Writing Ideas - Vampire Novel, part 15, more Initial Scene

25 April 2014, Writing Ideas - Vampire Novel, part 15, more Initial Scene

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

All novels have five discrete parts:
1.  The initial scene (the beginning)
2.  The rising action
3.  The climax
4.  The falling action
5.  The dénouement

The theme statement of this new novel is: An agent of the organization becomes involved with a vampire girl during a mission, she becomes dependent on the agent, and she is redeemed. 

Really, messing up the initial scene is a classic failure in newbie writers.  Many of the big failings are: a prolog, a non-action initial scene, an initial scene that is backstory.  Almost any guide to writing will tell you, the first scene--the initial scene in any novel must be action packed and interesting.  The best way to do this is the straight protagonist meets antagonist or protagonist meets protagonist's helper.  That is you lift the initial scene directly from the theme statement.  If your initial scene is not filled with action and adventure (or at least excitement), don't write the novel.  I can assure you, a novel that is driven using a weak theme statement isn't worth writing or reading.

By definition, if the initial scene isn't exciting and doesn't relate the theme to the protagonist and antagonist or protagonist's helper, then the theme is likely not strong enough to support a novel.  It is also possible for a writer to submarine her/his own initial scene.

More tomorrow.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Characters (Vampire Novel), part 9, Rules for Agents

19 April 2014, Writing Ideas - Characters (Vampire Novel), part 9, Rules for Agents

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

All novels have five discrete parts:
1.  The initial scene (the beginning)
2.  The rising action
3.  The climax
4.  The falling action
5.  The dénouement

The theme statement of this new novel is: An agent of the organization becomes involved with a vampire girl during a mission, she becomes dependent on the agent, and she is redeemed. 

Covert operations are those that no one knows you are doing.  Overt operations are those that everyone can guess you are doing.  An overt agent is like James Bond.  James Bond was originally developed as a covert agent, but he really became overt--any agent who is recognized in any way by the enemy has a blown cover.  Most MI agents are overt.  They don't care if the enemy knows who they are.  Their operations don't necessarily depend on them being completely under the radar, but still in the open.  This is true for CIA and FBI agents.  Usually, we refer to covert agents as undercover agents.  The amount of undercover can vary.  For example, the most covert of agents are those who are assigned to embassy staffs to listen and report.  They may be a secretary or a go to boy.  They have a job, that ensures they are near the ambassador or an ambassadorial secretary, but it is unknown that their actual role is intelligence gathering.  They gather information on the words spoken by the target not translated to the ambassador, etc.  They are able to gather information because no one realizes that they understand the language or that their job is intelligence gathering.

This kind of work isn't that exciting, but it is critical.  The other type of covert agent is those who infiltrate an enemy organization or group.  There isn't as much scope in writing about such agents except in very specific circumstances or novels.  For example, if you want to write about the covert operations of the British, your infiltrating agent is either a British citizen from the culture in question or is a turncoat from the other culture, society, or government.  The problem of being a British citizen from the culture in question, from a covert standpoint, is that it is too easy for the enemy to discover.  From the other standpoint, a turncoat is difficult to develop as a pathetic character.  People are not attracted to that type of character.

With this theme statement I am ready to tackle the novel.  The next step was to flesh out the characters and the setting.

More tomorrow.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Characters (Vampire Novel), part 7, more Rules of Vampires

17 April 2014, Writing Ideas - Characters (Vampire Novel), part 7, more Rules of Vampires

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

All novels have five discrete parts:
1.  The initial scene (the beginning)
2.  The rising action
3.  The climax
4.  The falling action
5.  The dénouement

The theme statement of this new novel is: An agent of the organization becomes involved with a vampire girl during a mission, she becomes dependent on the agent, and she is redeemed. 

The point is this, if a vampire is to be a vampire, it must follow the basic characteristics of a vampire.  It doesn't matter if the author wants the characteristics of the vampire to be different than a classic vampire--a vampire is a vampire or it is something else.  An author may clarify the details about a vampire that are not explained in about a classic vampire.

In my vampire novel, I posit that vampires can eat and drink (something other than blood).  In fact, I specify that they only need to hunt for human blood when the moon is full.  During other nights, they eat normal human food.  I further clarify that they are not sexual beings.  This should be obvious, but for some reason the modern and common view of a vampire is that they are sexual beings.  If vampires reproduce through drinking blood, there is not reason for them to have sex.  In my novel, my vampire explains that although they have the plumbing, there is no desire.  Nor should there be.

The reproduction part also needs clarification.  In popular folklore, a vampire just needs to bite a person once to make them a vampire.  If this were true, we'd be up to our ears in vampires.  I clarify that to make a vampire, a vampire must first kill the person by drinking their blood (usually takes more than one vampire or over time), then the vampire provides some of their blood in the veins of the one to be made a vampire.  This gives them a kind of life after death.  It is not a true life, but rather a false life that is missing a key human component.

