Freedom Reborn has a lot of good writers. I know because I've seen their work posted here over the years. It's something that I personally think should be encouraged. But writing can be hard: lack of time, inspiration, audience, energy, etc can make the whole process hard to stick with...
Wouldn't it be nice to have a bit of a support system?
That's what I'm proposing here. With the new year about to start, I'd like to set up a Freedom Reborn Writers' Group, a group open to all members and encourage regular posting and feedback of other writers' works probably primarily headquartered in the Fan Fiction secton of the forum.
Of course, there would be some guidelines. Here's a few that I had in mind:
- Members would post at least piece per month of their own original work. These need not be complete pieces (ie: you can post an unfinished scene), but anything posted is open to critique.
-Members are also encouraged to comment on posted work in a timely manner. Comments should not be mean spirited but can offer constructive advice and criticism.
- Posted work allowed includes short story, essay, poetry, film or comic book script, etc. Any genre (within reason) is allowed including non-fiction, as long as the characters are either original or public domain. Posted works should conform with the FR Posting Guidelines for content.
- Informal Writing Challenges can be posted at any time and do not necessarily need to have a deadline and can stay as long term writing exercises. The challenge creator is highly encouraged to participate in their own challenge as well.
Obviously these guidelines are only a first draft, and a very rough one at best. I would like to now open the floor to anyone who might be interested and to hear what you all think. If this is to happen, I would like to officially start it on New Year's Day in keeping with the idea of resolving to write more in the coming year.
I would definitely be into this.
I could definitely be up for this, yeah. I need a reason to practice writing again.
definitely up for it. definitely could use the help.
most of what I am working is film script though. Hope that will not be a problem.
I'm in. My participation will probably be light until March or so, but a writer's group is a good idea.
To get yourself in the right frame of mind, you might follow the Writing Excuses podcast at http://www.writingexcuses.com/. Not that I've been following it regularly myself, but I'll make more of an effort. It's 15 minutes.
I'll keep my eyes open for some other resources.
:) I'm glad to see interest already.
So those of you who are interested: what would be some realistic goals for the group? How much to post and how often? What else can we do to help keep us writing? BB had a good idea with the podcast he posted (won't be able to review until after work) - have a collection of writing-related resources available for people to use. Anything else?
@Hamrick: Yes, screenplay format would be allowed as long as it abides by forum content rules.
(Tried to post here before, but I was having connection issues.)
I'm in, as well. My writing skills are very rusty- I've been needing something like this.
Quote from: Glitch Girl on December 12, 2011, 04:43:00 PM
So those of you who are interested: what would be some realistic goals for the group? How much to post and how often? What else can we do to help keep us writing? BB had a good idea with the podcast he posted (won't be able to review until after work) - have a collection of writing-related resources available for people to use. Anything else?
About the "how much/how often" part- presumably, different people have different constraints on their time. Maybe there could be different levels of commitment? Without getting too complicated, of course.
Maybe we could have a sub-forum under the Fan Fiction forum? Might not be necessary, but it could help us keep things a little more organized. It might also be useful to have a stickied thread where people can post general tips and the like- things we ourselves have found helpful.
Looking forward to the official start!
I might be interested, as long as poetry is allowed. While I do write short stories on occassion, I often am more apt to write a poem instead.
Quote from: Glitch Girl on December 12, 2011, 04:43:00 PM
:) I'm glad to see interest already.
So those of you who are interested: what would be some realistic goals for the group? How much to post and how often? What else can we do to help keep us writing? BB had a good idea with the podcast he posted (won't be able to review until after work) - have a collection of writing-related resources available for people to use. Anything else?
@Hamrick: Yes, screenplay format would be allowed as long as it abides by forum content rules.
It might be easier to post up scenes or treatments than entire scripts, GG. I mean the two shorts that I am trying to expand to features are already 25-30 pages in length.
As for goals... my personal goal is to get one these two short films expanded into feature length projects. And this other feature script written. Fortunately, I am having some fairly specific problems with both of the shorts that I am trying to expand to features.
Oh and with regards to the forum guidelines, the material is probably PG-13-ish. As for other issues, which rules are you referring to?
I might be willing to throw my hat into the ring for something like this.. I've got several stories which I've wanted to develop but just never gotten around to expanding beyond a plotline or rough concept.
Since I primarily write horror/thriller/sci-fi material usually.. I'll keep my work in PG-13ish levels as much as possible.. cause I kinda go overboard with gore and shock from time to time. Stephen King and Clive Barker are both of my idols in writing.. which probably wouldn't surprise many folks who know me well.
I've been developing scripts and storyboards for a comic series over the last year or so.. so I have been keeping my writing/art skills well occupied.
