Today I am in the process of reshaping my beret. As anyone I did basic training with will tell you, my beret and my head have waged a never-ending battle. Then, the dress regs changed and we were allowed to wear the ship's ballcaps off-base. Yay! My beret slid to the bottom of a drawer, biding its time, waiting for the chance to make my head look ridiculous.
Well, today I pulled it out in preparation for our journey to England, where we shall be on training for the last four months of the year. Apparently they don't like ballcaps, so back to the beret it is. Now I've been sitting in my chair reading, with a soaking wet beret on my head so as to reshape it. This time, I've learned a few tricks and seem to be winning. However, it is a canny thing, that beret, and I shall have to keep a close eye upon it.
This week as been slow, as I've mostly been readying my packing/repacking lists and sorting plans for England. True, we don't leave for another month, but I've got leave back home in between and a chance to swap out some of my kit for things at home. Frankly, being away from home is a pain in the butt when you've got to prepare to travel to a third location. That and some days have just been wasted. I didn't get as much writing done as I desired, but this weekend shall be the time I make up for it. Hell, Wednesday I didn't do a think. I sat in my chair after supper to read for a half hour while digesting, and woke up hours later and crawled over and into bed. Very sad, but at least I felt great the next day. Sometimes you gotta listen to the body.
I also tried more barefoot-style running. After that first time, my calves were screaming in protest for the next three days. This time, not so much, though experience told me to stretch a bit extra afterwards. That and my legs didn't feel like a group of dwarves had surrounded them and beaten them with warhammers, so maybe this style of running is for me. More data will tell.
That's about it for now. Have to get to some more writing. My recent successes (read: useful daily word counts) seem to beget success. This is nothing new, as with many things, the more success you have, the more you are spurred to do it. Happens all the time with painting models.
With that, I leave you to write words and fight with my beret.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Some random coolness
I have nothing for today, must write not blog.
For your pleasure, the Millennium Falcon, 'cause, why not.
For your pleasure, the Millennium Falcon, 'cause, why not.
This bit of coolness brought to you by my lack of werewithal to bring you actual content.
But it is cool, isn't it?
Sunday, July 24, 2011
A day of victory
Today was what I like to think of a day of victory.
On the writing side, I bashed out over two thousand words. In a mere two hours. I took my laptop to the park near the Admiralty House museum on base and sat in the shade and just slipped into the zone. It was good but reality did come calling.
On the professional side, I passed my Naval Engineering Indoctrination board. Actually I passed it last Wednesday, but I'm including it here because I feel pretty good about the whole weekend. Since it's my blog, I can do that. :-)
I even tried an experiment when I did my workout today. I've been reading about the concept of 'barefoot running' lately. Now, you must know, normally I hate running. Can't stand it. It's too slow (and I admit I'm no sprinter) compared to my beloved bicycle or inline skates, it's too boring unless you can find a trail to run, and frankly, it tends to hurt. After a friend sent a few articles about running barefoot, using the body's natural running stance (more of a midfoot hit rather than a heel hit), and looking at some interesting shoes (Vibram Five Fingers - www.vibramfivefingers.com, not endorsing, just passing the interest), I decided to try the whole idea out. I went to the track over by the base hospital and spent the first ten minutes of my run barefoot (on the grassy part, not interested in the gravel portion, thanks), then put shoes back on and continued for the remainder.
Observations; I found that the barefoot stance was more natural, and wasn't as jarring as a heel hit that one uses with a more traditional running shoe. I definitely used some muscles that haven't been used much lately (hello calf muscles!), but it was very interesting. I can honestly say it didn't suck as much as I find running normally does. That said, the track was still boring. I'd be interesting to try a trail, but would want some shoes and before I actually lay out money for these odd 'foot-gloves' I think I'll continue my experiment for a while.
The benefit of running for me is that in the military, it's an easy piece of kit (i.e. shoes) to take with you, and you can do it anywhere, from a treadmill to a flight deck.
Add to all of that some laundry done and I think I'm going to toast myself with a nice, cold beer. Tomorrow is another day, and another good one for writing. Now if only it wasn't so thrice-cursedly hot.
On the writing side, I bashed out over two thousand words. In a mere two hours. I took my laptop to the park near the Admiralty House museum on base and sat in the shade and just slipped into the zone. It was good but reality did come calling.