Notice that all my clarifications don't change or harm the idea of a classical vampire, but that they rather define a vampire and answer some basic questions about vampires.  They also flow from logic about vampires.  For example, you only need sexual desire if you reproduce sexually.  A vampire may have a desire to leave other vampires, but with a creature that lives a very long time without hope, there would be very little reason (other than companionship) for a vampire to reproduce.  In fact, my vampire was made a vampire to be a pet for a master vampire.  That's the backstory setup.

With this theme statement I am ready to tackle the novel.  The next step was to flesh out the characters and the setting.

More tomorrow.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Characters (Vampire Novel), part 5

15 April 2014, Writing Ideas - Characters (Vampire Novel), part 5

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

All novels have five discrete parts:
1.  The initial scene (the beginning)
2.  The rising action
3.  The climax
4.  The falling action
5.  The dénouement

The theme statement of this new novel is: An agent of the organization becomes involved with a vampire girl during a mission, she becomes dependent on the agent, and she is redeemed. 

At the same time, we are talking about a real vampire here.  In my novel, I flesh out the ideas that Stoker didn't fully explain.  In the novel I am writing, vampires were already damned before they became vampires.  I explain that a vampire can't attack a "cross-bearer," a Christian.  This is consistent with ideas about vampires and the Bible.  In my novel, a vampire can only attack (hunt and dine on) those who are not Christians.  They can only make vampires those who are unredeemed and already damned. 

My character Valeska/Heidi was a young woman who traded sex for sorcery.  She abused other students in her school.  She was self absorbed and evil.  She murdered her middle-aged lover using sorcery and that is what drew the other vampires.  To make a vampire, a vampire must kill his prey by drinking all the blood and then replace some of the blood with vampire's blood.  The taking of the blood, kills the person--they are dead.  The replacing with vampire's blood puts in a powerful piece of evil that sustains the vampire.  In my novel, a vampire is a creature without a pneuma--a spirit.  They have lost their spirit and therefore the sunlight turns them into dust.

With this theme statement I am ready to tackle the novel.  The next step was to flesh out the characters and the setting.

More tomorrow.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Characters (Vampire Novel), part 4

14 April 2014, Writing Ideas - Characters (Vampire Novel), part 4

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

All novels have five discrete parts:
1.  The initial scene (the beginning)
2.  The rising action
3.  The climax
4.  The falling action
5.  The dénouement

The theme statement of this new novel is: An agent of the organization becomes involved with a vampire girl during a mission, she becomes dependent on the agent, and she is redeemed. 

This discussion about vampires is to show how you flesh out a character.  In this case, a vampire's character.  In this novel, I wanted to make the vampire the protagonist's helper, and the protagonist the agent.  I wanted a classical vampire.  A classical vampire is one who meets all the criteria of Bram Stoker's Dracula.  A non-classical vampire is a vampire who does not have the characteristics of the monster Bram Stoker created.  A vampire should not be a hero, but it might have some heroic characteristics.  This is the point of redemption.  A vampire is a character that is a damned human on the earth.  To achieve redemption, the character would have to do something special and redemptive.  That has more to do with the plot development than the development of the character.

So, take the classical vampire and make it a modern character.  Many have done this well.  I wanted a character that could deliver pathos (emotion), therefore, I chose a character who would immediately deliver even if they were evil.  The obvious best pathos type character is a beautiful girl.  Place her in rags, make her hungry, and put her out on the streets--that is an immediate means to make male and female readers feel sorry for your vampire. 

Better yet, if she was or is abused then that increases the level of pathos.  The point is to immediately get my readers to feel positive emotion about the protagonist helper.  The means to do this is by applying certain characteristic to that character.  All this is in the fleshing out or development of the character before the novel is written.

With this theme statement I am ready to tackle the novel.  The next step was to flesh out the characters and the setting.

More tomorrow.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 14 Science Fiction Theme

14 August 2013, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 14 Science Fiction Theme

Announcement: My novels Sister of Light and Sister of Darkness are about to be published. I write this blog about 2 months prior to its publication. I just heard that the proofs will be here soon--likely before the end of the week. My publisher also wants to put the entire set of novels based on Aegypt on contract--that's 5 more novels for 8 total. They also want to put my other novels on contract. The release schedule should be one novel every 2 months. I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

The point I've been trying to make is that to write science fiction, you must start with a science fiction based theme.  A regular theme won't do.  Now, if you are silly enough to define a theme with a single world, you might not have a science fiction based theme.  This is why I've qualified the definition as a theme statement.  To me, a single word is not sufficient to define a theme.  That's why I want to break down a theme statement.  I don't think you need every element that I will describe in your theme statement, but it can't hurt.  If you do follow these simple directions, you will be able to write a theme statement and develop a plot from it.

