Monday, February 14, 2011

Connecting the Dots

A fun game involved drawing a large box with rows of dots. Each player would draw a line, hoping to complete a box. The player with the most boxes won.

Simple, right? While it might seem that way, strategy played an important part in winning the game. One wrong move, and the opponent could score a lot of boxes.

In this writing game basic principles include:

1) A great story.

2) Strong characters.

3) Advanced knowledge and application of the craft.

Within that framework, variations are limitless. Every writer brings their individual history, culture, values, and level of spiritual maturity. Genre, the publishing climate, support system, and family add to the mixture's flavor. No two writers will connect the dots in exactly the same way.

Seek God for direction and how best to use the gifts He's put within you. Then, connect the dots, writing in your own unique, beautiful way.

What life events shaped the way you write today?

24 comments:

Tonya said...

Thank you for this very interesting. Blessings to you.

Rita Gerlach said...

There are a multitude of life events that brought me to the place where I decided to write. But the biggest catalyst was my cousin Nora Roberts. I told her I would love to write and she said, 'Just do it!'

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Tonya -

You're welcome! Have a wonderful day.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Rita -

Having a famous relative encouraging you is great! I'm glad you took her advice. Because of it, we've enjoyed Surrender the Wind.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Anonymous said...

I incorporate God into my trilogy. Its more than good triumphing over evil. At the end people will know its the God of the Judeo-Christain faith that wins, not merely a concept of good.

Terri Tiffany said...

Oh my goodness--my current situation has been shaping so many of my stories and the direction they take. I can't help it!!

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Stephen -

Great! I'm looking forward to reading your book. I have it in my cart at Amazon, but I'm waiting for some additional information on another item.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Terri -

I can relate. In my opinion, it's impossible for us to go through situations and separate them from our writing.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Diane said...

I think I have a child-like brain at times and that definitely influences how and why I write. Have a happy week! :O)

Jeanette Levellie said...

I grew up in a sarcastic home, but a loving one. These elements help me see situations in funny lights, as well as reach out to help people. Writing is a fun way to accomplish both!

Rhonda Schrock said...

Goodness, I can't pick just one. Personality, current events, latest shenanigans from the tribe? All of those and more.

I like your emphasis on seeking God's direction and using our personal gifts. This combo is 'copyrighted' right there and simply cannot be reproduced. Great thought!

Smiling and waving,

Rhonda

Unknown said...

Good analogy, Susan! So much truth in your conclusion: "Seek God for direction and how best to use the gifts He's put within you. Then, connect the dots, writing in your own unique, beautiful way."

Looking daily for where God is at work has helped shape the way I write today. Hugs and blessings to you!

Nancy said...

A lot of failure shaped the way I write today. It was useful to shape what I do now.

Melanie N. Brasher said...

The stories I've heard growing up make their way into my writing.

Thanks for this reminder, Susan! You're a very encouraging person.

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Diane -

I've seen your Monday microfiction. You present your stories in a fresh, creative way.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Jen -

I like this point. Sarcasm often has a negative connotation, but it can be used in a nice way.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Rhonda -

Every day, I'm more and more aware of how much I need His direction. He sees the whole picture, while my view is limited.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Maria -

As you point out in your Life Lessons, daily events teach us so much. I always find something to meditate on at your blog. :)

Blessings,
Susan

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Nancy -

Yes, I've made my share of mistakes. Trial and error isn't a fun way to learn, but it can be a good teacher.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Melanie -

Thanks! My late husband had a way with words. Although he wasn't a writer, he told great stories. He was a great source of inspiration.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Dolores Ayotte said...

Susan,
I enjoyed this post especially the comment "no two writers will connect the dots the same way".

I couldn't agree more. Our frame of reference, learning experiences etc. really help shape the way we see things and how we write about them. At times, I find that even our choice of words and our interpretation of those words are influenced in different ways and not always received the way we intended. It is a very interesting process to say the least.

Blessings to you and yours Susan.

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Dolores -

Yes, I agree. When a writing prompt is given, each person will produce something so different, so unique.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Kristen said...

Nice analogy!!
Now to just connect those dots...
Thanks, Susan.
Have a wonderful day:)
Kristen

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Kristen -

Yes, it's definitely easier said than done!

Blessings,
Susan :)