On the professional side, I passed my Naval Engineering Indoctrination board. Actually I passed it last Wednesday, but I'm including it here because I feel pretty good about the whole weekend. Since it's my blog, I can do that. :-)
I even tried an experiment when I did my workout today. I've been reading about the concept of 'barefoot running' lately. Now, you must know, normally I hate running. Can't stand it. It's too slow (and I admit I'm no sprinter) compared to my beloved bicycle or inline skates, it's too boring unless you can find a trail to run, and frankly, it tends to hurt. After a friend sent a few articles about running barefoot, using the body's natural running stance (more of a midfoot hit rather than a heel hit), and looking at some interesting shoes (Vibram Five Fingers - www.vibramfivefingers.com, not endorsing, just passing the interest), I decided to try the whole idea out. I went to the track over by the base hospital and spent the first ten minutes of my run barefoot (on the grassy part, not interested in the gravel portion, thanks), then put shoes back on and continued for the remainder.
Observations; I found that the barefoot stance was more natural, and wasn't as jarring as a heel hit that one uses with a more traditional running shoe. I definitely used some muscles that haven't been used much lately (hello calf muscles!), but it was very interesting. I can honestly say it didn't suck as much as I find running normally does. That said, the track was still boring. I'd be interesting to try a trail, but would want some shoes and before I actually lay out money for these odd 'foot-gloves' I think I'll continue my experiment for a while.
The benefit of running for me is that in the military, it's an easy piece of kit (i.e. shoes) to take with you, and you can do it anywhere, from a treadmill to a flight deck.
Add to all of that some laundry done and I think I'm going to toast myself with a nice, cold beer. Tomorrow is another day, and another good one for writing. Now if only it wasn't so thrice-cursedly hot.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Switch in focus
Success this weekend. Roughly 1500 words. It started with an agonizing ripping of even the most willing verb onto the page, and by the time the weekend was done I was pouring them out. Well, relatively speaking. There was studying to be done as well.
This next week promises to be a busy one. Exam on Friday so studying and preps will take the lion's share of time. Words shall have to wait. Once this week is done, though, I can regain balance.
That's it for now. Just happy to crank some words out and finish a scene that was being ... fussy, for want of a better term. Oh, and I just looked at the bottom of the page. Page 100! Whooo! (yeah, I'll take the small victories.)
This next week promises to be a busy one. Exam on Friday so studying and preps will take the lion's share of time. Words shall have to wait. Once this week is done, though, I can regain balance.
That's it for now. Just happy to crank some words out and finish a scene that was being ... fussy, for want of a better term. Oh, and I just looked at the bottom of the page. Page 100! Whooo! (yeah, I'll take the small victories.)
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Words vs words vs words
Nothing like being on the opposite coast from home to give you time to write. I'm in Halifax right now on another training course. Seems endless some days, but that's what you get when you change trades.
The downside: my family is still on the west coast. This sucks, but my wife and I decided that any course (or combination of courses) under a year would be a 'no move' if possible. Saves on the upheaval.
The upside: I have only my course to worry about, and the after hours are free to write.
Have I been ironclad in my discipline and written every day? Heh. This is me we're talking about here folks. However, despite my procrastinative tendencies (yep, I did just make that word up), I have actually managed to churn out more words. When added to the pile I've done since the last time I posted, I'm cruising right along.
(And no, there's no reason besides life and other craziness why the last post was so long ago. Deal.)
So now here I am, a naval engineer now instead of MARS, and ready to finish the book this year. I'd say earlier, but courses and other job-related things (those things that pay the bills right now) have a terrible habit of getting in the way.
An interesting thought came to me as I was walking back from the grocery store. I was laughing to myself (inwardly, of course, else people do tend to look at you funny and cross the street) as I carried my parcels down the street. Why was I laughing? Well, I was thinking about Queen's Legacy, and how I'll definitely need to rework things in revision. Then I wondered how my words could ever be as good as many of the published writers I read every day. Then my mind turns back to the fact that all those people are just people, like me, who have put a lot of work, practice and effort into their writing. So my mind returns to its original confident state, thinking that with enough work and practice, so too can I go there.
The point of my rambling is not to draw down the accomplishments of published writers, many of whom I enjoy and/or revere. Rather, to remind myself that it is mere mortals who write these words, and pour hours of effort and work into their texts. Like any other profession, it's skills are learned through doing. I can do this. Maybe no one will want to read my works. Maybe they will. I'll not know unless I finish, and get them out there.
That's my thoughts for today. If you've stuck through my rambling, then good on you. Right now I think it's time to get back to writing, then some technical drawings.
