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Joji-tan

Questionable Regular

PostPosted: Tue Nov 23, 2010 7:27 pm


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User ImageXXX HIRA'S CRIBBLES ↓ ↓ ↓

Weapon of Choice »» Computer

Victim »» Introductory Post of Journal

Date of Operation »» 23rd November, 2010

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Hello, everyone. My name is Shiratori-Jane. I do not usually keep online journals/blogs but I figured that since I am keeping a progress report here, I should write about the progress as well. Firstly, it can be said that I am revisiting this novel, The Chair. I had started it a few years ago and then left it alone completely for almost a year. However, I miss writing and the main character has been bothering me to continue with her story for a while now. Yes, I am one of those people who like to treat their characters like a person in actual reality but I do it only for the main characters. I like to hear their voice in my head sometimes.

Anyway, apart from my sounding like a coocoo bird, I just want to get back into a regular writing pattern for my books. There are twelve pending novels, minus the ones that I do not think that I can or want to finish. My plan is to take them one at a time and carve out time for two days per week where I can put in the focus for them. Hopefully, I can get back into the swing of things and "Ace", the present main character of my focus, will be happy again. I loved doing that interview with her in the Interview thread. Oh well, I am starting to ramble. I hope that this journal works out and comments are welcome! Thank you for reading.


© 2010 Whenever it happens, it happens...
PostPosted: Wed Nov 24, 2010 2:08 pm


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User ImageXXX HIRA'S CRIBBLES ↓ ↓ ↓

Weapon of Choice »» Computer

Victim »» First Goal - Success or Failure?

Date of Operation »» 24th November, 2010

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Honestly, I had tried to continue the story before this time. Now that I am trying to mesh the two together, I realize that I had picked a slightly earlier point in the story to start from when I was attempting to continue it by hand. Oh well, it is a simple matter of reworking it so that it will flow. Actually, it is two lines before where I left off so I could cut out those and move on. We'll see where it goes. I'm taking the iniative! blaugh


© 2010Whenever it happens, it happens...

Joji-tan

Questionable Regular


Joji-tan

Questionable Regular

PostPosted: Wed Nov 24, 2010 4:52 pm


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User ImageXXX HIRA'S CRIBBLES ↓ ↓ ↓

Weapon of Choice »» Pen and Paper

Victim »» Writing my Heart out - literally

Date of Operation »» 24th November, 2010

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The attempt to make the five pages today did not work out that well. After I added what I had scribbled from a notebook, my mind went black on where to go from there for my characters. However, it did not go blank about just writing. Have you ever experienced something like that - an undeniable need to write because if you don't something might be lost to forgotten memories and misplaced thoughts? Well, I have been getting those for the past few weeks and even as the pen is flowing, it's like I can't get enough. It wants more. Need has nothing to do with desire.

I blame it on the fact that there was a period time where I was not writing at all. If I spilt something creative, it was on reflex and nothing more. However, now, I am writing and it is a bunch of crumpled emotions trying to sort themselves out in my head as well as on whatever piece of paper that I can get my hands on - sometimes at the same time. When that happens, I try to figure out a pace and allow that breather where I figure out where to start from again. So, I didn't get my five pages as yet but I'm hoping that I will meet my goal anyway. There is no need to fail on the first attempt.


© 2010 Whenever it happens, it happens...
PostPosted: Wed Nov 24, 2010 6:27 pm


Way to go for taking the initiative- especially on an old story. I know there's a number of us that abandon our work and never come back.
You know how some people will just write excerpts from their story at different times, and then fit them in as they progress? I can't do that. Its so much trouble!
I'm not sure I've experienced that undeniable need to write for fear of loss... I know that I'm enchanted by my dreams and I always have to write them down the next morning- and quick too, before I forget. As well as when I think of an awesome character quote, that was worded just right in my head and I want it written that way. But my feelings like that are very short term. And I don't think thats exactly what you were talking about anyway.
I do feel like I have a destiny to write though, and if I die before I publish my masterpiece, my life will have been insignificant. It scares me, actually.
Lastly, I don't know how you literally write, with a pencil and notebook. Typing is just so much faster, and its so much easier to edit. I guess it makes it easier to write anywhere though.
Anyway, I'm glad to see you have a journal up and have thus far kept it updated, because we don't have near the activity in this guild that I wish we did, and I like regular updates.

