Scenes - Scene Setting, Asylum

27 April 2013, Scenes - Scene Setting, Asylum

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/.

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 many 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. I'm giving you examples from the book so you can see different ways of introducing and writing a scene. In each snippet, you get the scene setting, the tension and release, and the input and output. This isn't true of every example, but the pieces should be there, and I've been trying to identify for you when all the pieces aren't evident. You can use these ideas to guide your own writing. Make sure you set the scene properly, then make everything come to life through the narration and conversation.

I led you to it and even told you before that Aksinya's immigration status would come into play.  This is why Dobrushin's experience as a lawyer was so important in the first place.  The situation is solved in a moment.  This is another means of using tension and release.  The reader imagines that Aksinya's problems are over, then, bang, there is another hiccup that could affect her life and freedom.  Aksinya thinks she will hear about her guilt, but the reader knows that is just her strange way of thinking.  The real situation is her status as a Russian citizen.

The judge continued to speak.

Aksinya almost clapped her hands together, “Now he will tell me the truth about my guilt.”

Father Dobrushin shushed her.

Judge Richter stated, “Although, this Schöffengericht finds the Princess Aksinya not guilty, the State of Austria has received international letters concerning the Princess.  Both of them request her return to Russia, one for political reasons and the other as extradition for criminal prosecution.  The State of Austria has asked me to make a recommendation and a judgment based on the case at hand.  Since this is not directly related to the charges, only to any potential sentencing, there is no reason for the prosecution to respond.  Defense councilor would you like to make a statement in regard to these requests?”

Father Dobrushin stood, “Yes, Your Honor.  I have reviewed both letters as well as the laws of the State of Austria as it applies to this circumstance.  It is not in the Princess’ best interest to entertain either request from either Russian claim to authority.  She desires to continue as an émigré in Austria and be allowed self-determination in all related issues.  If the court will not grant her this freedom then she is willing to petition the State of Austria for asylum.”

Judge Richter wrote on the paper in front of him, “There will be no need for that, council.  I am granted the authority to reject either or both requests as a recommendation of this court.  It was only in the case of a guilty verdict that the Princess would be extradited to Russia without her consent.  Therefore, by the authority of the State of Austria granted to me, I declare again that you are not guilty of any crime tried in this court and that you are immediately released to the custody of Father Dobrushin Sergeevich Lopuhin.
 

The tension is that Aksinya will not go free and will be convicted of something, the release is when Dobrushin argues on her behalf and the judge recognizes that Aksinya could only be remanded to Russia if she were convicted of a crime.  There was no need for Aksinya to apply for asylum.  I didn't discuss asylum in any detail, but you can see the judge didn't want her to apply for it.  There are reasons for this, but I'll not get into the legal details.  Primarily, I want Aksinya and Dobrushin to be able to go to a certain place at the end of the novel.  An asylum request would mess up this possibility.  I should discuss it, but this isn't the time in the novel--don't show everything.
 

The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: I am awaiting for you to write a detailed installment on identifying, and targeting your audience, or audiences...ie, multi-layered story, for various audiences...like CS Lewis did. JustTake care, and keep up the writing; I am enjoying it, and learning a lot.

For more information, you can visit my author sitewww.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, the Verdict

26 April 2013, Scenes - Scene Setting, the Verdict

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/.

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. I'm giving you examples from the book so you can see different ways of introducing and writing a scene. In each snippet, you get the scene setting, the tension and release, and the input and output. This isn't true of every example, but the pieces should be there, and I've been trying to identify for you when all the pieces aren't evident. You can use these ideas to guide your own writing. Make sure you set the scene properly, then make everything come to life through the narration and conversation.

Now we get the verdict of the trial.  As I noted, yesterday, this is not what Aksinya expected.  She knows she is guilty, but somehow, her guilt has been swept away.  If you note rightly, this is part of the allegory of this novel.  It is a part of the theme.  For the reader, it is enough to note the result of the trial--the result is logical and reasonable.  The result is wholly unexpected.  The demon will not be pleased--Aksinya was supposed to go to prison and to the work house.

The doors behind the large desk opened and the judges stepped to their seats.  The Bailiff stuck his staff against the ground, “Hear ye, hear ye, this Schöffengericht shall pronounce judgment in the name of Emperor Charles the first of Austria and the Republic of German Austria.  May the justice of the Lord God Almighty reign in all the affairs of men.”

