tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25030555054053707662024-02-22T12:14:26.507-05:00F.E. SewellF.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-7469162449810159552012-04-12T19:39:00.000-04:002012-04-12T19:39:32.185-04:00News on the Writing Front!I’ve been MIA from the internet the last couple of months.<br />
<br />
Long story short, I was busy with a task that was important enough to warrant my full attention. You may be wondering what sort of thing that would be.<br />
<br />
Drumroll, please...<br />
<br />
Writing, of course!<br />
<br />
I FINALLY finished my NaNo novel. Well, the first draft, at least. Next item on the to-do list is to edit the beast. We’ll see how that goes. I’m notorious for crumpling under the shame of poorly written manuscripts. The good news is that I’ve learned a lot this past year about editing and I'm happy to say I don’t fear it like I used to. I have a whole pack of red pens in my desk drawer to prove it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1576374783" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqK6kqInIr8ZE697r9PTrxYhvxEz8FZyY4bCT1_a4EEQnRkpJBa5CPSZ3UO037qHXEUep6NT-tb_xAv9h5n9Ko6FkNbZuoZ6PuUmS4bjEuKECAZPLR7EAO9JxqbUGS6EtXYu6Iyaf50Tha/s320/7283732_148cdb3ded_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
After the whole debacle where my laptop ate a good chunk of <a href="http://fesewell.blogspot.com/2011/08/why-you-should-back-up-your-work.html">my very first manuscript</a>, and the other where my plot (and motivation) melted into a pile of goo about 60,000 words into my second manuscript, it feels pretty good to be able to say I’ve finally got a finished draft. Third time’s a charm, right?<br />
<br />
And yes, I backed up my file this time.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/40954787@N00/7283732" target="_blank">Image Source</a></span>F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-48564895498772242322012-01-31T21:44:00.000-05:002012-01-31T21:44:57.024-05:00A Month of Letters Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://lettermo.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOLs4i54HBZNvOmrTJfhRCMoVTByxsMZrXUVGCLdGBBDX9_-7ZfZVNE3neU_vAZINh9wtuIZMs2jmCJkrwWKaiyF6uI2OUH2ueF8ENqlWuJiJ-VFU7IV7PHcgK8q94wpbZHDI3F2DTMQan/s200/LetterMo2012x230-1.jpg" width="161" /></a></div><br />
I just signed up for <a href="http://www.maryrobinettekowal.com/">Mary Robinette Kowal’s</a> <a href="http://lettermo.com/">A Month Of Letters Challenge</a> where participants write a letter each day except Sundays and President’s Day for the month of February. The letter can be a postcard, fabric swatch, newspaper clipping, or whatever you want. You can even write a letter to the main character in Mary’s novel <a href="http://www.maryrobinettekowal.com/fiction-collectio/shades-of-milk-and-honey/">SHADES OF MILK AND HONEY</a> and she will write back as Jane using a real quill and writing slope.<br />
<br />
Personally, I’ll be sending out lots of postcards since I have more than I can count on my entire extended family’s fingers and toes. I also plan to send recipes to my mom on index cards so she can pop them right into her recipe box. It’s not like there’s any room left for more, but it can never hurt to have too many recipes.<br />
<br />
I highly recommend joining in. It’s going to be a great way to practice penmanship, writing, etc. and get fun things in the mail.F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-10470246681897414792012-01-19T12:50:00.000-05:002012-01-19T12:50:29.072-05:00What I Learned About EditingI don’t have much experience in the area of authoring, editing, and writing so I’m doing a post based on a bit of good advice I received once. (I’m probably the last person you’d want to pay attention to for advice on writing, but I’ve found this bit of info to be particularly useful.)<br />
<br />
First, a fact about myself. I spend way too much time obsessing over details.<br />
<br />
Who doesn’t, though? (If you don’t, put your hand down and play along.)<br />
<br />
I’m not surprised I’ve had such a hard time breaking my habit of nitpicking through grammar and spelling issues. Extreme attention to detail is a huge aspect of graphic design so it makes sense that I’m naturally inclined to obsess.<br />
<br />
At some point, somewhere between editing one draft and getting hung up on grammar errors halfway through another, and having a major case of stress-induced heart burn and gnashing of teeth, I realized my process wasn’t working. I pulled myself away from my work long enough to get some much-needed advice. After my graphic designer spent a few days having a small tantrum I came to terms with what needed to be done. It’s time to stop obsessing over details and MOVE on.<br />
<br />
Write the book.<br />
<br />
Then edit.<br />
<br />
At least then I will have a finished manuscript.F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-74537824062946600472012-01-08T12:04:00.000-05:002012-01-08T12:04:23.140-05:00Dad Wrote A StoryMy dad wrote a flash fiction piece inspired by the second challenge at Rachel Harrie’s <a href="http://rachaelharrie.blogspot.com/p/writers-platform-building-crusade.html">Writer’s Campaign</a>. He doesn’t have a blog so I told him I would post his story on mine.<br />
<br />
It's actually quite good.<br />
<br />
<blockquote><div style="text-align: center;"><b>“Imago? Not Tonight!”</b></div><br />
“No, dear brother. Not tonight, not today, not ever,” she said in "the voice" reserved for such times.<br />
<br />
His response was spontaneous and predictable. “Why not? It’s in the dictionary, isn’t it?” <br />
<br />
“It’s not in my dictionary, nor any dictionary,” was the reply. She knew what was coming next.<br />
<br />
“But it is in Papa’s dictionary, and it is a good word,” he pleaded.<br />
<br />
She well remembered the dictionary Papa had frequently referenced. Words like lacuna, synchronicity, miasma, and other obscure creations of his imagination. The dictionary they never got to actually see themselves which was stored on the top shelf, just out of reach.<br />
<br />
The fire in the stove had burned down somewhat, but the room was uncomfortably warm. The kettle, once full of water, was beginning to make a low noise, a sign it would need to be refilled soon. Outside, the storm dragged on, a harbinger of many more winter nights to come.<br />
<br />
The pair sat across the board from one another. Suddenly she grew tired, but staring down at her pieces, she felt the excitement. Starting with the "o" she slowly arranged her pieces downward. <br />
<br />
“Oscitate. Double letter, triple word, and out. Just like Papa!” she exclaimed.</blockquote>F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-42499875842568305332011-11-16T14:10:00.003-05:002011-11-16T15:26:49.611-05:00NaNoWriMo, Saved By The Bell, and a Giant CatMy days as an absentee blogger are officially over.<br />
<br />
For now, anyway.<br />
<br />
Here’s the latest from my neck of the woods:<br />
<br />
1) I won a flash fiction contest over at <a href="http://rachaelharrie.blogspot.com/p/writers-platform-building-crusade.html">Rachel Harrie’s Writer’s Campaign</a>. I placed twelfth out of 192 entries, which is, apparently, high enough to win a prize. Thanks to everyone who voted for <a href="http://fesewell.blogspot.com/2011/09/2nd-campaign-challenge.html">my entry</a>, by the way. It’s an honor.<br />
<br />
2) I’m doing my first <a href="http://www.nanowrimo.org">NaNoWriMo</a> this year. My cousin managed to talk me into it a couple of months ago. My word count isn’t quite where I want it to be, but I’ve got an awesome idea that I can’t stop thinking about (sound familiar?) and I’m good at pumping out words in short amounts of time. I can’t wait to see what I have at the end of November.<br />
<br />