Sunday, January 04, 2009
Resolutions
Another batch of words today. All is good. Now on to ironing, shining, and homework to get ready for a week of class.
Normally I don't make New Year's resolutions. I have nothing against the idea, just that I figure any day can be 'day zero' if you want it to be. Maybe just the length of vacation I had this year makes it feel a bit different, or something. However, this year I've resolved to plug at writing every chance I get. 15 minutes here, an hour there, etc.
Will I finish the book this year? I don't know.
I do know that if I don't get back on the horse I've neglected for too long, I definitely will NOT finish. That is not acceptable.
Normally I don't make New Year's resolutions. I have nothing against the idea, just that I figure any day can be 'day zero' if you want it to be. Maybe just the length of vacation I had this year makes it feel a bit different, or something. However, this year I've resolved to plug at writing every chance I get. 15 minutes here, an hour there, etc.
Will I finish the book this year? I don't know.
I do know that if I don't get back on the horse I've neglected for too long, I definitely will NOT finish. That is not acceptable.
Saturday, January 03, 2009
Hit the stride today
First off, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Happy New Year, and Happy any other reason you can think of. Good mood today, and I'm lookin' to share the joy.
I hit a pretty good stride today. The last entry was what, July? Yep. After a whirlwind in August of getting my family moved to the west coast, then slamming into the MARS III course like a winged brick hitting the ground, I've had the holidays to reclaim my writing.
Well, that and actually dig my way through all the boxes and such to get at my stuff. Let's just say the movers made a mess of everything. Just put it wherever, and it took three days just to bring order to the madness and get sorted enough to have bedrooms, living room and kitchen that could be productive. Oh well, part of the job, I guess.
That said, I did pass the course, so now I'm in MARS IV, and if all goes well, I'll be in the fleet sometime in May/June. Yay me! First, let's pass the course. Gonna screw with the writing something fierce, but balance, young padawan, balance.
On the writing front, I got fully reacquainted with the WIP, and tonight I'm bashing out some serious forward progress. Not sure how many words yet, but at least a thousand or so. Just taking a break to get some tea and loosen the mind a touch. I didn't revise anything, just reread some bits, checked my references, and carried on. Well, I did add a note on the hardcopy I had to include some description of the main character at one point. Realized I didn't have any! I'll get that on revision, but it's good to remember. Not such a good thing to forget. Just as I promised myself not to go back all the time, I also promised to make notes and have a list of things to remember, whether it's names for bit-players I made up on the fly, or just what colour someone's horse is. It's small things, but if they get mixed up, it just makes me wince as a reader.
Right then, enough of my rambling, just rejoining the blogosphere. Pipe the carry on.
I hit a pretty good stride today. The last entry was what, July? Yep. After a whirlwind in August of getting my family moved to the west coast, then slamming into the MARS III course like a winged brick hitting the ground, I've had the holidays to reclaim my writing.
Well, that and actually dig my way through all the boxes and such to get at my stuff. Let's just say the movers made a mess of everything. Just put it wherever, and it took three days just to bring order to the madness and get sorted enough to have bedrooms, living room and kitchen that could be productive. Oh well, part of the job, I guess.
That said, I did pass the course, so now I'm in MARS IV, and if all goes well, I'll be in the fleet sometime in May/June. Yay me! First, let's pass the course. Gonna screw with the writing something fierce, but balance, young padawan, balance.
On the writing front, I got fully reacquainted with the WIP, and tonight I'm bashing out some serious forward progress. Not sure how many words yet, but at least a thousand or so. Just taking a break to get some tea and loosen the mind a touch. I didn't revise anything, just reread some bits, checked my references, and carried on. Well, I did add a note on the hardcopy I had to include some description of the main character at one point. Realized I didn't have any! I'll get that on revision, but it's good to remember. Not such a good thing to forget. Just as I promised myself not to go back all the time, I also promised to make notes and have a list of things to remember, whether it's names for bit-players I made up on the fly, or just what colour someone's horse is. It's small things, but if they get mixed up, it just makes me wince as a reader.
Right then, enough of my rambling, just rejoining the blogosphere. Pipe the carry on.
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Love interests
I got to thinking about the last post I made, and I wondered to myself why the idea of the love interest is so important.
The simple answer would be to just think about it for ourselves, why we consider the ones we love to be important. Now, before you click on another favourite site, I'm not going to get all philosophical on you, because that would be boring. At least, boring for me to write, and I try to avoid that at all costs. But I digress.
