Diary of a Novel - Week 4

Got side tracked the last couple weeks with rewriting a screenplay I did for some producers. They're great guys, but once again I'm reminded of the freedom we have as novelists verses script writers.

As a screenwriter for hire, my job is to try to keep the producers happy (I have four on this project). They're ideas are good but sometimes it's designing a story by committee. Little nuance and brush strokes can often get steamrolled or misunderstood. Sometimes trying something different and quirky can be misconstrued as simply a failed attempt at writing a normal scene. As a result I find myself wanting to go for the safer, broader strokes which can make the writing feel more like a comic book than a more original and intricate story -- an entertaining piece of concrete instead of a fragile snowflake.

Again, this is no criticism of my producers, just the process in general. This is why I often tell students, if you want to be a writer, be a novelist or poet or short story writer or even a playwright. There you have time to experiment and try new things. If you want to reach the masses with broader strokes and more plot than nuance, then be a screenwriter. Both forms are valid with their unique rewards. But if you're a wordsmith (instead of a plotsmiths), prose and poetry may be more your cup of tea.

Next week, I hope to get back on track with the novel.

Blessings,
bill
www.Billmyers.com