Wow - I am pleasantly surprised by the level of response this has gotten. I'm also interested in the Writers' Support Group, for pretty much any and all forms of writing. It looks like we have quite the diverse selection of offerings.
My writing went on hiatus years ago, so its reawakening is unlikely to be much different from what it was - superhero genre stuff. It's quite possible that I'll take this opportunity to finish some stories that I never got around to completing.
People are bound to post their work at their own pace and rhythm. Maybe in general, the group should particularly support those who for some reason start to slack from their individual paces and try and help overcome writers blocks.
It certainly sounds interesting. I know I for one often lose motivation or get stuck in rewriting loops. I'll have to think about this...
Hey folks,
I have a friend (those of you who played City of Heroes would remember Flashlite Brown) who is starting up an online writing magazine called "Genre Fiction Magazine". He's looking for submissions for his first issue. Writers get paid too yet. He's currently in the process of launching his website. If you're interested in sharing any of your work in that way you can contact him at admin@genrefictionmag.com.
Tort
Tomato alerted me to this thread. I've yet to read every post, but you all should know I support all creative works, especially writers. Obvi.
Tort, is there a readily available guideline put together for us to peruse?
Quote from: Tortuga on December 13, 2011, 02:19:16 AM
Hey folks,
I have a friend (those of you who played City of Heroes would remember Flashlite Brown) who is starting up an online writing magazine called "Genre Fiction Magazine". He's looking for submissions for his first issue. Writers get paid too yet. He's currently in the process of launching his website. If you're interested in sharing any of your work in that way you can contact him at admin@genrefictionmag.com.
Tort
Definitely plan to get in touch with him. Do you know anything about guidelines he has or what he is paying?
Will it be held here on the forums and can anybody here comment on the writing?
@Reep: That was one of the effects I was hoping for if we can get this going. Sometimes you just need people to bounce ideas off of.
@Tortuga: thanks for the heads up. If this is going to be a long-term thing, I'd like to add it to the (eventual) resource list.
@Jey: Held here at the forums hopefully. I'd like to use Fan Fiction, or perhaps we can create a subforum of it for this. Anyone who is registered here at FR can post work, and I guess critique as well. Still working out the finer points, which is why this thread is here. :)
One of the reasons I mentioned the "Writing Excuses" podcast is because its' goal is to encourage people to write and to stretch people who are already writing to broaden their skills. Incidentally it also promotes various authors' work. All of the writers involved are successful (published) even if they aren't necessarily "rock-star" authors.
In a way, FR has historically done the same thing with Fiction Challenges. Every fiction challenge is an excuse and an inspiration to write. It is also a way to promote your work as well as a way to challenge yourself to write something differently than you normally would. Our Writers Group should basically be an extension of what FR's Fan Fiction forum has always done.
I'm going to come right out and say that some of you... probably most or all of you... are not ever going to make money at this or be famous. I'll include myself in that category. You may not have natural talent for it. But even so, challenging yourself to write and to write better than before is worth it. You will be a better person for it.
* Writing encourages you to learn new things
* Writing encourages clear and critical thinking... you'll care more about the hows and whys
* Writing encourages introspection... you will learn about yourself
* Writing teaches you to organize your ideas and to communicate more effectively
* Your work will stand out in a crowd of people who don't know how to communicate effectively
* Influencing other people with your ideas is fun and exciting
* And yes, when people tell you they like what you wrote it is a great ego-boost.
All of this only works if you're willing to be honest with yourself and open to what other people think. Writing is a process and it is work and it is a skill that can be learned. Almost anybody can do it. The difference is that most people don't.
You can do it. You just have to want to bad enough.
I write to inform, to provoke, to inspire, to persuade, and to entertain. But Reading defines my life. All that I am, I owe to reading.
You post your stuff for critique and I will give you my honest opinion, good or bad. Either way, I will tell you how to make it more readable. Because I am a reader. And a decent amateur editor, too, if I do say so myself. Critically reading what others write will help you to be a better writer, too.
Oh, and Viking... expect me to challenge you to write stuff that isn't in the "superhero" or "supernatural" genre. Because I care ;)
I'm scheming for a challenge for Viking that isn't superhero either though I may relent a bit on the supernatural part.
Will look up the podcast, BB
Just how many people *are* there scheming to get me writing something outside of my normal realm of work?
Truth be told, my fiction writing started entirely via fan-fiction in the Freedom Force genre. I'd never attempted it before that if it wasn't a class assignment. And my writing was supported by three basic lessons that really resonated with me:
1) If you want to learn to write, you need to read.
2) If you want to learn to write, you need to write.
3) Your writing is much more compelling when you write about what you know.
So... what did I read? Anything with strong characters, and with witty dialogue if possible. Terry Pratchett's Discworld series, Lois McMaster Bujold's Vorkosigan Saga, and Jim Butcher's Dresden Files top my list of favorites. Along with the Girl Genius and Order of the Stick webcomics.
