Last week I wrapped up my Writing the Graphic Novel class and it was awesome! We got to create comic strips using public domain images (since it’s a writing class, no illustrating required). It was fun exploring a different medium. It got the creative juices flowing in a new way for me. We also pitched three springboards of original story ideas to fellow classmates. Out of the three, one was selected for us to focus on. From there, we did a plot/page breakdown and went on to begin drafting our stories in full script format. I’d had a little experience writing scripts from my screenplay class last semester, but this required the additional use of narrative captions and sound effects. A variation of this course is offered by my professor through Udemy and I highly recommend it.
This week I’ll be enjoying a much-needed break with family and friends. I’m catching my breath and gearing up for my next and final class to complete my degree: Creative Writing – TV Pilot Script. As I mentioned in my previous update, I’m exposing myself to as many forms of writing as possible. I want to be ready for any opportunity and intend to write my own film adaptations for my novels (I’m reaching for the stars).
Leading up to graduation this August, I’m building a small stack of craft books that I want to gorge myself on as I transition into full-time writing. I’ll post reviews of each as I go. From the start, I’ve approached writing with a business mindset, as well as an artistic one. Story creation is my passion, but it is also how I hope to make a living. I’m doing all that I can to ensure a successful launch with a quality product. My mission statement is to inspire, encourage, and entertain. I’ll strive to achieve this through my novels while ensuring they are as good as, or better than, what you’d expect from a major publisher. Viewing this as my dream career, one that would be fulfilling and provide for my family, I’m taking it very seriously. I’m putting my entrepreneurial mind to use and building a business.
As with anything, my approach isn’t for everyone. Whether it be a creative outlet, for your own sanity, to make money, or all three, writing is a beautiful and worthwhile endeavor. It’s always been a part of my life, whether in the form of songs, poems, short stories, or (now) novels. It’s something that I cannot imagine living without. It’s perfectly fine to write as a hobby, but for me, after many years of searching for my purpose, I see writing as my calling. As such, I’m becoming more intentional with my content.
In my exploration of the craft, I wandered off my desired path. Some of my short stories featured vulgar language and content, and spiraled into something I don’t wish to add to the world: darkness. The timing of this realization couldn’t be better. I’m solidifying my voice and goals as I’m on the cusp of beginning my debut novel. Will evil and brokenness be represented? Absolutely. It wouldn’t be believable otherwise, because those things exist in our real-world experience. But, evil will not be promoted, nor will it be victorious. I believe good wins in the end. The journey toward that victory is the struggle. I want to produce something a family can enjoy together, that breeds hope in adult and young minds alike. There’s enough darkness in the world. I intend to use my fire to spread light.
That’s it for now. Stay tuned for more updates on my projects as they unfold and be sure to subscribe to my email list for exclusive offers and first-look opportunities to come. Meanwhile, head over to The Aspiring Author Blog and read my first post This is Thriller. Comment there and share any questions you might have, or any topics you’d like me to cover. I’ll always do my best to offer valuable content. I appreciate your time.