patrick) was created. I wanted Juliana to experience a real heartbreak, have a human experience that was 1st my intention. However I have found a way to interweave that story into the cannon because when I wrote that I had no idea where I was going and in a way I'm not sure I could have gotten to where I am today without those violet chapters. It's a love hate relationship but, writing those few chapters was fun for me.
As I began writing about Cortland and Juliana I developed a second intention and this is so terrible but, it became my solution to Stephanie Meyer's Twilight. I wanted Juliana to come off a little bit like Bella (that's why she was always talking about how he looks and she does not compare) because I feel like the biggest issue was that Edward and Belle never had a petty fight or disagreement. I feel like that could have given those characters a 2nd dimension, when you get used to a person that you see their faults. That little line about how baby ducks imprint (which they do) was just my little inside joke.
I have lots of little things about the violet font that I will relay to you but, I will have to re-read it to catch them all.
I bring this all up because, you can say good-bye to the violet font. I am trying something new (again ) I really wanted to give my chapters names so, I am experimenting with that also.
Writing Style
For a while I have been trying to write Juliana as Juliana, in order to set up for Cortland making fun of her for not being educated, I stopped using 'big words' and words the character may not use. I have felt like this has limited me as a writer and after seeing how much the Sawyer chapters came out (which I wrote the way I usually did) I am probably going to start writing Juliana with more complex thoughts and ideas.
It is a very minor thing most people don't notice but,after all the character has changed !
More than meets the eyes
Now for all you super sleuths out there, the original banner for UL represented Juliana and Sawyer being married but, they are divorced now and have been for a few chapters. Did anyone not catch the changes in the purple banners ? Go back and look at them all.
Warning!
I wrote myself into a corner again, but I want to see if anyone can catch it. I did something that changes the cannon a little bit. One day I will rewrite the entire UL in a novel (possibly leaving out lots of chapters) and it could be really good and linear because as it stands now it is not. I realize my characters get a little double personalities (saying bi-polar is no PC) before falling into their personality.
Playlist
There is no playlist for chapter 19 because I could not find the right songs, I am experimenting with different musical genre's. But these songs always work, they are from my previous playlists. I have stopped putting sections also because there is no music.
Winter-- Josh Radin (always good)
After All- Johnathon Clay
Here is Chapter 19
Between working on Cobalt Teen, (which takes up so much of my time) working on Breast Cancer Awareness Committee, the classes I teach at the learning annex and working on my new web serial I have been very forgetful and busy lately that includes forgetting to save my work ! I had this chapter in stage 2 when I up and deleted ): It was soul crushing to have to re-write it from scratch but, I think that is a great exercise for writers (am I making lemonade out of lemons ?). If you have the time I challenge you to write something and then delete it and re-do it. It is painful and hard but, it defiantly changes how you write when you know in detail what will happen.
I have a sense where I want this Web Serial to go to but, I literally (JB would love that) have no time to work on it. But, I will get it out.
United Light
On to United Light matters,
Linda recently posted about her regrets and as I have been developing the next few chapters I have a few of my own and really it is a large portion of the purple font sections. Those chapters were created around the songs "Only Hope" and "Dare you to move" and "Fall for You". I heard those sings and suddenly the relationship between Juliana and Cortland (who was originally Patrick) was created. I wanted Juliana to experience a real heartbreak, have a human experience that was 1st my intention. However I have found a way to interweave that story into the cannon because when I wrote that I had no idea where I was going and in a way I'm not sure I could have gotten to where I am today without those violet chapters. It's a love hate relationship but, writing those few chapters was fun for me.
As I began writing about Cortland and Juliana I developed a second intention and this is so terrible but, it became my solution to Stephanie Meyer's Twilight. I wanted Juliana to come off a little bit like Bella (that's why she was always talking about how he looks and she does not compare) because I feel like the biggest issue was that Edward and Belle never had a petty fight or disagreement. I feel like that could have given those characters a 2nd dimension, when you get used to a person that you see their faults. That little line about how baby ducks imprint (which they do) was just my little inside joke.
I have lots of little things about the violet font that I will relay to you but, I will have to re-read it to catch them all.
I bring this all up because, you can say good-bye to the violet font. I am trying something new (again ) I really wanted to give my chapters names so, I am experimenting with that also.
Writing Style
For a while I have been trying to write Juliana as Juliana, in order to set up for Cortland making fun of her for not being educated, I stopped using 'big words' and words the character may not use. I have felt like this has limited me as a writer and after seeing how much the Sawyer chapters came out (which I wrote the way I usually did) I am probably going to start writing Juliana with more complex thoughts and ideas.
It is a very minor thing most people don't notice but,after all the character has changed !