3) A good friend of mine stopped by and photographed some drawings for my portfolio. I’m hoping to get them up on the Internet soon and score some new clients.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5nTJRR7oLKMV0utUc8jOK_OpJ84gTPHw-sh3mRGNJMhRHnmD3yINHzyEWdlWymsa5O3GN_ACSE4bhE3Cdt2AKJwx9IPspawBlPHf6Yoprovlgg6bM80N_iC09Bed5diV8Z-43ZVwodYSp/s1600/Drawrings2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5nTJRR7oLKMV0utUc8jOK_OpJ84gTPHw-sh3mRGNJMhRHnmD3yINHzyEWdlWymsa5O3GN_ACSE4bhE3Cdt2AKJwx9IPspawBlPHf6Yoprovlgg6bM80N_iC09Bed5diV8Z-43ZVwodYSp/s400/Drawrings2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
3) I went to a crafting retreat a few weekends ago outside of the city. A friend of mine, who happens to be an avid scrapbooker/crafter/graphic designer organized the retreat and invited her friends to come out. I’m not a crafter or a scrapbooker, but I figured it would be fun and, as it turns out, I had a great time.<br />
<br />
While I was there I had every intention of writing at least 6,000 words for NaNoWriMo, but ended up knitting half a mitten, drawing a still life, and eating more food than I have in the last six months and partaking in more girl talk than a group middle school girls at a slumber party in 1991 arguing Zack vs. Slater.<br />
<br />
4) Oh, and I turned 30 yesterday so I’m celebrating by posting a picture of my giant cat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPFvfJruVBzVq1uNlHrIijUcdM798kdxbpKH0iqkBGfKNnfygaJzVlHIwQDF7ajFmGEgFLliJFgeNg2QEV7UWoi35tdw8LsLNRGvVIZKp6HfI_jKxtYOuKmD9RwKHVIx4SIQOxoQvYtO_/s1600/DSC03325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPFvfJruVBzVq1uNlHrIijUcdM798kdxbpKH0iqkBGfKNnfygaJzVlHIwQDF7ajFmGEgFLliJFgeNg2QEV7UWoi35tdw8LsLNRGvVIZKp6HfI_jKxtYOuKmD9RwKHVIx4SIQOxoQvYtO_/s400/DSC03325.JPG" /></a></div>F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-23499290220991330492011-09-22T23:15:00.001-04:002011-09-22T23:20:29.248-04:002nd Campaign ChallengeIt's time for the second campaign challenge over at <a href="http://rachaelharrie.blogspot.com/p/writers-platform-building-crusade.html">Rachael Harrie's Writer's Platform-Building Campaign</a>.<br />
<br />
This one was a doozy, but I enjoyed the challenge.<br />
<br />
<b>Rules: </b><br />
<ul><li>200 words exactly, excluding the title: <i>Yes</i></li>
<li>Flash fiction, non-fiction, humorous blog musings, or poem: <i>Got it</i></li>
<li>Include the word "imago" in the title: <i>Uh huh</i></li>
<li>Include miasma, lacuna, oscitate, and synchronicity: <i>Check</i></li>
<li>Make reference to a mirror in your post: <i>Done!</i></li>
</ul><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u> </u></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b>The Battle of Imago</b></div><br />
His fist ricocheted off the Opponent’s red armor.<br />
<br />
The ligaments in his blue arms extended and retracted at lightning speed through the small lacuna of safety between them that flickered with shards of moonlight.<br />
<br />
Though they wore the same type of armor, he knew it wasn’t uncommon to be unfairly matched. <br />
<br />
For a brief moment, their arms became entangled and their movements mirrored each other in a synchronicity that frightened him.<br />
<br />
The Opponent slammed his fist into his face and a wave of pain darted through his neck and skull. He returned the favor with a swift uppercut. The Opponent’s armor rattled and a mechanism in his left arm snapped. <br />
<br />
He smiled. The Opponent was weaker.<br />
<br />
The Opponent struggled to maintain his stance and faltered. Through the miasma of aggression he saw an opportunity and drove his fist straight into the Opponent’s jaw, causing his head to oscitate from his shoulders and pop into the air.<br />
<br />
Before he could celebrate his victory he felt his body rise into the air and float some distance before settling on a shelf.<br />
<br />
“If you ever want to see your Rock’em Sock’em again, you boys better turn the lights out and go to bed!”<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u> </u> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>If you liked my story take a moment to swing on over to the <a href="http://www.linkytools.com/wordpress_list.aspx?id=108291&type=basic">list of entries</a> and vote for me (#53).F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com66tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-15744783395238205172011-09-20T21:51:00.002-04:002011-09-20T22:39:30.256-04:00It's Award Time!In the recent weeks I’ve received a few awards from some awesome bloggers. This has left me feeling quite honored and happy.<br />
<br />
*Takes awards and pins to blog*<br />
<br />
However, I’ve been so busy lately drawing, making tissue paper flowers, traipsing across the Midwest with my parents, and dodging tornadoes (imaginary) that I haven’t had time to post about it until today. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE_ybG4cfafKR_yjj-eXx8A6pFhrVmQyawNd2aP6-JyGZU3vScvuYJA1Lbftvdkql3za4jnXxPDHErVWqTgPN2oEF2WUc-8k2Ze2Y7f26RJ5Aacb8qBxbPdDdWVKUJKSkm7RQgMXqJqmEv/s1600/Liebster%252BAward.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="62" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE_ybG4cfafKR_yjj-eXx8A6pFhrVmQyawNd2aP6-JyGZU3vScvuYJA1Lbftvdkql3za4jnXxPDHErVWqTgPN2oEF2WUc-8k2Ze2Y7f26RJ5Aacb8qBxbPdDdWVKUJKSkm7RQgMXqJqmEv/s320/Liebster%252BAward.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br />
<br />
This is my very first Internet bloggy award ever. EVER. (Thanks, <a href="http://randylindsay.blogspot.com/">Randy Lindsay</a>, for the award!) Once Randy let me know that he had given me the award, I promptly took a moment to squee to my husband, parents, and everyone else on speed dial.<br />
<br />
And since the Liebster Award is all about spreading the love, I’m passing this award on to:<br />
<br />
(drum roll)<br />
<br />
<blockquote><a href="http://rachelbeansblog.blogspot.com/">Rachel Bean</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://tfwalsh.wordpress.com/">Tania Walsh</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.clairemarriott.com/rambles/">Claire Marriott</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://dawnmalone.blogspot.com/">Dawn Malone</a></blockquote><br />
Here are the rules:*<br />
<br />
1. Show your thanks to the blogger who gave you the award by linking back to them.<br />
2. Reveal your top 4 picks and let them know by leaving a comment on their blog or sending them a tweet.<br />
3. Post the award on your blog.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u> </u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsZuRJZbJoOR_lDYXNzOwLW2bV301g78yVS4-ldVET2uRhWmn0lRwsRqhV1pkDjEn-a17zHtUbk7SooqUENZQ0KZWVKPL5J66R0Ojx-Kj1DFh4I0WbAp6Gx6r8EloppfdxX1TiigCWxAO/s1600/versatileblogger1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsZuRJZbJoOR_lDYXNzOwLW2bV301g78yVS4-ldVET2uRhWmn0lRwsRqhV1pkDjEn-a17zHtUbk7SooqUENZQ0KZWVKPL5J66R0Ojx-Kj1DFh4I0WbAp6Gx6r8EloppfdxX1TiigCWxAO/s320/versatileblogger1.png" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I received the Versatile Blogger Award from <a href="http://www.jocelynrish.com/blog">Jocelyn Rish</a>, <a href="http://simplyscribblings.blogspot.com/">Karen deBlieck</a>, and <a href="http://kaykays-corner.blogspot.com/">Kristina Fugate</a>. Thanks so much, you guys!<br />
<br />
According to the rules I need to list seven things about myself. You can see my list <a href="http://fesewell.blogspot.com/2011/09/random-facts-about-me.html">here</a>.<br />
<br />
And the Versatile Blogger Award goes to:<br />
<br />
<blockquote><a href="http://www.traveling-through.com/">Julie Farrar</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://lizhellebuyck.wordpress.com/">Liz Hellebuyck</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://theeverydaywarrior.com/">Betsy (The Everyday Warrior)</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://jennysimaginaryworld.blogspot.com/">Jenny S. Morris</a></blockquote><br />