I think one of the most compelling aspects of a story is to make the reader care about the main character (or characters). How to do that? Up the stakes. What's a great stake? The character's love interest. While it can be the parent-child or sibling or other relationship, one of the most powerful is the romantic love interest. One glance at the 'romance' section (especially the size of it) in any bookstore tells you how powerful a story element it is.
Thing is, it's not just in the romance genre. The amount of romance in SF/Fantasy probably rivals that of romance itself. Not to mention all the other romances going on in the rest of the fiction section. In my own WIP, it is going to be one of the primary plots, and a driving force to evolve the main character. Why? Love affects us in ways we just can't always explain. It can be a strong motivator (just look at the effort spent on attracting and keeping someone), it can be a source of comfort, fear, jealousy, embarrassment, wrath and the list goes on. Probably a longer list than most other story aspects. Give your character a reason to love, and they now have a reason to fight, to quest, to push harder and faster than the antagonist. Apply some threat, and you've got an instant (if not fully fleshed out) story.
Now that I think about it, it can apply to all the other sides of love too. For all the parents out there, you know what I'm talking about. Put your child in danger and every parent turns into Conan, or Rambo.
So, shortly I'm bringing my main character and her love interest together. Sparks shall fly, though I think in a non-typical way, and we'll see. Maybe they'll work to derail my carefully crafted plans. Then I'll just have to bring them back into line.
WIP progress: doing okay, but a test for my course in the Navy derailed some of the work last week. Still cranking out words, though.
There's my thoughts for the day. Anything to add, feel free...
The simple answer would be to just think about it for ourselves, why we consider the ones we love to be important. Now, before you click on another favourite site, I'm not going to get all philosophical on you, because that would be boring. At least, boring for me to write, and I try to avoid that at all costs. But I digress.
I think one of the most compelling aspects of a story is to make the reader care about the main character (or characters). How to do that? Up the stakes. What's a great stake? The character's love interest. While it can be the parent-child or sibling or other relationship, one of the most powerful is the romantic love interest. One glance at the 'romance' section (especially the size of it) in any bookstore tells you how powerful a story element it is.
Thing is, it's not just in the romance genre. The amount of romance in SF/Fantasy probably rivals that of romance itself. Not to mention all the other romances going on in the rest of the fiction section. In my own WIP, it is going to be one of the primary plots, and a driving force to evolve the main character. Why? Love affects us in ways we just can't always explain. It can be a strong motivator (just look at the effort spent on attracting and keeping someone), it can be a source of comfort, fear, jealousy, embarrassment, wrath and the list goes on. Probably a longer list than most other story aspects. Give your character a reason to love, and they now have a reason to fight, to quest, to push harder and faster than the antagonist. Apply some threat, and you've got an instant (if not fully fleshed out) story.
Now that I think about it, it can apply to all the other sides of love too. For all the parents out there, you know what I'm talking about. Put your child in danger and every parent turns into Conan, or Rambo.
So, shortly I'm bringing my main character and her love interest together. Sparks shall fly, though I think in a non-typical way, and we'll see. Maybe they'll work to derail my carefully crafted plans. Then I'll just have to bring them back into line.
WIP progress: doing okay, but a test for my course in the Navy derailed some of the work last week. Still cranking out words, though.
There's my thoughts for the day. Anything to add, feel free...
Monday, May 19, 2008
More Words
Finally braced myself and dove back into the WIP today. After a rather slack weekend (pure indulgence, but I feel no shame), I've pounded out a grand total of 817 words! Don't all go nuts at once now. This brings my total to 12 324 words. Hmmm, doesn't sound as impressive saying it out loud again. (yes, I'm saying it out loud as I type, you can't hear it, but it's happening)
Still, I was going to stop as I have some ironing and other chores to do before bed but I couldn't. That, more than any abstract word count, is what felt good. That continuous push, when the CD has ended, the lights are all out because you haven't turned them on and you are ignoring chores because it's just hitting the page. I won't say easily, because I really had to work for these words. Maybe I've shaken the rust off, but just getting them out. Hard to describe, really.
So now I'll waste some time writing a blog entry. Naturally. :-) Nothing like a little procrastination before shining shoes. Bleh.
It does feel good to get back in the groove. Now I just have to maintain that forward motion. Today's scene was a bit of a character builder, though I didn't get through it all. A bit slow, but I'll save those considerations for the rewrite. Next up, the meeting of the love interest!
