jueves, 29 de enero de 2009

How to Write Fantasy

Compendia muchos buenos consejos que llevo años poniendo en práctica. Aunque parece poco os aseguro que tiene mucha sustancia.

Fuente:

http://www.ehow.com/how_2007337_write-fantasy.html

Información:

How to Write Fantasy

I Did ThisWhat’s this? Rate: (11 Ratings)

Some say that science fiction and fantasy are the most difficult genres to write. This'll make it a bit easier.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

  • A love of reading AND writing. Absolutely mandatory.
  • Imagination and creativity. If you don't have it, pick another genre.
  • Basic knowledge of spelling, grammar, and writing in general.
  • A few pencil or many, MANY pens.
  • Several notebooks with lined paper: some that fit in your pocket or purse and some with standard-size sheets.
  • A word processor (preferably a standard personal computer)
  • A library card
Step1
Learn about the kinds of fantasy stories or books you'd like to write. Read them. Read interviews with your favorite authors.

What parts of these stories excite you? What parts annoy you?

What (slightly unusual) words do you see in almost every book? Make a habit of using these words yourself.
Step2
Get inspired. Always keep paper and a writing utensil nearby. Write down every fragment of an idea. Find a spot that speaks to you and go there whenever possible, just scribbling down whatever comes to you.
Step3
Try to write every day. It doesn't have to be an organized journal. Just note whatever stands out to you.

For example, if you saw a guy with a strange deformity, what else did you notice about him? What was his body language and facial expression communicating?

Take bits of these things from your life and put them into your story. The fantasy genre requires much detail, and if it is something you've experienced, you can describe it in such a way that it rings true to the reader.
Step4
Who is your main character? Have a name for him/her. This character should be complex, with both strengths and weaknesses, and a history that makes sense. The reader should have a reason to like him/her.
Step5
Put all these ideas together. Put the ones that don't make sense in this context aside but DON'T destroy them! Do not be overly concerned with grammar, spelling, formatting, etc. Just write/type your story as it comes to you.

Tips & Warnings

  • Edit your story ONLY when you are finished or are completely stuck.
  • Other ideas for those with writer's block: Watch movies, plays, or attend any other artsy event. Go to websites with art/writing you enjoy. (http://elfwood.lysator.liu.se/elfwood.pike has sci-fi/fantasy art and stories.) Go to a site with many random generators for names, plot events, or even writing prompts. (Writingfix.com, SeventhSanctum.com)
  • Learn about ancient mythology, magical folklore, urban legends, etc. These stories may provide inspiration for your own, or figures that become characters/creatures in it.
  • Most authors suggest recording your story on tape and playing it back during the editing process. If you don't have a voice recorder, at least read it aloud. This lets you know if the words SOUND right, which is invaluable.
  • Get involved with any local opportunities to meet established authors, especially ones that write the kinds of books you are interested in.
  • DON'T let other people read your work if you are attached to it. If they don't like it, you may find yourself unable to write any more.
  • Computer spell-checkers are useful but will NOT find every mistake. Edit your work yourself multiple times.

No hay comentarios: