The Fantasy Novelist's Exam: "Ever since J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis created the worlds of Middle Earth and Narnia, it seems like every windbag off the street thinks he can write great, original fantasy, too. The problem is that most of this "great, original fantasy" is actually poor, derivative fantasy. Frankly, we're sick of it, so we've compiled a list of rip-off tip-offs in the form of an exam. We think anybody considering writing a fantasy novel should be required to take this exam first. Answering "yes" to any one question results in failure and means that the prospective novel should be abandoned at once."
posted by Fizz
on Jan 10, 2012 -
306 comments
This Old Poem Those familiar with the long-running PBS TV series This Old House may be able to discern where I am going with this series of essays. Basically, I seek to rehabilitate (by rewriting) well-known poems.... [more inside]
posted by kid ichorous
on Dec 4, 2010 -
43 comments
Pure by Jacob Bricca. A meditation on genre, a commentary on visual cliches, and a celebration of the visceral pleasures of cinema. Music by The Jesus Lizard. Please play full screen at top volume!
posted by lazaruslong
on Jun 4, 2010 -
15 comments
How to write about Africa. Always use the word 'Africa' or 'Darkness' or 'Safari' in your title.
Most travel books about Africa open with the author alone, carried along by some vehicle, looking down over some landscape and feeling anxious.
Always end your book with Nelson Mandela saying something about rainbows or renaissances. Because you care.
posted by gottabefunky
on Jan 6, 2006 -
17 comments
