Ask A Writer!

[BlackStaticWolf]

Random, but I've never read Tolkein and I love the fantasy genre. Just not him. Shock shock shock! (Strangely I tend to read a lot of fantasy written by women...so weird!)

Actually, I can't stand Tolkien's writing style myself. Still gotta give props to the virtual inventer of the fantasy genre as we know it.


Gonna answer my own questions...

14. What published authors have influenced your writing style and themes the most?
I've been influenced stylistically Roger Zelazny (Chronicles of Amber) and Stephen R. Donaldson (Tomas Covenant). Thematically, no one in particular. I tend to prefer low magic fantasy. But I also love good sci-fi.

15. Who is your favorite published author?
It's a tie between Roger Zelazny (RIP) and Neil Gaiman. I love Zelazny's chronicles of Amber and Gaiman's American Gods (Anansi Boys is great too).


16. What is your opinion on clichés?

Necessary evil for certain things. You can't avoid them completely, but you have to avoid over-using them.

17. Do you prefer a series of short stories, or one long story?

Depends on my mood. The chronicles of Amber are fairly short... but I love them. "This Alien Shore" by CS Friedman is fairly long... and I love it.

 

[Alan.]

Well it looks like no one else has any questions so…

How do you handle romance in your stories?

At the end of your stories, do you answer every question or do you leave stuff open to debate?

 

[Elijah von Bose]

Alan, in response to your questions:

How do I handle romance?

One word: Poorly.

I'm not a very good writer when it comes to romantic things

At the end of your stories, do you answer every question or do you leave stuff open to debate?

That one is a little more interesting. As stated in my previous answers, I, and many people, despise cliffhangers. They're just a cheap way to make more money (For more reference on this, check my earlier post), and they don't make you feel good. If I must leave one question unanswered, I'll make it a minor one, like, "Berraka found a rock and threw it into the deep pits of the cave" (sorry for the poor writing, I'm rushing through this) Well, WITHOUT saying at the start of a sequel: "Hey remember that rock I threw? Well it awoke a giant spider. Isn't that FANTASTIC!? Now we have a sequel!!

I'll let you think for yourself and put the pieces together. I'm not going to spoonfeed you. You aren't stupid (Far's I know).

 

[Volrath]

How do you handle romance in your stories?

It's not easy, but it's always worth it if done well. The most important thing is to make sure the two characters have a reason to fall for each other. It can't just be because they're two attractive people who happen to be adventuring together. This is a story element that, unfortunately, often turns into cliche in most RPGs. I'll list a few.

-Shy person who is just too painfully awkward to say anything to the object of his/her affection. That just gets old.
-Overly mushy back and forth. Most people are not going to give ridiculously corny compliments early in a relationship unless they're really desperate to get laid.
-Love Triangle. Do not attempt these unless you are absolutely sure that the writing will be good and the character motivations and feelings believable.

At the end of your stories, do you answer every question or do you leave stuff open to debate?

Well, you don't want one of those overly ambiguous anime-ish endings. However, I tend not to go with a standard everything is resolved ending, either. I try to make a definitive end to the story, but I make an effort to leave lingering questions about what could happen after the game's credits roll.

 

[Rye]

How do you handle romance in your stories?
I like it when one person is oblivious so I tend to write it like that. Besides, for some reason I just can't write romance, so I usually don't.

At the end of your stories, do you answer every question or do you leave stuff open to debate?
Yes, I do. In one of my stories, it is about siblings trying to get home. I have this extra stuff that they are apart of, but at the end they get home but I don't explain a lot of the stuff that was the "extra" mainly because that wasn't what the story was about. It was about them getting back home. But if I do do that (like I am doing) I would make a sequal/prequal explaining some of those unanswered questions.

 

[BlackStaticWolf]

How do you handle romance in your stories?

There's no set way that I handle romance. Romance does not develop in the same fashion for every character, just as it does not develop in the same fashion for every real person. In any story that I've written that's involved romance, it's different. In some it's at the forefront of the story, in others merely a motivation for some of the characters. In yet others there is no romance. It all depends on whether it fits with the story.

My one big piece of advice... if you haven't had personal experience with love, don't make romance a focus for your story. I'm not saying it can't be done, but in all my years of reading amateur fiction, I have NEVER seen someone who has no experience handle the whole "falling in love" thing in a believable fashion.

Romantic love is a very complex emotion, and I don't think someone whose only experience is as an outside observer can truly duplicate it in literary form.


At the end of your stories, do you answer every question or do you leave stuff open to debate?

There should be resolution to everything of note in the story. It can be an ambiguous resolution... one where the reader thinks they know what happened, but isn't sure. But don't pull idiotic cliffhanger type endings. Those work in the midst of the story... but not at the end... that's just annoying.

The most important thing is to make sure the two characters have a reason to fall for each other. It can't just be because they're two attractive people who happen to be adventuring together.

Ironically, that pretty much describes one of the main reasons why co-workers date. Two people who work together closely find each other attractive. Sexual tension develops. Soon the noises of luuuuuuv are emanating from the locked supply closet.

