I’ve been exploring SCRIBD for a little while now and have
been amazed at the amount of information available. From self help tips to
leaked government documents to fiction, nonfiction, poetry, it’s all there. I’ve
met some wonderful authors and even had some comments on a few poems I’ve posted
on my page. I totally recommend SCRIBD as a place to read and be read..
But anyway, I came across a memo from David Mamet that I’ve
found helpful as I look to get focused on writing fiction. I have no great
aspirations or the requisite talent to fuel those aspirations but I do feel
compelled to write and I have much to learn. I thought I would share a few of
the points from David’s memo which resonated with me as I begin my new “hobby.”
“Drama is the quest of the hero to overcome those things
which prevent him from achieving a specific, acute goal.”
“For every scene, ask yourself:
1.
Who wants what?
2.
What happens if he doesn’t get it?
3.
Why now?”
“Every scene must be dramatic. The main character must have
a simple need which compels him into the scene..The scene is about his attempt
to get the need met which will lead to failure which leads us to the next
scene..These attempts as a whole constitute the plot.”
“Every scene must be dramatic..It must start because the
hero has a problem and it must culminate with the hero finding himself thwarted
or educated that another way exists.”
“Look at your scene:
1.
Is it dramatic?
2.
Is it essential?
3.
Does it advance the plot?”
I realize this memo is specifically targeted for television
writers but I find myself comparing these simple guidelines to the book I’m
currently reading, Let The Dead Lie, by Malla Nunn, and I find them bearing out
for each chapter I read. (good book, BTW)
Lot’s to learn, lot’s to read, lot’s to write, lot’s of
people to meet along the way! Let’s get this party started.