I realized that I didn't quite have the right mindset for writing science fiction - my eyes tend to glaze over as I read the technical descriptions in most sci-fi books, and my brain numbs as the players discuss the science in a sci-fi RPG. (Despite my having a bachelor's degree in physics!) Writing in the superhero genre was a wonderful way for me to ease into the writing of fiction. The setting is more or less in the present day, so I don't have to invent entire civilizations out of whole cloth. I don't have to explain how superpowers work in intricate detail. And yet the presence of superpowers allows for marvelous flights of fancy in storytelling. The same was more or less true with respect to supernatural tales - I could store bits and pieces of supernatural "lore" gained from reading works by Jim Butcher and Neil Gaiman, and draw upon that knowledge when writing.
On a tangential note, I recently shared my old stories with a friend and received one particularly valuable observation - many of my characters "sound" like they're speaking with the same voice. Since I like writing dialogue, that's a really important point. It made me realize that I was forming each of my character's sentences the way I would articulate the thought myself... But not everybody speaks in the same fashion, or with the same mannerisms. So that's given me some more food for thought.
Quote from: Viking on December 13, 2011, 07:33:22 PM
On a tangential note, I recently shared my old stories with a friend and received one particularly valuable observation - many of my characters "sound" like they're speaking with the same voice. Since I like writing dialogue, that's a really important point. It made me realize that I was forming each of my character's sentences the way I would articulate the thought myself... But not everybody speaks in the same fashion, or with the same mannerisms. So that's given me some more food for thought.
That's why I started listening to the voices in my head.
Wait. That didn't come out right.
Quote from: Viking on December 13, 2011, 07:33:22 PM
On a tangential note, I recently shared my old stories with a friend and received one particularly valuable observation - many of my characters "sound" like they're speaking with the same voice. Since I like writing dialogue, that's a really important point. It made me realize that I was forming each of my character's sentences the way I would articulate the thought myself... But not everybody speaks in the same fashion, or with the same mannerisms. So that's given me some more food for thought.
You just hit on one of the major issues I am having with one of these scripts. Specifically when one of the characters is of foreign origin and English isn't their first language (or even second in this case). But in general the idea that there is something to give the actors things to run with in the script when they are developing their character.
But yeah, I have a short script that I started on for a former Vampire Diaries cast member. When I saw you'd be involved, I figured it'd be up your alley, Viking.
Quote from: Glitch Girl on December 12, 2011, 04:43:00 PM
So those of you who are interested: what would be some realistic goals for the group? How much to post and how often? What else can we do to help keep us writing?
On this topic...
Based on past experiences with fiction challenges, my guess is that anything over 250-300 words is not going to be something most people are going to have time for on a regular basis.
I think "regular" writing challenges should be short exercises that stretch a little, not complete stories, every week or every other week at most. Set a very low or no minimum word count, so people aren't frustrated or scared off by them. They need to be regular enough that people can jump right in when they have the time, and they should have a "suggested" reasonable time limit to keep them on their toes and discourage procrastination.
Procrastination is a writer's Number One enemy.
Bigger challenges with higher minimum word counts should be saved for about once a quarter, maybe?
Everybody should set a personal goal for how often they'll post their work and how often they'll participate in writing exercises and make it public. There should be a sticky thread for goal setting. Then when I slack off, some helpful soul can remind me I have a goal I'm supposed to shoot for ;)
I'm going to be honest, I'm considering throwing my hat into something like this, if only to keep me going in my own work. I've had the epic story that is "Influx" in my head for a long time, and as much as I'd like to adapt it to any number of things (mods, animations, whatever) the simple fact is, it's simpler for me just to write it. And I wouldn't mind helping others keep up with their own stuff if it meant having someone keep me going... maybe not the nagging "I want more of your story NAOWZ!" but more a gentle "hey, you gonna keep going?" every so often kinda thing.
Quote from: Mr. Hamrick on December 13, 2011, 08:55:05 PM
You just hit on one of the major issues I am having with one of these scripts. Specifically when one of the characters is of foreign origin and English isn't their first language (or even second in this case). But in general the idea that there is something to give the actors things to run with in the script when they are developing their character.
Yes, that's a problem alright. The native language tends to flavor a person's speech, even if they don't salt their dialogue with words from that language. Even someone from the UK is liable to phrase things differently than an American would. Heck, you get that even with American dialects.
I don't envy you there. All kinds of stuff you want to avoid, like --
A) There's barely any difference in dialogue; they sound like everybody else, or --
B) The dialect is over the top, forced, and unconvincing, or --
C) The speaker sounds like the village idiot
My recommendation is to write simple English. Avoid using idioms or slang except rarely for emphasis. Maybe salt the dialogue lightly with a few simple foreign words or phrases, again only for emphasis. Allow the actor room to convince his audience he's not a native English speaker and don't try to force it through dialogue except where absolutely necessary.
And I'll bet I'm preaching to the choir :D
I just wrote a 90-page novella. Hence, I probably won't be writing anything at all for the next several months or so due to crippling burnout, so if this writing group thing materializes, I may not be as terribly active in it as I would be otherwise.
Quote from: BlueBard on December 13, 2011, 09:21:23 PM
I think "regular" writing challenges should be short exercises that stretch a little, not complete stories, every week or every other week at most. Set a very low or no minimum word count, so people aren't frustrated or scared off by them. They need to be regular enough that people can jump right in when they have the time, and they should have a "suggested" reasonable time limit to keep them on their toes and discourage procrastination.
The one downside I see to that is that if you do have a long term project, this could fathomably pull you away from it. Once every two weeks sounds preferable is they are to be a regular thing. I had thought they could be open-ended and there if someone is lapsing on their regular writing because they're stuck or what have you, they've got a bit of inspiration to work with.
QuoteEverybody should set a personal goal for how often they'll post their work and how often they'll participate in writing exercises and make it public. There should be a sticky thread for goal setting. Then when I slack off, some helpful soul can remind me I have a goal I'm supposed to shoot for ;)
I do like this idea. Maybe a Member sign-up/pledge thread?
Quote from: VikingSo... what did I read? Anything with strong characters, and with witty dialogue if possible. Terry Pratchett's Discworld series, Lois McMaster Bujold's Vorkosigan Saga, and Jim Butcher's Dresden Files top my list of favorites.
Hmm.. two out of three already on my shelves... methinks I need to check out the Vorkosigan Saga. :)
Quote from: Previsionary on December 13, 2011, 02:20:35 AM
Tomato alerted me to this thread. I've yet to read every post, but you all should know I support all creative works, especially writers. Obvi.
Tort, is there a readily available guideline put together for us to peruse?
I don't know all the details, but my friend (Tom) is very approachable and excited to get things going. He'd happily answer questions for you via the email address (admin@genrefictionmag.com).
Something to think about. I used to write a few years back. Apparently one of my stories even ended up in a Fanzine with a hard copy being sent to Michael Moorcock. Kind of cool but I never saw it. I recall being part of a couple of contests on FR a few years back, but the computer I had then is long gone. So like my previous existence as a skinner and hexer, there is no longer any evidence to prove I was a writer at some point. Just a little frustrating to say the least. Still with the right motivation (I don't really drink much these days, and I recall much of my creativity came when I was hammered), I probably have a few stories left in me. At least these days I can put stuff on Google Docs and not worry if my laptop dies.
Quote from: Glitch Girl on December 14, 2011, 02:58:33 AM
Quote from: BlueBard on December 13, 2011, 09:21:23 PM
I think "regular" writing challenges should be short exercises that stretch a little, not complete stories, every week or every other week at most. Set a very low or no minimum word count, so people aren't frustrated or scared off by them. They need to be regular enough that people can jump right in when they have the time, and they should have a "suggested" reasonable time limit to keep them on their toes and discourage procrastination.
The one downside I see to that is that if you do have a long term project, this could fathomably pull you away from it. Once every two weeks sounds preferable is they are to be a regular thing. I had thought they could be open-ended and there if someone is lapsing on their regular writing because they're stuck or what have you, they've got a bit of inspiration to work with.
My thought here is not that everyone should do every writing exercise. Only that writing "prompts", as the Writing Excuses podcasts call them, ought to be regular enough that someone can jump in at any time when they have time. And if you say you're going to do one, you do it and try to get it done "on time".
Writing prompts could be things like...
- Write a limerick about your favorite superhero
- Write one scene visually describing the setting of a fierce battle using first-person narration (word count target: 200)
- Write an Arch-Villain's monologue outlining his fiendish plot (word count target: 150)
- Write a two person dialogue using 5 words from a list of words
- Etc.
One rule of thumb ought to be... if you say you're going to write "x", the Writer's Group will try to help you be accountable for the goal you set for yourself. If you aren't serious about it, don't set a public goal or be "all talk and no write".
Maybe everyone needs their own goal thread or something. I'm not sure how we'll keep track of everybody's goals if they're all lumped together in one big thread. Something to think about.
If I'm overthinking this or being unrealistic, somebody please tell me to "shut up". ;)
Well, if you insist... ;)
Actually the stuff you have listed are some good ideas. I had thought the challenges could be smaller than they have been in the past, but I was also thinking open-ended and long-termish. This I can see.
Goals and keeping track of them... that is a good question. Individual threads could work, but I'm open to other suggestions.