The first element in a theme statement is the protagonist.  This can be as simple as "the boy," the girl," "the woman," "the Captain's son," "the beautiful singer," "a girl who...," "a boy who..." and all.  Let's state the protagonist in simple but specific terms. 

The second element is the setting.  This doesn't have to be very specific at all.  If the novel is not a science fiction novel, I'd suggest the setting can be undetermined, but the setting is usually the part of the theme statement that makes the theme a science fiction theme.  Typical settings are: on a spaceship, on a planet, during a planetary war, during a planet exploratory mission, etc.

The third element is a verb or action statement.  Examples are: discovered, fought, rescued, found, investigated, invented, and all.  The point is to have the protagonist do something in a scientific setting.  This sets the theme statement in a form that can be turned into a plot.

The fourth element is an antagonist.  This is not necessary, but if you can include the foil to the protagonist that's a step forward.

The fifth element, and optional, is the protagonist's helper. 

I've written before, that with a setting, a protagonist, protagonist's helper, and an antagonist, you can write a novel.  This is all you really need (well, along with imagination and writing skills).  Here's an example of a theme statement built with the above elements.  A boy from a space ship discovers a creature that appears to be an intelligent form; he tries to get the creature recognized by the government forces.  The protagonist is the boy.  The protagonist's helper could be the creature.  The antagonist is likely the government forces.  The setting is someplace where you will find an intelligent but nonhuman creature and a space ship.

Remember, I;m trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com, www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, thefoxshonor, aseasonofhonor.

Scenes - Scene Setting, another Simple Example

9 January 2013, Scenes - Scene Setting, another Simple Example

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here are my rules of writing:

1. Entertain your readers.
2. Don't confuse your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.

A scene outline is a means of writing a novel where each scene follows the other with a scene input from the previous scene and a scene output that leads to the next scene. The scenes don't necessarily have to follow directly in time and place, however they generally follow the storyline of the protagonist.

A storyline outline is a means of writing a novel where the author develops a scene outline for more than one character and bases the plot on one or more of these storyline scenes. This allows the scenes to focus on more than the protagonist. This is a very difficult means of writing. There is a strong chance of confusing your readers.

Whether you write with a scene outline or a storyline outline, you must properly develop your scenes. All novels are developed from scenes and each scene has a design similar to a novel. Every successful novel has the following basic parts:

1. The beginning
2. The rising action
3. The Climax
4. The falling action
5. The dénouement

Every scene has these parts:

1. The setting (where, what, who, when, how)
2. The connection (input)
3. The tension development
4. The release
5. The output

There are lots of approaches to scene setting. That means there are about a million plus ways you can set a scene. The main point is you have to clearly get across the where, when, who, what, and how.

Here is another example of scene setting from the novel, Aksinya. This is another example of a simple scene setting.   The setting is still complete.  The house "dark and quiet" tells you the time--this is also continued from the previous scene.  The "knock on her door" sets the place.  Aksinya and then the demon are identified as the who.  The scene is then set in motion.  I gave you a little more than the setting to keep you entertained and to show you some more tension and release.

When the house was dark and quiet, Aksinya heard a knock on her door.  She caught a whiff of sulfur.  Aksinya called out, “I don’t wish to speak with you demon.”

The voice behind the door was low and filled with a hiss, “But I wish to speak with you mistress.  May I come in?”
“No!”
The door opened, and Asmodeus strode in, “Next time I won’t ask.”
Aksinya rolled away from him and pulled her covers around her, “I’m tired, and I don’t wish to speak to you tonight.”
“You are wide awake, and you have been longing to speak to me for days.”
“You are mistaken.”
“Why not speak to me, now.  You’ve had your fun for the evening.”
“Zatknis'!” Aksinya was suddenly breathless, “You probably encourage it.”
“No, I don’t need to.  You are filled with lust all on your own.  So therefore I have an easy thing for you to do.”
“Don’t you feel lust?”
“Trying to turn the conversation?  It won’t do you any good, Countess, but I will answer your questions.  I feel great lust, but I can’t act on it.  I rely on you to consummate my sin.”
“But you sin.”
“I don’t sin, Countess—you sin.  I told you that before.”
“You stole the bookstand…”
“At your behest.”
“You killed all those people…”
“Because you ordered it.  I am simply your tool, your arm, your eyes on the world.  I am the eye that offends you.  I am the arm that causes you to sin.”
“I wish I could cut you off.  I would do it right now.”
“And you would die.  That comes of losing an arm or an eye.”
Aksinya was breathing hard, “Why do others forget you so easily?  My aunt and uncle didn’t even ask after you.  It is as if you were a ghost or something.”
“I am no ghost, only a demon—a spirit, nonetheless.  You know exactly what I am and who I am.  You know I am not made corporeally of the material of this world.  I am an eternal being like your eternal soul.  You shall be with me for an eternity.  You might as well get used to my company.”
“I am sleepy now, disturb me no longer.”
“Have you forgotten?  I have work for you to do.”
“Get out!”
 “I shall not.”
“I shall scream.  See how that fits with your plans.”
“Dear Countess, you may scream and scream and scream, no one will come.  Just as I manipulate the world around us, I can change the sounds and the words as I will.”
Aksinya leapt off the bed and began to draw a circle in her special chalk on the floor.  The demon stepped over to her and grasped her by the hair.  Asmodeus shook her, “A magic circle will do you no good tonight.  I will deliver my instructions and expect you to follow through with them.”
Aksinya writhed in his grasp.  She dared not touch him.
“I know what you are thinking.  You will make a circle before you go to bed.  That will only stop me for a while.  You should realize you can’t hide from me.  I await your pleasure eternally.  Now listen to me.”  He shook her again, “Countess, I have a present for you.”  He dropped her to the floor, and a heavy brown book fell beside her.
Aksinya crept away from the demon and the book.
The demon cracked his knuckles, “That is a new book for your collection.  You read about it in one of the earlier tomes…and lusted for it.  It is yours now.”