More than meets the eyes
Now for all you super sleuths out there, the original banner for UL represented Juliana and Sawyer being married but, they are divorced now and have been for a few chapters. Did anyone not catch the changes in the purple banners ? Go back and look at them all.
Warning!
I wrote myself into a corner again, but I want to see if anyone can catch it. I did something that changes the cannon a little bit. One day I will rewrite the entire UL in a novel (possibly leaving out lots of chapters) and it could be really good and linear because as it stands now it is not. I realize my characters get a little double personalities (saying bi-polar is no PC) before falling into their personality.
Playlist
There is no playlist for chapter 19 because I could not find the right songs, I am experimenting with different musical genre's. But these songs always work, they are from my previous playlists. I have stopped putting sections also because there is no music.
Winter-- Josh Radin (always good)
After All- Johnathon Clay
Here is Chapter 19
Friday, October 9, 2009
The name game
I have been meaning to talk about this for a while.
I had originally wanted to shorten Juliana's name to Julie to show a growth in Sawyer and Juliana's relationship and also to help me out when typing. But then I was listening to something and I heard the name Julia and I just loved the way it sounded so, I used that as Juliana's alternate identity but more importantly it is how she ID's herself with Brad. That's why Sawyer doesn't start calling her Julia until chapter 12 when he tells her about Brad.
Now, Sawyer alternates between the three. I've been meaning to go over that for some time now.
I have a playlist with 30+ songs I use for inspiration with the exception of a few I am holding on to for future moments most of them have appeared. I am going to spend a day inventing a whole new list for my IVB web serial. I love when I hear a song that inspired me to write a scene. I'll go more into this later.
Anyway here is chapter 18
Here is the Playlist :
18. 1 -- 42 Coldplay
18.2 Come Round Soon & Bottle It Up -- Sara Bareilles (love her !)
18.3 -- Dare You To Move - Switchfoot
18.4 -- Fall for you-- Secondhand Serenade
18.5 -- Holding On -- Avril Lavigne
I had originally wanted to shorten Juliana's name to Julie to show a growth in Sawyer and Juliana's relationship and also to help me out when typing. But then I was listening to something and I heard the name Julia and I just loved the way it sounded so, I used that as Juliana's alternate identity but more importantly it is how she ID's herself with Brad. That's why Sawyer doesn't start calling her Julia until chapter 12 when he tells her about Brad.
Now, Sawyer alternates between the three. I've been meaning to go over that for some time now.
I have a playlist with 30+ songs I use for inspiration with the exception of a few I am holding on to for future moments most of them have appeared. I am going to spend a day inventing a whole new list for my IVB web serial. I love when I hear a song that inspired me to write a scene. I'll go more into this later.
Anyway here is chapter 18
Here is the Playlist :
18. 1 -- 42 Coldplay
18.2 Come Round Soon & Bottle It Up -- Sara Bareilles (love her !)
18.3 -- Dare You To Move - Switchfoot
18.4 -- Fall for you-- Secondhand Serenade
18.5 -- Holding On -- Avril Lavigne
Sunday, October 4, 2009
40th Post Woo-hoo !
Nothing to special but I am so proud of how far I have come !
Okay, I'm sure I have a lot to say about these last few chapters but they are all working towards something. This next one is really more of a series of psuedo -kind- of not r-eally vignettes but as I have said they are all leading to something (and I'm not entirely sure what it is). Anyway I have a few pictures of minor characters who I use in my head. The fact that I have pictures of them means nothing about the story because I don't know if we will see them again or not.
I have found it easier for me not to try and match a song with every chapter so, I have created sections and the songs go with them, to me the music just sets the overall tone.
It's funny through listening to music I have created a playlist of songs for events I want to happen possibly 10 chapters from now ! It's hard for me not to try and throw them in now. I have to save some for IVB too, though.
As far as this chapter and the next few these are kind of my little soapbox for a few things but, it is very faint. I doubt anyone will catch them. My characters are very motivated so, if you like to look hard into things you may find something (or nothing). I guess I'm teasing you all, lol !
Pictures
Sid
Brad
Kennedy
For those of you who don't know that is Matthew Gray Gubler, Chris Harrison (host of the Bachelor) and Sara Mason.
I haven't really though about Cortland's housemates but, I imagine they would be a cross between and A&F ad and a United Colors Of Benton Ad. Speaking of Cortland's housemates I did have a fun time using a list of preppy names to come up with the names. I tried to get ones that were both uniquely preppy but still pretty mainstream. It's from this website and I can't tell if this woman is serious or not about warnings about names becoming to trendy.
As a side note a ---- signifies either a change in person or a bigger cut in time than the *** but, it's pretty obvious. I have been doing this for a while but, in case you did not catch on.