Thing to remember is... that's lust but not necessarily love. It's definitely believable lust though. In my opinion, lust is just as valid a plot device and motivation as love... it builds characters and shows the reader facets of their personality.

That actually brings up an important issue on the topic of love... if you're going to touch on love in your story... be sure you understand the difference between lust and love.



On a completely different line of thought... here's a couple more questions:

What's your favorite stereotypical character archetype?
What's your least favorite?
What's your favorite motivation for a villain?
Favorite motivation for a hero?

 

[Breeze_Arkayne]

How do you handle romance in your stories?
I never create my stories with love as a major theme, mainly because I don't find something so interesting myself (talking about stories here people!). Still, I believe that love can help form more complex characters and relations in stories. Maybe one day I'd like to create a project with love, or lust, as the main theme.

At the end of your stories, do you answer every question or do you leave stuff open for debate?
I love to leave questions up for debate, but not to an idiotic extent. You should always give answers to the story, but hiding their true meanings is another thing. The most impacting movies and stories that I've read are ones that just really get you thinking at the end.

What's your favorite stereotypical character archetype?
Hmmm, I like it when the character tries to pull off a heroic yet humorous attitude (Usually are main characters, have a faster yet powerful battle style, and have some very close friends. Many are called Zidane and are from a game called Final Fantasy IX).

What's your least favorite?
My least favorite stereotypical character is the 'I'll join your quest but I'll never talk' ones. A dramatic scene occurs sometime in the game, and some boring scene about their backstory unfolds.

What's your favorite motivation for a villain?
Hard to say because most of the time when I design games I design the villians just like I do the heroes. I guess that wrath is one of my favorite motivations though.

Favorite motivation for a hero?
My favorite motivations for a hero are either harmony/love of nature or culture, or ignorance..

Now I've got a few questions that I'm surprised no ones asked.

What is your favorite atmosphere?
Small story or epic tale?

 

[Legion]

What's your favorite motivation for a villain?

Love. It's the most underused, and just like religion (which could also be classified as a kind of love) is one of the most common and insidious motivators of atrocity in the world. The worst kinds of things are done in the name of love, and the very dichotomy created by love as a motive is often haunting or at least sympathetic.

All the twisted and insane villains in the Iron Gaia series are motivated by love: The Celestials, with their inborn and unrequited love for their Mother, are willing to do terrible things to gain her affection. Likewise, the Gaia's entire hideous plan is a result of her misprogrammed 'love' for humanity and her desire to protect and improve them.

Sorry to give basically a one word answer, folks, but I'm actually trying to DETACH MYSELF FROM THE INTERNET to do some real actual writing right now. I'll be back to answer more questions later though.

 

[RavenTDA]

[whoops posted too soon please delete]

 

[Drake Miriel]

1. Yes. I find writers too unnapreciated. People seem to hold material skills like scripting and spriting in much higher regard.
2. Yes, I have long wanted to be a proffessional author.
3. Depending on my mood, I've spent whole days writing.
4. I like them. It allows newer writers to take a pre-made setting and add their own twist. And yes, I occasionaly write some fanfics here and there.
5. I do become attached (most are based off me) , but it's not at all to write them, because it allows me to put what that part of me would do in that situation.
6. I like a good balance. Often I'll have a dark mood initially, but as it progresses it becomes a rollercoaster.
7. Not at all. Several of my ideas have been almost polar opposites.
8. Ideas are practically a must. Command of the language, however, is more dependant on what you're doing. Writing a plot for a game doesn't need as much command as a story or poetry.
9. I see my characters as living, breathing people. So many are based on people in my life. The people who fill me with rage, the people who're just there, it's all thje same to me.
10. I've never heard of i.
11. Yes. Collaborations are a great way to build skill. If you take someone with great ideas and someone who has no ideas but can write professionally, you've got a good duo.
12. I tend to take the fantasy setting I use and translate my life's events into that setting. My principal herself was the inspiration for an evil goddess.
13. Keep going. I've lunged myself headfirst into almost every challenge I've faced, and am better for it.
14. David Eddings, Margaret Weiss, and Tracy Hickman.
15. ^
16. I feel cliches are a good tool for beginners, but as you get more advanced, get far away from them. They'll hold you back.
17. I prefer one long story. Short stories are good for background, but it's more an apetizer for me.
18. I rarely initialize romance in the beginning. If they're in love, it usually happens befored the book starts. I also use the concept of two people in love, but one's married, and they remain faithful. It adds a bond between the characters I like playing on.
19. I close many questions, but always leave a few open. I like having the ominous effec after a reader stops, leaving them wondering.
20. The half-breed who isn't accepted by his people and escape to writing, but in the end gains their respect.
21. The young warrior who somehow kills the dark lord himself.
22. Power.
23. Revenge.

 

[RavenTDA]

Do you think writing is underrated in the RMXP community? (Lene)
Well I think it is. I mean there isn't a lot of stuff out there that's done too well (besides Motw) but I haven't played that many games yet and I'm also crazy picky. ':| But I definintly believe it is the most inportant part of the entire gaming process. I mean it's what keeps you interested, ya know?

