Thursday, February 16, 2012

Don't Make Writing That Novel a Someday Thing

Not long ago, at the recent O'Reilly Tools of Change for Publishing conference in New York City, Bob Young, founder and CEO of Lulu, a web-based personal publishing service, said, "We've seen a huge increase in people who meant to write a book and now are unemployed and are writing the book."

As an agent and novelist, I think this is great. These people are finally able to pursue their writing dreams; something good has come out of something bad.

But I think it's sad, too.

Why is writing a novel so often a "someday" thing? You know, that guy who comes up to you at a party and says he's got a great book in him and will get it down on paper someday. Just doesn't have the time now.

Or that woman who says she's looking forward to starting her novel when she's retired... in approximately fourteen years.

Obviously there's something holding these people back. The message seems to be that if they can't write full-time, they won't write at all.

I have to laugh about that. I have never written full-time, and neither have most of the writers I represent. Some of them couldn't afford to write full-time; others wouldn't want to. They tell me they need the everyday interaction of working, of being out in the world, to fuel their fiction writing. I feel the same way. Most of my writing ideas came to me the week before.

Are you one of those people who say they'll tackle that novel someday?

If you are, what's holding you back? Why can't you start it now? You really should, because none of us is getting any younger, and though you don't like to admit it, fate may not cooperate with your plans. Even if you're not ill or worse, you might find yourself just as busy in retirement as you are now. Life has a way of doing that.

So let's look at the obstacles and try to knock them down so that you can experience the joy of being a novelist now.

Fear of rejection. This is the biggie. You'll put all that effort into a novel, only to have agents and/or editors turn it down, and your baby will never see the light of day. Sorry, that's not a good excuse anymore, because this is the age of personal publishing, micro-publishing, print-on-demand-call it what you like, there's now a whole slew of outfits waiting to help you publish your book well and inexpensively.

The long tail has come to the world of books. I think we all pretty much recognize that the New York publishers are good at certain kinds of books, such as major mass-market-type books, and not so good at others, such as special-interest, not-such-a-large-audience type books. Thousands of people are now getting their novels finished and published and into the hands of grateful readers, thanks to this new technology. Gone are the days of having to print 5,000 copies of your book and store them in the garage. Print-on-demand means that when an order for a book comes in, that book is printed. That's right: one book. Which means no inventory, as we in the business call it, to get or moldy under the work bench.

Lack of technical skill. You feel you're not ready. You don't yet have the skills you need to write that book the way it should be written. Well, if you expect to have those skills by the time you're ready to start writing, you're in for a sad surprise, because if you don't take measures to get those skills, you'll be just as unready then as you are now.

Take a writing course, either at a college or online. Join a writers group. Attend writers conferences. Form a critique group. Find a writing buddy. All of these things can help you acquire the skills you need or improve the ones you've got.

Another option is to hire a freelance editor, or "book doctor." In this age of layoffs, more fine editors than ever are hanging out their shingles as freelancers. Think about it: You could have as your editor the same person a #1 New York Times bestselling author had a year ago. Granted, some of these book doctors can be expensive, but often they are willing to work with you on a step-by-step basis; for example, starting with an analysis of your manuscript, later moving on to suggestions for revisions, then reviewing your revisions, and so on. These days, everyone wants to work out a deal.

Lack of time. If you've still got your job, you don't have a lot of time. But you do have time. You've got nights and weekends, you may have commuting time if you don't have to drive, and you even have lunchtime. After all, these are the times most of today's published authors get their work done. I run a busy, medium-size literary agency. Do I write during the day? No way. Too busy. I write nights, weekends, and a lot of times I used to watch TV. I've got eight novels published as of this writing, and more in the pipeline. I decided a long time ago that time was not going to be an excuse for me. But it does take a firm commitment.

Lack of an idea. It happens. It's a sort of writer's block before you've even started. "What do I write about?" Ideas are everywhere. The key is to focus on the genre of book you want to write and then come up with ideas that will work in that genre. The reason this is easy is that you should be targeting a genre you love to read, and if you read in a genre, it only stands to reason you'll be pretty familiar with the kinds of ideas that are popping up in these books. More to the point, you'll know what ideas haven't popped up yet. Grab one of them and write it.