Arlingtonn


Joji-tan

Questionable Regular

PostPosted: Wed Nov 24, 2010 7:07 pm


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User ImageXXX HIRA'S CRIBBLES ↓ ↓ ↓

Weapon of Choice »» Computer

Victim »» Response to 1st Visitor

Date of Operation »» 24th November, 2010

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@Old Stories: I think the reason that I have so many "pending" novels is that I allowed myself to be caught up in new story ideas. I really like the one that I am working on now so it is not that hard to take note of a new story concept and carry on with the present project.

@Jotting Stuff Down: I don't do it for dreams. Most of the time, I wake up and forget about the content of the dreams so it does not matter. However, I do love writing down random yet meaningful lines such as character quotes. It is not exactly what I was talking about but it is close to it, though. The urge is very intense and feels like thoughts are just running amok but my poor hand can keep up with them. Again, I blame it on the months of no creativity. I didn't even make anything unless it was necessary.

@Typing vs. Handwriting: It does make it easier to write anywhere and everywhere. I am trying to get into the habit of typing out the handwritten pieces and usually, during that process, I get some editing done. It is like what is in the book is simply the bare bones of the concept in question. Sure, it looks like a complete piece by itself but while transferring, sentences might sound better a different way or the flow of the whole piece can be revisited.

I like to write so it is not that hard to keep it updated. There will always be something that needs to be said where writing is concerned. Thank you for your comments! I hope that the guild activity picks up, though.


© 2010XWhenever it happens, it happens...
PostPosted: Thu Nov 25, 2010 4:53 pm


Every writer I know has a mile-long list of story ideas they can never write. Too many of them fall into that trap and never get anything done, because every week their focus is turned to something 'new and shiny'.
I, oddly, don't get that. I'll have fun ideas, but I already know what I will and won't be dedicated to, so I stay consistent with one story. Its nice to actually progress.
And, when one story really stands out so much, that you're not distracted by other ideas, its like you've finally found something you just really love. Thats the way I feel about my story anyway.

I know what you mean about the editing process when you transfer a story from paper to the computer- I used to do, after all. But today, I was unable to access a computer, so I tried just writing it down on paper. That was unsuccessful (I killed so many trees!) I really hope I can have sufficient time on the computer by this evening.

Arlingtonn


Joji-tan

Questionable Regular

PostPosted: Thu Dec 02, 2010 5:32 pm


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User ImageXXX HIRA'S CRIBBLES ↓ ↓ ↓

Weapon of Choice »» Computer

Victim »» Lack of Updates

Date of Operation »» 02nd December, 2010

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Hey, I apologize about the lack of updates. School work came out of nowhere and swept me in a tunnel of assignments and tests that needed to be done. Unfortunately, I was not able to meet my deadline. What is the penalty for that? However, I have a fairly easy week of final exams so I am hoping that that translates into more writing time for 'The Chair'. Currently, I am reviewing the past chapter so as to get back into Ace's head as well as the mindset for her at this particular age. It is a flashback chapter that I am trying to finish. Ace is so difficult sometimes! Anyway, that's my update for now. I am not putting a deadlines for anything until I am sure that I can get back into this fully.

@Neus: I know that this is a very late response but did you have sufficient time on the computer that evening?


© 2010XWhenever it happens, it happens...
PostPosted: Thu Dec 02, 2010 8:30 pm


Haha- its okay, I get caught up in school too. And I only have to go every other day (like tomorrow, uhg).

I was, as a matter of fact, able to get what I needed done Thanksgiving night. And, I've been keeping up since.