Judge Richter didn’t sit.  He shuffled his papers for a moment, “Princess Aksinya Georgovna Holstein-Gottorp-Romanov also known as the Countess Golitsyna, the unanimous verdict of this Schöffengericht is that you are not guilty of any of the charges brought against you in this court.”

Aksinya stared at the Judges.  She turned her head toward Father Dobrushin.  Natalya beamed.  Aksinya asked, “What does it mean?  What is he saying?  Am I not guilty?”

Father Dobrushin whispered, “You are not guilty.”

“But I am guilty of something and especially certain sins.”

“That’s not what this court was to determine.”

Aksinya obviously didn’t understand.

Natalya took Aksinya’s hand, “That is wonderful, Princess.  You shall go free.”

Aksinya swallowed against a lump, “I shall never be free, but I am happy not to go to prison.”

Do you see Aksinya's logic is correct--she shall never be free, but she might not go to prison.  There is still one other point to adjudicate.  We shall see where that goes, tomorrow.

The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: I am awaiting for you to write a detailed installment on identifying, and targeting your audience, or audiences...ie, multi-layered story, for various audiences...like CS Lewis did. JustTake care, and keep up the writing; I am enjoying it, and learning a lot.

For more information, you can visit my author sitewww.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, a Kept Woman

25 April 2013, Scenes - Scene Setting, a Kept Woman

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/.

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. I'm giving you examples from the book so you can see different ways of introducing and writing a scene. In each snippet, you get the scene setting, the tension and release, and the input and output. This isn't true of every example, but the pieces should be there, and I've been trying to identify for you when all the pieces aren't evident. You can use these ideas to guide your own writing. Make sure you set the scene properly, then make everything come to life through the narration and conversation.

Judge Richter wishes to confer.  The result of the trial is not so odd, but it requires some adjudication and thought.  The original charge of theft was handled adroitly by Dobrushin.  He paid Aksinya's debts and took care of the charge of breaking a contract.  Natalya took care of the other charge of assault.  By taking away the charges, Aksinya is now absolved of this charge.  Notice, that in no case is she not guilty.  She is guilty of both the charge of theft (in her name) and of assault (she really did assault Natalya--Natalya just remanded the charges).  Aksinya is still guilty, but she has been granted a pardon.  The judge may judge her not guilty of the original charges, but that is the way of a court of man and not a court of God.  This is the theme-point after all.  The theme in this sense is that Aksinya has been pardoned and forgiven for her actions.  Someone else was willing, in both cases, to pay Aksinya's debts--Dobrushin with his money and Natalya with her body and forgiveness.  Natalya and Dobrushin were willing to give up more than this for Aksinya.  Natalya gave her virtue for Aksinya, and Dobrushin... we shall see.

Prosecutor Trauen stood and tapped his glasses against his hand, “Your Honor, without any remaining charges, there is no reason to continue this trial.”

“I agree, however, in good order, I wish to confer with the other judges before we pronounce our judgment.  There is another issue in relation to this person that must also be decided.”

Father Dobrushin stood, “Your Honor, I beg you not to make any decision that might affect the freedom of the Princess without conferring first with me.”

Judge Richter nodded.  He stood and led the other judges back through their respective doors.

Natalya moved over to Akisnya’s table and Father Dobrushin gave her his seat.  Aksinya kissed her cheeks again and held her close, “Lady Natalya, I am so sorry for the suffering I caused you.  I do beg your pardon.”

“And, I you,” Natalya laughed, “Tears.  When did you ever shed tears for any reason Princess?  I am afraid that beyond this moment, we will not be able to see one another again.”

“Why is that?”

“You have no household and likely will have none, and I am kept by Herr von Taaffe.”

“And you wish to be with him?”

“I would rather be with you, but Father Dobrushin has recommended against it.”

“Does Herr von Taaffe treat you poorly?”

“No, just the opposite.  He treats me too well.  Almost as well as he treated you before.”

“I see.”

“Are you jealous?”

“I should be, but I am not.  I never loved Herr von Taaffe.  I loved the things he could provide me.  I suspect you never get drunk when you go out with Herr von Taaffe.”

“No, why?”

Aksinya smiled, “What does Herr von Taaffe plan to do since his father has rejected him?”

“He has business ventures of his own.  It is not as great as his family’s, but they are substantial.  He wishes to move away from Wien and pursue this work.”

Aksinya sighed, “So long as you are pleased and taken care of.”

