Though posts have been inconsistent. . .

Though my posts have been inconsistent, I think that for now it might be the best. Between college and work, I have little time to focus on what I want. Instead of promising that I will be posting more, I will say this: My writer's block will not be much of a problem anymore.

I am presently more concerned with my studies than with the upkeep of this blog. Because of this I will be posting fewer than 1- 2 times each month. If any of you wish to comment on what I have written thus far, then please send your comments via email.

I appreciate your support,

C. Olson

Redo the entire book!?

Hello to casual readers and fans alike!

Lately, my ability to sympathize with my characters has become somewhat lacking. So as an individual with access to knowledgeable professors of English (in this particular case only one), I have asked for advice on my writing. I have not showed my professor my actual work up until now, but since she is familiar with my writing style, I suspect that she knows what she is saying. Despite my best efforts though, I have had a difficult time comprehending the entire meaning of her words "Start from the beginning, and then write without characters through to the end."

I understand the literal meaning, but the questions concerning my work seem to pile up in my head: what shall I do with the hundred or so pages of notes I have compiled for my first four chapters? will I be able to even use what I have decided was best so far? are my characters going to be the same if I rewrite everything? and if I do, will they develop the way I meant for them to?

These questions are some of the thoughts that ran through my mind after she gave her suggestion to restart. But would my restarting mean that my efforts thus far were for naught?

C. Olson

Conclusion to Writer's Block

Over the recent months, my posts and writing have slowed greatly. I originally wanted to have a post at least 3 times each week, but due to unforeseen complications I have not posted but 2 days each month for the past 3 months. About a week ago I realized exactly why I have not been able to write proficiently as I came to my fourth chapter: I do not know the feelings my characters would feel when entering a new and overwhelmingly extravagant building (castle in this case).


My solution to this problem is to find such a place and experience for myself what Maybell and Cindy might be feeling when entering the castle for their interview. Hopefully a brief glimpse into where ever I might find my inspiration is what I need and then I will get right to work once again.

Thanks for your support and encouragement!

C. Olson

Lag (not just a gaming term)

It would seem that my energy that would have been used for writing and posting online, have instead been used for my performance in the workplace. I had hopes for a better pace to be had with my writing/posting, but I have very little to report. Unfortunately enough.

In light of the obvious disappointments, I have decided to reiterate my story for those of my readers who have yet to fully understand or piece together my story's plot:


The story starts with a man reminiscing a past he had long forgotten. We find him sharpening his axe blade meticulously, not paying any mind to the intense heat of the adjacent forge. He looks first to the wall across from where he sits and considers the time and sweat poured into each of the 30 weapons. Then he looks to the fire and while his focus is on the pit of the flame, he sees into his past. As the memories begin to come back to him, he cuts his finger while routinely checking the blade of the axe. He places the weapon back into its designated mount on the wall and is then later called by his Mistress, the Head Maid of the castle. Answering her call, he reluctantly follows her into the hallways to do her bidding.

Later on, two of the other characters* in the story, the sisters Cindy and Maybell, are introduced. After having fled from home to escape possible arranged marriages, the two young women took everything they had of worth and set out to find somewhere they could live how they wanted. After a week in a town that appeared easy enough to settle into, the girls began to look for work so they could live. The girls find are unable to find work after trudging through the town, until Maybell spots a man in the local tavern wearing livery on his upper arm. After a quick talk Maybell secures a job for them both as live-in maids at the man's castle outside of town. With excitement pulsing through their veins, the girls get into bed with anticipation as their only incentive. With Maybell fast asleep, Cindy looks out of the nearby window into the outskirts of the small city and up to the castle at the hill's peak. A shriek that sends a chill throughout her body fills the air, though only for a moment. Looking back to the castle, she questions her excitement of the day to come.

Thats the preview for now, please read my posts from the start to get better insight into the world I've started forming!

C. Olson

Creative Juices Flowing?

Yesterday I had some small ideas for my novel, and thought I wouldn't have many more soon. But I had some specific ideas today after reading about Allies in The Writer's Journey and thought on the specific roles of my protagonists. Since the hero is most often the one who changes the most throughout the course of the story, I pondered on who would be my story's true hero/protagonist.

I show the world mostly through the eyes of the sisters Cindy and Maybell, but they are not the only ones to change. My unnamed character, a.k.a. the "Henchman", is also changed in his resolve to act on his desire for freedom from servitude. His fate in turn influences the girls and how they should handle their own family matters*.

Hopefully this means I am getting my mojo back, if you'd call it that. This recent slump of mine began around summer's start and since my classes are ending soon, this might mean that my lack of creativity lately could have been from my body's reaction to the summer season... This is only speculation, though not very convincing if you ask me : P

I thank any of my new and or faithful viewers from the beginning that may be reading my blog/story notes. Please continue to support me in the future as well!