The tension and release in this scene is the demon's attack on Aksinya.  It is both unexpected and not predictable from his previous behavior.  Before, he never touched her--now he does.  There is much more in this scene about Aksinya's lust and the demon's sin.  Much of what he says is true and much is false--this is the use of ambiguity in writing.  The reader isn't confused, but rather understands quite well that Aksinya is not certain of the truth of the demon's statements.  This is the point.  Aksinya doesn't know everything.  The demon doesn't know everything.  The reader doesn't know everything.  If the writer knows everything, he isn't telling.  That is exactly the point.  Nothing is every completely understood or known.  If everything in your writing is cut and dried, then you aren't writing about real life (or any type of life on earth).

My Notes: once you have a theme, you need to begin to visualize your plot, focus your theme, and define your characters. More tomorrow.I'll move on to basic writing exercises and creativity in the near future.

The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: Please elaborate on scene, theme, plot, character development in a new novel creation....ie, the framework, the development, order if operation, the level of detail, guidelines, rule of thumb, tricks, traps and techniques.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com, www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor, http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Development - Ideas

4 October 2012, Development - Ideas

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here are my rules of writing:

1. Entertain your readers.
2. Don't confuse your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.

You have a concrete goal--write 1,500 words a week.  This isn't that difficult of a goal.  If you keep it up, you will have a completed novel in one year.  That's a perfect goal for any writer.  If you really do wish to write, you need to put your time where your desires are.  Without sweat equity (investment) you can't become a writer of any skill. 

I've written over and over, if you wish to write well, you need to have written at least one million words.  This goal is the start toward your one million words.

The next question is what should you write?  This is where all that creative stuff I was writing about comes into play.  If you are creative, I know you have a couple of novel ideas noted somewhere.  If you you don't--what are you thinking?  If you want to be a novelist, you need to have some novel length ideas--start thinking.  If you really don't have any, now is the time to immerse yourself in all the filling kinds of pastimes with the goal to produce a creative idea.  If you can't do that--you might want to give up on the idea of becoming an author. 

I know, if you are reading this, you likely have some great ideas for books.  Now is the time to make those ideas real.  You need to begin to visualize your plot, stabilize your theme, and focus your characters.  More tomorrow.
I'll move on to basic writing exercises and creativity in the near future.

The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: Please elaborate on scene, theme, plot, character development in a new novel creation....ie, the framework, the development, order if operation, the level of detail, guidelines, rule of thumb, tricks, traps and techniques.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor, http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Development - Rules of Writing, Characters of Centurion, the Goal

7 August 2012, Development - Rules of Writing, Characters of Centurion, the Goal

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here are my rules of writing:

1. Entertain your readers.
2. Don't confuse your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.

All language is symbols. Therefore it shouldn't surprise you that your writing should include higher level symbols. What are higher level symbols? I mentioned before the cross as a symbol. The cross is a higher level symbol--a symbol that doesn't depend on language. Symbols can be ready made or author made symbols. Some symbols are a mix.

The beginning of the novel, Centurion, is when Naomi, the mother of Abenadar, the Centurion, goes to get water at the well in Nazareth.  She meets Miriam (Mary) and the book takes off.

The point of the novel is the why of the character, Abenadar.  The novel is about the development of his life, and how he became a Centurion.  Remember, you had to be a citizen of Rome to be a legionnaire.  You usually had to be a true citizen of Rome to become a Centurion.  It was not unknown for a half Roman to become a Centurion, but it was difficult.  Through the novel, I get to show you all about how a Roman Legion is organized, trains, promotes its officers, gives out awards, etc. etc.