Natalya laughed, “I have never been taken care of in my life.  I care for others, that is what I am called to do.  That is also what pleases me.”

We kind of guessed what had happened to Natalya, now we know.  Natalya is being kept by Ernst.  In the speak of the times, she is living with him.  This in itself is worthy of a story, but this is also an example of "don't show everything."  Natalya has some kind of relationship with Ernst.  Aksinya did not love Ernst--she simply was doing the will of the demon.  As Aksinya gains some separation from the demon, she is able to exert control over herself and her condition.  She is able to separate her emotions with logic.  Thus, her answer to Natalya about jealous.  She is not jealous because she never loved Ernst. 

There is also the other question at hand--the judges are conferring on it.  Can you determine what it is--I left crumbs and even told you earlier.

The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: I am awaiting for you to write a detailed installment on identifying, and targeting your audience, or audiences...ie, multi-layered story, for various audiences...like CS Lewis did. JustTake care, and keep up the writing; I am enjoying it, and learning a lot.
For more information, you can visit my author sitewww.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, Natalya

24 April 2013, Scenes - Scene Setting, Natalya

Announcement: My novels Sister of Light and Sister of Darkness are about to be published. I write this blog about 2 months prior to 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/.

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. I'm giving you examples from the book so you can see different ways of introducing and writing a scene. In each snippet, you get the scene setting, the tension and release, and the input and output. This isn't true of every example, but the pieces should be there, and I've been trying to identify for you when all the pieces aren't evident. You can use these ideas to guide your own writing. Make sure you set the scene properly, then make everything come to life through the narration and conversation.

The scene is set.  The characters (actors) are in place.  Now is the time to finalize this release.  Notice the use of showing to let the reader know how Judge Richter feels.  I don't tell you he is touched by the greeting of Aksinya and Natalya--I simply show you he puts down his handkerchief, he instructs the other judges, and tries to put on a stern look.  You know he was touched.

Sergeant Nagel led Natalya to the witness chair. 

Judge Richter put down his handkerchief, “Judges, please don’t let any of the previous conversation or actions cloud your judgment.  I only allowed it because it seemed an appropriate greeting between friends.”  He tried to put on a stern look, “Lady Natalya, please announce your full name to the court.”

Natalya’s voice was soft but clear, “I am the Lady Natalya Alexandrovna Obolenska.”

“What is your relationship to the Princess Aksinya.”

Natalya put her hands together, “The Count…Princess I mean, rescued me.  No one else in the world would help me, but she did.”

“Rescued you?”

“I was a handmaiden to a noble family in Minsk.  They treated me like a slave.  The Princess rescued me from there and offered me the position of her lady-in-waiting.  She gave me clothing and jewelry.  She cared for me and sent me to school.  She called me her friend and confidant.”

“Can you describe the events of the evening when the Princess beat you?”

“It was the evening that the Princess was supposed to deliver her answer to Herr von Taaffe.”

“Her answer to what?”

“To his proposal of marriage.  Ernst von Taaffe offered to marry her and his father the Graf von Taaffe encouraged the match.  I knew her answer before she gave it.”

“Did she tell you what she would answer the young man?”

“No, Ernst von Taaffe is an honorable man, but he had two very important books that belonged to the Princess.  She wanted them back.  I knew that no matter what happened, her desire for the books would cloud her thinking.”

“What does this have to do with the Princess beating you?”

“This is the reason she beat me.”

“What was the reason?”

Aksinya stood.  Natalya stood.  Half the courtroom stood.  Aksinya pointed her finger, “Lady Natalya, I forbid you to tell them why I beat you.”

Father Dobrushin pulled Aksinya back into her seat, “The press has already published the reason in the papers.  She announced it during the ecclesiastical trial.  There is no reason for you to stop her testimony.”

Aksinya held her head in her hands, “She shouldn’t have to say it again.”

Natalya sat back down, “The reason the Princess beat me was because I seduced the man she wished to marry.  I seduced Herr von Taaffe.  Because of that, the Princess rightly became enraged.  I deserved to be beaten by her.  I deserved every stroke.  I did not wish to proffer charges against her.  The ecclesiastical court presented them in my name.  I wish for this court to absolve the Princess of every charge related to this.  I know she asked my pardon, and I know from my priest that she has confessed.  I wish to absolutely forgive her and pardon her for this sin against me, because I was the cause of it.  I only wish she could forgive my sin against her.”

Judge Richter pressed his palms against the top of the desk, “Are you certain of what you say Lady Natalya?”

