~Sia McKye~
Many writers will tell you they see their stories unfold in their head, much like a movie.
Is that the case with you?
I attended a writer’s workshop recently that discussed using theatrical techniques when writing your story. It was presented by an actress and author (Leanna Renee Hieber) and was a fun workshop. I came away with better visual ideas for my writing.
The author is not only writer, but also:
- Cinematographer and as such you’re in charge of the setting, picture, mood, and ambiance of each scene in the story.
- Director whose job it is to set the staging, pacing, and viewpoint
- Actor. As an actor you have to delve into the character. What’s the character’s motivation, how should the lines be delivered, how do you use the dialogue to show your character and his/her intent?
- Marketing Director and as such what’s your movie poster quote? The one line pitch or tag line? You’re a brand so how do you present you and your work?
I’ve gotten stuck now and then, while writing. You know when you know something is wrong but you can’t quite figure out what. It’s frustrating. I had a light bulb moment as I was listening to the speaker. She said never forget your characters. They are what drive the book. If we’re writing, editing, or have gotten stuck ask yourself as the actor:
What’s my motivation?
- How am I going to get what I want (intention and tactics)?
- What’s the conflict? Or what’s keeping me from getting what I want?
My light bulb moment was, wow, I could use this for character and dialogue but I could also use this when crafting or editing my scene—especially if I’m stuck. It would help me look at each character within the scene to see if they’re reacting true to their GMC and is the scene being written to the best dramatic advantage.
Do you use any of these techniques when you write or edit?