Yay!<br />
<br />
The rules are as follows:*<br />
<br />
1. Thank the person who gave you the award and link back to them in your post.<br />
2. Share 7 things about yourself<br />
3. Pass this Award along to 15 [I only picked four] recently discovered blogs and let them know about it!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u> </u></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><br />
*To my recipients: If you’ve already received one of these awards don't worry about passing it on or listing things about yourself, just bask in the glow of being loved and appreciated.F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-36350383967083329452011-09-13T16:17:00.001-04:002011-09-16T15:28:52.784-04:00Random Facts About MeI was double-tagged by <a href="http://megannafke.wordpress.com/">Megan Nafke</a> and <a href="http://lorimlee.blogspot.com/">Lori M. Lee</a> to list ten random facts about myself. (Thanks for the tags, you guys!)<br />
<br />
[Edit: Turns out I was triple-tagged! Thanks, <a href="http://michelle-chaston.blogspot.com/">Michelle Chaston</a>!]<b> </b><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Random Facts:</b><br />
<br />
1. I have a Southern accent<br />
<br />
2. I visited the <a href="http://www.royalcollection.org.uk/default.asp?action=article&ID=19">Royal Library</a> at Windsor Castle when I took a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silverpoint">silverpoint drawing</a> class in art school. When the librarian laid out the Italian Renaissance silverpoint drawings for us to study, I was so star struck by the da Vinci drawings that I could barely hold myself together.<br />
<br />
3. I designed rugs for about a year. To this day it’s still one of my favorite jobs. Who wouldn’t love sitting around drawing all day long? I even got to design a line of children’s and baby’s rugs and show them in NYC at Market (sort of the textile industry’s version of fashion week.) Definitely an experience to remember.<br />
<br />
4. Tornadoes are out to get me.<br />
<br />
5. Planes are out to get me, too.<br />
<br />
6. I’m in a scooter club.<br />
<br />
7. Even though I ride a moped.<br />
<br />
8. I hung out in a Gypsy settlement in Macedonia for two summers while I was in college. Let me tall ya, even though most of the Roma don't have very much, they're incredibly hospitable and know how to throw a party. Their weddings last for days and you can hear the music clear across town.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/mnTns2zuhec?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
9. I see colors when I think of numbers and letters. They’ve always been the same colors for as long as I can remember.<br />
<br />
10. I went skiing in rural Italy because it’s cheaper than skiing in Colorado. It’s hard to pass up an opportunity to hang out in Bavarian Italy and experience rural farm culture. The food, people. The FOOD! <br />
<br />
<br />
And now I’m tagging…<br />
<br />
Everyone from my four <a href="http://rachaelharrie.blogspot.com/p/writers-platform-building-crusade.html">Campaign</a> Groups that hasn’t been tagged yet!<br />
<br />
(Beginner Bloggers 1 – Group 49, Urban Fantasy 1 – Group 30, Dystopian/Post Apocalyptic – Group 22, YA(All Genres) 8 – Group13)F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-16237221883308353242011-09-08T02:34:00.003-04:002011-09-08T03:30:54.067-04:001st Campaign ChallengeThe first challenge for <a href="http://rachaelharrie.blogspot.com/p/writers-platform-building-crusade.html">Rachael Harrie’s Writers’ Platform-building Campaign</a> has been posted! If you aren’t participating in the campaign (have no fear!) you can sign up for the next campaign at <a href="http://rachaelharrie.blogspot.com/">Rach Writes</a> next February. <br />
<br />
Here are the <a href="http://rachaelharrie.blogspot.com/2011/09/first-campaigner-challenge.html">challenge rules</a>:<br />
<br />
<blockquote>"Write a short story/flash fiction story in 200 words or less, excluding the title. It can be in any format, including a poem. Begin the story with the words, “The door swung open” These four words will be included in the word count.<br />
<br />
If you want to give yourself an added challenge (optional), use the same beginning words and end with the words: "the door swung shut." (also included in the word count)<br />
<br />
For those who want an even greater challenge, make your story 200 words EXACTLY!"</blockquote><br />
And now for the good stuff:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB-E00o-Z_PakbJ9juxwOh9EHZ2_12dSyKzzl3k4Jidr_Jhi4ObQhssigOw01pAj3930qR_nshnS6tPce01FUC1gWPRPk3kJFI2BCSWPfBl3x71Ayn57z4W80lZDrdKeblydpJ9bNbmC9_/s1600/Pappy%2527s+Fiddle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB-E00o-Z_PakbJ9juxwOh9EHZ2_12dSyKzzl3k4Jidr_Jhi4ObQhssigOw01pAj3930qR_nshnS6tPce01FUC1gWPRPk3kJFI2BCSWPfBl3x71Ayn57z4W80lZDrdKeblydpJ9bNbmC9_/s320/Pappy%2527s+Fiddle.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<blockquote><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Pappy’s Fiddle</b></div><br />
The door swung open and a tall gray-bearded man stepped over the threshold.<br />
<br />
“Pappy!” the children screamed. They leapt from the floor and gathered around him, hugging his legs, and smiling up at him.<br />
<br />
“Well, I declare!”<br />
<br />
Pappy shut the door and sat his case on the floor, then hugged them back. <br />
<br />
A child, slightly older than the rest, stayed hidden in the shadows. He crossed his arms and watched the old man as he put the smaller children on his knees and bounced them and laughed as they pulled his beard and tugged his ears.<br />
<br />
“Pappy, play us a tune!”<br />
<br />
“Well, alright.” He sat the children down and pulled a fiddle out of his case.<br />
<br />
The boy in the shadows frowned, then went to the door and pulled it open.<br />
<br />
“Son, you’ll wanna stay for this,” Pappy said to him.<br />
<br />
Pappy’s bow hit the strings and the boy froze. Notes leapt from the fiddle, filling the room with musical honey, and the children fell into silence and stared at Pappy’s fiddle in awe. <br />
<br />
Goose bumps formed on the boy’s arms and, unable to control his reflexes, he smiled, then let go of the handle and the door swung shut.</blockquote><br />
If you like my short story swing on over the Rach’s blog where you can <a href="http://rachaelharrie.blogspot.com/2011/09/first-campaigner-challenge.html">read tons of other stories like mine</a><a href="http://rachaelharrie.blogspot.com/2011/09/first-campaigner-challenge.html">.</a> (Tons of other stories may be an understatement.) I'm #292 by the way.F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-12517156306571121732011-09-06T19:18:00.002-04:002011-09-07T23:36:45.676-04:00How I survived Hurricane Lee or Labor Day Weekend[Edit: <i>Tropical Storm</i> Lee. Sorry everyone. My brain is a bit water-logged at the moment.] <br />
<br />
For the Labor Day holiday I took a break from writing and went up to the foothills of the Smoky Mountains for an Old Time music festival. Personally, I don’t play Old Time Music but my mom and dad do. My dad plays the fiddle and my mom plays the banjo ukelele. Yes, that’s right. The banjo ukelele. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4060/4472916593_1b2d30ea74.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4060/4472916593_1b2d30ea74.jpg" width="230" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/66176226@N00/4472916593">Banjo Ukeles by Accumulata<span id="goog_16195059"></span><span id="goog_16195060"></span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
So when we weren't listening to Old Time music we were dodging rain. Luckily, the worst part of Hurricane Lee held off just long enough for us to have a fabulous weekend.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>If you’ve never heard of Old Time music:</b><br />