Natalya nodded vigorously.

Aksinya spoke almost automatically, “Lady Natalya, you must speak your response aloud.”

Natalya turned and smiled at Aksinya, “I do mean everything I have said.  I did not bring any charges against her.  I committed a more grave crime than she.  I admit this freely.”

Judge Richter turned to Prosecutor Trauen, “Prosecutor, there are no other charges against the Princess.  Do you have anything else you wish to propose or anything you wish to ask this witness?”

Prosecutor Trauen stood and tapped his glasses against his hand, “Your Honor, without any remaining charges, there is no reason to continue this trial.”

The tension in this scene is the aftermath of the meeting of Aksinya and Natalya.  What kind of testimony could we expect from Natalya?  I think the astute reader will see immediately, Natalya will always respond within the defined bounds of her personality.  In any novel, only one character should change--the main character of the novel.  Aksinya has changed and is changing.  Natalya is not the main character--she will not change.  Her personality is such that she loves Aksinya to the point that she would go to Hell for her.  She does not see anything wrong with Aksinya.  The response in the trial is exactly what we should expect from her.  The release is hearing the words from her mouth and the Judge's pronouncement.

The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: I am awaiting for you to write a detailed installment on identifying, and targeting your audience, or audiences...ie, multi-layered story, for various audiences...like CS Lewis did. JustTake care, and keep up the writing; I am enjoying it, and learning a lot. For more information, you can visit my author sitewww.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 New Scene

23 April 2013, Scenes - Scene Setting, another New Scene

Announcement: My novels Sister of Light and Sister of Darkness are about to be published. I write this blog about 2 months prior to 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/.

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. I'm giving you examples from the book so you can see different ways of introducing and writing a scene. In each snippet, you get the scene setting, the tension and release, and the input and output. This isn't true of every example, but the pieces should be there, and I've been trying to identify for you when all the pieces aren't evident. You can use these ideas to guide your own writing. Make sure you set the scene properly, then make everything come to life through the narration and conversation.

The opening of a new scene.  This is following lunch.  The time is specified and the place.  The place has been described already--there is no need to describe it again.  The entry of the characters is important.  We get the customary introduction of the court.  This is important to repeat to set the scene and the reader's feel of the situation and circumstances.

Just before one o’clock, Sergeant Nagel escorted them back to the courtroom.  They returned to their seats and waited for the rest of the court to gather.

Directly at one, behind the large desk, two judges came through the door at the right and two judges through the door at the left.  The bailiff of the court struck his staff against the floor, “Hear ye, hear ye, this Schöffengericht is reconvened in the name of Emperor Charles the first of Austria and the Republic of German Austria.  I present again The Honorable Gustav Richter, The Honorable Artur Kuester, Lay Judge Albert Vogler, and Lay Judge Oscar Amsel.  May the justice of the Lord God Almighty reign in all the affairs of men.” 

Judge Richter started up immediately, “The focus of this afternoon are the charges of assault and battery against Princess Aksinya.  The first witness whom I wish to call is the Lady Natalya Alexandrovna Obolenska.  Sergeant Nagel.”

In a couple of minutes, Natalya followed Sergeant Nagel into the courtroom.  She walked with excellent posture, but one of her shoulders drooped a little lower than the other.

Aksinya gave a little cry when she saw Natalya.  Natalya’s eyes lit up.  She ran to Aksinya and curtsied to the floor.  Aksinya took Natalya’s hand and lifted her up.  She stood and embraced Natalya.  Aksinya kissed Natalya’s cheeks.  They were wet with tears.

Judge Richter cleared his throat a couple of times.  He rolled his eyes.  Finally he said something, “Herr Lopuhin, this is highly irregular.”  He paused, “But…yes, I understand.”  He sighed and slumped back into his seat.

Natalya cried, “They wouldn’t let me see you.  I begged and begged, but they said you were in jail.”

Aksinya laughed, “I was in jail.  I will likely go to prison.  I love you so much, and I am so sorry.  I missed you.”

“And I you, mistress.  I wish to join your household again.”

Aksinya looked down, “I have none.”

Father Dobrushin took Aksinya by the arm, “Princess, that is enough.  The Lady Natalya must testify.”

“Yes, you must testify and ensure you tell the truth, Lady Natalya.”

Natalya nodded and presented a very worried look on her face.

Sergeant Nagel led Natalya to the witness chair. 

