Day - 2

I would consider yesterday productive, even though I only had about 20 minutes to write. I was able to crank out 5 more pages in Crush. That's a plus.

So on to the question of emotional scenes in books. What makes a scene sad or intense? Is it the adjectives that are used? Is it the similarity to a personal experience?

I think it's a combination of both. If the reader can relate to it (e.g. a family member passing away, getting fired from a job, etc.) then it becomes more personal to the reader. I racked my brain trying to think if there was a book that I have read that has brought me to tears. I couldn't think of one. That's not to say that there haven't been books that have been powerful and tugged at my heart. I like to save my crying for more relevant things...like when you're waiting in line for 17 hours in the freezing cold, outside of a Fred Meyer, trying to be the first to get a Nintendo Wii. But, only to be disappointed and have supplies run out just before you. That would make me cry, but I digress.

A friend told me that this blog reminded him of the "Julie & Julia" movie. Hmm...I hadn't even thought about that, but I can see the similarities. I liked that movie and no it didn't make me cry!

One more thought for the moment. This last week I've had the fortunate opportunity to meet five different authors at book signings. Three of those authors are best selling authors. Of course I jumped at the opportunity to rub elbows with people in the biz and try to gain writing knowledge through osmosis. One thing that they all offer as tips for aspiring writers is to write. Not just write but I think they all said something like "Write your butt off!" I suppose that's what I'm trying to do. After all, that does sound like sound advice and they obviously know what they're talking about.

It's been fun, it's been real...but I need to go write. (You thought I was going to say "It's been real fun," huh?....Bazinga!) Don't forget to tell a friend. The more diverse group of people who can offer feedback, the better!

Can I Get Published In A Year

~ "I write because I care and drugs are bad."