Is writing an intended career path for you? (Lene)
Yes. I really want to write novels but I'm still practicing at the moment. Oh man it's be so cool if I could actually make it. It's my dream actually. :D

How long do you sit and just write? (Lene)
Depends on my mood. But I've actually sat hours on end. Most times if I'm in the 'writing mood' I'll spend the ENTIRE day on the computer and refuse to budge besides bathroom and eathing. :P But I can't write less than an hour. It has to be at least two hours for me or else I feel like I can't get into it enough.

What is your opinion on fanfiction or fangames to be more specifc? Do you write fanfiction? (Lene)
I adore it. I know a lot of people complain about it and stuff but you don't have to read stuff you don't like. I mean you can tell right away when it's going to suck (sucky writing is spotable in the first paragraph) and I'm not talking about amature writing. I'll read anything with effort and always (love) to give out pointers. If it's done well I'll soak it up. There are gems out there you just have to really dig for them.

I actually do write fanfiction. That's how I practice with my writing. If anyone cares my pen name is the same as my user name here on Fanfiction.net. Although I'd ask of you to avoid my older stuff it's terrible. Read it for a laugh or to see how anyone can go from sucky to pretty darn good.

Do you become attached to your characters and find it difficult to 'write them' (for lack of a better term) in emotional or physical pain? (Wumpi)
I do become attached to my characters but I don't care if I have to tough them up with a bit of hardships. Having them go through those tough times makes them grow and evolove as characters so it's actually good for them. It helps us (the reader) connect to them better and even sympathize with them. But also if there was no bad things happening then well it'd really wouldn't be intresting in a smooth sailing story now would it? No one wants to read about mister lucky and all the great things happening to him. :P

In darker stories do you find it more effective to have the mood constantly dark or to add a few lighter parts? (Wumpi)
Depends you'll have to be much more specific. If everything that happens is dark well that's just too one-sided and boring. Clubbing the reader on the head with dark stuff will just become too much after a while and may force the reader to just put the book down. But of course if you have Happy the Clown suddenly drop in and throw a pie at the monster it'd seem a little stupid, ya know. Just know your bonderies and try to take a look at some darker themed stuff and see how the execute it.

Do you think that because you're making an RPG, it limits the plot? (cos)
Somewhat. You have to keep in mind that there will be battling. So obviously in most cases there will be monsters or something. Traveling around a lot is another factor. It wouldn't be too much of a fun game if you just stood in the same spot now would it? So those two things gotta be kept in mind. But from there I don't think there's really much of a limit afterwards.

Does a writer need to have good ideas or a very good [command] of the language? (cos)
As far as novel writing I think you really need to grasp how the grammer works but if it's for a movie or game (obviously in this case) then you really dont have to. Just snag a proof reader to go through the dialogue. But as far as story goes all you really need is a good imagination and you're set. ^_^

Do you see your characters as human beings or as symbols/allegories? (cos)
Um hmm well I think it really depeneds on what type of plot you are writing. Personally I've done both depending on the effect. You'd have to be a little more specific. And they also can very much be both.

Ever heard of NaNoWriMo and have you tried, or do you plan on ever trying to attempt the challenge? (Lene)
:-/ What's that? Care to enlighten me? I'm always up for a writing challenge. :D

Story/Writing Collaborations, yes or no? (Lene)
Absolutly not. Way too much of a control freak. I'll assist, but if it's my project stay out. :lol:

Are your stories based on real events and people? (Alan.)
Influenced sometimes but never purly based on real life people. A lot of people really make this mistake. They'll turn themselves or people they know into characters in a story. I find it really bad because for one thing most real life people are more bland than you think. When you write an impatient person they gotta be really impatient. They can't just well sigh and huff. They gotta pace the floor and tap their toe and throw a fit. Or else the point is not taken across enough. I mean don't beat the reader on the head with it but you kinda have to exagerate character's personalities slightly or else they will become bland or boring.

Although I find it a good idea to give pieces of yourself or people you know to characters that way you can connect with the character better and understand them much more. Remember they're characters not a glorified version of you or your friend or whatever. It's the best when you can pull a character off that's compleatly oposite to you. ^_^

What advice do you have to aspiring writers? (Alan.)
Practice your darn head off!! :D

What published authors have influenced your writing style and themes the most? (BlackStaticWolf)
I actually love to write but rarely read. :O So I kind of devoloped my own little style on my own. Personally I find it best to do your own thing. If you keep copying someone else you'll never be as good because you're just a copy. Make your own mark and you'll be much more apreciated for your freshness.

Who is your favorite published author? (BlackStaticWolf)
Don't really have a favorite. If I had to choose it'd be the guy who wrote the Hannible serries. Can't remember his name. ':|

What is your opinion on clichés? (Alan.)
Avoid them like the plauge!!! heh. Actually sometimes you can base really good concepts from a cliche. Just try to warp and change things from a traditional idea and you can really come up with some good stuff too. Beginers should stay away from the tactic though until they can really see the difference between a cliche and a good idea evoloved from one. Also it's a good idea to avoid the anit-cliche (the exact opostie) as that has been over done too. Unless of course it's parody. I love anit-cliche parody. Huray. :lol:

Do you prefer a series of short stories, or one long story? (Alan.)
Long, long, long. I won't ever read a short story. Can't get into the characters enough.

