Post by The DLF on May 27, 2006 15:54:37 GMT -5
There is not much more that I can say without turning this into a much longer class; but I would like to discuss the Writer's Code. It is an unspoken rule (well, okay, I guess it is spoken) not to steal another writer's work or ideas. However, these days so many plots and ideas have been used over and over so many times that if someone has a new way of approaching something, take advantage of that.
Don’t misunderstand me now; I do not excuse stealing by any means, but sometimes a good writer can make another writer realize that a seemingly unavoidable cliché can be avoided after all. So what you do is take the idea, turn it over in your mind, change it, make it your own, and thank the one who made it possible.
Surely you can say, in a dedication or introduction, “I couldn’t have done it without you, [person’s name here].” It is the least you can do.
Assignment: Take an idea of another writer, change it to make it your own, and write a story or essay of any reasonable length, with an introduction or dedication. PM to of The DLF.
This lesson written by The DLF.
Don’t misunderstand me now; I do not excuse stealing by any means, but sometimes a good writer can make another writer realize that a seemingly unavoidable cliché can be avoided after all. So what you do is take the idea, turn it over in your mind, change it, make it your own, and thank the one who made it possible.
Surely you can say, in a dedication or introduction, “I couldn’t have done it without you, [person’s name here].” It is the least you can do.
Assignment: Take an idea of another writer, change it to make it your own, and write a story or essay of any reasonable length, with an introduction or dedication. PM to of The DLF.
This lesson written by The DLF.