C. Olson

* If you haven't caught onto the meaning, I am referring to the girls' parents and how they had wanted to set up arranged marriages. (Read past archives for more background information.)

Recent Decision on Character Flaws

Since I haven't been posting nearly as much as I have in the past, I have decided to try my hand at adding little pieces of information in my blog from time to time. I feel that this will keep you, my faithful viewers ' interest up rather than only having old archives to read.

After seeing a movie last night with some friends I had a small revelation of sorts. As I might have mentioned in earlier entries, each of my characters hold certain traits of myself as their dominant character traits. What I had decided on as a major character flaw for the 'Henchman' character (still without a name) was that he had pent up emotions harbored within. These feelings consist of anger, discontent, and a lack of security in unfamiliar situations. Since this particular character is one of the most important, I thought it best to give him the most troubling flaw. A strong hero must have a difficult decision to make in the story, or at least have internal blocks preventing him from acting on what has already been decided. Both of these lead to the character's growth, which is what partially defines a hero:

"... the character who changes the most in the story."
... this is regardless of whether the change is positive or negative.

C. Olson

Work, School, and balancing the ticket

For the past while, I have been unable to think creatively (as far as my story goes). I don't believe that this dry-spell has anything to do with my lack of imagination, but instead my unstable schedule. With work and school together it seems that most of my time is taken up leaving me tired and out of sorts. For those of you reading this who can relate, I sympathize. (How do you do it?!)
I have had jobs in the past, but none have given me so much mental strain and fatigue. I hope this doesn't seem like a complaint, rather it is meant to be my explanation for 1) not having written much for the past while, and 2) me convincing myself that work is to blame. Though both lead to my lack of endurance - mentally - I know that unless I can change these conditions soon, my ranting is meaningless. Any advice for time management is welcome!

C. Olson

P.S. - I hope for all of my faithful readers out there to continue to support me in my endeavors!

Notice to readers

Hello, and good day to you all! I know that I have not been posting as often as I have most recently promised, but as of now my classes have required more of my attention than previously noted. I will continue to post when I am able to make time, and I hope that everyone who has been with me thus far will continue to check up on my progress every so often!

Thank you in advance and for all who support my future in writing!

C. Olson

The Girls And Their Home

Though I last spoke on my story's prologue, I feel it best to continue on with other chapters. So for the third chapter, the girls are on their way to the Castle/Estate and are busy getting ready before hand. Anyone reading this chapter will see how poor these two are and to what lengths they are willing to go in order to survive.

At first I was planning on having the two sleep in a single bed to help emphasize their poverty, but then I thought about a note I had made earlier. The girls are staying in another character's previous house from long ago. With this in mind, two beds are already in the bedroom. The condition of the beds are much less than perfect though.

Some walls inside the home look as if they were once repaired, but have aged with time. The kitchen looks neglected and practically unused, showing that the house had not been occupied for quite some time. (Who doesn't use their kitchen?) The exterior of the home is scorched in places while others seem covered up or redone. The type of wood used for the framing and its color is different than most other houses surrounding it. The positioning is also different, as it sticks out from the town, disrupting what would have been like a single wall shared by the back of the neighboring homes.

(If I go into too much more, then those who have read my prologue might realize who once lived where the girls start out. And that would spoil the fun!)

Anyone who wishes to see my most current revisions of my story's chapters need only ask. Please feel free to look at my work and give me your input! All comments are welcome as well!

C. Olson

Exams are over and I am back!

Hello all! Sorry for my absence for the past while, but a number of events took place and then I got lazy. Now I am aiming to have many more posts and things to say to my viewers, so please continue to support me in my writing goals/career!

Over the past few weeks, I have been slacking on my writing as well as other tasks that required my attention. Seeing how I much I have been neglecting my writing is rather embarrassing, since it was I who started this blog and spread the message to all I could for support. Despite my lack of posts, I have been gathering my ideas little-by-little and am almost done placing them together. At this moment I am working on my Prologue, which I have put off on completing for these past weeks. I will continue with my story's updates within the week and will be looking forward to any and all who support me!

C. Olson

Follow-Thru

This last week is going to be like a gauntlet for me, seeing as I still have some work to complete before I can say "It is finished." Otherwise, I have some information to give to my faithful readers and supporters. My Prologue is structured differently than my main story. 'Why', you might ask? Well, my Prologue is actually following a supporting character who has had a worse life than any other in the story. Known as 'The Henchman' in my writer's group, he had his family taken from him at an early age in the midst of a battle that involved the entire town at the foot of the Castle. For those of my readers who might not be able to make the connection, as a child he was traumatized after seeing his family slaughtered before him. His present-day state, where he is referred to be one without a name, is him with suppressed memories.