Fear of ridicule. This is sort of related to fear of rejection, except that it applies to the time after the book has been published. People won't like your book. Critics will pan it. Your mother will be ashamed/shocked/embarrassed. And you're right! All of these things can and probably will happen, and not just about your first book but about all of them.

Because when you put yourself out there creatively, dare to produce a piece of art for the world to look at and judge, that is always going to happen. Just take a look at the customer reviews on Amazon. I tell the authors I represent not simply to be aware that bad reviews, whether from critics or your family, may happen, but to be aware that they will happen. And then I tell them to start developing that rhino hide writers in it for the long haul develop and get on with it. Again, it's the way the world works. Create something; someone's gonna hate it. But someone else is gonna love it.

Fear of loss of income. Don't expect income from your writing and this will never be a problem. It's when you decide all of a sudden that you're going to make your living as a writer that the problems start. I tell my writers, "Don't quit your day job... yet." If, one day, money starts pouring in-and it sometimes does-then it's a bonus. But don't put that pressure on yourself. See your writing as nothing more than fun. Then I guarantee you won't be disappointed.

So what are your excuses for not starting that novel now-today? Afraid you won't sell it? Don't know how to do it? Don't have time? Don't have an idea? Afraid you'll be a laughingstock? Can't afford it?

Sorry. Those aren't good excuses. In fact, there aren't any good excuses. Don't be that poor soul who comes up to me at parties and says "someday."

Do it now. You deserve it.

Evan Marshall is an internationally recognized expert on fiction writing and author of the Hidden Manhattan and Jane Stuart and Winky mystery series. A former book editor, for 30 years he has been a leading literary agent specializing in fiction. His Marshall Plan Novel Writing Software, co-authored with Martha Jewett, is an adaptation of his bestselling Marshall Plan series and has just been released in a new version for both Windows and Mac. He is the president of the Evan Marshall Agency, a leading literary management firm that represents a number of New York Times and USA Today bestselling authors.

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Find a Great Costume for Your Special Event

There is always an occasion in town that calls for theatrical clothing. Whether you're in a stage play, or simply need holiday or festival attire, there are shops that provide a plethora of different costume types for you. It's important to always fit the role of the night. From trick or treating, to Mardi Gras, you will need to have the outfit that is appropriate for the event. Instead of putting together a bunch of cheap materials, visit a shop that specializes in festive getups. With so much material to choose from you are bound to always find what you are looking for.

If you are in a play you will want to be easily identified based on your attire. For instance, if your role to play is a monster, you will want to look exactly like one so that your audience will not be confused. The same goes for any type of role. If your character is an angel or a ghost, you may be tempted to just throw on a white towel or sheet and call it a day. But to keep things professional, you should wear a top notch costume that identifies you in the most amazing way.

Actors are not the only people who dress up in character clothing. There are definitely happenings around town that sometimes require fun and cheerful getups. Certain times of the year, like carnival season call for dress up and a plain good time. And let's not forget Halloween. This fall holiday is a favorite for kids because of the candy and festivities. The biggest part of the holiday for both kids and adults is the opportunity to dress in costume. From witches, to goblins, to superheroes, to other cartoon characters, there are so many things to choose to dress as. Having the right place to purchase costuming material is key! Many people turn to drugstores and department stores at the last minute when needing an outfit. But there are shops that specialize in costuming that can meet all of your needs, whether theatrical or not.

Every now and then you may come across a themed party that calls for a specific attire. Costume parties have always been popular and are still held today. Time specific themes are given all the time like 70s themed parties, or historical themed events. Masquerades are common as well. No matter what the theme, you can always find exactly what you are looking for in the right shop. Imagine attending a Halloween party dressed as a nun and being mistaken for a witch instead. This is what happens when you purchase low quality attire. Instead, you should head over to a highly rated shop and choose from a wide array of top quality material that will last for years and years to come. Costuming is used all year long for different events. And if you're going to wear a costume, make sure you have the absolute best. This way your experience will be more exciting and memorable!


Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Craft Wars

The world of creative crafting recently entered a new arena, aiming to transform it from a hobby into an art form. A new US show called "Craft Wars' was launched in June, offering keen crafters (professional and amateur) an opportunity to win $10,000 prize money and receive validation as a professional crafter.

When you think about crafts, what springs to mind? Adding stickers to home-made cards when you were a child? A knitted jumper that you'd rather not have had to wear, lovingly made by an aged aunt or grandmother? Or, professionally upholstered furniture to breathe new life into your old, worn sofa? Well, prepare to be amazed as you learn that crafting possibilities are endless and surprisingly challenging.

Host and Executive Producer, Tori Spelling, is a keen crafter who understands how challenging and satisfying crafting can be. When not acting, she enjoys "taking every opportunity to creatively express herself." Tori says, "crafting provides an amazing outlet and nothing shows love more than something homemade". Tori has reported that she can't wait to share her passion and be inspired by all the amazing contestants on 'Craft Wars'.

The format of the show is fairly straightforward. Each episode features three enthusiasts competing against one another in two rounds of difficult challenges. Tori acts as both a mentor for the contestants and host for the audience.

All supplies for the show are provided by Michaels, an American creative product supplier. Along with supplying top quality, varied craft supplies and accessories, the company holds craft classes for keen amateurs who wish to master new techniques and skills.

The judging panel is made up of three distinguished and world-famous craft experts.

Erica Domesek is founder, creator and author of "P.S. - I made this"; a distinguished design and style expert living in New York City. Her "Designer DIY" projects range from jewellery to shoes and handbags.

Stephen Brown; an author, entrepreneur and founder of the multi-million dollar giftware company, Glitterville Studios. Stephen's designs are sold is a variety of high-end retail stores worldwide; with his one-off designs described as "wondrously wacky".

Jo Pearson, an author and craft host, is the third judge. For the past 25 years, Jo has been a creative expert for Michaels. A keen crafter since the age of eight, Jo finds that creating something is relaxing to her. Her craft videos have been viewed by millions of people worldwide, helping to inspire others to try crafting themselves.

So, what type of craft skills are the contestants expected to master? Numerous and challenging.

Despite each contestant receiving the same choice of raw materials and ability to use some additional supplies, the final designs have proved to be spectacularly individual.

For example, in the first round of a recent episode, the three contestants were asked to make a lamp. The materials included a variety of eyeglasses and eye protection goggles. Additional use of wood and arts/crafts supplies sponsored by Michaels was permitted. The results were stunning.

One contestant from Wisconsin used an embroidery hoop to create the lamp shade. Next, heating the eye glass enabled her to flatten the coloured lenses taken from sunglasses to create a mosaic look. After melting, the glass was moulded into flower shapes that were glued to the lampshade. Buttons were used for additional, complementary decoration. She used wood to create an attractive lamp base, then covered it in twine to produce a rustic design.

Opinion from the judges offers both praise for innovative design and criticism over poor technique or lack of cohesiveness in design. After the first round, one competitor was eliminated. The lady from Wisconsin survived.

For the second (and final) round, the remaining crafters were challenged to create a complete bedroom set in just five hours. They were given a mattress, carpenter, and four assistants to help them. The stipulation was that their design must include zips. This challenge wasn't one for the faint hearted!

The Wisconsin contestant chose a "smoke and mirrors" theme, creating a mosaic pillow using the zips. She created a wave-shaped headboard, side table and multiple accessories. Her team used the bottoms of shoes as a pattern to make unique tiles for the table. As a final touch, she made a garland out of tiny mirrors and rosettes out of zips for the centres of pillows.

Her challenger from New York designed a canopy bed, side tables and strange-looking chair. He incorporated the zips into a beautifully designed rug, created an upholstered headboard that was "absolutely gorgeous" but, running out of time, his paintwork was judged too sloppy.