The novel is as much about the practices of the Roman Legions in the times as it is about Abenadar.  This is the kind of novel I wanted to write.  I wanted to humanize the Romans and the Legion.  I wanted to show you their fears and their power.  I think the novel encapsulates this well.  I'll go further, because of the historical information, Centurion, may be the best source about the Roman Legion ever compiled.  Many of the groups I speak to ask why I chose to write a novel instead of a historical treatis or document.  I tell them that most of you would never pick up a historical book, but you might pick up a historical novel.  That's why I wrote Centurion.

Look at my first rule of writing--entertain your readers.  My first goal is to entertain.  If i can entertain and give you historical truth, then I have succeeded in more than one sense--I've put forth some great information, and I've done it in a format you will find entertaining.  That is the ultimate goal in writing.

There is much more to writing without confusing your readers. I'll write about that tomorrow. The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: Please elaborate on scene, theme, plot, character development in a new novel creation....ie, the framework, the development, order if operation, the level of detail, guidelines, rule of thumb, tricks, traps and techniques. To what extent do you outline the historic context, culture, mannerism, speech, dress and thought process of the main characters, in a historic novel...in order to maintain integrity, and gradually (help) reveal attributes of a character in the story, or otherwise clarify the plot, scene, transition, tension or resolution?

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Development - Rules of Writing, Characters of Centurion, and more Abenadar

6 August 2012, Development - Rules of Writing, Characters of Centurion, and more Abenadar

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here are my rules of writing:

1. Entertain your readers.
2. Don't confuse your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.

All language is symbols. Therefore it shouldn't surprise you that your writing should include higher level symbols. What are higher level symbols? I mentioned before the cross as a symbol. The cross is a higher level symbol--a symbol that doesn't depend on language. Symbols can be ready made or author made symbols. Some symbols are a mix.

I set up an obvious situation.  Abenadar's father chose a woman from the Galiel (Galilee) and from the largest city close to the capital, Tiberias.  When Abenadar's father returned to Rome, he left his pregnant concubine in the Galiel.  The set up is that Abenadar's mother becomes an outcast in Nazareth because she is pregnant with a Roman's child.  She shares this dubious position with another woman who is outcast for being pregnant with a child whose father is undetermined--Miriam (Mary).

In this way, I can start the novel before Abenadar is born.  His mother and Miriam are both forced together as outcasts.  This way Abenadar can be a friend to Yeshua (Jesus), and Yeshua can advise Abenadar to accept his patronage and join the Legion.  The ultimate irony is that Abenadar will be the one to lead the execution of his childhood friend.  Again, all this is easily founded on a historical basis.  Each element about Abenadar comes directly out of history and each point could be true.

Remember, the theme was about why the Centurion at the Cross would make such a statement, "This man was surely a (the) son of God."  This theme becomes 1000 times more powerful when placed in the context that the Centurion was a friend of Jesus and knew Jesus.

Did I mention, the name of Abenadar's mother was Naomi.  I never name a character without a purpose. Go back and look at the OT book of Ruth and see what Naomi did.  All novels should be filled with symbols that point to the theme.  This is a novel that is filled to the brim.  I'll write more about Abenadar as a character tomorrow.

There is much more to writing without confusing your readers. I'll write about that tomorrow. The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: Please elaborate on scene, theme, plot, character development in a new novel creation....ie, the framework, the development, order if operation, the level of detail, guidelines, rule of thumb, tricks, traps and techniques. To what extent do you outline the historic context, culture, mannerism, speech, dress and thought process of the main characters, in a historic novel...in order to maintain integrity, and gradually (help) reveal attributes of a character in the story, or otherwise clarify the plot, scene, transition, tension or resolution?

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Development - Rules of Writing, Characters of Centurion, more Abenadar

5 August 2012, Development - Rules of Writing, Characters of Centurion, more Abenadar

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here are my rules of writing:

1. Entertain your readers.
2. Don't confuse your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.

All language is symbols. Therefore it shouldn't surprise you that your writing should include higher level symbols. What are higher level symbols? I mentioned before the cross as a symbol. The cross is a higher level symbol--a symbol that doesn't depend on language. Symbols can be ready made or author made symbols. Some symbols are a mix.

I established for you that to be a Centurion, you had to be a citizen of Rome.  Further, that my main character Abenadar was traditionally known to be of mixed Roman blood.  This can be inferred by the fact that he doesn't have a Roman name and that Pilot put him in charge.  Note that the other Centurion, Gaius Flacus, had a Roman name, but he wasn't in charge of the execution.  This is very important in history and lets us determine the rank and the level of Abenadar as a Centurion.

You might ask, how do I have so much knowledge about the subject.  That's because I spent over 2 years researching the primary source documents for the time.  This is what I've been writing in the blog for a while.