How do you handle romance in your stories? (Alan.)
What kind of romance? There's all kinds. I usually like to put in what I think will help devolope the story. No sence tossing in love for the heck of it, ya know. But seductive tease scenes are my favorite to write. As far as handle specificly well I gotta see what you mean. Or specify the question more.

At the end of your stories, do you answer every question or do you leave stuff open to debate? (Alan.)
It's always best to tie in all the loose ends. Always tie in all the loose ends as best you can. The only case that I find is allowed an open case is if you do it intentionally to add a sence of mystery. But don't be like "And as the hero struck the final blow the monster breathed fire." and end it making the reader scream that they'll never know what happend. So if it's for mystery (usually in a horror movie they'll be like and the moster lives dun dun dun) then that's okay, other wise tie it up!!!

What's your favorite stereotypical character archetype? (BlackStaticWolf)
In a game? Hmm I hate cliche... but if you're asking what type of hero I prefer I usually like the cool bad ass kind. Either seductive or not. Like the type that are bad but somehow stuck as good (Alucard from Hellsing, Albel from Star Ocean) those types are awsome.

What's your least favorite? (BlackStaticWolf)
Super ultra postive and goody-goody. (Aeris FF7). Can't stand those kind. They are VERY hard to pull off properly as sometimes they can head off into a mystical perfection of goodiness. I mean every character needs a flaw and that flaw should not be perfection. :P

What's your favorite motivation for a villain? (BlackStaticWolf)
Misunderstood. I always adore being able to sypathize with the villian too. So that way you're like ahh I don't really want to kill them and makes it all the more real. The world isn't so black and white.

Favorite motivation for a hero? (BlackStaticWolf)
Hmm... Not really sure on this one. I never really favored any of them. But as far as game speaking it usually winds up as save the world so wouldn't it always be for survival?

 

[Volrath]

Wow. Plenty of new questions today. But first...

The most important thing is to make sure the two characters have a reason to fall for each other. It can't just be because they're two attractive people who happen to be adventuring together.

Ironically, that pretty much describes one of the main reasons why co-workers date. Two people who work together closely find each other attractive. Sexual tension develops. Soon the noises of luuuuuuv are emanating from the locked supply closet.

Certainly true, but there's always some reason for said attraction. The two people find each other kind, charming, funny or even just visually pleasing. It isn't just because they happen to be in the same space, which is, unfortuantely, the level of thought given to a lot of RPG romances.

What's your favorite stereotypical character archetype?

I have a soft spot for the unpredictable badass, the fighter who always seems on the verge of insanity. Usually these characters drink a lot, which adds a lot of extra humor.

What's your least favorite?

Just one? Well, I'll pick two. I've had my fill of inexerpienced young knights who think they're God's gift to swordplay, but predictably have their weapon knocked from their hands every time they go up against someone with any idea of what they're doing.

Also, I can't stand the overly edgy anime-chick style heroine who is bitchy 24/7 and can kick 100 guys' asses whenver she likes.

What's your favorite motivation for a villain?

I love the villains that you know could have been heroes under different circumstances. The ones that start out with a noble ideal and become corrupted by power or bitterness over time until they lose sight of what they were fighting for at all. It adds a lot of depth and pathos that makes a story really memorable.

Favorite motivation for a hero?

This may sound a bit cliche, but I really love heroes who act because of their conscience. They see some kind of imminent threat and say "Nobody is doing anything about this...so I will." It's the kind of thing you wish we'd see more of in the real world.

What is your favorite atmosphere?

I tend to like scenes that take place in inclement weather. Rain, fog, snow, whatever.

Small story or epic tale?

Either can be great depending on what you're in the mood for.

Edit: Raven, thanks for the props!

 

[FoxDemonSoavi]