I also think that posts relating to this group should be marked as such, like with a "WR" ("Writers Reborn" unless someone has a better idea for a name) at the begining of the subject line. I could also check to see if we can get a specific post icon for it if anyone is interested.
Fiction Force?
Or you could combine the two? Fiction Reborn? or Fan Fiction Reborn? :P
For what's it worth, i think this is a nice idea as well (from a reader's/spectator's point of view...not that good at writing stuff you see.). :cool:
I'd like to stay away from the term "fiction" since I don't want to limit it to just that. I for one would like to try my hand at essay, and it doesn't exactly fall under the category of "fiction", but does fall under the category of "writing".
Speaking of keeping track of goals and whatnot... Would a site devoted to this group work? Admittedly I'd prefer to keep as much onsite as possible, but there are limitations to the board setup. Something like a Google Site (http://www.google.com/sites/help/intl/en/overview.html) maybe? Or not. I'm mostly throwing this out there to see what you think.
Remember, I'd like to officially launch on Jan 1st.
PS: Love the Lunatic avatar Outcast :)
I'm totally okay with a Google Site. You could link to Google Docs, put tasks and events in a Google Calendar, put up a Google+ page, etc. One real downside is if someone doesn't want a Google account; functionality for that person would be more limited. The other is that it's a heck of a lot more difficult to get it to look exactly like you want unless you design your own page template.
As far as a name for the group goes, how about:
"Authors Assemble"
"The Writers' Bloc"
... I'll keep working on it ...
A google page sounds fine. I have a Google+ page that I never seem to use so this might give me a good excuse to use it.
On another note: I like the idea of the members setting goals for themselves as well as being given "challenges" on occasion by members. I have had some particular issues with the scripts that I have been working on (not to mention offline issues distracting me from stuff too) and would love to be able to discuss and get assistance on projects from the other writers where able.
Quote from: Glitch Girl on December 19, 2011, 05:52:03 PM
PS: Love the Lunatic avatar Outcast :)
Thanks Glitch Girl. ^_^
Quote from: Glitch Girl on December 19, 2011, 05:52:03 PM
I'd like to stay away from the term "fiction" since I don't want to limit it to just that. I for one would like to try my hand at essay, and it doesn't exactly fall under the category of "fiction", but does fall under the category of "writing".
Quote from: BlueBard on December 19, 2011, 06:25:08 PM
As far as a name for the group goes, how about:
"Authors Assemble"
"The Writers' Bloc"
The Writers' Bloc has a nice ring to it.....other suggestions i can think of are....The Writer's Guild Club? Writer's League? or FR Writer's Society (i remembered "Dead Poet Society" on that one. :P)....
I think having it's own site would be cool but how would the presentation look like? Would each member have his/her own page or something?
If some of you guys like it here within these boards, i'm thinking maybe a sub forum could work. There each member can have his/her own thread. ( Much like in the Meshes/Skins sub forums that have individual threads of a different mesher/skinner presenting their work? I dunno.) :unsure:
I don't know about the google site idea, would prefer having it's own seperate complete forum..but that's just me and my dislike of joining too many other online search engine-thingys. Like the idea of goals beucase then we can always crab on those (like myeself) who don't work hard enought o reach those goals...mainly cause it's fun to get crabby! :P
As for challenges, I don't think everyone should have to participate in them, for no other reason than some of us have extremely hard times trying to make the word count and time limit setting. Example, is that I've an extremely hard time getting in the mood to write and once in that mood I usually can't stop writing anything less than 1,000+ words.
-DJ
Quote from: Deaths Jester on December 20, 2011, 07:13:06 PM
I don't know about the google site idea, would prefer having it's own seperate complete forum..but that's just me and my dislike of joining too many other online search engine-thingys. Like the idea of goals beucase then we can always crab on those (like myeself) who don't work hard enought o reach those goals...mainly cause it's fun to get crabby! :P
As for challenges, I don't think everyone should have to participate in them, for no other reason than some of us have extremely hard times trying to make the word count and time limit setting. Example, is that I've an extremely hard time getting in the mood to write and once in that mood I usually can't stop writing anything less than 1,000+ words.
-DJ
No worries, DJ... I think we're all in agreement that challenges need to be on an as-you-have-time basis. The idea is if you say you're gonna do one, or any other project, the rest of us will helpfully remind you of that fact. Not to nag, but to encourage. Accountability is an important self-motivator.
Mini-challenges, in concept, would be small, spare-time writing exercises for fun. They shouldn't take more than an hour or two apiece (depending on how fast you write) and would have low or no word count targets. If we have those up regularly, then anyone can pick one when they don't have anything better to do :)
Full-blown informal writing challenges would be similar to the ones we've done in the past, with deadlines you set for yourself and only once in a great while.