<br />
-It originates from English, Scottish, Irish, and African folk music.<br />
<br />
-It’s not blue grass or country music.<br />
<br />
-It’s one of the oldest types of music in America other than Native American music.<br />
<br />
-The easiest way for a newb to tell the difference between bluegrass and old time is <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clawhammer">the way the banjo is played</a>. Old Time musicians use the Clawhammer method and Blue Brass musicians play notes in continuous rolls.<br />
<br />
-It’s made for dancing—mainly square dancing, clogging, buck dancing, and flat footin’.<br />
<br />
<br />
Hm. Now I kind of feel like I need to explain buck dancing and flat footin'.<br />
<br />
Here’s a video:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/GXOXO5b48WA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
<br />
Fun Fact: That's my dad singing in the video. <br />
<br />
So yep, that’s what I did for the holiday!F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-45148964069979139752011-08-31T17:03:00.000-04:002011-08-31T17:03:48.899-04:00Building A PlatformI did it! I joined Rachel Harrie's <a href="http://rachaelharrie.blogspot.com/2011/08/third-writers-platform-building.html">Third Writer’s Platform-Building Campaign</a>!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrO18qx1VjpIGMaL9Gm8ZtCGz4u7FrveXZ5QD3YHOfeZUrhi3-vptt14U18tm7ChAIMgnJuxhUFlEs6RaD-f3Q8fFpZ9-hs8AldNwcfoQattWoI2kg2l2VKcoyTWnybY94FAXsH4JsyxXU/s1600/I%252527m%252Ba%252Bplatform-building%252Bcampaigner%252Bbadge%2525281%252529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrO18qx1VjpIGMaL9Gm8ZtCGz4u7FrveXZ5QD3YHOfeZUrhi3-vptt14U18tm7ChAIMgnJuxhUFlEs6RaD-f3Q8fFpZ9-hs8AldNwcfoQattWoI2kg2l2VKcoyTWnybY94FAXsH4JsyxXU/s320/I%252527m%252Ba%252Bplatform-building%252Bcampaigner%252Bbadge%2525281%252529.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I’m so excited about meeting new people, sharing ideas, and learning more about what I do. <br />
<br />
I heard about the Campaign on <a href="http://sommerleigh.com/archives/3947">Sommer Leigh’s</a> blog a couple of days ago, but I wasn’t sure if I was ready to sign up for something so big (well, it’s big for me, anyway). I’ve always struggled with social interaction on the Interwebz, thanks to Internet Stage Fright, so I put off signing up until the last minute (today). I finally decided that it’s probably going to be an awesome experience and I would be a dummy to pass it up.<br />
<br />
The best part is that participants get to join genre-specific groups to help direct them to like-minded writers. I’ve decided to join the Young Adult, Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic, Urban Fantasy, and Beginner Bloggers groups. There’s a good chance I’m going die of blog overdose in the next couple of months because of this, but I don’t care. It’s going to be fun and totally worth it!<br />
<br />
I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone!<br />
F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-82169845612959536622011-08-30T19:34:00.002-04:002011-08-30T21:55:42.647-04:00Character Development Through An Artist's EyesBeing an artist, I tend to understand things better through visual representations. Because of this, I sometimes like to describe my character development through color. <br />
<br />
Here’s how my main character in Brilliant Idea #2 develops throughout the plot. It only covers the beginning, middle, and end, because I don’t want to give away too much of the storyline just yet, but I think you can probably get a general idea of what’s going on. <br />
<br />
1) Softer tones represent naivete and youth.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNdm9-83LWPzWDDUsdd1QxkYawTrRqhWsTIgczTdPpC54SkU41B_xfCGniA-r9ifzEvBm_xJ_4HSXbC5TKzDPgyrojGhnxHNG9YAWLGKDgEB5lSf28Hp3b03whiFhl8iQ3oIiC9pP35IMN/s1600/CharacterColors1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="55" width="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNdm9-83LWPzWDDUsdd1QxkYawTrRqhWsTIgczTdPpC54SkU41B_xfCGniA-r9ifzEvBm_xJ_4HSXbC5TKzDPgyrojGhnxHNG9YAWLGKDgEB5lSf28Hp3b03whiFhl8iQ3oIiC9pP35IMN/s400/CharacterColors1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
2) Bold dark tones represent chaos, discomfort, and discord.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjweFxh4VPv-Dmzw3_Sn-EOp46Jt4uzGwjdyQCySIpx-r6Pf6F78L6iAPMwu38jj_af7_4IMPIKssYY4YThygm5NZO-sN3xHl4nG6wZrETZ5YQO3kNWe8QyrXekZpRW9ZaZNaFpYHJT9Nmd/s1600/CharacterColors2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="55" width="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjweFxh4VPv-Dmzw3_Sn-EOp46Jt4uzGwjdyQCySIpx-r6Pf6F78L6iAPMwu38jj_af7_4IMPIKssYY4YThygm5NZO-sN3xHl4nG6wZrETZ5YQO3kNWe8QyrXekZpRW9ZaZNaFpYHJT9Nmd/s400/CharacterColors2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
3) Bright colors represent growth and new life.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihBPrcqD1MuHr2pM6NVuEGZh9Nzot-Lcf-nTG_8pNo_KbdJdyCxgK_VXbPVNCIgNmidFv5wT3zsMLN42eQOHO_cEUekU5weXUzktB4I8QHI6x1BJhrhaNch01GEc1kVWv1j2bCH1Idsv2K/s1600/CharacterColors3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="55" width="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihBPrcqD1MuHr2pM6NVuEGZh9Nzot-Lcf-nTG_8pNo_KbdJdyCxgK_VXbPVNCIgNmidFv5wT3zsMLN42eQOHO_cEUekU5weXUzktB4I8QHI6x1BJhrhaNch01GEc1kVWv1j2bCH1Idsv2K/s400/CharacterColors3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Something about that last one reminds me of <a href="http://www.cakewrecks.com/">Cake Wrecks</a> and really makes me want to eat a cupcake.<br />
F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-64721735637596482392011-08-29T14:47:00.000-04:002011-08-29T14:47:50.429-04:00Why You Should Back Up Your WorkAround this time last year I was just about to finish up on the very first edit of my very first manuscript. (Yay!) I was only a few chapters from the end and (Ack!) the hard drive on my laptop died. I lost all of my edits and the last three chapters of the manuscript. (Boo!)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3643/3387394098_5e9ca98435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="279" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3643/3387394098_5e9ca98435.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/9585087@N03/3387394098">Lego Twitter Fail Whale by tveskov</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
By then, I was so over my manuscript that I didn’t care that it disappeared into hard drive heaven. I didn’t lose any sleep because I was in the loathing stage of our relationship and, <a href="http://fesewell.blogspot.com/2011/08/editing-my-manuscripts.html">as I’ve said before</a>, that usually occurs about the time I really start digging into the editing process.<br />
<br />
Honestly, I was happy to move on because Brilliant Idea #2 was pounding on the door and I was raring to get started on it. In the end, I’m glad I decided to forget about the lost manuscript. I was able to take a break from obsessing about it for a good long while and, because of that, I’m completely over the loathing stage and <a href="http://fesewell.blogspot.com/2011/07/my-first-manuscript.html">back to being infatuated</a>. Right now, though, I’m forcing myself to finish editing Brilliant Idea #2 before I get side tracked again. It’s so easy to get sidetracked and I NEED a finished manuscript like a pirate needs orange juice.<br />
<br />
So now that I’m back on board with my first manuscript, I’m having some serious regrets about losing all those hours that I spent slaving away on my manuscript. Can’t believe I let something that like that slip through my fingertips. <br />
<br />
