Development of the latest story has been moving along smoothly. The jotting-down of ideas and my excitement about putting this together both continue to hold steady.
Part of this is simply because I think it's a fun story worth telling.
It's also something I advise writers just starting out:
Write something you would want to watch
Pretty simple, isn't it?
It's always worked for me. I like a particular kind of story, so I feel best suited to write that kind of story. And it shows.
I've always found that a writer's enjoyment and appreciation of the material can be seen on the page. In how the story is told. What mental imagery it creates. The overall vibe.
Really embracing the elements and components of the story goes beyond just telling the reader or audience a story. It should get them invested just as much as you are. Make them feel all the emotions you would if you were reading it, and then some.
How do you feel about your current project? Would a reader get the sense that you love this kind of story? That you had a great time writing it?
It can also be a challenge to not overdo it. You don't want to let how you feel about the story get in the way of solid storytelling and good writing. The last thing you want to do is alienate a reader or belittle them because they don't share your enthusiasm. Look at your script as an opportunity to showcase the things you like about this kind of story.
You also want to be careful not to fall victim to relying on whatever tropes and clichés this kind of story may involve. What's a unique and original spin you can put on it to really make it feel "familiar but different"? It's always great when somebody starts a story with pre-established expectations, and then you surprise them by taking them in a new and different direction that still works within the context of the story.
Although the whole process of putting it all together takes time, I'm excited to be doing it. Figuring it all out and playing around in this particular sandbox adds to the enjoyment. I totally accept there will be some stumbles along the way, but I have a great time putting myself through it, and hope the reader does too.
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Great points, Paul Zeidman! You talked about taking readers in a different direction. I like to write out a scene, then go back and see how I can take it in a different direction(s).
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The best part for me is enjoying the process, Paul Zeidman and it shows that you are enjoying the journey. All the best to you in everything you do!
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Thank you for sharing your process/journey it is very great to hear how other writers goe through their writing and what kind of motivation and goals drive one's writing! If you're ever looking for an exec for a service I recommend continuing Pitch Session and you can always email success@stage32.com for Exec recs!
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Paul, I'm a firm believer in the write-what-you'd-like-to-watch concept...and I'm glad you've posted this!