To continue about Abenadar.  The Romans had ambassadors in the Galiel (Galilee), Syria, and Judea.  Because Herod the Great was in Tiberius, the Roman ambassador to him was likely in Tiberius.  Roman ambassadors were posted for many years at a time.  They tended to take concubine wives.  A concubine is a slave that has conjugal rights.  The ambassador would purchase a virgin from the gentry or otherwise of the nation where he was stationed.  They chose the most beautiful and intelligent they could find.  These concubine wives were hostesses and had to manage the ambassador's domestic needs.  They helped the ambassador understand the country, language, and culture.  It would not be at all surprising that Abenadar's father would choose a bride from the closest large city to Tiberius--Natzeret (Nazareth).  The reason for this is that the Orthodox Jews (and Samaritans) would not set foot in Tiberius because it was built on ancient tombs.  Herod the Great's city was filled with foreigners.  Because Herod was an Edomite from Udemia and his family was forced to convert to be Jews (during the Maccabean era), he didn't have any such compunctions.  The Roman ambassador would have wanted valuable information about the Galiel and not just about Tiberius.  That is why I have Abenadar's mother coming from the city (town) of Nazareth.  I'll have more tomorrow.

There is much more to writing without confusing your readers. I'll write about that tomorrow. The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: Please elaborate on scene, theme, plot, character development in a new novel creation....ie, the framework, the development, order if operation, the level of detail, guidelines, rule of thumb, tricks, traps and techniques. To what extent do you outline the historic context, culture, mannerism, speech, dress and thought process of the main characters, in a historic novel...in order to maintain integrity, and gradually (help) reveal attributes of a character in the story, or otherwise clarify the plot, scene, transition, tension or resolution?

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Development - Rules of Writing, Characters of Centurion, Abenadar

4 August 2012, Development - Rules of Writing, Characters of Centurion, Abenadar

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here are my rules of writing:

1. Entertain your readers.
2. Don't confuse your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.

All language is symbols. Therefore it shouldn't surprise you that your writing should include higher level symbols. What are higher level symbols? I mentioned before the cross as a symbol. The cross is a higher level symbol--a symbol that doesn't depend on language. Symbols can be ready made or author made symbols. Some symbols are a mix.

So I have a Centurion and traditionally his name was Abenadar.  The name doesn't really matter and neither do the strict details of the character.  All the historical data of note about this Centurion is found in the New Testament and not in any other particularly valid source.  The New Testament documents can be shown to be good historical sources, but I won't get into that today.  The only strict details that matter are those from primary historical documents--so we have a Centurion and we know he was given the responsibility of the crucifixion.  We have his words.  We have some dubious traditional sources that give us a name.  They also state that Abenadar was half Roman and Arabian.  The reason was to be in a Roman Legion you had to be a citizen of Rome (at the time).  Obviously, to be a Centurion, you had to be a citizen of Rome. 

Being a citizen of Rome was a big deal in the Roman empire.  It wasn't an easy thing to acquire.  One of the ways to become a citizen of Rome is to have a father who was Roman and be acknowledged by him.  It is highly dubious that an Arabian would be a citizen of Rome.  Likely, the appellation of Arabian was placed on Abenadar due to his name, and to disparage his patronage.  The most likely source for a bastard son of a Roman would be in a nation that had Roman ambassadors.  Arabia didn't have Roman ambassadors, but the Galiel (Galilee), Syria, and Judea did.  So how a Roman father?  I'll get to that tomorrow.

There is much more to writing without confusing your readers. I'll write about that tomorrow. The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: Please elaborate on scene, theme, plot, character development in a new novel creation....ie, the framework, the development, order if operation, the level of detail, guidelines, rule of thumb, tricks, traps and techniques. To what extent do you outline the historic context, culture, mannerism, speech, dress and thought process of the main characters, in a historic novel...in order to maintain integrity, and gradually (help) reveal attributes of a character in the story, or otherwise clarify the plot, scene, transition, tension or resolution?

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Development - Rules of Writing, the Characters of Centurion

3 August 2012, Development - Rules of Writing, the Characters of Centurion

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here are my rules of writing:

1. Entertain your readers.
2. Don't confuse your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.

All language is symbols. Therefore it shouldn't surprise you that your writing should include higher level symbols. What are higher level symbols? I mentioned before the cross as a symbol. The cross is a higher level symbol--a symbol that doesn't depend on language. Symbols can be ready made or author made symbols. Some symbols are a mix.

I wrote yesterday that the theme of my published novel, Centurion, was to answer the question: why would the Centurion at the cross state "Surely, this man was a (the) son of God."  As I have written before, the characters flow out of the theme.  This means that before you can write a novel, you must have a novel-length theme.  That is an absolute fact.  It really helps if you understand your theme.  Roz Young taught me this lesson early.  She insisted that I write down my themes.  You should too.  The theme is the most important component of the novel.