I avoid deadlines too, I leave those to homework. Hopefull you'll get the time you need inbetween school to get that chapter nailed. Are there lots of flashbacks in your story?

Arlingtonn


Joji-tan

Questionable Regular

PostPosted: Tue Jan 04, 2011 4:19 pm


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User ImageXXX HIRA'S CRIBBLES ↓ ↓ ↓

Weapon of Choice »» Computer

Victim »» Got some writing done

Date of Operation »» 4th January, 2011

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Ah, I'm so horrible at keeping an online journal! However, there was not much to update about where my writing is concerned and I didn't want to jinx the fact that I had started writing for 'The Chair' again too soon. I cannot recall when I resumed writing it regularly but I will have you know that I have four out of five of those pages and it might end up being more than the predetermined five. Maybe I have been inspired to write as Ace again? It could also be because I like trying to keep her voice mature but young...if that makes sense. I mean, just because she is younger in this chapter than when the reader first meets her means that she has to be a complete airhead or something, correct? Anyway, there is always editing and friends to consult with on the matter of keeping an authentic voice for the character. Moving on...

@Neus: To answer your question, I don't think that I do but some people might think that 25% of novel being flashbacks is too much.

Again, I am so sorry about not updating this sooner especially with how I had started so strongly with it. Thank you for your patience and I hope that you enjoyed the entry. I am going to return to my novel now.


© 2010XWhenever it happens, it happens...
PostPosted: Sun Mar 06, 2011 4:56 pm


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User ImageXXX HIRA'S CRIBBLES ↓ ↓ ↓

Weapon of Choice »» Computer

Victim »» Script Frenzy 2011

Date of Operation »» 6th March, 2011

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Good day, everyone. How are you? Sometimes I wonder why I have this if I do not update weekly, at least. Anyway, I wanted to let you on some great news: I entered this year's Script Frenzy! It is being held in April and I have to write 100 pages in the 30 days. Am I crazy? A bit. However, I am loving my preparation for it because I have never gone this deep into learning about a character before writing his or her story. It is quite exhilerating and tiring at the same time. I have put the main character through one profile already but I am going even further with it by using a second, different profile. It is so amazing to feel my main character so closely. The more that I write, it is the more that I understand his past and who he is as a person. Like I said...exhilerating. Have any of you experienced this? It is similar to filling out the form of a very close friend and remembering that 'Oh, this happened this way' and 'No, he would not do that.' It is just a little bit fun and ridiculous at the same time. Of course, I will be doing this for Ace when I get back to her - after April / writing the script, whichever comes first. xp

So, questions...

1. Have you ever entered Script Frenzy or one of those other writing competitions on the Interwebz?

2. If you have, what was the experience like and what wisdom would you like to pass on to me - good and bad?

3. What is your general opinion of these competitions?

4. How have you benefited, if at all, from participating in any of them?

Thank you for your time!


© 2010XWhenever it happens, it happens...

Joji-tan

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PostPosted: Mon Mar 07, 2011 3:47 am


Well, hi there! I've participated in SF before. I joined the first year they did it, and took part the year after. The only reason why I haven't taken part since is sadly one I use far too often: school work. XD My exams are usually in May/June, so April is a big revision month for me.

To answer your questions, though:

1. Like I said, I've done SF twice, and NaNoWriMo every year since... 2004? I think? Wow, that is a long time ago... I never really think about it.