Saturday, February 4, 2012

Find a Great Costume for Your Special Event

There is always an occasion in town that calls for theatrical clothing. Whether you're in a stage play, or simply need holiday or festival attire, there are shops that provide a plethora of different costume types for you. It's important to always fit the role of the night. From trick or treating, to Mardi Gras, you will need to have the outfit that is appropriate for the event. Instead of putting together a bunch of cheap materials, visit a shop that specializes in festive getups. With so much material to choose from you are bound to always find what you are looking for.

If you are in a play you will want to be easily identified based on your attire. For instance, if your role to play is a monster, you will want to look exactly like one so that your audience will not be confused. The same goes for any type of role. If your character is an angel or a ghost, you may be tempted to just throw on a white towel or sheet and call it a day. But to keep things professional, you should wear a top notch costume that identifies you in the most amazing way.

Actors are not the only people who dress up in character clothing. There are definitely happenings around town that sometimes require fun and cheerful getups. Certain times of the year, like carnival season call for dress up and a plain good time. And let's not forget Halloween. This fall holiday is a favorite for kids because of the candy and festivities. The biggest part of the holiday for both kids and adults is the opportunity to dress in costume. From witches, to goblins, to superheroes, to other cartoon characters, there are so many things to choose to dress as. Having the right place to purchase costuming material is key! Many people turn to drugstores and department stores at the last minute when needing an outfit. But there are shops that specialize in costuming that can meet all of your needs, whether theatrical or not.

Every now and then you may come across a themed party that calls for a specific attire. Costume parties have always been popular and are still held today. Time specific themes are given all the time like 70s themed parties, or historical themed events. Masquerades are common as well. No matter what the theme, you can always find exactly what you are looking for in the right shop. Imagine attending a Halloween party dressed as a nun and being mistaken for a witch instead. This is what happens when you purchase low quality attire. Instead, you should head over to a highly rated shop and choose from a wide array of top quality material that will last for years and years to come. Costuming is used all year long for different events. And if you're going to wear a costume, make sure you have the absolute best. This way your experience will be more exciting and memorable!

Fifty Shades Of Grey Movie Trailer!



As more and more book lovers dive into the Fifty Shades of Grey  trilogy, it's no surprise that a movie would spark excitement and create a buzz that's heard from sea to sea. All of the work that goes into producing such an anticipated movie makes for a lot to gossip about: fans want to know who will play Christian and Ana, what will the movie leave out, how will it translate to film? Luckily, although the actual production is far off, there is still a ton to talk about in pre-production.

The elements of a The Movie Fifty Shades Of Grey that truly determine the content and details of how the movie will grow out of the book are the production team and the screenwriter. The movie will be produced by Universal Pictures and the production team will be led by Mike De Luca and Dana Brunetti. The screenwriter is yet to be determined but there have been a few guesses as to who will fill that role. Regardless of who is awarded the job, the team is sure to have their hands full when it comes to satisfying the hungry fans of Fifty Shades of Grey.

One of the biggest topics of speculation is who will play the two main characters: Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele. These characters are multi-dimensional, complex and have intense personality traits. A big question is whether it would be better to cast well known stars or to choose Hollywood newcomers who may be able to completely embody Christian and Ana without any preconceived notions. There are multiple well known names floating around for each of the main characters but only time will tell who will transform into Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele.

Yet another strong factor in creating a movie's success is the score. The music in Fifty Shades of Greyand the following books is key in creating the right mood for Christian and Ana's sex-capades, their deep conversations and even their breakfasts. It appears that there have already been some choices made for the movie's music menu, including Kings of Leon, Bruce Springsteen, Frank Sinatra, and many more. With this line up, they already have fans smiling and it seems that the music is on the right track!

As the movie fifty shades of grey buzz continues to float and swirl in the air and decisions are slowly made, the excitement is sure to escalate. The books in the trilogy have created a phenomenon that seems to have reached even the quietest homes and the unlikeliest of readers, so it is only natural for the movie to be met with such anxious anticipation. The movie trailer/teaser can be found on fiftyshadesofgreyfanclub forum.