Though I have yet to research the matter specifically, I do know that one with suppressed memories will unconsciously store away his thoughts following the said traumatic event and act as if the event had almost never happened. With this in mind, the Prologue covers the majority of the memories he is slowly recovering as he continues to act on the Head Maid's behalf.

Remember, if anyone wishes to read my work's current revisions, please contact me and I will send them to you! (include email along with request; I will soon place reminder of this on my main page for anyone who has not read this message)

C. Olson

Been a while, but back on track now!

For a few weeks, as I have noted in my previous blog posts, I have been rather busy and preoccupied with finishing up whats left for this semester of college. In turn this has kept me from working consistently on my novel. But the other day I had a sudden burst of inspiration, if you will. I had been working on organizing my personal files, and then for some unknown reason I had an entire scenario plotted out in my mind! Of course I was excited, seeing how it has been some time since my last stroke of brilliance! Furiously I wrote out the main details of the scenario in my notebook and after half an hour I saw how perfectly everything would fit together.

With the completion of my story's Prologue, I saw which of my end scenarios would fit best! As far as one character's role goes, it will be a tragedy (though I might try my best to avoid that, depending on how well it will fit together). For now I am just going to wait for when I finish up this semester (next week for me!) and then push forward with the little momentum I have seemed to catch. Until then!

C. Olson

The Long Haul

As the last few weeks of my second semester concludes, I am having to tie up some loose ends.
With each week I become gradually less anxious, as I am nearing my summer semester. Though I have little to write today, I at least want to reassure anyone who has been supporting me thus far that I am still continuing on with my writing. My school schedule has been interfering with my writing consistency. With the new semester, I will restart my writing and my chapter revisions as well.

C. Olson

Weekly Woes

For the past four to five days, I have been in a slump. Not because of my writing, but because of my schedule. I have needed to write much more often, and I'm facing a sort of post-modern depression from not doing so (slight exaggeration). Luckily my ideas have still been coming to me regularly, so I am not too concerned with the efficiency of my imagination.

Soon after arriving home Sunday from a family gathering, I wrote down some ideas that came to me. Not that I had many notes to write, but I think that every detail should be considered important since all of the notes are a means to an end (my novel).

Regrets and Concerns

The semester is wrapping up fast, and I am unsure of how frequent I can post each week. Initially I wanted to continue writing and posting my progress three to four times a week. With final exams following this next month (beginning of May), I might have trouble even working as steadily on my story. I plan to at least post every Wednesday, since I usually have plenty of time before my writer's group meetings. As my exams draw closer, and my work load slowly lessens, I will gradually post more as the end draws nearer.

I haven't made too much more progress as of late, but for purposes of posting I will do a slight recap. Over the many months of this past year, I have been working diligently on writing my novel. Though I had once given my story a title, I later saw that the name of the work needs more consideration, so I will be leaving this decision for after I have finished. Centered around the life of two young women, several mysterious deaths/'accidents' take place in the Castle where they have now been employed as live-in Maids, and to find the reason they might find themselves in danger as well.

That is probably one of the better recaps of what I have given so far, and I hope you enjoy all of what is to come in the future!

C. Olson

Busy, Busy, Busy -

These past few days, almost for a week now, I have been either distracted, preoccupied, or just unable to write much at all. Sunday I wrote a few paragraphs, but I was unable to concentrate with little children around me (I help out with watching the kids at Church sometimes). Even though I say that, there have been times when I have been able to focus even with distractions, but that hasn't always been the case.

In the third chapter, Cindy and Maybell are packing their personals and will be making a bee line for the Castle. Once there, events as seen by the girls and those of the Castle Staff will merge. The Castle will become the new main setting, with little change in mood. Since I don't want to suddenly throw the heroines into the 'Special World', the girls will be eased into how things work for its residents.

Since I'm not going to include explicit detail until I complete the main storyline, I cannot fully describe how events are going to fold out. When I get an idea of what I've decided to include I might share some tid bits.

C. Olson

Getting Somewhere - soon

Wednesday I went to my Golden Rejects meeting, and lo and behold, there were only a few of us there. It seems spring break can really take a toll on the number of members attending a meeting. Anyway, we discussed some interesting stories, one dealing with a heroine (thats all I feel like disclosing about that) and the other dealing with a little girl whose whole life had been focused around the occult arts. The later of the two dealt with showing how life may seem to someone who had been raised in the occult, and the irregularity of it versus what one might call an 'ordinary' life.