Do you think writing is underrated in the RMXP community? (Lene)
> Yes
Is writing an intended career path for you? (Lene)
> One of them
How long do you sit and just write? (Lene)
> Not as logn as I should
What is your opinion on fanfiction or fangames to be more specifc? Do you write fanfiction? (Lene)
> Icky but sometiems amusing.
Do you become attached to your characters and find it difficult to 'write them' (for lack of a better term) in emotional or physical pain? (Wumpi)
> Usualy it is the characters doing the writing to a certian extent.
In darker stories do you find it more effective to have the mood constantly dark or to add a few lighter parts? (Wumpi)
> Better to have some light points, but it is important to not make them seem contrived.
Do you think that because you're making an RPG, it limits the plot? (cos)
> An rpg does not limit the plot at all. IT just requires a different pacing than that of a book. Just as a movie, tv show, and a play all have different pacing structures.
Does a writer need to have good ideas or a very good [command] of the language? (cos)
> Both would be better.
Do you see your characters as human beings or as symbols/allegories? (cos)
> I see them as a bit of both. I think it depends on the character.
Ever heard of NaNoWriMo and have you tried, or do you plan on ever trying to attempt the challenge? (Lene)
> Nope, and maybe.
Story/Writing Collaborations, yes or no? (Lene)
> YES YES! I work best collaborating.
Are your stories based on real events and people? (Alan.)
> Not as far as I know.
What advice do you have to aspiring writers? (Alan.)
> Read as many books, watch as many tv shows, read as many comics, adn play as many rpgs as you can.
What published authors have influenced your writing style and themes the most? (BlackStaticWolf)
> fritz leiber, hayao miyazaki, jim henson
Who is your favorite published author? (BlackStaticWolf)
> pleading the fifth here
What is your opinion on clichés? (Alan.)
They are good if used properly. At this point, most everything is a cliche.
Do you prefer a series of short stories, or one long story? (Alan.)[/b][/b]
> One long story.
How do you handle romance in your stories? (Alan.)
> It really depends on the story.
At the end of your stories, do you answer every question or do you leave stuff open to debate? (Alan.)
> Onyl questions that it makes sense to have the main characters learn the answer of are answered.
What's your favorite stereotypical character archetype? (BlackStaticWolf)
> Knight or Samurai
What's your least favorite? (BlackStaticWolf)
> Blonde Bimbo
What's your favorite motivation for a villain? (BlackStaticWolf)
> The ends justifying the means.
Favorite motivation for a hero? (BlackStaticWolf)
> Love

 

[BlackStaticWolf]

Certainly true, but there's always some reason for said attraction. The two people find each other kind, charming, funny or even just visually pleasing. It isn't just because they happen to be in the same space, which is, unfortuantely, the level of thought given to a lot of RPG romances.

Yeah, I agree. It seems like a lot of the time in both amateur (AND professional) RPGs, the romance is there simply because some formula demands that it be so. I wasn't so much disagreeing with you as building on what you said as a bridge in the whole thing about love vs. lust.

On to answering questions...

What's your favorite stereotypical character archetype?

It's totally cheesy, but I have a soft spot in my heart for befuddled old wizards who hide wisdom behind a facade of goofiness. I'd never use one myself... but Fizban will always bring a smile to my face.

What's your least favorite?

I hate Cloud.

What's your favorite motivation for a villain?

I've got a fondness for ideals that are simply different from that of the hero. I'm also fond of villains who're motivated by a their own perverted sense of love. Oh, I also like total psychotics. You know, the ones who don't even know why they do what they do... they simply follow their urges. They don't make good main villains, but they're excellent support when fleshed out properly and given personality.

Favorite motivation for a hero?

I second Volrath's answer. Heroism motivated by nothing more than the desire to do the right thing. It's kind of a cliche, but with some creativity, there are spins that you can put on it that makes it really good.

What is your favorite atmosphere?

I like Earth's atmosphere. I can breathe here and everything. Smartass answer... check.

Real answer... I assume you mean thematically... I'm fond of stories of failed redemption.

Small story or epic tale?

Either one really. They both have their charms... but I think a somewhat epic scale is more satisfying for the player in an RPG. At least it is for me as a player.

 

[Mr.Mo]

I'm not a writer but I would like to say I hold writers just next to artists/spriters and everything above scripters :P

Now on to my question;

What story do you think is most over used?
Whats the hardest part of being a writer?

 

[Unseen_ninja]

