Further Comments on Communiqué

Dear Scribblers

Further to yesterday's communiqué regarding how similar ideas can appear at the same time, I would like to add how unlike they can possibly be!

I watched "The Deep", and it was so different from my own script, I was amazed. You would really think that after ticking so many check boxes the same that I would have seen numerous similarities on screen. It was nothing of the sort, I didn't see anything that was remotely like my premise, characters, plot or dialogue!

I think this confirms yesterday's post, carry on with your own work and creativity, even if the ideas sound identical on paper, the finished project will be totally unique and individual.

It's a comfort for all of us writers, crafters and artists. Keep on creating!

Happy Scribing!

The Crafty Scribe Communiqué - So, How Do You Stay Individual As A Crafter, Writing or Artist?

Communiqué - News Flash

Dear Scribblers

Do you ever have an idea for a piece of writing, or a craft project only to see it produced by someone else before you had a chance to show it to anyone?

This happened to me this week. At the start of the year, I had an idea for a movie script which I wrote, completing the first draft, for the on-line group writing experience which is Script Frenzy. Since that time I've worked a little on editing it, but mainly left it on the back-burner while other projects occupied my time.

This week, the BBC broadcast a new drama called "The Deep", to say I was dismayed was an understatement, as it had so many elements of my own script.

Team of scientists/engineers - Check ✔
Under the Arctic Ocean - Check ✔
Missing colleagues - Check ✔
Unknown group dynamics/relationships - Check ✔
Investigating previously unknown deep sea crevice - Check ✔
Something monstrous lurking within - Check ✔
Change the set from a submarine to an Arctic Research Rig, and you are there! (Yes, I had the idea BEFORE the BP disaster - another coincidence.)

I was near to throwing the script in the rubbish bin, when I decided to change my attitude, and look at all the positives this taught me.

1. If my story has so many similar basic elements, I MUST be doing something right, finding the hook in the script.
2. Even if my story is similar, it's never going to be exactly the same. Another writer, crafter or artist will never have experienced and lived your life, so your project, ideas, characterisations, dialogue and STYLE will be different. That will always result in your own writing/crafting being UNIQUE - it comes from you. Who knows  (not to put anyone's work down) you might create something even better!
3. There are only so many ideas and situations out there, so you will always find yourself in this situation, if you remember point 2, and keep to your own style, you will be individual. Look at three recent films: "Coco Before Chanel",  "Coco Chanel" and "Coco and Igor". All about the great designer Coco Chanel, but all different and all filmed within 2 years of each other. It didn't stop them from being produced.
4. We are all connected in some way, I look at it as the Universal Mind Lattice (or the original World Wide Web!) so synchronicities will occur. Enjoy the experience, you are part of something bigger. 
5. This is my main reason - I was writing the script for me, for my own education and experience. The fact that it has so many similarities to a produced television programmes makes me proud. I enjoyed coming up with the ideas, I enjoyed writing it, and I will continue to enjoy editing it and I practise and improve my writing. Don't let other people's work stop you from enjoying your own.

Relish in your own creativity, even if it is comparable to someone else's. Enjoy the identical as well as the individual. Remember this doesn't stop you from creating in your own style. You will always be special and extraordinary, because you are YOU!

Note: If there is any producers/production companies out there that would like to read my script, please let me know! ☺

Happy Scribing!


Communiqué Ends...

Broadcasting with the Best - Writing the Right Way.

Dear Scribblers

The other day, I was fortunate to attend a writers event with the BBC. I left the venue feeling energised, and more inspired than I have been for a while. I thought I would share with you a number of the comments made which I feel would be useful to you, whatever style of writing you prefer.

• The only difference between an established writer and a new writer, is that an established writer spends time writing, and getting their work in front of the right people. There is no point sitting on a finished piece, get it out there. Show it to people who can give you constructive and support feedback.
• Use all your senses when you write to create a complete sensory experience.
• Every writer worries about the next idea.
• A great idea is your currency - always be on the look out.
• Always consider what is at stake in your piece.
• Enjoy what you write.
• Write with integrity.
• Keep Writing!

Happy Scribing!

The Crafty Scribe's Favourite Quotes - 18 and Project of the Day

Dear Scribblers

"Do not fear mistakes - there are none."  Miles Davis.

Fear stops most people from trying something new, as they don't want to make mistakes and fail. There are no mistakes, just results along the way. So today I want you to take this quote to heart, and try something new!

Project of the Day - Try something new today.

• Have you always wanted to try a different craft technique? Go get your supplies right now, and play! You don't need to show anyone.
• Have you always wanted to write a theatrical or radio play? Get your notebook, and jot down your ideas. Open up the computer, and get typing. (BBC website has a free formatting programme which drops into Microsoft Word to help you. Or download a script-formatting software programme - there are many to buy plus some free ones on the web including Celtx)
• Have you always wanted to bake a cake? Buy the ingredients, find a receipe and have a go!
• Have you wanted to try photography? Pick up the camera, and go snap happy. Learn from your mistakes.
• Do you want to learn a new language? Find a class and sign up. You'll all be beginners and on the same level, learning in a group is fun!

Of course, whatever you do, be sensible, be safe and use your common sense!

Trying something new assists you with your creativity too! It adds to your vat of ideas for your journalling and pages.

Happy Scribing!