I wanted to talk about my third chapter, since I made some headway earlier that evening, but I was a little less than halfway through. Showing an incomplete chapter might tarnish my image... or just show how I wasn't prepared - lol. Hopefully I can get somewhere with this chapter soon and have something to show to the rest of the group!

C. Olson

Some more ideas, but unsure of outcome ~

While reading the blog of another, I thought of the difference between writing about something in brief and writing about something to help develop the Character of the protagonists. Something as small as a tiff about getting dressed in the morning for a job interview might show the differences in views and ideas of each person involved. Though I have not fully decided on how the argument will be staged, the idea itself seems promising, since readers will need to know Cindy and May before revisiting the Castle. This way I figure the reader will have his or her own idea of what might come to pass in certain events that occur in the Castle.

Though I am not yet past the third chapter, I have yet another idea, a fight between the sisters which spans a chapter or so. With an air of conflict between the two, they would be accepted by the Head Maid/Mistress easier. Then, when they make up and begin to behave around each other again, the Head Maid would then begin to cause them trouble to make them slip up in their work for an excuse to fire them. With this in mind, the main conflict of the story between the Protagonists and the Antagonist will escalate, becoming the central focus of the story.

I have a feeling that with this new pace, things might be looking up for me! (I now have enough material for a few chapters! But no promises.)

C. Olson

Darkness has as many meanings as Light

Today I had some great ideas for use in my third chapter!

The girls wake up at the 'butt-crack' of dawn for their interview, which is about when it was supposed to start. Maybell is woken by the sunlight that shines through a crack in the wall/ceiling that she had not noticed until then. She goes to get Cindy out of bed and sees her asleep with her head on the windowsill, face pointing out to the sky in the direction of the Castle (opposite sun, where the light has not yet hit). Unaware of significance of her younger sister's positioning, she gently shakes Cindy awake and then tosses her the clothes she would wear for the interview. (Since the interview is in a half hour, the two need to get ready very quickly while not making a mess of themselves).


So far, this is most of what I have, though I noticed a few details I can strategically place into the chapter, after the girls take off toward the Castle (still needs a name). I am going to look into shortening the distance between the town and the Castle so that the time frames for the events at the Castle (see chapter 1 summary) will work with the events with the third chapter. I hope to bring everything together as I work to finish my first draft of this chapter, since the story is going to start picking up pace as the girls near the Castle grounds.

C. Olson

Looking for inspiration, but I can't see ~

For a few days now, probably since yesterday, I have been feeling unable to concentrate on what is going on in my story. It is as if my 'well of inspiration' as well as my focus for the story has left me. I don't wish to go on and begin to complain about this, but it does upset me. To counter this I think I need to do a recap, which might prove interesting for those of you reading my blog but have yet to read my story up to now.

The first chapter includes two important minor characters named Sara and Amy. After waking up in separate rooms, the two girls meet up and are soon chased down the corridor into a separate hallway. The girls are swiftly killed after their employer and her henchman reveal themselves. The Head Maid orders her henchman (or personal servant) to clean the mess, and then ascends to the Main Hall to greet the main characters as they arrive at the Castle doors. (This ties into the beginning of the third chapter, as the protagonists both travel to the Castle seeking employment.)

The second chapter explains the situation the main characters are in since having left home to live independently from their parents (who wanted to marry off the two young women; this has yet to be integrated into the story, but will be included before story is finished). The two girls seek employment in the town, but only find one position as maids in the nearby Castle.

Although I have begun to work on the third chapter, I am in a rut of sorts. I know what I want to happen, but I wish to be sure of my decisions before writing something I will later want to change. Please wish me well as I attempt to gather my thoughts and continue with my story.

C. Olson

Day off, or at least a week

Spring Break has come at last, but it's also a bad omen of sorts since that also means I only have 1 month left of this semester in college. I decided yesterday to take today off, not working on or toward anything and just loafing like I would otherwise (it's great being able to do nothing!). Of course there are repercussions to this decision, i.e. - I am now bored out of my mind.

I actually took advantage of this day with nothing to do and cleaned my room - a little. At least my bookshelves are neat!- In the picture to the left (in the bottom left corner), though you can't see it well, is my collection of Ms. Owens' novels.
- To the right, you can clearly see my horde of Manga. (107 in all, excluding novels from same authors/publishers)

This is just a small look into my life, since I rant mostly on my novel and ideas of mine. I will return to my work tomorrow, and pull through the rest of the week. Until then!

C. Olson

Pressing onward... Now where did my assistant go...?