Still, I was going to stop as I have some ironing and other chores to do before bed but I couldn't. That, more than any abstract word count, is what felt good. That continuous push, when the CD has ended, the lights are all out because you haven't turned them on and you are ignoring chores because it's just hitting the page. I won't say easily, because I really had to work for these words. Maybe I've shaken the rust off, but just getting them out. Hard to describe, really.
So now I'll waste some time writing a blog entry. Naturally. :-) Nothing like a little procrastination before shining shoes. Bleh.
It does feel good to get back in the groove. Now I just have to maintain that forward motion. Today's scene was a bit of a character builder, though I didn't get through it all. A bit slow, but I'll save those considerations for the rewrite. Next up, the meeting of the love interest!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
It's here!
Now my writing binder has arrived! Along with a box full of D&D books and assorted other bits. Spent most of last night sorting everything into my quarters here on base. This morning I opened up the binder to my outline, and realized I have a lot of review to do. Time to get my head wrapped back around the book. Nevertheless, it's a relief to have it here to work on, even if I have to wrap its schedule around the Navy's.
Tonight, my goal is to review and get back on it. Tomorrow I'll begin throwing some words at the page and see if I'm 'on' or not. Of course, if not, I'll just keep going. I'm already itching to fire my keyboard at certain scenes, but patience. No need to rush in and make a hash of it. Get it all sorted out first. Which is typical for me. Take some time to get my head sorted, and I can do a much better job. Rush in and it's all a mess. No offence to those seat-of-the-pantsers out there, but that's not how I work.
Now, off to work.
Tonight, my goal is to review and get back on it. Tomorrow I'll begin throwing some words at the page and see if I'm 'on' or not. Of course, if not, I'll just keep going. I'm already itching to fire my keyboard at certain scenes, but patience. No need to rush in and make a hash of it. Get it all sorted out first. Which is typical for me. Take some time to get my head sorted, and I can do a much better job. Rush in and it's all a mess. No offence to those seat-of-the-pantsers out there, but that's not how I work.
Now, off to work.
Sunday, May 04, 2008
On its way
My writing material is now on its way to me in Esquimalt, courtesy of the most wonderful woman in the world, my wife. This is also the woman who, when I suggested giving up an engineering career to join the Navy, wasn't surprised. The one who said, basically, 'okay.' So yes, the most wonderful woman ever.
Along with inline skates and several D&D books. So now I just have to wait a week or so for the stuff to arrive, and remember to never, ever, outline in hardcopy only ever, ever again. Never. Ugh.
At least it's on its way. Then I can begin plugging away again. Hopefully spend an hour a night or so. At least work towards that, but we'll also see what the Navy loads me up with. Once I get settled with the course routine then the writing schedule will fall out also.
I also have had some readers on the first four chapters that I've written. Responses are positive, but also some good criticisms. I've filed them away for now, as there's no going back. Even over the things I've seen with Queen's Legacy. Just made the notes, and filed them away. I have to push forward only.
At least I've been able to control the growth of new stories. I often get good story ideas (or even average ones with potential) at the most unlikely times. I try to record them, and just stuff them in a folder in my desk for later use. Otherwise, I'll have a half-dozen starts and outlines, with nothing on its way to completion. Mind you, some are pretty interesting. Maybe some outlining while I wait for Canada Post to work it's magic wouldn't hurt.
For now, I have shirts to iron and some shoes to polish.
Along with inline skates and several D&D books. So now I just have to wait a week or so for the stuff to arrive, and remember to never, ever, outline in hardcopy only ever, ever again. Never. Ugh.
At least it's on its way. Then I can begin plugging away again. Hopefully spend an hour a night or so. At least work towards that, but we'll also see what the Navy loads me up with. Once I get settled with the course routine then the writing schedule will fall out also.
I also have had some readers on the first four chapters that I've written. Responses are positive, but also some good criticisms. I've filed them away for now, as there's no going back. Even over the things I've seen with Queen's Legacy. Just made the notes, and filed them away. I have to push forward only.
At least I've been able to control the growth of new stories. I often get good story ideas (or even average ones with potential) at the most unlikely times. I try to record them, and just stuff them in a folder in my desk for later use. Otherwise, I'll have a half-dozen starts and outlines, with nothing on its way to completion. Mind you, some are pretty interesting. Maybe some outlining while I wait for Canada Post to work it's magic wouldn't hurt.