The characters in Centurion are relatively easy to develop.  First, you have the Centurion.  Next you have all the usual suspects in the New Testament accounts.  I didn't bring in the disciples directly, but you must have Jesus.  Since I focused on the politics and political figures, I included Pilate, John the Baptist, Herod Antipas, Anas, and Ciapas.  I developed other characters from primary historical accounts and information. 

Based on the theme, the author must choose the major characters.  Additionally, the beginning of the novel--in time--also determines the characters.  For Centurion, I decided that the Centurion would be half-Jewish and half-Roman.  I already knew the name I would use for the Centurion.  In many ancient accounts, the name of the Centurion is Abenadar.  We also have accounts that put two Centurions at the cross, the executor and the overall leader.  The executors name is usually recorded as Gaius Flacus.  Why two Centurions?  When to start?  I'll discuss this further, tomorrow.

There is much more to writing without confusing your readers. I'll write about that tomorrow. The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: Please elaborate on scene, theme, plot, character development in a new novel creation....ie, the framework, the development, order if operation, the level of detail, guidelines, rule of thumb, tricks, traps and techniques. To what extent do you outline the historic context, culture, mannerism, speech, dress and thought process of the main characters, in a historic novel...in order to maintain integrity, and gradually (help) reveal attributes of a character in the story, or otherwise clarify the plot, scene, transition, tension or resolution?

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Development - Rules of Writing, the Theme of Centurion

2 August 2012, Development - Rules of Writing, the Theme of Centurion

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here are my rules of writing:

1. Entertain your readers.
2. Don't confuse your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.

All language is symbols. Therefore it shouldn't surprise you that your writing should include higher level symbols. What are higher level symbols? I mentioned before the cross as a symbol. The cross is a higher level symbol--a symbol that doesn't depend on language. Symbols can be ready made or author made symbols. Some symbols are a mix.

To develop characters you must start with a theme.  The theme allows you to draw that critical first scene picture.  Note that the symbols build the theme and characters are symbols.  I mentioned the theme of Aksinya yesterday.  I'll use the theme of another novel for this example.  I thought I would use Aegypt, but I changed my mind.  There are too many spoilers.  Instead, I'll use my published novel Centurion.  The reason is that it is a historical fiction novel with a very straight forward theme.

The theme of Centurion--dundududun (drum roll)--is based on the words spoken by the Centurion at the cross of Jesus Christ.  The Centurion is reported to have said, "Surely this was a (the) Son of God."  The exact theme is the question: what would make a Centurion state something like this?  This novel, Centurion, is not really religious--although some will see it that way.  I don't really care whether the statement is historical or the speaker is historical--although there is much to support the history of both.  The point of the theme is not to answer the historicity of the event--the point of the theme is to answer the question in most people's hearts and minds.  What would make a hardened veteran and Roman warrior make such a statement.  The purpose of the novel is to answer this very complex question for everyone: what would make a person like a Centurion say such a statement.  This is the theme, and the characters, plot, and storylines come directly out of this theme.  I'll begin to define the characters for you, tomorrow.
There is much more to writing without confusing your readers. I'll write about that tomorrow. The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: Please elaborate on scene, theme, plot, character development in a new novel creation....ie, the framework, the development, order if operation, the level of detail, guidelines, rule of thumb, tricks, traps and techniques. To what extent do you outline the historic context, culture, mannerism, speech, dress and thought process of the main characters, in a historic novel...in order to maintain integrity, and gradually (help) reveal attributes of a character in the story, or otherwise clarify the plot, scene, transition, tension or resolution?

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Development - Rules of Writing, The Character as a Symbol

31 July 2012, Development - Rules of Writing, The Character as a Symbol

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here are my rules of writing:

1. Entertain your readers.
2. Don't confuse your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.

All language is symbols. Therefore it shouldn't surprise you that your writing should include higher level symbols. What are higher level symbols? I mentioned before the cross as a symbol. The cross is a higher level symbol--a symbol that doesn't depend on language. Symbols can be ready made or author made symbols. Some symbols are a mix.

It may be possible to start a character with just a name, but it is almost impossible to name a character without a context.  You must develop the character first, and the character, if you like, is your first symbol.

The example is the development of Aksinya.  I wrote already extensively about developing the character of Aksinya.  She was fully developed before I named her, the naming placed the final seal on who she was.  It placed her in time, her culture, and her being.  That is the point--you develop a character and then you place a name on the character that represents the character. 

Even before you learn about Aksinya, doesn't the name begin to conjure an image in your mind.  The author develops a character, places a name on the character that represents the character then gives the character life in revealing the character. 