Seeing how I now have a decent idea on how my story is going to flow (not entirely clear, but getting there), I am going to go with the plan of finishing the story entirely and then backtracking as to spruce it up. Just like the other day, I am still nervous about this since any ideas that I have are not guaranteed to work, but the same is with most works of a creative thinker:

- (forgot what I was going to say, I'll get back to it later)

In order for me to complete this task well, I have decided to maybe start looking for someone who would not mind working with me to help me better think out my ideas. Even I don't understand what I mean, but I think I just need a person to talk with about ideas and help me to understand myself. A single person looking over his options alone would not get as far in thinking things out as he would with another (at least I think so). Then again, it's possible that I only need to get out more... lol

C. Olson

Just what I needed

Last night when I met for the Golden Rejects meeting, I read my second chapter to the other members of the group. Much as I had thought, based on their response to my first chapter, everyone present felt I had done well in my writing once again! Though there were some major issues brought up concerning the flow of my story ~

Using slang, jargon, or phrases one might say in the present doesn't pass when used in a story that takes place in Mid Evil England. Since the type of slang, or what have you, was much different from what we use today, the manner in how words are used can change the reader's perception of when the story is. After talking over with my new friends of the Golden Rejects, I have decided to try for something I had been too afraid/cautious of before now; I will not only tell my story, but with it I will build its world from scratch. Like a master painter before a single piece of canvas, I will take everything into consideration before finishing my novel.

The only individual who I believe would best resemble a seasoned artist in the creative realm is my own personal favorite, Ms. Robin D. Owens. With each new installment of her series (both) she takes minute details and uses them to build her story, while revealing to her readers that there were no small details at all but instead details which held great importance. Someday I hope to join her ranks among the greater writers of our country, but for now I'll settle with finishing my first of many works!

C. Olson

*Here is a phrase I thought of after the recent meeting:

"A writer takes from the world all feelings and experiences brought upon him,
only to write it down and spread its given meaning throughout the world."

Stumped

For some reason unknown to me, I have been unable to think of how to add further description to my second chapter. Although I have already completed it, I feel that my extensive description of events is what might later be considered my trademark. I have never wanted to have renown like say, J.K. Rowling, but I have since discovering my talents wanted to be known for something in relation to my work.

I have described the most important details that flow with the events, but I feel that there is something missing from what I have already done. My characters are supposed to reflect normal young women, but what exactly should I base this 'normal' from?

The characters in a story are supposed to reflect the perspective, opinions, and/or personality of the author, so I guess one of the reasons I am having trouble is 'cause I am feeling indecisive. Later on after thinking over things, I'll have sorted this out, hopefully soon.

Still Looking ~

Still digging away for information on Mid Evil Europe for my novel, this might take a while. I hope to come across something I can use right away to set the mood for when the girls first enter the Castle. There is something missing whenever I think on how the girls will react to the interior of the Castle, but I know that there are only a few possible events that can occur, at least I think. As far as I'm concerned, the two will enter the castle and at first only one of them will notice anything weird in the castle's atmosphere. There shouldn't be any challenge introducing that, but if I can I want to have each scene in the Castle to flow together smoothly. Similar to the way an Anime comedy might flow, but without the whole 'real' feel of the scene; in other words (for those of you unfamiliar with Anime or Manga, there would be little attention given to important details, but they will be present for readers to be able to look back to for reference when piecing things together later on.

This is about all I have for today, but if I have anymore bright ideas for the story, I'll let you know!

C. Olson

New Information leads to new revision

Today I spoke with a friend who traveled to Europe for an educational program. When I told him I was in the process of writing a novel, he gave me some helpful information on buildings, places, torture methods, defense methods, and much more about Mid Evil Europe. I learned about Lye, a chemical used in Mid Evil times in defense against attackers, dehydrates area where exposed to until no moisture is left. Today Lye is used in manufacturing soap, as a cleaning agent, and many other different purposes. Other than defensive measures, I learned a little about Forts used in Mid Evil times and how many included center rooms to house those who were not in the fight, while a surrounding zone housed those defending the Fort from attackers.

Though much of this information was interesting to me, since I had no knowledge of it beforehand, some of what was told to me was too upsetting for my taste (i.e. - 'Stretching', stuffing people into extraordinarily small compartments and leaving for months on end, drowning in barrels, etc.). I was not too thrilled to learn this, but having said that, I might still use this in my story when thinking of ways to place my characters in danger.

Taking a break every once and a while might be good for me too, though I usually am unable to work on my story as often as I desire anyway. Tonight I am going to welcome home my cousin who has been away on a cruise for about 6 months. I need to write down some ideas I recently had, so I will have to tell more later!

