The long, slow march of progress

Scene cards for the horror script I’m working on are done, and I’ve typed each scene into the computer with a description of what is done and said. I used this process with the based-on-a-true-story screenplay, my most recently completed script, and it seemed to work fairly well. It helps me to think through the story without a waste of time on crafted dialogue and action descriptions that change when I alter the story as the process of writing reveals insights. Writing basic descriptions also helps me to explore motivation and theme. I’m looking forward to getting some feedback on the story, especially its viability as ultra-low-budget horror. I’ve been operating under the advice that writers should ignore the budget and write what they want, then try to sell it, so I haven’t developed a good sense of what is possible in relation to the budget.

I think it’s important to try different writing techniques and discover what is both efficient and supportive of creativity. I’ve read debates, such as the effectiveness of freewriting vs. detailed outlining, and I think each writer should explore what methods produce the best results. Since I view writing as a long-term pursuit, I feel comfortable that I have the time to develop my craft so that it suits my own personality and style. I’m discovering strengths and weaknesses as I go along. For example, having to prepare this horror story on a timeline, for production, has shown me that I need to do more script writing to deadline. It’s easy to linger over spec scripts because I‘m not facing a pressing demand, but I think that doesn’t teach the ability to quickly develop characters and solve problems. It’s sort of like practicing math problems, only more fun.

I finally have my car back, with a new tie rod and various other parts, and a lighter wallet thanks to the driver’s lack of insurance. My mouth is healing nicely, too. I got “The Little Shop of Horrors” in honor of it. I haven’t yet found a way to make my recent experiences serve my writing, but I’m sure I will. I can feel them simmering in my subconscious.