This goes back to developing the character.  I will spend a little time on this subject in regard to the questions posed below.
There is much more to writing without confusing your readers. I'll write about that tomorrow. The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: Please elaborate on scene, theme, plot, character development in a new novel creation....ie, the framework, the development, order if operation, the level of detail, guidelines, rule of thumb, tricks, traps and techniques. To what extent do you outline the historic context, culture, mannerism, speech, dress and thought process of the main characters, in a historic novel...in order to maintain integrity, and gradually (help) reveal attributes of a character in the story, or otherwise clarify the plot, scene, transition, tension or resolution?

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Development - Rules of Writing, Descriptive Symbols

22 July 2012, Development - Rules of Writing, Descriptive Symbols

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here are my rules of writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.

All language is symbols. Therefore it shouldn't surprise you that your writing should include higher level symbols. What are higher level symbols? I mentioned before the cross as a symbol. The cross is a higher level symbol--a symbol that doesn't depend on language. Symbols can be ready made or author made symbols. Some symbols are a mix.

I've written about the study necessary to develop an historical character, and I've written about the understanding of culture that is necessary to develop an historical character.  The culture and history drive many of the details--these include both the descriptive physical pieces and the unspoken, but shown parts that reveal the character. 

One of the first points is how do you dress your character?  Without a knowledge of the fashions of the time, you can clothe them.  In Sister of Light, a novel on contract with my publisher, the main character buys a dress from the fashion district in Paris and the protagonist's mother speaks of Coco's shop and fashions.  The characters dress in the clothing of the times and that clothing is necessary to fully understanding the times.  When the characters take off their clothes, I describe the necessary items.  This kind of detail requires extensive study.

In my novel, Hestia, the ancient Greek clothing worn for the times is the peplos and the himation.  We would call them togas, but they are not togas and the ancient Greeks would be upset if someone couldn't tell the difference between a peplos and a chiton (both are very similar).  An AmerEnglish person might think it humorous that an ancient Greek would be so concerned about the type of tunic that is worn, yet the same AmerEnglish person might be concerned that an ancient Greek couldn't tell the difference between a double breasted and a single breasted suit or between a a tux and a tux and tails.  If you are AmerEnglish and you don't know the difference, you really don't know your own culture well enough to write about anyone else's. 

Description is involved with history and culture--I'll go into more detail tomorrow. 
There is much more to writing without confusing your readers. I'll write about that tomorrow. The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: Please elaborate on scene, theme, plot, character development in a new novel creation....ie, the framework, the development, order if operation, the level of detail, guidelines, rule of thumb, tricks, traps and techniques. To what extent do you outline the historic context, culture, mannerism, speech, dress and thought process of the main characters, in a historic novel...in order to maintain integrity, and gradually (help) reveal attributes of a character in the story, or otherwise clarify the plot, scene, transition, tension or resolution?

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.

Development - Rules of Writing, Modified Character Symbols

8 July 2012, Development - Rules of Writing, Modified Character Symbols

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

Here are my rules of writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.

All language is symbols. Therefore it shouldn't surprise you that your writing should include higher level symbols. What are higher level symbols? I mentioned before the cross as a symbol. The cross is a higher level symbol--a symbol that doesn't depend on language. Symbols can be ready made or author made symbols. Some symbols are a mix.

Using, developing, and modifying symbols are the author's job.  This includes language and other symbols.  It is the other symbols that I have been writing about.  Yesterday, I gave an example of description that used symbols exclusively to begin to define a character.  The symbols were a clerical collar, a smoking jacket, an Oxford accent, a cheap cigarette, and cheap whisky.  These are simple and strong enough symbols that they don't need modification.  Let's choose a symbol that is easily modified and that has some real power to it.  Let's use tea--Russian tea.

In one of my yet unpublished novels, Shadow of Darkness, the main character, Sveta, drinks Russian tea with milk and sugar.  Russian tea itself, like vodka represents the people and the resilience of Russia.  Unlike vodka, Russian tea doesn't represent the underside of Russia and Russians--that is laziness and drunkenness.  Russian tea connects Russia to Europe and to Britain.  Russian tea connects Russia to Imperialism and power.  Russian tea is a wonderful symbol.  The fact that Sveta like her Russian tea with milk and sugar connects her directly to Europe and to royalty.  I modified the symbol of Russian tea by making the symbol personal and by putting sugar and milk into it.  Russians usually drink their tea without sugar or milk.  The way Sveta likes her tea is a powerful statement about who she is and who she was.  It tells the reader who she really is.

The who she really is, is a secret in the novel.  This is a secret that isn't revealed until very late in the novel and even then, the reader isn't certain it is true. 

There is much more to writing without confusing your readers. I'll write about that tomorrow.

I'll repeat my published novel websites so you can see more examples: http://www.ldalford.com/, and the individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com/, http://www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, http://www.thefoxshonor.com/, and http://www.aseasonofhonor.com/.