C. Olson

When Inspiration Just Hits You ~ Go with the flow

The other day, I was reading the japanese comic (formerly known as Manga) Midori Days, when I had the awesome idea of what I could write for a continuation of the series. As I read on through each volume, I wrote notes to remember what I had thought up. Even though I used up all available space on 4 sticky notes, I won't be focusing on this particular 'project' until after I finish my novel first. Speaking of which...

While reading The Writer's Journey, I noted how a character should be as human as I can make them, varying by importance and what not. As I dwelled on each new concept I came across, Vogler states that the Hero in question should be a reflection of the qualities of the writer. Though he also states that the other characters should be the same, the Hero should show the writer's more positive/desirable qualities, as well as negative quirks to form a complicated character readers will come to be attached to. Though I think my own characters show enough of my 'inner being', I see no harm in re-visiting what I have already written and make sure that I can clearly see myself in my cast of characters.

C. Olson

That Top-of-the-World Feel

Today I drove straight from TCC after my class let out early, and settled into Greenbriar's Barnes and Noble bookstore. This was premeditated, as I thought that a change of scenery was in order to help me with my writer's-writing-block. Even though I knew what I wanted to write about, I could not think of how to go about doing so.

As I sat in the corner, all alone (voluntarily, but it was the only place I could find that suited me anyway), I decided to work on something a close friend who goes to VCU suggested to me just the other day: "Write out each of the different scenarios you have for your climax before blindly choosing one, that way you can pick which one can fit best with the story."

So it came to 3 different scenarios for my climax, getting somewhere at last! I pondered on each until I felt comfortable for the time being. After reflecting on what I had written for about 20 min., I decided to let the matter rest fir now and focus my thoughts on what to write next. I have found that using what resources you have is not only a good idea, but it makes sense and can relieve the stress you might be causing others 0.-

I had brought my copy of The Writer's Little Helper with me in the store to help me out with various tips if the need arose. Thankfully, most of the tips in the book were relevant to what I was searching for my story (subplots, climax of the story, character descriptions, etc.).

When I arrived at the Golden Rejects meeting, I was glad to find that my story was the topic of discussion! We spent the entire hour of the meeting going over my first chapter, and I could not have been happier after seeing how my work was received! Of course there were issues to look at* with my writing, but most of the group appreciated my work, so I was thrilled!

C. Olson

*(i.e. - I needed to describe my characters and the setting (time) more than I had, as well as some other things to keep in mind for the story as I progress)

Ready to go, but unprepared ~

This morning at about 8:32 AM, I was waiting for my first class of the day to start (9:30 AM). Since I was all set for the class, I decided to write my first revision of my third chapter after having written down some crucial notes that came to mind. A wave of inspiration had made my 'creative juices' flow through my mind, but when I returned to my truck to retrieve my laptop - I stopped in my tracks after remembering that I had left my Mac at home *sob*.

Since I did not want to abandon my recent burst of inspiration (which I have decided to call a "Writer's Storm"), I attempted to write down my initial thoughts in my notebook that I have specifically for taking notes on ideas I have for my story. Though I couldn't keep at the same pace that I would have been if using my laptop, I was able to write out part of the first scene (only about a paragraph, so I am not as thrilled as I could be).

C. Olson

Contemplating Story Changes...

The 'distasteful' part of my story's second chapter is something I feel requires some minute changes. Although it does well in aiding the characterizing of my heroines (partially), I have had a rather shaky feeling with how it seems to not fit as well with the events in the town as I would like. I have one character (Cindy) revealing a rather immature and embarrassing desire, while the event in question also shows the maturity of the older sister. I know that the situation fits well for the characters, but how everything happens for the two young women might be a tad too awkward. All together I may have to scrap the entire scene, though as I have stated earlier, both women are given a more distinct personality (or at least I think that is what I mean).

Hopefully I can sort out my thoughts on this after I present it to the Golden Rejects this Wednesday. Well, until later!

C. Olson

Inducted into 'Golden Rejects'

After looking into the Golden Rejects Writer's Group, I'd say that I approve of the ability of those in the group! Everyone has had a significant amount of experience in writing. Some deal with shot stories for magazines, some with poetry, and some with narratives. One of the members, I believe, has experience with novels, but I am not completely sure of this information.

I gave each of the members (those present after the end of the meeting) a copy of my latest revision of my first chapter, and I hope to get a god response, though I won't hold my breath on that one. I explained the plot and setting of my story to the group, and it was well received.

Earlier, after being 30-45 min late (due to misdirection and getting lost), I walked into the meeting room on the unfamiliar campus and noticed that each of those present had a copy of a written work. This particular work was a short story that was to be included in a magazine.

Seeing how the group varied in writing form and field, I was glad to see that my work would get a good look from differing perspectives. Hopefully I can get to know this group better, and in the near future, complete my novel with their help as well.