Do you think writing is underrated in the RMXP community? (Lene)
> I think the idea of making a game draws people who are primarily writers, so there's a lack of demand for them, but only because we're overpopulated
Is writing an intended career path for you? (Lene)
> I intend to publish a few books to help pay for college, I just haven't gotten around to making enough content to fill a full one yet.
How long do you sit and just write? (Lene)
> Just writing? Depends on how much is on my mind. For a game? Not at all. I take the story where I believe it should go while following a general plan to get it to the desired ending. The path seems less forced that way.
What is your opinion on fanfiction or fangames to be more specifc? Do you write fanfiction? (Lene)
> If they're really a tribute to what they believe to be a good game, then I'm okay with them. Basing your game on another just because you believe you lack the creativity to make something original, however, sickens me.
Do you become attached to your characters and find it difficult to 'write them' (for lack of a better term) in emotional or physical pain? (Wumpi)
> More the opposite. I'm in pain a lot (more emotional than physical), so that is my natural state, and I'm therefore better at writing it for my characters. I actually have a thesis for this, based on why the stories always end when the conflict is over. Nobody can write the peaceful years in between and make them interesting to anyone but those involved.
In darker stories do you find it more effective to have the mood constantly dark or to add a few lighter parts? (Wumpi)
> Watch "The Hole" Sometime. Even when those people were starving in the bomb shelter, they hooked up and had hot naked sex. Even in the darkest of times, people will look for the light. So, yeah, I'm not necessarily saying lighter parts, but happier, peaceful moments (which can be just as heavy as the dark).
Do you think that because you're making an RPG, it limits the plot? (cos)
> Nope. I chose the RPG genre because it gives me the most freedom.
Does a writer need to have good ideas or a very good [command] of the language? (cos)
> The good ideas are harder to come by. If you have a good basic plot, any number of people are willing to spellcheck and other menial tasks to bring it to life.
Do you see your characters as human beings or as symbols/allegories? (cos)
> I see them as people. Not every one stands for something, or has any greater meaning. Rather than portraying that which has no existence outside my creation, I prefer to use my creation to portray a segment of that existence (if that makes any sense).
Ever heard of NaNoWriMo and have you tried, or do you plan on ever trying to attempt the challenge? (Lene)
> No, never heard of it, and after about 15 seconds, I stopped trying to find out what it was.
Story/Writing Collaborations, yes or no? (Lene)
> Probably no, but only because I need my characters to be human, and can't introduce alien concepts to their thought patterns without totally screwing up my perception of them.
Are your stories based on real events and people? (Alan.)
> They're based on themes in my life, but themes only (minus those I label as nonfiction).
What advice do you have to aspiring writers? (Alan.)
> Immerse yourself in the language and in the subject (humanity). Read whatever you can, to learn how to portray each step of the journey, and watch people. Observe. Learn from them, not TV, books or any other media which steps they should take.
What published authors have influenced your writing style and themes the most? (BlackStaticWolf)
>Terry Brooks and Piers Anthony and Margaret Weis
Who is your favorite published author? (BlackStaticWolf)
>Piers Anthony
What is your opinion on clichés? (Alan.)
>They're overdone. Seriously, though, if you give each character (including the antagonist) a human personality and good motivation, it's not hard to be successful.
Do you prefer a series of short stories, or one long story? (Alan.)[/b][/b]
> mmm... probably one long, but that's just my reading/playing style. I don't like being interrupted
How do you handle romance in your stories? (Alan.)
> I don't; I let the characters take care of it, and if it happens, it happens.
At the end of your stories, do you answer every question or do you leave stuff open to debate? (Alan.)
> I tend to leave my characters just a little more shallow than my target audience, and answer the questions my characters ask (whether aloud to the audience or not), but leave the questions posed by the audience unanswered.
What's your favorite stereotypical character archetype? (BlackStaticWolf)
> The lone wolf
What's your least favorite? (BlackStaticWolf)
> The shiny paladin
What's your favorite motivation for a villain? (BlackStaticWolf)
> Misguided sense of justice
Favorite motivation for a hero? (BlackStaticWolf)
> Personal vendetta

EDIT:
In response to Shark_Tooth's questions:
What story do you think is most over used?
>I believe it to be the evil overlord/world domination thing, but I base that entirely on the original BoF, the first 17 RPGs I ever played.
Whats the hardest part of being a writer?
>Throwing out the good ideas that didn't work their way into the storyline. I mean, they're good enough, sometimes better than most of what you end up with, but including them would make the whole storyline seen forced.

 

[kintaruo]

1. Do you think writing is underrated in the RMXP community? (Lene)

Not really. It seems that most people like writing the most, though it obviously can't be something that gets the attention in the first place, which is why it seems like graphics are more important.


2. Is writing an intended career path for you? (Lene)

I might minor in creative writing, but we'll see about that. Depends on if I like the classes essentially.

3. How long do you sit and just write? (Lene)

I'm generally too busy to do this all the time, but I go through phases where I'll write a lot, and phases where I'll write a little.

4. What is your opinion on fanfiction or fangames to be more specifc? Do you write fanfiction? (Lene)

If done right, fanfiction can be ok. While I think it's better to write something original, sometime it's nice to read up some more on characters you really like. However, most people suck at fanfiction, and make characters so far out of character that it IS an original story, just with the characters' names there. It's hard to explain, but basically, if you just wrote a story, and inserted the names of final fantasy characters into it, that's what some fanfiction is, which is retarded if you're looking to read/write fanfiction.

5. Do you become attached to your characters and find it difficult to 'write them' (for lack of a better term) in emotional or physical pain? (Wumpi)

No.

6. In darker stories do you find it more effective to have the mood constantly dark or to add a few lighter parts? (Wumpi)

Lighter parts make the darker parts seem darker. For instance, if something is constantly dark, then that is all you know, is dark. By adding in some lighter parts, it gives you some perspective, and makes it a lot easier to read.

7. Do you think that because you're making an RPG, it limits the plot? (cos)

I wouldn't say limit, but you can often tell if something is written for a game or not. So, while you can really put any story in an rpg, the style you have to put it in is sort of dictated by that format.

8. Does a writer need to have good ideas or a very good [command] of the language? (cos)

Language is far more important. You can make a crappy idea seem great by writing it well, and you can make an awesome idea seem horrible by writing it poorly. At the same time, if you have great command and great ideas, then you find some great stories.

9. Do you see your characters as human beings or as symbols/allegories? (cos)
I see them more as humans, but obviously they are symbolic of certain things. If they aren't symbolic of anything, then the story you have is pointless. Even if they are symbolic of an average guy, they should still be symbolic of something.