It's so hard for me to wave goodbye to a section when I don't have another one waiting for me.
Here is chapter 17
Playlist
17.1 -- Straightjacket Feeling -- All American Rejects
17.2 -- Bubbly -- Colbie Callait & Magic Colbie Callait (there are 2 versions, I perfer the piano one)
17.3-- Toxic -- Britney Spears & One Week-- Barenaked Ladies (have no idea why I find this song so entertaining -- JB and I spent way to much time in my office dancing to it at lunch.)
17.4 -- Everything's Not Lost -- Coldplay
Okay, I'm sure I have a lot to say about these last few chapters but they are all working towards something. This next one is really more of a series of psuedo -kind- of not r-eally vignettes but as I have said they are all leading to something (and I'm not entirely sure what it is). Anyway I have a few pictures of minor characters who I use in my head. The fact that I have pictures of them means nothing about the story because I don't know if we will see them again or not.
I have found it easier for me not to try and match a song with every chapter so, I have created sections and the songs go with them, to me the music just sets the overall tone.
It's funny through listening to music I have created a playlist of songs for events I want to happen possibly 10 chapters from now ! It's hard for me not to try and throw them in now. I have to save some for IVB too, though.
As far as this chapter and the next few these are kind of my little soapbox for a few things but, it is very faint. I doubt anyone will catch them. My characters are very motivated so, if you like to look hard into things you may find something (or nothing). I guess I'm teasing you all, lol !
Pictures
Sid
Brad
Kennedy
For those of you who don't know that is Matthew Gray Gubler, Chris Harrison (host of the Bachelor) and Sara Mason.
I haven't really though about Cortland's housemates but, I imagine they would be a cross between and A&F ad and a United Colors Of Benton Ad. Speaking of Cortland's housemates I did have a fun time using a list of preppy names to come up with the names. I tried to get ones that were both uniquely preppy but still pretty mainstream. It's from this website and I can't tell if this woman is serious or not about warnings about names becoming to trendy.
As a side note a ---- signifies either a change in person or a bigger cut in time than the *** but, it's pretty obvious. I have been doing this for a while but, in case you did not catch on.
It's so hard for me to wave goodbye to a section when I don't have another one waiting for me.
Here is chapter 17
Playlist
17.1 -- Straightjacket Feeling -- All American Rejects
17.2 -- Bubbly -- Colbie Callait & Magic Colbie Callait (there are 2 versions, I perfer the piano one)
17.3-- Toxic -- Britney Spears & One Week-- Barenaked Ladies (have no idea why I find this song so entertaining -- JB and I spent way to much time in my office dancing to it at lunch.)
17.4 -- Everything's Not Lost -- Coldplay
Thursday, October 1, 2009
My Announcement
Hello all,
So, I said I had an announcement and while it's not the biggest thing in the world it may have some effect.
I am going to be taking a break from United Light in November to start working on a brand new type of fiction
:
"I never fit in anywhere for a milllion reasons. I'm too shy, too nerdy too everything. I lived in a world of avatars, PWNED and usernames until something real happened. I was told I was positive for Huntingtons. What really gets me is all the waiting and unknown and life expactancy. I've never been a talker or one to talk about how I feel but, that's changing. Even though I still LARP on the weekends."
I will be challenging myself to A Nanowrimo fiction based on the Ivy Brothers. I'm not even sure if I will make it officail but, this one will be mainly about Elias, the one who I have not written much about yet. I am going to be doing things I don't usually do like planning and outlining so that will be taking a lot of October but, I won't abandon United Light because I am working it towards something again.
On that note I have an update and a playlist. The songs are really more overarching so, there are no real sections. Although I have heard songs that will inspire many other pieces.
Here is the update
and the playlist :
So, I said I had an announcement and while it's not the biggest thing in the world it may have some effect.
I am going to be taking a break from United Light in November to start working on a brand new type of fiction
:"I never fit in anywhere for a milllion reasons. I'm too shy, too nerdy too everything. I lived in a world of avatars, PWNED and usernames until something real happened. I was told I was positive for Huntingtons. What really gets me is all the waiting and unknown and life expactancy. I've never been a talker or one to talk about how I feel but, that's changing. Even though I still LARP on the weekends."
I will be challenging myself to A Nanowrimo fiction based on the Ivy Brothers. I'm not even sure if I will make it officail but, this one will be mainly about Elias, the one who I have not written much about yet. I am going to be doing things I don't usually do like planning and outlining so that will be taking a lot of October but, I won't abandon United Light because I am working it towards something again.
On that note I have an update and a playlist. The songs are really more overarching so, there are no real sections. Although I have heard songs that will inspire many other pieces.
Here is the update
and the playlist :
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Timeline
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 !
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 !
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
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