Activity

@j-a-penrose

Hmm, I think my favorite lessons were the prologue and epilogue ones, because (well, for one, misused prologues and epilogues are still one of my pet peeves :P) it ended up working out perfectly to have the two reflect each other in Dahop’s Ember. It really helped bring out the theme and motifs that will be used through the whole series in a more powerful way than I could have done otherwise.

I guess what I struggle with the most is coming up with the plot. Once I have the ideas, I know how to structure them and how to weave in the character arcs, but my biggest issue is actually brainstorming what happens. I’ve tried looking at the arcs and deciding what sorts of things would need to happen in order to challenge the characters, which works, but the plot doesn’t end up being creative or unique. Kind of like doing the bare minimum of an assignment—it does the job, but it’s boring and doesn’t get you any extra credit. *shrugs* Could just be that I’m too stressed over schoolwork to let the creative side of my brain fully take over, and I’m looking at things from too much of a technical angle. But, looking back over my stories from the past, I think that’s always been an issue. It’s definitely been worse lately though. Do you have any suggestions for how I can get the ideas and inspiration I need?

For our next theme…maybe characters? They’re so important, and it’s hard to do a character whose past, personality, flaws, and motivations are all truly connected to make him well-rounded and real. It was easier for me to do with Lotro, who grew up crippled and shunned by his pack, was betrayed by his family, and is surrounded by corrupt leaders. However, my current protagonist is young and had a relatively tame childhood, so pinning his flaws and motivations is much more difficult.

Thanks again!