10. Ever heard of NaNoWriMo and have you tried, or do you plan on ever trying to attempt the challenge? (Lene)

I have heard of it because of this question, yet the idea seems very, very dumb to me. Sure, you'll have something finished, but it won't be good, most likely. EVERYONE needs to edit. Even professionals. The website says something to the extent of "who cares if it is good, just get something finished." But one great story is >>>>>>>>> 10000 bad ones.

11. Story/Writing Collaborations, yes or no? (Lene)

No, because I think that coming up with ideas for a whole story with more than one person would just get heated. There's no way you could agree on everything, unelss one person is the main guy and the other is the main writers underling.

12. Are your stories based on real events and people? (Alan.)

Not really, but I think that even without trying to, everything you write will be and should be based on something you have some real life knowlege of. If you've never experienced something, it is hard to write it believably.

13. What advice do you have to aspiring writers? (Alan.)

Reading is good, but don't be limited to books. Play rpgs, watch movies, read manga, whatever. Books are good with coming up with ways to write, but it's better not to copy anyway. Books are good though.

14. What published authors have influenced your writing style and themes the most? (BlackStaticWolf)

I can't really say one in particular. I honestly hardly ever read, even for school I try and get out of it. I just luckily have an affinity for the language.

15. Who is your favorite published author? (BlackStaticWolf)

Don't really have one. Though I really should work on changing that.

16. What is your opinion on clichés? (Alan.)

They're a bit overused, hehe. In all seriousness, they have their purpose, and they aren't that bad if used correctly.

17. Do you prefer a series of short stories, or one long story? (Alan.)

I prefer a series of long stories :-p

18. How do you handle romance in your stories? (Alan.)

Seeing as love is a crucial element in human life, I generally find it important to add to most stories. I don't try and force it, but I like to make it part of stories, as it can really help character development. Plus, if done well, it can make the characters seem a lot more real.

19. At the end of your stories, do you answer every question or do you leave stuff open to debate? (Alan.)

I generally answer most all the questions, but at the same time, I don't mind when stuff is left to debate. Debate makes things interesting later, and lets you try and determine what is actually going on, and what to take from the story.

20. What's your favorite stereotypical character archetype? (BlackStaticWolf)

The suave player of the group who always gets shot down. They are quite comical.

21. What's your least favorite? (BlackStaticWolf)

Anyone that annoys me essentially.


22. What's your favorite motivation for a villain? (BlackStaticWolf)

Love. Or something like it. Makes more sense than like, global domination or whatever. It makes you think more, as well.

23. Favorite motivation for a hero? (BlackStaticWolf)

Revenge. I know it's overused, but it just, again, makes more sense than say, "doing the good thing." Plus, if you're out to "do the good thing," you are already good and wholesome from the start, so I prefer revenge, which lets you develop stuff more.

24. Most overused story?

The most overused story is the one where the young boy is from a small village that has something wrong with it, so he goes out to save it, and ends up saving the whole world. There are TONS of stories like that. They're interesting to a point, if you can change them up a bit, but it's still probably the most overused that I know.

25. What do you think is the hardest part of being a writer?

Writing something fresh, and staying interested in it. It's so easy to come up with other ideas that sometimes it's hard to stay on one story. Plus, writing takes a long time. And writing to your own satisfaction takes even longer.

 

[Viviatus]

1. Yes it is! Cause even good graphics and scripts can't make a bad plot better. While a good plot can make a game with bad graphics still interesting.
2. I never thought of it actually, so no.
3. Depending on my free time something between 1 - 4 hours
4. If you just pick up an idea of another existing story/game that is ok, but I am no fan of using already existing characters/plots
5. Sometimes yes, but there are also moments when I want them to suffer, though I love all of my characters the bad ones and the good ones.
6. That's a hard one... I never wrote a dark story before, but I say some lighter parts can't be that bad.
7. No. Not really.
8. A bit of both.
9. Sometimes they're humans, but most of the other times they're symbols.
12. No, never.
14. Quite alot... though I wouldn't say that they influenced my writing style but brought me to the art of writing itself.
17. Long storys!
19. I plan my storys so that there actually could be no question anymore but I when I write them I leave a few things out so that others could debate on it.
25. Whew... I think not to get bored by your own writing... To sit down and write though you don't want to even look at that story...
Things like that I guess.


New Question:
Why and when did you start writing?

 

[Firgof Umbra]

1. Do you think writing is underrated in the RMXP community? (Lene)
Yes and no. Writing is not 'underrated' as far as the common viewpoint of 'what makes a great game' is concerned; but rather the process and the detail, and the passion and effort required to do as such.