I think it goes without saying people, back your stuff up.F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-66410674703214191712011-08-24T15:32:00.000-04:002011-08-24T15:32:51.793-04:00I Think I Have Editor's BlockThe last couple of days have been like a giant traffic jam of workflow. I haven’t gotten nearly as much accomplished as I intended. I like to blame it on Netflix for adding four seasons of Mad Men to Watch Instantly, but I know it’s my fault for getting distracted so easily.<br />
<br />
I think I’ve figured out my problem, though. I’m pretty sure I have editor’s block. I’ve never had a problem with writer’s block, but I’ve always had issues with editing. I would almost rather have the flu than edit my manuscripts. One of my biggest pitfalls is taking a look at the big picture and getting bogged down in the details. I tend to do that quite a bit and it's about then that I start despising my work and getting burnt out. <br />
<br />
Also, I tend to get bored when I’m not constantly exploring my characters and their journeys. That’s my favorite part. Let’s face it though, I can’t do anything to change the writing process. Editing is a very necessary component.<br />
<br />
Every once in a while, though, I come across something I wrote and I think, “Did I write that? Holy cow.” Those little moments inspire me to keep slogging through the mud, and give me hope that, in the end, I’ll have a sparkling manuscript that I can call my own and be extremely proud of.<br />
<br />
F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-1567004609365860712011-08-18T20:33:00.001-04:002011-08-18T20:36:18.754-04:00Do You Love Zombies, too?If I could be someone else I would be a superhero zombie warrior:<br />
<br />
I would live in a post-apocalyptic world.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU6vb7I6P8KRxsOQAOIIdHEaZpt6XPUs6DdPosHbWE7MKDc6ycssBP6xZzxH2DkhiTHmIKU_hoAUVppbXqT2ZGkRSOgCojVER4dy216cmB-6BCXm9MqyropZXjMn06jtpKSeKmHpEEhvGN/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-08-18+at+6.24.55+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU6vb7I6P8KRxsOQAOIIdHEaZpt6XPUs6DdPosHbWE7MKDc6ycssBP6xZzxH2DkhiTHmIKU_hoAUVppbXqT2ZGkRSOgCojVER4dy216cmB-6BCXm9MqyropZXjMn06jtpKSeKmHpEEhvGN/s400/Screen+shot+2011-08-18+at+6.24.55+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I would never be bitten.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2121/2062522813_c5d0fe341b_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2121/2062522813_c5d0fe341b_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/91344170@N00/2062522813">Biohazard by Francisco Javier Argel</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I would defend myself with ballpoint pens.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5302/5639790281_ace68f64d3_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5302/5639790281_ace68f64d3_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/12505664@N00/5639790281">Pen Attack by illustir</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I would live off of acorns, pecans, and blackberries.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3635/3464379186_2098021da3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3635/3464379186_2098021da3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/37245339@N04/3464379186">Pecan Grove Field by Proleshi</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I would carry a bow and a sword.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/41/103300924_8e8afd6739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/41/103300924_8e8afd6739.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/12426416@N00/103300924">Link by Dunechaser</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I would use hairspray and a lighter in a pinch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZB6HlDQwp6ag3lO7-zeyhExZs9hyphenhyphenHemiLfGGOHinvjBWovfCLhSbHMmTm_mM64uamlzMkcC1LWy60aDKqznSHjM9ZGrroIU0w_zGsRgfB1EcRwxMzmH0YlWfMqjF0Y0kUZByuIBVoixCB/s1600/FlameThrower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZB6HlDQwp6ag3lO7-zeyhExZs9hyphenhyphenHemiLfGGOHinvjBWovfCLhSbHMmTm_mM64uamlzMkcC1LWy60aDKqznSHjM9ZGrroIU0w_zGsRgfB1EcRwxMzmH0YlWfMqjF0Y0kUZByuIBVoixCB/s320/FlameThrower.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><br />
I would live in a treehouse.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4092/5048341006_e07c72294b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4092/5048341006_e07c72294b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/74708580@N00/5048341006">Wolkenkukucksheim by glasseyes view</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I would ride an electric car because it’s so quiet.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4760706416_e4b0fd1fc0_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4760706416_e4b0fd1fc0_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/10142787@N06/4760706416">Melex 212 by Karwik</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I would ride a vintage enduro when the battery in my electric car died.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1328/1317567581_0ea04c5011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1328/1317567581_0ea04c5011.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tom-margie/1317567581/in/photostream/">1972 Yamaha RT-2 360 Enduro by twm1340</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I would ride my moped when the vintage enduro died.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsBKCyKc4ZlbjYX7Pkc7iTsNg6-a-NrZ0mCdAGk6di6U5ZMkXlZTu8-efyKyywt4z64UKxo96c7ZELYg-3bhv-TDgEU1tWD6z8nM4uIkj-F18MHesUYNKyHzkNZPXDqmbS0zM5zwWbLds/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-08-18+at+6.29.37+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcsBKCyKc4ZlbjYX7Pkc7iTsNg6-a-NrZ0mCdAGk6di6U5ZMkXlZTu8-efyKyywt4z64UKxo96c7ZELYg-3bhv-TDgEU1tWD6z8nM4uIkj-F18MHesUYNKyHzkNZPXDqmbS0zM5zwWbLds/s400/Screen+shot+2011-08-18+at+6.29.37+PM.png" width="299" /></a></div><br />
I love zombies. Sometimes I imagine what I would do if a zombie outbreak happened in my town. I live near a nuclear plant so sometimes I think that’s not too far fetched an idea, but until the nuclear reactors go, I’ll settle for writing about them. F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-9306206092318654712011-08-17T13:37:00.001-04:002011-08-17T13:37:56.615-04:00Is News Media Fiction?Last night I had an interesting conversation about news media.<br />
<br />
The topic came up and eventually led to a long discussion about whether or not news media is a form of fiction. <br />
<br />
<b><br />
Arguments included:</b><br />
<br />
<b>News is Fiction</b>: Most news doesn’t affect you in an immediate capacity. <br />
<br />
<b>News is Fact:</b> It doesn’t matter if it doesn’t affect you personally; emotional reaction matters, too.<br />
<b><br />
News is Fiction:</b> Emotional reactions don’t produce anything tangible.<br />
<b><br />
News is Fact:</b> There is value in emotion.<br />
<br />
<b>News is Fiction:</b> The only things that are real are the things you experience in person.<br />
<b><br />
News is Fact:</b> It doesn’t make sense to disconnect yourself from the rest of the world because you don’t experience everything personally. Eventually, some events will trickle back to you.<br />
<br />
<b>News is Fiction:</b> News isn’t always accurate.<br />
<br />
<b>News is Fact:</b> News is how I learn about what happens in the world.<br />
<br />
<br />
We traveled down the rabbit hole for a few more hours and in the end, we decided that both ends of the argument carried some legitimacy. <br />
<br />
The interesting thing about the discussion is that while news is based on factual events, it isn’t always accurate and unbiased. It tells a story, though, and stories are what draw an audience. There are people working behind the curtain that are really good at making this happen. Take reality TV and the Casey Anthony trial, for example.<br />
<br />