The focus of this scene is Natalya as well as Aksinya's response to Natalya.  The pathos of the scene is obvious.  The judges response reflects this.  There is obviously the results of Aksinya's violence against Natalya--did you catch it?  I don't tell you anything--I show you that Natalya walks with excellent posture but that one of her shoulders is lower than the other.  She has been injured permanently.  Aksinya may or may not realize this--that is immaterial.  The point is the pathos in the description and the situation.  The characters may not realize what has happened or what is going on.  The description was not for the characters--the description was for the readers. 

The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: I am awaiting for you to write a detailed installment on identifying, and targeting your audience, or audiences...ie, multi-layered story, for various audiences...like CS Lewis did. JustTake care, and keep up the writing; I am enjoying it, and learning a lot. For more information, you can visit my author sitewww.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, New Scene

22 April 2013, Scenes - Scene Setting, New Scene

Announcement: My novels Sister of Light and Sister of Darkness are about to be published. I write this blog about 2 months prior to 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/.

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. I'm giving you examples from the book so you can see different ways of introducing and writing a scene. In each snippet, you get the scene setting, the tension and release, and the input and output. This isn't true of every example, but the pieces should be there, and I've been trying to identify for you when all the pieces aren't evident. You can use these ideas to guide your own writing. Make sure you set the scene properly, then make everything come to life through the narration and conversation.

Here is the beginning of a new chapter and a new scene.  Aksinya and Dobrushin are led to the private lunch room in the Rathaus.  The setting of the scene is this room in the Rathaus.  We know the time.  The characters are described by comparison to Aksinya.

Sergeant Nagel led Aksinya and Father Dobrushin into the private luncheon room within the Rathaus.  They sat at a private table near the back of the chamber.  Aksinya appeared completely out of place there.  Her hair had not been properly brushed in weeks.  Her dress was wrinkled and stained beyond the bloody crosses that marked it.  It had been the dress of a drudge to begin with.  She had not had a bath either—not in a long while.  She glanced at Father Dobrushin in his clean and well pressed suit and stood, “I don’t belong here.”

Father Dobrushin didn’t look at her, “Sit down, now.  Judge Richter sent you here so you would not have to face the reporters yet.”

She sat, “Yet?”

“When you win and are redeemed, you will have to answer some of their questions.  When that happens, I suggest you keep quiet and allow me to speak for you.”

“I will win?  What does that mean?”

“It means that you will be found not guilty and you will be released.”

“This is certain?”

“Nothing is certain.  All I know is that I will do everything I can to save you.”

“Perhaps you are the foolish one.  What do you gain from all this?  I can’t pay your bill.  In fact, who did pay my bills on the remaining claims?”

“I did.”

“You did?  Why would you do that for me?”

“Right now, I want you to eat something nice and have tea the way you like it.”

“I like tea best the way Natalya makes it for me.”

Father Dobrushin smiled, “You act as though nothing happened to estrange you from anyone else in the world.”

“Because I can’t control what anyone else does.  I can only control what I do or think.  I learned that long before I met the demon.  He just reminded me of it.”

Father Dobrushin couldn’t say anything after that.  He ordered then both lunch and tea.

Notice that we discover who was paying Aksinya's bills.  It was Dobrushin.  Aksinya brings up a question that she wants to know and so do we--what do you gain from this.  That is, what do you gain from paying my bills and helping me.  This answer will be given, but we must wait for it.

The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: I am awaiting for you to write a detailed installment on identifying, and targeting your audience, or audiences...ie, multi-layered story, for various audiences...like CS Lewis did. JustTake care, and keep up the writing; I am enjoying it, and learning a lot. For more information, you can visit my author sitewww.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, Natural Breaks

21 April 2013, Scenes - Scene Setting, Natural Breaks

Announcement: My novels Sister of Light and Sister of Darkness are about to be published. I write this blog about 2 months prior to 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/.

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. I'm giving you examples from the book so you can see different ways of introducing and writing a scene. In each snippet, you get the scene setting, the tension and release, and the input and output. This isn't true of every example, but the pieces should be there, and I've been trying to identify for you when all the pieces aren't evident. You can use these ideas to guide your own writing. Make sure you set the scene properly, then make everything come to life through the narration and conversation.

Natural breaks occur throughout life.  The point is for the author to take advantage of them.  In this example, the judge releases the court for lunch.  This is a natural break.  I could simply let time pass and immediately move back into the trial, but here is the perfect time to allow Aksinya and Dobrushin to speak to one another.  Here is also an opportunity to develop more pathos through Aksinya.