For now, I have shirts to iron and some shoes to polish.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
On to the next phase
Just catching up on things with my shiny new laptop. Right now I'm at the Naval Officer Training Centre, in Esquimalt, BC to begin the next phase of training. I graduated April 24 from basic officer training, and my wife and I got married that evening! Fortunately, she is sending my writing notes and such things, as well as the files, so I can keep plugging away, in the few shreds of spare time I might have. I plan to keep this blog to writing, but some Navy stuff will likely creep in. Can't help it, this job is so much cooler than my last one. Once I get my writing sorted out and back in line, I'll have more to say.
I certainly realized while on basic training just how much I missed writing (or any other creative outlet for that matter). Now that I'm outfitted here, I can keep going and get the ideas flowing. That and there are several good readers who want my stuff in the group, plus one published author! Life is pretty good, and will get better. I've heard the next course will allow some free time after the work day and on weekends, so I'm looking forward to pouring all the new experiences into the imagination mill and grinding them up to reform into good stories.
Anyway, while I wait for the mail, there are persons waiting on me to have a few wobbly pops. Next time I'm making my outline digital, instead of handwritten hardcopy. Gaaah. That one's biting me on the arse now. Oh well, learn for next time.
I certainly realized while on basic training just how much I missed writing (or any other creative outlet for that matter). Now that I'm outfitted here, I can keep going and get the ideas flowing. That and there are several good readers who want my stuff in the group, plus one published author! Life is pretty good, and will get better. I've heard the next course will allow some free time after the work day and on weekends, so I'm looking forward to pouring all the new experiences into the imagination mill and grinding them up to reform into good stories.
Anyway, while I wait for the mail, there are persons waiting on me to have a few wobbly pops. Next time I'm making my outline digital, instead of handwritten hardcopy. Gaaah. That one's biting me on the arse now. Oh well, learn for next time.
Sunday, April 06, 2008
I'm still here
It seems like I've been away from the blog for a while, and it's true. However, I'm still kicking. I was accepted as an officer candidate in the Canadian Navy, and have been in the application process for most of 2007. Thus, I've been occupied for a while. Needless to say, the ravings will continue soon, once basic training is finished. Watch for me in May!
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Book Pimping
Aaaaaaand we're back! Another trademark long absence. However, this one has been due to a potential career change (sadly, not writing related), that I'm keeping close to the chest for now. Suffice to say it has drained the writing resources (read: time), but I've considered it acceptable losses. For now.
But enough about that. Hopefully more soon.
My real post is about book pimping. I know, *groan* everyone talks about that at some time. Well, for one, there's no guarantee of originality in the header is there? Exactly. I'll save the original brain cells (there's a few I've stashed near the back, just past the visual cortex for just such an occasion).
Why do I want to talk about book pimping? Because just recently I've done it, and it really hit home that what many author/bloggers go on about is that word of mouth is one of the best ways to sell books. I'm not going to say I have any credibility as a marketer. Nor am I a bookseller, but today it struck me just how powerful it can be. Example:
The junior project engineer was looking for a new book to read. He figured I had a few titles I could suggest, as we both seem to enjoy fantasy and SF. Fine. He said he just finished one of David Weber's books, and I said 'here, try this series (the Honor Harrington, starting with On Basilisk Station - there, you've been pimped!).' That was Friday. I get an email this morning saying he finished the book and is starting book 2, and it was awesome. I agree, but I'm digressing. This was the first time I've pimped a book cold, on someone who wasn't in my 'inner circle' of friends, and had the same reaction as they had.
As an aside, I think I've been a key player in Mr. Weber's royalties from the greater Toronto area, but again, I digress.
So far I've given/pimped those titles to at least a dozen people, from family to (now) co-workers. Of course, it does rely on the author writing a good book, and me liking it, etc. etc. However, I suspect that word of mouth - and booksellers can be the best of them - can sell more books than a print ad.
Then again, what do I know?
But enough about that. Hopefully more soon.
My real post is about book pimping. I know, *groan* everyone talks about that at some time. Well, for one, there's no guarantee of originality in the header is there? Exactly. I'll save the original brain cells (there's a few I've stashed near the back, just past the visual cortex for just such an occasion).