More than anything I think it’s important to understand the mechanism and use sound judgment when deciding how to react.<br />
<br />
F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-74219372659420880122011-08-13T20:22:00.001-04:002011-08-13T20:25:28.157-04:00Books Made Into MoviesI’ve been thinking a lot lately about books that were made into movies so I’ve made a list of my top twenty favorites. Let me start by saying that I’ve seen a bazillion books made into movies so in order to keep this list short I’ve only included the ones that I’ve read.<br />
<br />
Also, be warned. There’s quite a bit of chick lit. (What’d you expect? I’m a girl.) <br />
<br />
<b>20. Starship Troopers</b><br />
So the movie is a little cheesy. Okay, it’s very cheesy. The thing that I like about it is that it’s kind of an homage to Robert Heinlein’s sense of humor. Sure, there are a couple of made up subplots, but the thing you have to remember is that there isn’t much of a plot in the book to begin with. They had to do something to make it flow a little better.<br />
<br />
Funny thing is, the first time I watched the movie I hadn’t read the book so I turned it off after twenty minutes. However, after I read the book the movie seemed completely different. Don’t get me wrong. It’s still cheesy, but at least now I get it. <br />
<br />
<b>19. Twilight</b><br />
This is one where I read the book after seeing the movie. I love how indie-cool it is and how everyone is so pale and rosy-cheeked. I love the awkward piggyback scenes, the cool music, and the low-budget feel. <br />
<br />
<b>18. Brick</b><br />
Really love this movie. It kind of came out of nowhere and blew me away. And so did Joseph Gordon-Levitt. That was the first time I’d seen him since his role in 3rd Rock from the Sun. He was all grown up.<br />
<br />
<b>17. Northanger Abbey (2007 TV)</b><br />
This one is a good example of how a film gets it right by capturing the spirit of the book. I can still see Catherine looking up at Henry with those large innocent doey eyes. Jane Austen is smiling down on from heaven right now, I’m sure.<br />
<br />
<b>16. Mansfield Park (1999)</b><br />
Okay this one’s a little strange, I’ll admit. The movie has subplots in it that come out of nowhere. They weren’t in the book, but boy do they make the movie dramatic. I still like it, though. It’s one of the grittier novels that Jane Austen wrote and it still has all of the trappings of a good romance.<br />
<br />
<b>15. The City of Ember</b><br />
I loved the costumes and set design for this movie. As often happens with books made into movies, things were different, and maybe in this case it was for the better. It’s still a great movie, though, and I love Saoirse Ronan and Bill Murray.<br />
<br />
<b>14. Wuthering Heights (2009 TV)</b><br />
Oh, the tears. So many tears. Good grief the Bronte sisters knew how to make a person cry. P.S. I love Tom Hardy in this role. Made me love Heathcliff even more.<br />
<br />
<b>13. Jane Eyre (2006 TV)</b><br />
Out of all of the actresses that have portrayed Jane Eyre I empathize with Ruth Wilson the most. Her confusion, frustration, and passion ooze through the screen. <br />
<br />
<b>12. Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (2005)</b><br />
This is another one of those movies that people thought didn’t do the book justice. I disagree. Of course the movie wasn’t perfect. They never are, but I think it captured the spirit and humor of the books perfectly. Plus, puppets. You can never go wrong with puppets. Look at Labyrinth. <br />
<br />
<b>11. Harry Potter and the Half-blood Prince</b><br />
This is the first time I really thought of Harry as grown up. It touches me in a way that the other movies don’t. Of course, by book six, the stories had gotten more and more character driven. I feel like this one really hit the nail on the head, though. It was a perfect set up for The Deathly Hallows.<br />
<br />
<b>10. Harry Potter and the Prizoner of Azkaban</b><br />
Two words: Time Travel<br />
<br />
<b>9. Lord of The Rings</b><br />
New Zealand, vistas and hobbits. What more is there to say? Oh yeah. Elves and wizards.<br />
<br />
These movies are so epic. And I have to say (and you will judge me for this) I think I might like the movies better than the books.<br />
<br />
<b>8. Clueless</b><br />
Ah, Cher. If only I had a fancy closet like you.<br />
<br />
The directors, writers, producers, etc. did a good job of recreating an Emma that modern girls can understand and relate to. Although, I hate to think that modern girls can’t understand Austen’s Emma.<br />
<br />
<b>7. Emma (1996)</b><br />
I don’t care what people say I love Gwyneth Paltrow as Emma. <br />
<br />
<b>6. The Princess Bride</b><br />
I loved this movie so much growing up that sometimes I watched it three times a day. I even quoted it in my highschool yearbook even though everyone else quoted Thoreau and Nietzsche. Who doesn’t love this movie? <br />
<br />
<b>5. Sense & Sensibility (1995)</b><br />
Wow. Merchant Ivory. ‘Nuff said.<br />
<br />
Some of the best actors of our time are in this movie: Sybil Trelawney, Severus Snape, Poppy Pomfrey, and a couple of other famous people that weren’t in Harry Potter: Rose Dawson and William Thacker.<br />
<br />
<b>4. Anne of Green Gables</b><br />
There’s no one quite like Anne Shirley. Megan Follows is perfect as Anne.<br />
<br />
When I was younger I connected with Anne so deeply that I felt like I knew her. Thanks, Lucy Maud, for teaching me about kindred spirits. <br />
<br />
<b>3. Pride & Prejudice (1995)</b><br />
Swoon. Seriously. That Colin Firth. Love him. And doidn’t Jennifer Ehle have eyes just like the ones that Mr. Darcy talked about in the book? <br />
<br />
<b>2. Pride & Prejudice (2005)</b><br />
Double Swoon. Matthew Macfadyen and Keira Knightley. I love the cinematography in this one. And the costumes are incredible. They did a good job of showing how grimy everything was back then, all the way down to the greasy hair, cracked walls, and bugs flying around. <br />
<br />
<b>1. Wives & Daughters</b><br />
This is my all time favorite. I could watch it over and over again. I love Justine Waddell as Molly. She was so innocent, good, and pure. She had me rooting for her character the entire time and secretly wishing I could claw Cynthia’s eyes out. <br />
F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-3687982819866303972011-08-11T19:09:00.001-04:002011-08-11T19:10:32.444-04:00Cover Art That Makes You SmileWhen I’m at a bookstore, I can spend hours staring at the books on the YA shelves. I literally salivate when I walk the aisles thinking of which books I’m going to read next and how nice my book is going to look one day when it gets its own cover and it’s sitting pretty on the shelf next to the others.<br />
<br />