C. Olson

Treading Slowly Onward

For a few days, well - since this previous Monday, when I got my new book (see previous posts) - I have been reading its contents and absorbing them all into my creative thought-process. Most of what is included in this book is Fictional Writer's Theory, which I am loving by the way! I am looking at situations in my story in a new light, because of it and I am happy to report that the framework of what I have completed thus far is appropriate for building my story for readers!

Tonight I am planning on attending a writer's group called Golden Rejects Writer's Group at the Chesapeake campus of TCC. Sounds like an interesting group, to be called rejects. With an emphasis on 'golden', I'd personally think the group is proud of being considered rejects, but thats probably just to be funny~ I guess.


Anyway, aside from the book and the writer's group, I think that the characters in my story will be getting a slight overhaul, as well as the scenes I have written since now (excluding chapter 1, I cannot think of making that any more of an impact, or my readers might be overwhelmed by the images from its scenes. (Don't want to scare anyone off, haha!) Hopefully these changes will spark a positive and progressive train of thought that will help get my story into gear so I can continue at my original steady pace.

C. Olson

What I'll do for now...

I received the book that I ordered last week! After looking through it, I realize what a treasure trove of information I have, and will use it to the best of my ability! The book I'd ordered, The Writer's Journey, by Christopher Vogler, is worth every penny I spent!

Aside from my new book, I have made a decision on what to do with my characters at the beginning of my story (different from what I already had decided earlier, which was to passively introduce them to the Lord of the castle on the hill). I will now have the two heroines meet the esteemed Lord in a scene inside and outside of the town the girls dwell in. At first I had wanted to only briefly show the Man's existence (doesn't have a name yet, give me any ideas you can think of and I'll consider), but I think that showing more of his character would draw readers in, but thats only speculation for now. I'll use the time I have outside of class to continue with my own personal critique, but this Wednesday evening I'll be attending the writer's group for TCC students from 6 - 7. My work will face outside criticisms, will it survive? I'll let you know this Thurs.

C. Olson

Searching for the 'Write' Group

Taking a break from thinking too much yesterday was what I needed, but now to return to work: I looked online at HamptonRoads.com and found a group affiliated with my community college, so there is some convenience in that. I only hope that the campus where they meet is the same one I regularly visit.

My progress this weekend has been lacking, but tonight I plan to attempt to pick up some of the slack from Friday night and Saturday. Today I am having some quality time with my enormous family, and I am sacrificing my hunger for time to give my report.

If I can get my more recent thoughts together, then I will write them down and then reveal my additions to the masses... ok, only those who see my site. Please pray for me, and my work's progress as I tie everything I have for now together.

C. Olson

So far, I can't see the light at the tunnel's end -

Today I took it upon myself to ask around the local libraries for any information on Writer's Circles that might meet in the area. My luck in with this search is lacking, since I have only been told of one group that might be a Writer's Circle. I am going to call to confirm, but I do not think that this is the type of group I need, but we'll see about that later.

As far as my writing is for now, I have gotten a grasp on who and what I want to be introduced in the beginning of the story, which will lead to tying up the loose ends by the close of the book. Even though I have been rather frustrated with my work's progress lately, hopefully I can find at least on person who will want to see my work and critique it along with me. If anyone of my viewers out there has anyone you know who loves writing and would help me out, please let me know! Well, for now I think I'll get to work on my book again, wish me luck!

C. Olson

Before I continue, I want to begin -

I emailed my own personal-favorite author <3 (see Copyright at bottom of page) asking for some advice for developing my story. She recommended a writer's reference book to me, and I went ahead and ordered the book online through Barnes and Noble.(Using my membership for Barnes and Noble along with a coupon I received in my email, I saved $8 on my purchase, isn't that awesome!!) I am going to take her full advice, since she is a genius at what she does! If all goes well, I will have my climax, conflict, and my exposition written out (notes only for now) and I can start moving further with my plot.

Some of the advice that Ms. Owens gave me was to join a writer's circle and attend meetings. Presumably these groups have an annual membership fee, which I will look into shortly, but I guess it would be best to have others critiquing my work as I attempt to come to a definite decision. I can't decide everything on my gut alone after all! Another helpful piece of advice was for me to 'interview' my characters, finding out their quirks, strengths, likes/dislikes, etc. I understand what she means by this,

Me: speaking to my perception of my characters
Characters: me thinking about what my heroines would say for each question

Overall I think very highly of her work and the advice she has given me! I hope to pull myself together so that I can get underway with my novella!

C. Olson

No 'Climactic' Decision Yet...