Why do I want to talk about book pimping? Because just recently I've done it, and it really hit home that what many author/bloggers go on about is that word of mouth is one of the best ways to sell books. I'm not going to say I have any credibility as a marketer. Nor am I a bookseller, but today it struck me just how powerful it can be. Example:
The junior project engineer was looking for a new book to read. He figured I had a few titles I could suggest, as we both seem to enjoy fantasy and SF. Fine. He said he just finished one of David Weber's books, and I said 'here, try this series (the Honor Harrington, starting with On Basilisk Station - there, you've been pimped!).' That was Friday. I get an email this morning saying he finished the book and is starting book 2, and it was awesome. I agree, but I'm digressing. This was the first time I've pimped a book cold, on someone who wasn't in my 'inner circle' of friends, and had the same reaction as they had.
As an aside, I think I've been a key player in Mr. Weber's royalties from the greater Toronto area, but again, I digress.
So far I've given/pimped those titles to at least a dozen people, from family to (now) co-workers. Of course, it does rely on the author writing a good book, and me liking it, etc. etc. However, I suspect that word of mouth - and booksellers can be the best of them - can sell more books than a print ad.
Then again, what do I know?
Sunday, May 27, 2007
New eyes
Hello all. This time it's not a trademark disappearance. I've been avoiding screens for a while, as on April 19th I had my vision corrected with the Lasek procedure. I'm trying to get some stuff cleared up around the house, but a bit later I'll fill you in on the whole deal. It's pretty cool, and the procedure is interesting. Then I just got busy at the ol' day job, after taking a week to recover.
Otherwise, writing has ground to a steady halt. Of course, after a while I go cross-eyed looking at a computer screen for too long doesn't help. The healing process continues, and I should be putting out words soon.
More details later.
Otherwise, writing has ground to a steady halt. Of course, after a while I go cross-eyed looking at a computer screen for too long doesn't help. The healing process continues, and I should be putting out words soon.
More details later.
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Back at the keyboard
Back at the keyboard, 979 words stronger today. Not much, but my usual average for an hour's work. The perfect culmination of a weekend of household tasks. Of course, there was that novel I finished reading on Saturday. One of those grab you by the shirtfront and not let go. Author Mike Shepherd's Kris Longknife series. Some military science fiction along similar lines as the Honor Harrington series by David Weber (also highly recommended). Interesting characters, great action, and the dedication in book 3 is the best.
Aside from that, it's been a weekend of laundry, accounting and other boring yet necessary tasks. Not to mention finding a way to get the birds out of our vent humanely. Before they have chicks.
Aside from that, it's been a weekend of laundry, accounting and other boring yet necessary tasks. Not to mention finding a way to get the birds out of our vent humanely. Before they have chicks.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Hello all
I'm still around. Of course, after carrying on about my consistent word counts, I then go off the grid for entirely too long. However, I will admit to being preoccupied with a potential career change and various and sundry other things that would bore anyone to tears. Toss in a dash of procrastination and there it is. Typical, trademark long absence.
On the bright side, things are in the pipe and my potential day job change is out of my hands now. I'm heading back to the keyboard with renewed vigour. Since the day job isn't going anywhere, I figured I'd resculpt it to better suit my desires. However, until anything is solid, I'll put that away for now.
Next up will be a quick review of where my story is, and back at it. The challenge will be not to edit anything. I'm trying to get back on the forward progress, rather than going back.
At any rate, must go as the little one is paging us! I'll be back soon with more wit (or at least more ramblings and ravings, didn't you read the byline at the top?).
On the bright side, things are in the pipe and my potential day job change is out of my hands now. I'm heading back to the keyboard with renewed vigour. Since the day job isn't going anywhere, I figured I'd resculpt it to better suit my desires. However, until anything is solid, I'll put that away for now.
Next up will be a quick review of where my story is, and back at it. The challenge will be not to edit anything. I'm trying to get back on the forward progress, rather than going back.
At any rate, must go as the little one is paging us! I'll be back soon with more wit (or at least more ramblings and ravings, didn't you read the byline at the top?).
Sunday, January 07, 2007
7k Total
After ten days of writing, I've managed a substantial 7421 words. I've stuck to 1 hour minimum per day, and I seem to be able to crank out from 700-800 words. Not bad. I'd love to increase that, but I'm happy to roll with a steady total for now. Once I've been able to produce that on a regular basis, then I'll up the ante and shoot for more.
I've found the hour/day target reasonable, as it allows for the day job, household tasks that can't be moved, and time for my family too. I only wish I could forgo sleep completely. That would free up lots of time.
The one thing I noticed, was that I took Friday off. I made up for it on the weekend, piling Friday's slot in the rest, but this may be a trend. Friday seems to be the one night where the whole week comes crashing down and I'm just bagged. Then Saturday morning I have loads more energy. We'll see, but I think it's a promising start. That whole journey of a thousand steps starts with one idea.