Writer's Bloc is taken... oh well
Authors Assemble, on the other hand, looks free and clear. (Even the domain name is available) ;)
Quote from: Glitch Girl on December 13, 2011, 04:23:25 AM
@Jey: Held here at the forums hopefully. I'd like to use Fan Fiction, or perhaps we can create a subforum of it for this. Anyone who is registered here at FR can post work, and I guess critique as well. Still working out the finer points, which is why this thread is here. :)
I think we could use one of the old unused forums, like the one (http://freedomreborn.net/forums/index.php?board=37.0) we used for 'Freedom Lost' for that prehaps. Then everything would still be contained within FR and no need to divert folks into another site.
Quote from: Night Dragon on December 20, 2011, 10:51:03 PM
Quote from: Glitch Girl on December 13, 2011, 04:23:25 AM
@Jey: Held here at the forums hopefully. I'd like to use Fan Fiction, or perhaps we can create a subforum of it for this. Anyone who is registered here at FR can post work, and I guess critique as well. Still working out the finer points, which is why this thread is here. :)
I think we could use one of the old unused forums, like the one (http://freedomreborn.net/forums/index.php?board=37.0) we used for 'Freedom Lost' for that prehaps. Then everything would still be contained within FR and no need to divert folks into another site.
The only concerns that I personally have about using the sub-forum here length of material (particular when I am posting script stuff, I'm pretty sure I could fill a couple of posts back to back if I started posting script stuff here. the post limit is 20,000 words which is less than the 27 page script I just tried to post), violating forum rules (again, this would be quite easy to do rather it's content or language related violations) and a few minor issues regarding certain genres that might be deemed "offensive" to some people here (it seems to be one thing to see it in a comic or on screen but it would be different to depict it in writing).
Otherwise, the old unused "forum wide project" subforum/ area would probably work.
The only reason I asked my question is because I don't think it's fair for others (non-writers) to judge your guys work (1st draft, etc). I think you guys should keep your work within the group, edit, rewrite, whatever needs to be done and when you are finish then bring it out to the public for the rest of us to read.
I'm not a writer, so I don't think it's fair for me to judge your guys work, just my opinion.
Quote from: Mr. Hamrick on December 20, 2011, 11:24:54 PM
The only concerns that I personally have about using the sub-forum here length of material (particular when I am posting script stuff, I'm pretty sure I could fill a couple of posts back to back if I started posting script stuff here. the post limit is 20,000 words which is less than the 27 page script I just tried to post), violating forum rules (again, this would be quite easy to do rather it's content or language related violations) and a few minor issues regarding certain genres that might be deemed "offensive" to some people here (it seems to be one thing to see it in a comic or on screen but it would be different to depict it in writing).
Otherwise, the old unused "forum wide project" subforum/ area would probably work.
For lengthy material, you could break up the script into sections (like chapters... or say 1st act, 2nd, etc.) and allow folks to crit that before hand. It could work out advantageous on your part if they gave a suggestion that you thought might improve the story. However on the other hand, by not being able to see the whole story in one go, they might not know why this person is doing something that would be revealed later on in the story. So it's a case of fragged if you do, and fragged if you don't, I guess. :lol:
And we have our handy, dandy filter to block out bad words. I would say with subject matter that might seem a bit much, prehaps we use a ratings system, like TV, to show what the story has in it. (And doesn't violate the boards own rules) Like if there is going to be violence, it could be rated as follows :
CV - Cartoon violence - People getting whacked in the head, or tossed around, but mostly for laughs.
FV - Fantasy violence - Typical silver age comic book fights, more realistic, but not gruesome or overly graphic.
V - Violence - The middle ground, about what you see in modern comics or on current superhero toons.
GV - Graphic Violence - Watchmen or DKR style fighting. And I think with anything approaching this level definetly at least needs a warning posted on it.
Just a suggestion, of course, as it would be up to the majority of the ppl involved, as well as the moderation team on what can/will be allowed.
(Late to the party, as usual. :rolleyes:) Given that my name has become something of a byword for unfinished projects (e.g, I am still working on the Beatles fiction challenge from some time ago :doh:), I would greatly benefit from the sort of support network that you have proposed here. Consider me interested and willing to participate as both a contributor and constructive critic. :)
Thanks to all of you for proposing and nurturing this idea. I cannot wait to see it implemented, and would be happy to help bring it to fruition in any way that I am able.
ow_tiobe_sb
Phantom Bunburyist and Whirled Braker
Using the old forum is an idea, or we could even set up a new area I think. When I get home later, I'll make a post in Titans and bounce that idea off them.
My personal feeling is that a forum format, on it's own, is not a good fit for collaboration and projects.
