So, I started with Syd's first two lessons and found my focus (and inspiration) surprisingly fast. I even cranked out a pitch which is usually the most difficult thing for me to do, but for some reason this time I am so clear on what my story is going to be about that the pitch just wrote itself.
As for my query project, that is with my peeps who are reading the two drafts I have and giving me feedback on which one they think is more effective.
Unfortunately, these past couple of blog entries are pretty short, but that's because I'm on a creative streak. I've been pouring my creative juices into this new screenplay. I will try to write more over the next few days.
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I do want to recommend one computer program that I started using that may be helpful to writers wanting to learn a foreign language. I recently purchased Rosetta Stone, Spanish: Latin America and I love it. It really does immerse you in the language. It cuts out the entire "Here is the word in English, now translate." It teaches you the language by throwing you right into the language, no English translation. You really do walk away from the first lesson speaking full phrases. I think learning a foreign language is good for writers for five reasons: first learning another language adds to your characterizations. It's so much better when you can actually write a phrase in French into your espionage screenplay, rather than writing it in English and putting in parenthesis "in French". It just looks more professional.
Second, it makes you more marketable as a writer. You can now speak at conferences in foreign countries, travel abroad to write, or work with foreign actors and directors.
Third, learning a new language makes you smarter. Leonardo DaVinci knew that. It makes you use pathways that are dormant in your brain. It's no surprise that geniuses and highly creative people speak two and three languages. It makes you more creative.
Four, it opens you up to new ideas that are not available in English. I love Umberto Eco, Fellini films, and Italian music, but a lot is lost when it is translated into English. I'm glad I can read and understand the Italian.
Five, foreign languages are soooo sexy. Need I say more?
So there you have it. Go and learn some Swahili. You'll be glad you did!
Please check out my novel Luke Aloysius: Bloodline on Amazon:
Please check out my novel Luke Aloysius: Bloodline on Amazon:
Just saw your blog and I am "green" to starting a screenplay...I have heard that some classes are offered that actually focus on writing a screenpaly in 6 months...are you familiar with anything like that? I live in the Philly area. Keep on pressing on.
ReplyDeleteI don't know about the Philly area, jcs, but those classes do exist. I highly suggest the following two books to get you started: "The Screenwriter's Workbook" by Syd Field, which will walk you step-by-step through an entire screenplay. Also, get a copy of Robert McKee's "Story" which tells you everything you need to know about the art of screenwriting and story-telling. I refer to both these books all the time, even though I'm not new to screenwriting. They are the gurus. They both have websites and teach around the country. Google them and go to their seminars. It's well worth your time and money!
ReplyDeletePS: Thanks for the post!!
ReplyDelete