I've found the hour/day target reasonable, as it allows for the day job, household tasks that can't be moved, and time for my family too.
The one thing I noticed, was that I took Friday off. I made up for it on the weekend, piling Friday's slot in the rest, but this may be a trend. Friday seems to be the one night where the whole week comes crashing down and I'm just bagged. Then Saturday morning I have loads more energy. We'll see, but I think it's a promising start. That whole journey of a thousand steps starts with one idea.
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Another day, another hour
Another successful hour of writing. That's been my goal. Spend at least an hour a day writing. Ass-in-chair kind of work. So far it's paid off. You could call it a New Year's resolution, though I generally don't make those. I figure, if it's worth resolving, then it's worth doing it as soon as you think of it. I think the holidays just gave me a recharge from the day job, which helps ease the general fatigue of full-time work.
I've managed to pull anywhere between 600 and 800 words per hour, with few revisions. I'll pull a word here, tuck one there, but I try not to go back. I've re-read only to find my place again. I've already seen some places where I'll need more description. I'm focused on action, dialogue and trying to get my characters' voices out. I figure that's what revision is for. Only when the whole thing is done will I go back (unless I find a glaring continuity error, but let's burn that bridge when we come to it).
So far so good. Feels like being a 'real writer.' Now, off to the elliptical trainer. Must continue training for the ski season. Then offerings to Uller for snow.
I've managed to pull anywhere between 600 and 800 words per hour, with few revisions. I'll pull a word here, tuck one there, but I try not to go back. I've re-read only to find my place again. I've already seen some places where I'll need more description. I'm focused on action, dialogue and trying to get my characters' voices out. I figure that's what revision is for. Only when the whole thing is done will I go back (unless I find a glaring continuity error, but let's burn that bridge when we come to it).
So far so good. Feels like being a 'real writer.' Now, off to the elliptical trainer. Must continue training for the ski season. Then offerings to Uller for snow.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Welcome to 2007
Hello all, and Happy New Year!
Welcome to 2007. I'm still wondering where 2006 went, but sometimes that just seems the norm.
I hope your holidays were good (and good to you). I hope those of you who are aspiring writers like myself made your word counts, finished those projects, or met whatever goals you set.
Me, I didn't meet all my goals, but I feel I made good progress, and learned a great deal. I'll list some of those learnings in a future post. Right now I've made my words for the day, and am just getting coffee, lunch and various and sundry other things ready before turning in.
I have found, though, that I've had to push for discipline. Both before I started the prose of the novel, and now that I've waded my way into chapter 2. It is definitely difficult to sit down and work hard at something when you've already put in an 8 hour (or more) day. That is something I'm still pushing, I'll freely admit.
The other is the nature of writing. I've managed, now that I've spent some time writing the prose, to finally send my internal editor to the back seat, and let the words come. Now, I tend to fight that editor's tendency to constantly thing "it's crap" and keep plunging on. I tell my editor (the demonic little wretch) that he can have his say in revision. I have avoided going back over what I did previously, except a skim read to catch up on and regain the groove of the scene.
So far, it's working. That, and my desire to prove I will do this. Not for anyone else but me.
Welcome to 2007. I'm still wondering where 2006 went, but sometimes that just seems the norm.
I hope your holidays were good (and good to you). I hope those of you who are aspiring writers like myself made your word counts, finished those projects, or met whatever goals you set.
Me, I didn't meet all my goals, but I feel I made good progress, and learned a great deal. I'll list some of those learnings in a future post. Right now I've made my words for the day, and am just getting coffee, lunch and various and sundry other things ready before turning in.
I have found, though, that I've had to push for discipline. Both before I started the prose of the novel, and now that I've waded my way into chapter 2. It is definitely difficult to sit down and work hard at something when you've already put in an 8 hour (or more) day. That is something I'm still pushing, I'll freely admit.
The other is the nature of writing. I've managed, now that I've spent some time writing the prose, to finally send my internal editor to the back seat, and let the words come. Now, I tend to fight that editor's tendency to constantly thing "it's crap" and keep plunging on. I tell my editor (the demonic little wretch) that he can have his say in revision. I have avoided going back over what I did previously, except a skim read to catch up on and regain the groove of the scene.
So far, it's working. That, and my desire to prove I will do this. Not for anyone else but me.
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