That said, there's always links. If everyone in the group had their own project page, hosted wherever they want it, then we could have a list of links in the forum. I would not want to see the group totally separate from the FR board... what would be the point of that?
Within the forum itself, you can link to specific posts and build an index of posts. But I've done it before and I can tell you it's a lot of work to maintain something like that whenever you update.
We could also ask the admins to look into board mods that would help, but given the post volume of the site and the history of downtime I personally would be leery of such a thing.
More name ideas occurred to me...
"Freedom Reborn Expressions Excellence" Workshop - aka, F.R.E.E. Workshop
Or maybe just "Freedom Expressions" or "Freedom Workshop" or "FR Workshop"
I've been lurking in this thread - and I'm intrigued. I've always meant to get more structured about writing. It would be great if this could get kicked off with the New Year!
Spoiler
And for those who remember him, I am still in regular contact with Grendal_71. He wrote some very strong FF fanfic, as well as some other free standing stuff. His wife and I have been after him to get writing again. We shall step up our campaign and see if we can't get him back in the game!
I'm hoping to get this off the ground soon.
Quote from: Night Dragon on December 21, 2011, 07:39:55 AM
And we have our handy, dandy filter to block out bad words. I would say with subject matter that might seem a bit much, prehaps we use a ratings system, like TV, to show what the story has in it. (And doesn't violate the boards own rules) Like if there is going to be violence, it could be rated as follows :
CV - Cartoon violence - People getting whacked in the head, or tossed around, but mostly for laughs.
FV - Fantasy violence - Typical silver age comic book fights, more realistic, but not gruesome or overly graphic.
V - Violence - The middle ground, about what you see in modern comics or on current superhero toons.
GV - Graphic Violence - Watchmen or DKR style fighting. And I think with anything approaching this level definetly at least needs a warning posted on it.
Just a suggestion, of course, as it would be up to the majority of the ppl involved, as well as the moderation team on what can/will be allowed.
I'm not as worried about the violence content actually, Night Dragon, as I am other content. For example, I have a scene in this script that I am working on that has some political stuff in it. It is actually a "playful argument amongst friends about the political affiliation of the Jedi" that is based on an actual mock debate that a friend and I had. I'm actually trying to make the conversation a bit tighter and a bit more absurd almost. More importantly, I need a "sequel" argument for a later scene. The "sequel" argument doesn't have to be political but should be equally "comedic" and more importantly make sense as a lead to the end of the scene.
There is a rule about "no politics" on the forums. I know this first hand. I've also got a religious scene of sorts (again, done in a somewhat abstract manner though not as humorous but with a little bit of humor in it) and writing a scene with potential sexual chemistry in it? I've attempted it (not sure if I was successful) but would be hesitant to post it here for advice.
Just playing "devil's advocate" here a bit in regards to potential issues that could arise. I think the idea is great in theory but I don't want to wind up getting in trouble for asking for assistance with material that TECHNICALLY violates certain forum rules. AND I really would like to post an older version of the "Star Wars political debate" to get some input. and ideas for a sequel conversation. These two scenes (mainly the latter one) has been buggering me for waaaay too long.
I'd definitely be interested in this. :)
Oh.. hello there. Be sure to count me in!
Quote from: Night Dragon on December 21, 2011, 07:39:55 AM
For lengthy material, you could break up the script into sections (like chapters... or say 1st act, 2nd, etc.) and allow folks to crit that before hand. It could work out advantageous on your part if they gave a suggestion that you thought might improve the story. However on the other hand, by not being able to see the whole story in one go, they might not know why this person is doing something that would be revealed later on in the story. So it's a case of fragged if you do, and fragged if you don't, I guess. :lol:
And we have our handy, dandy filter to block out bad words. I would say with subject matter that might seem a bit much, prehaps we use a ratings system, like TV, to show what the story has in it. (And doesn't violate the boards own rules) Like if there is going to be violence, it could be rated as follows :
CV - Cartoon violence - People getting whacked in the head, or tossed around, but mostly for laughs.
FV - Fantasy violence - Typical silver age comic book fights, more realistic, but not gruesome or overly graphic.
V - Violence - The middle ground, about what you see in modern comics or on current superhero toons.
GV - Graphic Violence - Watchmen or DKR style fighting. And I think with anything approaching this level definetly at least needs a warning posted on it.
Just a suggestion, of course, as it would be up to the majority of the ppl involved, as well as the moderation team on what can/will be allowed.
My one concern aside from the one Hamrick brought up, is I write things that could be considered a bit distrubing to those of lesser fortitude..no overt violence or such but more of the mental disturbing. I'm wondering how that will fit in.
I think that anything that's possibly outside the lines of FR's guidelines, or is a long, ongoing project, can be remote linked with warning and a discussion thread. That should be fine, right?