One book, <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Zombies-vs-Unicorns-Holly-Black/dp/1416989536/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1313102615&sr=8-1">Zombies Vs. Unicorns</a></i>, has a cover that has always sucked me in, so naturally, one day I finally broke down and bought it. When I say “sucked me in” what I really mean is that I couldn’t stop coming back to it no matter how hard I tried to ignore the little zombie and unicorn duking it out on the front and the super cool illustration in the background. That really says something about the cover, doesn’t it?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvBKssJMqrfVnYcoVfZWNGwODeQeIaqGsOQyrGZGAx9ZVuB5y0qcm_fCQiBP9gdViTUjAOkFmr4aype0zUdpuPSvZNmJazKzcRzcSI_lqnDTCn7rMKFsL2b3aKzN-fuVEUdqa7vBbGyKCt/s1600/7171748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvBKssJMqrfVnYcoVfZWNGwODeQeIaqGsOQyrGZGAx9ZVuB5y0qcm_fCQiBP9gdViTUjAOkFmr4aype0zUdpuPSvZNmJazKzcRzcSI_lqnDTCn7rMKFsL2b3aKzN-fuVEUdqa7vBbGyKCt/s400/7171748.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Being an artist of the graphic design persuasion, I fully understand the point of cover art so I get seriously peeved when someone misses the mark and, conversely, I do a mental happy dance when they get it right. I also get a good kick out of classic covers that are redone as part of some huge marketing campaign like this one that was redone for <i><a href="http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Wuthering-Heights/Emily-Bronte/e/9780061962257/?itm=6&usri=1">Wuthering Heights</a></i>. (Bet you can’t guess where it’s hanging out on the shelves): <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXx99rL0m877nTf3f68wlm47tkaprKU7p1k2Rt7X2ZWZV4glcEgll6AsOt6bHyqCfyeS6kLc-K_ZGR72WlknMnMGnjvkrIB2IiV0LkRnJpgV67r2BW_H8i9C51w_azmEkBrUJhjIq1KauT/s1600/WutheringHeightsTwilightCoverX.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXx99rL0m877nTf3f68wlm47tkaprKU7p1k2Rt7X2ZWZV4glcEgll6AsOt6bHyqCfyeS6kLc-K_ZGR72WlknMnMGnjvkrIB2IiV0LkRnJpgV67r2BW_H8i9C51w_azmEkBrUJhjIq1KauT/s400/WutheringHeightsTwilightCoverX.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Really, though, I do enjoy redesigned books covers. The <a href="http://www.jilliantamaki.com/embroidery/penguin-threads/">Penguin Threads Classics cover redesigns by Jillian Tamaki</a> that are coming out in October of this year are some serious eye candy. You might have to shield your eyes from their stunning gloriousness.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQflhmmhmE5jtA4tckJMUg50xz5kDz7eCUkekpHqjOXYK99-6dE24Z-y9ZN5vD3ANY4GrueQPiQ7Bq-zMDqZACL3uYa4j24cUWq0sH-oTUZ_oFvteAVMdVDcRtON2hA9lzKdrtflS8-nsv/s1600/tamakicoveremma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQflhmmhmE5jtA4tckJMUg50xz5kDz7eCUkekpHqjOXYK99-6dE24Z-y9ZN5vD3ANY4GrueQPiQ7Bq-zMDqZACL3uYa4j24cUWq0sH-oTUZ_oFvteAVMdVDcRtON2hA9lzKdrtflS8-nsv/s400/tamakicoveremma.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Also, I might have to buy them just for the pretty.<br />
F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-44533312830292638282011-08-10T14:51:00.000-04:002011-08-10T14:51:01.842-04:00You Can't Command+Z EverythingYesterday, I was fiddling around with fonts on my Mac and I somehow managed to jumble up every single Word document I’ve ever saved on my computer. I was editing Chapter 7 of Brilliant Idea # 2 when everything crashed. <br />
<br />
My initial reaction (like most graphic designers) was to hit Command+Z, but seeing as how life doesn’t operate like a computer, I opted for something a bit more sensible. I restarted Word and auto recovery kicked in. Unfortunately, it crashed again before I could hit save, thus leaving me out an entire day’s work. As predicted, it sent me into a flurry of panic. How was I supposed to do all of that work again?<br />
<br />
If only I had saved my work. Yes, if only I had.<br />
<br />
So, I woke up this morning and tinkered around a little bit with my fonts and, lo and behold, I fixed it! I can finally move forward with my work!<br />
<br />
I supposed I should hang my head in shame for not being more responsible. After all, one of the cardinal rules of just about any vocation is “always save your work”. But, eh well, I fixed it, and I’m human. Sometimes I mess up.<br />
<br />
Now all I have to do is re-edit Chapter 7 and wait for my blood pressure to return to normal.<br />
F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-41068589671887923442011-08-09T18:34:00.000-04:002011-08-09T18:34:23.888-04:00When Everyone Wants the Same JobI’ve applied for the same job at a local publishing company at least six times in the last few years. Everyone wants to work for this company. That’s no exaggeration, friends. <i>Everyone</i> wants to work there. They have a superfun laid back atmosphere and they let you wear jeans to work. (<i>Gasp.</i>)<br />
<br />
In the past, I’ve managed to land one interview and I’ve received two rejection letters encouraging me to reapply in the future. Lately, they’ve had a slew of openings and when a new one is posted I send in my resume in hopes that it won’t go to the bottom of the slush pile. I usually change my resume up each time, hoping that something will catch their eyes this go around. And if it doesn’t, I’ll keep sending in my resume until I get the job or they put a restraining order on me. You see, I know I’d be awesome at the job so I’m just reminding them that I’m still here, ready and waiting to do my part in helping their company succeed.<br />
<br />
Occasionally, a tiny voice inside my head tries be a Debbie Downer and tell me that their H.R. department probably thinks I’m a crazy stalker (this could quite possibly be true) and when they see my name they automatically shred my resume, but I ignore the voice because I have a legitimate strategy. I want to show them that I’m dedicated and I go after the things that I want and I don’t let rejection or failure stop me from doing my best. I just figure out what’s keeping me from succeeding and I revise, revise, revise. <br />
<br />
So what happens if I never get a call back? Simple, I’ll get a job somewhere else and be just as happy. At least I know I’ve put forth my best effort and I’ve gained a ton of knowledge from the experience. <br />
F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-90287860042870307442011-08-08T17:56:00.000-04:002011-08-08T17:56:38.409-04:00Addicted to WritingIf I ever had to take a test to determine whether or not I’m addicted to writing it would go something like this:<br />
<br />
<br />
Do you take a notepad with you everywhere you go specifically for writing down ideas? <i>Of course.</i><br />
<br />
Do you sleep with said notepad next to your bed at night? <i>Naturally.</i><br />
<br />
Do you take notes in the dark so you don’t wake your spouse, even though you can barely read your handwriting the next day? <i>Whoa. How did you know that?</i><br />
<br />
Is the nicest, most well kept room in your house your Writing Cave? <i>Obviously.</i><br />
<br />
Do you loose sleep at night because your brain won’t stop thinking of awesome ideas? <i>All the time.</i><br />
<br />
Do you spend money on books and writing supplies instead of food?<i> Sometimes.</i><br />
<br />
Do you forget to pay your bills on time because you’re too busy planning a literary coup?<i> Maybe. </i><br />
<br />
Do you occasionally forgo personal hygiene in order to conserve precious writing time? <i>Let’s not go there.</i><br />
<br />
Do you forgo nights out with friends in lieu of a nice quiet evening at home with your laptop?<i> None of your business.</i><br />
<br />
Do you pretend to listen to your spouse when you’re actually fixing a plot line in your head?<i> Listen, this is really getting out of hand.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
I would fail the test, but I’m okay with that. Being a writing addict is fun.<br />
F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-67290454489989812342011-08-06T15:25:00.000-04:002011-08-06T15:25:50.465-04:00Editing My ManuscriptsRight now I’m in the process of editing my manuscript and let me tell you, I would rather stand outside all day in the August heat and roast like a pig on a spit.<br />
<br />
I suspect I’m in the stage of writing that involves utter hatred of one’s own work. I’m not kidding. I don’t even like to look at it for fear that my brain might implode. I go through all kinds of crazy emotions when I think about my manuscript (frustration, annoyance, embarrassment). And most of all, I think that maybe I should definitely throw it in the back of the closet in hopes that I never have to lay eyes on it again.<br />
<br />
The funny thing is, I went through the exact same thing with my last manuscript, <a href="http://fesewell.blogspot.com/2011/07/my-first-manuscript.html">POS#1</a>. I thought it was complete junk when I finished the first edit so I threw it in the back of the closet, but now, after looking over it again I’ve decided to rework it as soon as I’m done editing Brilliant Idea #2.<br />
