In the last post, I tried to compare shaping a story to focusing a camera, beginning, say, close up to a person or place and then pulling back to show the context or wider setting.
You could also do the reverse, as above: there's a stone patio, a stone wall and dense trees beyond. What sort of place is this? What might happen here? Then move in a little closer:
The wall is carefully crafted, hand-built, hmm . . . who built it? Why is it important? And if you go closer:
Guess you've got to write the story to find out . . .
Mm?
xx
Love it! My first attempt at writing a novel began this way. Now I tend to begin with close-ups.
ReplyDeleteOh, I sure love when a character reveals himself. I usually read really fast, so I admire this critter who made me pause, think, and go back to the beginning. And yes, I was able to spot him in that first picture! An excellent post!
ReplyDeleteLike Marguerite Yourcenar , I'd write the story of Adrian 's Wall in Great Britain, but seen through the critter's eyes ! :o)
ReplyDeleteI like that idea . . . you should do it . . .
DeleteAlong with a sray can of 'Weed Begone'...
ReplyDeleteAh, yes, you noticed . . .
DeleteThe wider view invites one into the story.
ReplyDeleteIf you step back you see an elderly man sitting on the rock wall. He is wearing gray slacks, a pale yellow shirt, and red suspenders. A black cane wrapped in bits of silver tape lay next to him. One hand rests upon the lion shaped handle; the other grips what appears to be a lid from a coffee can. It is piled high with a variety of nuts, seeds, and biscuit crumbs.
The man feels quite alone but there's more to the story.
(Come on in.)
I'm in. And then . . . ? This sounds like your story to carry on . . .
DeleteYou inspire, Sharon.
DeleteI love hearing this, Sharon, but once again, I don't seem to have the wiring to write the story...I stay at just being in awe of the surprise of the little guy that popped into the scene & how magical that is! (I always look forward to reading your stories though.)
ReplyDeleteI love this! I think I will make it my focus for writing and photography this summer. Thank you for sharing your wisdom.
ReplyDeleteOoh, I will be eager to see what you do . . . xx
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