2. In my experience, there's nothing quite like the social writing aspect of the NaNo/Script Frenzy contests. They're a lot of fun, whilst also integrating an isolated hobby like writing with a lot of social support. During SF you have to make sure to stay focused on YOUR progress, though. It can be all too tempting to check out what those people are doing around you, and if they're writing faster than you it can be a bit of a put-off. However, having said that, it can also be great motivation! My tip to you would be to simply break the challenge down into manageable daily goals - and write every day. The odd day off is fine, but when you're on a strict deadline it's so much easier to stay focused and motivated if you make it a part of your daily routine. :3

3. Personally, I love them. If it weren't for NaNoWriMo I don't know that I would have pursued writing as far as I have. Not to mention, NaNoWriMo made me realise that I can write very quickly and actually produce some of my best first draft material. I'm definitely Pro-NaNo/ScriptFrenzy. XP

4. Well, like I said above, NaNo was a great help to me, and introduced me to the social side of writing (I joined the local NaNo group and found people who could help me). More specifically, with regards to Script Frenzy, I was suprised to find how much I had benefitted. After my second Script Frenzy I decided that writing scripts was fun, but that I wasn't that good at it. A couple of years later, here I am doing a script writing module at my university. What I learned during the course of Script Frenzy has been invaluable, because it's meant that I'm not intellectually behind those people who have been writing scripts for longer. Primarily I write novels, but SF has saved my butt here, I'll tell you.

I hope that was informative! Good luck taking part with SF. I know I'd be joining you if I didn't have those pesky exams to revise for! You should update here during the course of the month, and let us all see how you're getting on. :3
PostPosted: Mon Mar 07, 2011 12:02 pm


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User ImageXXX HIRA'S CRIBBLES ↓ ↓ ↓

Weapon of Choice »» Computer

Victim »» RE: Script Frenzy 2011

Date of Operation »» 7th March, 2011

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It's nice to meet you, PMS. Oi, isn't that all of our excuse for not doing something during the schoo term? xp

1. Ooh, a veteran~!

2. Daily goals - got it. I was wondering, 'How am I going to survive this?' *calculates* Hmm, it seems three pages a day should get me to where I need to be, give or take 3 more pages. Well, I hope that it is that easier. I found myself very intrigued, at least, with the character so hopefully, that progresses with the telling of the story. I am sure that I can work it in somehow, whether it is to write some outside of the computer times and then, transferring what was written.

3. That is very good to know since I want to become an author later on and strict deadlines are possible with such a profession. Thank you for that.

4. Woot! Congratulations on that. I have little script writing experience for myself so I did some research already for any specifics. I write novels as well but I like writing in general so this will be fun.

Yes, it was definitively informative. Firsthand information is invaluable for the unknown. Thank you. Well, if I do that, for once I will be regular with my updates! I will give it try, then. xd

Thank you for all of your help and I look forward to more views~


© 2010XWhenever it happens, it happens...

Joji-tan

Questionable Regular


Joji-tan

Questionable Regular

PostPosted: Sat Jul 30, 2011 8:33 am


☈ ☈ ☈
User ImageXXX HIRA'S CRIBBLES ↓ ↓ ↓

Weapon of Choice »» Computer

Victim »» Updates, updates, updates~!

Date of Operation »» 30th July, 2011

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Good day, everyone~ I apologize that I have not been updating this journal regularly or even hanging around the guild. Life was busy with exams and projects while school was going on. Then, early in my vacation, I had decided not to be active on Gaia anymore. Unfortunately, I could not hold out and returned. As for the Script Frenzy 2011, I did not make it or finish my script as yet either. I plan to finish it eventually, though as well as write a novel, as I had planned originally for that particular storyline. However, all of that is not what I had wanted to say. I want to tell you guys that finally, I finished a chapter in The Chair that was giving me a lot of trouble. Now, I can move on with it. Again, sorry about not keeping up with this place and/or the journal but I did say in the introductory post that I do not do this usually. Thanks for reading~


© 2010XWhenever it happens, it happens...
PostPosted: Sat Jul 30, 2011 4:04 pm


Hellos there :3
I definitely didn't finish with my script either, though it wasn't an actual script since...I suck at that form of writing. It constantly amazes that people can put together such awesome scripts but it's just not the modus operandi that I'm comfortable with. Anyway, I'm rewriting that whole thing so I'm even further from where I started xD

Neither am I very good at updating my journal xDD

Supinelu

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