“Therefore, I release this Schöffengericht for luncheon.  At one we shall begin with the assault and battery charges.  Sergeant Nagel, there is no reason to return the Princess to her cell.”  Judge Richter stood and the other judges followed him out their respective doors.  The courtroom began to empty.  A clump of reporters stood at the back and waited for Father Dobrushin and Aksinya to walk out the main door.

A policeman conferred with Sergeant Nagel, and the Sergeant motioned to Father Dobrushin, “Sir, you may follow me to the private luncheon room in the Rathaus.  Judge Richter instructed me that you should dine there.”

“Thank you.”  Aksinya and Father Dobrushin followed the Sergeant out the side door of the courtroom.

There is some interesting revelation in this scene.  The judge doesn't send Aksinya back to her cell.  He obviously trusts Dobrushin and that Aksinya is not dangerous.  This is a foreshadowing of the next scene in the courtroom.  The reader shouldn't take heart with this simple revelation, but it does show that Aksinya has not lost the potential for a just trial.

The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: I am awaiting for you to write a detailed installment on identifying, and targeting your audience, or audiences...ie, multi-layered story, for various audiences...like CS Lewis did. JustTake care, and keep up the writing; I am enjoying it, and learning a lot.
For more information, you can visit my author sitewww.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, House

19 April 2013, Scenes - Scene Setting, House

Announcement: My novels Sister of Light and Sister of Darkness are about to be published. I write this blog about 2 months prior to 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/.

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. I'm giving you examples from the book so you can see different ways of introducing and writing a scene. In each snippet, you get the scene setting, the tension and release, and the input and output. This isn't true of every example, but the pieces should be there, and I've been trying to identify for you when all the pieces aren't evident. You can use these ideas to guide your own writing. Make sure you set the scene properly, then make everything come to life through the narration and conversation.

The issue of the house is handelly solved.  Herr Tauber had a claim, but like everything the demon has touched, even the claim is not what it seems.  Herr Tauber had an advantage he believed he could take to court.  The reality is that Father Dobrushin knew the full cost.  The court is a just one.

Judge Richter glanced back at his notes, “Herr Tauber, was the house damaged?”

“No.”

“You have it back in the same condition you delivered it?”

“Yes, but I lost three months interest…”

“I see that is your claim.”  The judge glanced to the left, “Prosecutor Trauen, do you wish to question the witness?”

“No, Your Honor.”

“Herr Lopuhin?”

Father Dobrushin jumped up.  He spoke quickly, “Herr Tauber, the Countess had the use of your house for less than three months, but you had a surety of earnest money that is greater than the interest and you received the house back without loss.  As far as I can tell you came out positive in this venture.  What actual claims remain that you wish to make against the Countess?  It seems to me, that you owe her money.”

“But the contract…”

“Herr Tauber, this is a criminal court.  The question is one of theft.  It appears to me, that the Countess did not legally make a contract with you.  That rather your contract was with this person Anatov Aznabaev.  In any case, you should return the surety and be paid the interest.  How much would you then owe the Countess?”

Herr Tauber’s lips quivered, “I suppose a thousand Marks.”

“There is no indication of theft here at all, that is theft by the Countess from you, rather you have potentially conducted a theft from the Countess.  If I were her, I would sue you in civil court and ask that you be tired for criminal theft.”

Prosecutor Trauen stood, “I object to the questioning of the witness.”

Judge Richter seemed surprised, “I’m not certain Herr Lopuhin is not correct.  This is a criminal trial against the Princess, but the actions of Herr Tauber are close to criminal and civil fraud.  It does not seem to me that there is any indication of theft, in this case, by the Princess.  Herr Tauber, you are dismissed.”

The house owner stood on shaking legs.  He bowed to the Princess and exited the courtroom.

The question of theft isn't answered, but it has been opened and shut in one case.

The following is a question asked by one of my readers. I'm going to address this over time: I am awaiting for you to write a detailed installment on identifying, and targeting your audience, or audiences...ie, multi-layered story, for various audiences...like CS Lewis did. JustTake care, and keep up the writing; I am enjoying it, and learning a lot.
For more information, you can visit my author sitewww.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites: http://www.aegyptnovel.com/, http://www.centurionnovel.com, www.thesecondmission.com/, http://www.theendofhonor.com/, thefoxshonor, aseasonofhonor.