2. Is writing an intended career path for you? (Lene)
Eventually. At first, I'm going to be breaking into the Game Design scene as a normal level designer--however, once I gain enough credibility from my colleagues and my superiors I will probably start writing for games as well--probably full time--and retire once I have completed the 'zomg epic' storyline that most writers write at one point or another for a game [see, for example, 'Halo'].
3. How long do you sit and just write? (Lene)
Embarassingly short. Most days, I do not write at all, and the days that I do write, I write for about 4-5 hours.
4. What is your opinion on fanfiction or fangames to be more specifc? Do you write fanfiction? (Lene)
To the point: Fanfiction is laziness to a degree most discomforting. Relying on other worlds and other characters, in my humble opinion, makes a weaker pen at the writing table--unless counterbalanced by an equal or greater amount of free writing. I do not write fanfiction, and make it a point to not do so.
5. Do you become attached to your characters and find it difficult to 'write them' (for lack of a better term) in emotional or physical pain? (Wumpi)
No--though I do become attached to my characters. Emotional and physical pain for my characters, for me, simply means that they are being tested, and should they come through, then so should I desire them more. =)
6. In darker stories do you find it more effective to have the mood constantly dark or to add a few lighter parts? (Wumpi)
As with a good roller-coaster ride, it must have ups and downs--too much of either makes for a short, boring, and too-fast ride.
7. Do you think that because you're making an RPG, it limits the plot? (cos)
No. RPGs are probably the most flexible of games, excluding tactical strategy games (whose horizions are nearly infinite if examined dutifully).
8. Does a writer need to have good ideas or a very good [command] of the language? (cos)
Both, really. Good ideas are essential to catch (and hold) the reader/player's interest, and a good command of the language elevates your works to new heights (though using overly-complex phrases and words in an -attempt- to sound all-high-and-snobby generally fails at raising your credibility).
9. Do you see your characters as human beings or as symbols/allegories? (cos)
I never really see my characters as symbols nor allegories. Such things are for the poor public education system of my country--not for my writing.
10. Ever heard of NaNoWriMo and have you tried, or do you plan on ever trying to attempt the challenge? (Lene)
I have participated twice, and failed twice for momentous reasons.
11. Story/Writing Collaborations, yes or no? (Lene)
Sure, why not?
12. Are your stories based on real events and people? (Alan.)
No.
13. What advice do you have to aspiring writers? (Alan.)
Write what you like to write, don't write for your audience, and do anything, and everything, you can to make your story 'the best'--if that means re-phrasing a particular key description of some awesome mountain for two hours, then do so! Your mountain will appreciate it, your audience will read it, and you will like it.
14. What published authors have influenced your writing style and themes the most? (BlackStaticWolf)
Probably Isaac Asimov, Hubbard, and Steven King.
15. Who is your favorite published author? (BlackStaticWolf)
L. Ron, without a doubt.
16. What is your opinion on clichés? (Alan.)
Cliche is what drives fiction, not the other way around.
17. Do you prefer a series of short stories, or one long story? (Alan.)[/b][/b]
It truly depends on my mood--short stories if I'm in a hurry or flustered at a particular time, and a long story if I feel like I have enough time to write it and am confident in telling it.
18. How do you handle romance in your stories? (Alan.)
Well, as with most people, my characters do not 'lack' romance--after all, sex is one of our driving compulsions throughout the eons; why should my writings portray elsewise, I question.
19. At the end of your stories, do you answer every question or do you leave stuff open to debate? (Alan.)
It depends on the length of the story and if I am intending upon continuing it. For most stories, I leave questions open to debate--for unanswered questions are the genus of creation. =)
20. What's your favorite stereotypical character archetype? (BlackStaticWolf)
Hmm... probably the lone warrior crippled by his past.
21. What's your least favorite? (BlackStaticWolf)
The Maiden in Distress *rolls eyes*
22. What's your favorite motivation for a villain? (BlackStaticWolf)
My favorite motivation would probably be betrayal--as betrayals make great plots and great characters [probably greaet fiction too, but who am I to say?].
23. Favorite motivation for a hero? (BlackStaticWolf)
Conflict between moving forward and staying behind--resolved by other means.
24. What story do you think is most over used? (Shark_Tooth)
Most certainly the 'Magical Girl' scenario. You all know what I speak of.
25. Whats the hardest part of being a writer? (Shark_Tooth)
Actually sitting down at the computer and writing everything out without either a) making myself rapidly bald or b) pressing the backspace key.
26. Why and when did you start writing? (Vivitaurus)
I started writing about twelve years ago, and because my parents were fascinated with how I was 'so imaginative'. I also found that my other hobby, painting yogurt on the fireplace, was not permissable.

 

[BlackStaticWolf]

24. What story do you think is most over used? (Shark_Tooth)

I assume you mean what plot. In truth, I don't think there's really such a thing as an overused plot or story in fiction. It's all about the creativity of the writer in making the characters, the individual situations, and putting unique spins on the plot ideas. If a story's plot feels formulaic and contrived... it's because the author didn't do their job well enough with regards

25. Whats the hardest part of being a writer? (Shark_Tooth)

For me it's setting and sticking to my own deadlines. In my professional life, where I have no control over the deadline and something simply must be done... well I have no problem getting things done. But when I decide that I'm going to write 10 pages by the end of the week for whatever story I'm working on, well, that suddenly becomes the hardest thing in the world.


26. Why and when did you start writing? (Vivitaurus)

I was young... probably in 6th grade. I'm honestly not sure that I can pinpoint and exact when or why... I just... wanted to, so I did.