Okay, I''m going to go through the thread in a little bit and gather names and set up a poll. Will post link when done.
(Actually I'm also working on the start of a piece in time for the new year kickoff, so that's a bit of a distraction)
Quote from: Glitch Girl on December 29, 2011, 02:03:23 AM
I think that anything that's possibly outside the lines of FR's guidelines, or is a long, ongoing project, can be remote linked with warning and a discussion thread. That should be fine, right?
How about the unused forum for "Forum Wide" events for general stuff and for certain content, we set up the Google docs? (I need to start utilizing my google stuff more anyways.)
Quote from: Glitch Girl on December 29, 2011, 02:03:23 AM
Okay, I''m going to go through the thread in a little bit and gather names and set up a poll. Will post link when done.
(Actually I'm also working on the start of a piece in time for the new year kickoff, so that's a bit of a distraction)
Working on some stuff to post also. Actually, would the group to help me tweak a few things on a script or two if that is okay. (as I mentioned, including the aforementioned scene that involves some comically intended political references.
actually, was talking with Reepicheep a bit ago and may go ahead and post "project project three" in the empty forum area. Could one of the admins or mods move the "Sequence Structure" thread from Fan Fic to there? thanks.
Quote from: Viking on December 13, 2011, 07:33:22 PMAlong with the Girl Genius and Order of the Stick webcomics.
Viking, mentioning this in the same sentence as Girl Genius caused me to go check it out.
A) Thanks - it's great fun.
B) I'd like that week of my life back now, please.
Okay, got the name poll live.
http://freedomreborn.net/forums/index.php?topic=55115.new#new
Vote for what you want to call yerselves folks!
Something that occurred to me this morning. If we do use the unused forum area, then it should be made viewable to members of the forum only. Just a thought, but it would protect us from anyone stealing out content and claiming it as their own.
That's probably a good idea. I've mentioned it to the Titans. I have no problem with anyone registered here seeing our stuff, but I agree that a little security measure can't hurt.
That said, in an attempt to keep the ball rolling, I've set up a roster thread for anyone who wants to participate. You'll find it here
http://freedomreborn.net/forums/index.php?topic=55128.0
We interrupt your daily brainstorming (or 'thought shower', depending on where you live in the world) with this brief sidetrack:
It's a great idea for a Writer's Group at FR, but has anyone considered having an Artist's Group coexist alongside it?
We have quite a strong FR Artist community, from talented novices to exceptional professionals, and just like the writers here, they too would probably do well with a support network full of encouragement, regular exercises and constructive criticism. Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to detract from this budding group (being an in-house Editor/Writer by profession), I was just hoping to see people's thoughts on the matter.
The reason I thought it pertinent to comment here is because in the
Enrolment thread, somewhere in
Forum-Wide Events, BlueBard mentioned:
Quote...it would be a good idea to feel out the FR Artist community and see who has the skill and interest to do eBook "cover" art and include them in our little club. Anyone interested in trying this route to get published will need someone to do cover art, if only for the catalog.
Other writers have also voiced their desire to start comics or webcomics. From this it seems only natural to me that an Academy of Art (or whatever you want to call it) is at some point established to function independently from, and in collaboration with, the Writer's Group. After all, the more practised the artist, the more impressive the cover. And by working together on something like an illustrated story or a comic, partnered writers and artists would be able to provide one another with additional support, motivation, and that ever-valued extra set of eyes.
Just something to think about. And if anyone takes an interest, I'd be happy to start a new thread for discussion.
We return you now to your scheduled storming.
Quote from: Glitch Girl on January 03, 2012, 03:10:03 AM
That's probably a good idea. I've mentioned it to the Titans. I have no problem with anyone registered here seeing our stuff, but I agree that a little security measure can't hurt.
That said, in an attempt to keep the ball rolling, I've set up a roster thread for anyone who wants to participate. You'll find it here
http://freedomreborn.net/forums/index.php?topic=55128.0
Reep pointed out at least one submission requirement stating that the work can't be published in its' entirety anywhere on a public website.
Therefore, it would seem to be more than just a good idea to limit writing projects to registered users only, at the very least.
Quote from: PreRaphaelite on January 04, 2012, 02:42:24 PM
It's a great idea for a Writer's Group at FR, but has anyone considered having an Artist's Group coexist alongside it?
We have quite a strong FR Artist community, from talented novices to exceptional professionals, and just like the writers here, they too would probably do well with a support network full of encouragement, regular exercises and constructive criticism. Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to detract from this budding group (being an in-house Editor/Writer by profession), I was just hoping to see people's thoughts on the matter.
Speaking as the guy who breached the subject, I am in favor of the idea. There is a lot of room for synergy between the two, and a few folks with one foot firmly planted in both camps. (Looking at you, GG...)