Shortly after waking up this morning, I took some time to dwell on how to solve the conflict of my story. In order for me to build up my story, I need to have a point for my characters to be drawn to (I still have made no definite decision, though believe I am arriving to some idea of how it will pan out). The general concept of the climax has been in my mind since the summer of 2007, but the details are what I need to iron out. Although Fate is not one of my themes, I still intend on incorporating it into the story.

Today, before my first class started, I began to take notes on the overall layout of the story. After making a few structural notes, I decided to make my story shorter. Since this is the first book I plan to have published, I will make the story shorter than I had first decided (12 chapters instead of 30, making Slaughter of the Chambermaids into a novella rather than a novel) which will reduce the cost needed to put it to print.

My plot structure will use the Slice of Life structure. Before actually getting to the point of defining which structure I would be using in my story, I had blindly decided to make my story Horror/Gothic. Since then I have researched more in depth of which structure and genre I will write with in mind. This particular story will be a brief combination of Mystery and Suspense and will have a Feudal European setting.

C. Olson

Climax before Exposition?!

I was reading a writer's resource book that I have, one of many, and I came upon a tip for forming a story that seemed interesting to me: Write your climax before setting out on writing your events that lead up to climax.

I've decided to take a day to ponder on this suggestion, and I will give the verdict tomorrow.

C. Olson

"Ahhh..."

I just finished up with my second chapter. Earlier this year I had written a rough of my first two chapters, but I grew dissatisfied with what I had written, so I have been remaking what I had for a while. Now, finally I have wrapped up my story's first two chapters, though I was compelled to include a rather 'ify' scene between the girls as they searched for a job. Heh, I wish I could have fit another scene in place of that, but I do not think there is anything else that would have fit as well.
The scene in question is mainly about a strong misunderstanding between the two women, which in the end reveals a small bit of info concerning the desires of the younger sister. Its a funny scene, despite that it is a tad distasteful.

As promised, I present my layout for the first chapter, which introduces two minor characters whose significance is told later on in the book.

First Chapter Setting - Sketched!

Thanks to a helpful, though primitive Drafting program called SketchUp6 (from Google), I have now made an acceptable layout of the setting for my first chapter! I will post a second message displaying the layout, as well as a more complete update of whats going on with my work - later this evening.

Where my story took off from

I consider my idea to be well thought out, but the process to make my story into the rough form it is now came from a much more vague source. I was supposed to create a short story for my 12th grade English class while incorporating twenty vocabulary words as a homework assignment. The evening before the assignment was due, I had decided to rest for a short time until my mother had returned from work. While asleep I dreamed of myself running down a sparsely lighted corridor with torches spaced out along the walls. The first question that came to mind while in my dream was "Why am I running?" As I ran, I noticed the stone walls at my sides were old and probably from some structure that was once used often, but had been abandoned after some time.
I continued to run without any knowledge or regard to how long. Soon my pace seemed to quicken and my breathing grew heavy. My body moved frantically to and from what had looked to be openings out of the corridor. Each time I approached a door, the way disappeared from my sight and I was facing yet another section of the wall.
After trying my hand at another passageway, I slowly turned to where I had fled from. Though curious, I did not expect to see what came soon after. A six-foot-five, heavyset man slowed to a thundering halt and then began to walk toward me, causing the ground beneath me to shake. Disregarding the fact that I was scared out of my mind from the sudden sight of him as he emerged from the shadows, I took off running again only after noticing a specific detail about the giant. He had with him an axe! My eyes immediately gathered that the axe he held was not only sharp, but had a two foot spike toward the handle's base. The axe head itself was curved and the blade, which was offset away from the handle, a span of three feet. I could not stand the thought of me being killed in such a brutal manner, so I continued to run down the corridor while hoping to outlast my pursuer.

Starting off is easy when you have confidence

It would seem that with this being my first post, I should introduce myself to any/all of my readers. My name, as shown in my blogger profile, is Cohen J Olson. I have been writing since the year 2002 - 2003, but only recently have I been truly serious with this passion of mine.

My current novel, my first as a matter of fact, focuses around two entirely ordinary young women. As a goal for my writing, I have incorporated the idea to place any and all protagonists in my stories from now onward in my own age group, from the time I start my writing. These two young women have recently separated themselves from their parents to live on their own together. Since they have no money to support them, other than what they had saved from before, the girls are in need of work to pay for their living expenses. Having found a proper home to settle in, this is the only obstacle.

This is explained in more detail around the start of my story. I plan to have around 30 chapters in my story, and I plan to work on this tale until I attain my Master's Degree in Professional Writing and/or receive my teaching certificate for high school. Although the road will be hard, I promise it will be one of adventure!