<br />
Apparently, my relationships with my manuscripts go something like this:<br />
<br />
Infatuation<br />
<br />
Excitement<br />
<br />
Boredom<br />
<br />
Mortification<br />
<br />
Loathing<br />
<br />
Then, I toss it in the back of my closet and ban it from memory until I stumble across it again a year later.<br />
<br />
There’s definitely a pattern forming here. I just need to finish editing these two manuscripts before Blow Your Mind Idea #3 comes along and upends everything.F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-10636288669264877042011-08-04T13:12:00.001-04:002011-08-04T13:13:19.691-04:00When I'm Not Writing<b>Hobbies</b><br />
<br />
This weekend is the biggest moped rally of the year in the world and I’m probably not going. This saddens me, but honestly, the last thing I want right now is have blazing hot air blast me in the face at 45 mph. Imagine aiming a hairdryer at yourself and turning it on full blast. That’s what it’s like.<br />
<br />
The thing about moped rallies is that there’s nothing else quite like it. Basically, about three hundred 20 and 30-somethings get together and ride mopeds around the entire weekend and act a little crazy. We get quite a lot of strange looks from people that are wondering what we’re doing, but we’re used to it so we don’t mind.<br />
<br />
Really, though, I’m torn. Maybe I’ll decide to go after all.<br />
<br />
Here's a promo video they did for last year's rally: <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/4yCDYrON3-k?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
<b>Reading</b><br />
<br />
I just finished Mary Oliver’s A POETRY HANDBOOK. It was fantastic but I’m not gonna lie, I’m ready for some fiction. The reading was so heavy and dense that now my brain is exhausted. Funny thing is, the next book on my self-education list is A HANDBOOK OF CRITICAL APPROACHES TO LITERATURE. I might have to come back to that one.<br />
<br />
On a brighter note, I’ve got quite a few YA books on my list to buy the next time I’m at the bookstore. I’m pretty stoked about having some fresh blood on my bookshelf. <br />
<br />
Also, I decided today that I’m going to add Georgette Heyer to the list. I’m surprised I haven’t read any of her books yet. That’s something that I’m hoping to remedy rather quickly.<br />
<br />
Earlier tonight, I read Tennyson’s <a href="http://allpoetry.com/poem/8473299-The_Charge_Of_The_Light_Brigade-by-Alfred_Lord_Tennyson">“Charge of the Light Brigade”</a>. My husband has recited it to me several times before, but there’s something about seeing the words written on the page that make the experience so much more intense. I could hear the cannons fire, feel the soldier's fear, and sense the brutality and futility of the situation. It’s incredible when that sort of thing happens in less than 300 words. <br />
<br />
<b>Distractions</b><br />
<br />
Lately, I’ve been messing around on <a href="http://pinterest.com/fesewell/">Pinterest</a>. Let me tell you, it’s so easy to get sucked in to that website. Especially if you’re into looking at bazillions of pretty pictures for hours and hours on end.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb9RCO-BuO7hYASvmn5GVWjU9meB8E3IBn8rvpshzutZEuDSIYUe2rmqBrgH3Xzc_dmt6x3XfgTeLd7pPLTsOrXiz47-5-dxsTkU2-oKueH_n4C_ZmeGOShc6JLo3yuP9Np0BeeS_upq5Q/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-08-04+at+12.51.21+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb9RCO-BuO7hYASvmn5GVWjU9meB8E3IBn8rvpshzutZEuDSIYUe2rmqBrgH3Xzc_dmt6x3XfgTeLd7pPLTsOrXiz47-5-dxsTkU2-oKueH_n4C_ZmeGOShc6JLo3yuP9Np0BeeS_upq5Q/s400/Screen+shot+2011-08-04+at+12.51.21+PM.png" width="368" /></a></div><br />
It’s actually a great place for inspiration and considering I’m also an artist, it’s like crack.<br />
<br />
You should check it out if you haven’t already.F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-59204605323077846592011-08-02T18:24:00.000-04:002011-08-02T18:24:54.874-04:00Dealing With RejectionAs writers, we will have to deal with rejection at some point in our lives. (Unless you never come out of your Writing Cave.)<br />
<br />
However, I think it's important to remember that rejection can provide some important life lessons. <br />
<br />
For example, let's take a quick trip down memory lane and see how one person decided to deal with it:<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Scene: A crisp fall evening. Two students are walking through campus.</i><br />
<br />
<b>Young Effy:</b> I suspect that you are planning to ask me out on a date. Since I'm not interested in dating anyone at the moment, I'd advise you against doing so, because I'm going to say no, and I'd hate to hurt your feelings.<br />
<br />
<b>College Boy: </b><i></i>I know. I'm still going to ask you out.<br />
<br />
<b>Young Effy: </b>I don't think you're hearing me correctly.<br />
<br />
<b>College Boy: </b>I heard you correctly and I don't care. I'm still going to ask you out.<br />
<br />
<b>Young Effy: </b>*harrumphs and crosses arms*<br />
<br />
<br />
You see, College Boy has no fear of rejection here. Absolutely none. He even knows that there's a good chance Young Effy will turn him down, but he doesn't care. He's taking life by the horns.<br />
<br />
So what happened to Young Effy and College Boy? After a while Young Effy finally caved and went on a date with College Boy and, guess what, now they're married.<br />
<br />
Don't let the fear of rejection keep you from going after the things you want most in life.<br />
<br />
Now, go finish your manuscript and send a query letter or two. Or twenty.F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2503055505405370766.post-25783285579525140402011-08-01T16:14:00.004-04:002011-08-03T00:56:29.011-04:00My Teenage MindIn an attempt to better understand a teenager's mind I've been doing a little research by reading the diary I kept when I was sixteen.<br />
<br />
And HOLY cow. It's hilarious.<br />
<br />
When I'm not completely mortified by the things I said, I'm dying laughing. You would, too, if you read some of things you wrote when you were so young and full of life (and attitude and sass.)<br />
<br />
I read somewhere once that the human brain doesn't fully develop until people are in their early 20s and I have to tell you, my research has pointed to this.<br />
<br />
Let's take a quick look at our specimen:<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>March 2</i><br />
<br />
<i>Dear Myself,</i><br />
<br />
<i>Goodness, what the heck am I going to do with myself? I must be the biggest dummy in this entire world.</i><br />
<br />
[Subject shows early signs of bad grammar and self-loathing common with age group.]<br />
<br />
<i>Well, to start things off I guess I'll tell you about Fred* It all started one Friday when he asked me to the 70's dance that our school was having that Saturday. So I went with him and had a good time and he asked me out again. So we went out the next Saturday and the next and the next and the next.</i><br />
<br />
[Subject encounters Variable A. Subject now in danger of losing sound judgment and logical thinking.]<br />
<br />
<i>Then we spent Valentine's day together. I guess I could say that I care about him more than I cared about anyone else in the world.</i><br />
<br />
[Study terminated. Subject completely infatuated and talks of nothing else but Variable A for the next seventeen pages.]<br />
<br />
<br />
I think we can easily deduce that teenage girls think about boys a lot.<br />
<br />
And I mean, A LOT.<br />
<br />
But I already knew that. <br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Names have been altered for posterity's sake.</span>F.E. Sewellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04222968586032981217noreply@blogger.com2