Writing Excuses 5.3: Writing Action

2011-04-01T12:02:00Z

Posted by: mbarker.livejournal.com

Writing Excuses 5.3: Writing Action

From http://www.writingexcuses.com/2011/03/27/writing-excuses-5-30-writing-action/

Key Points: Action is a staple of genre fiction, but it needs to be good. Beware the dreaded checklist. Mix it up! Don't forget the explosions. Use scene-sequel format -- something happens, then stop, pause, and think about it. Action should have meaning, and be part of the plot. Look for iconic moments. Then make sure that the setup for them is there. Don't be afraid to let the action be personal, visceral, and confusing. Filter the experience through the point of view character. Study your favorite action scenes -- what did they do? Plausible fights also can involve ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Don't hold back -- write about sword-fighting a dragon! Dive in, and let the characters figure it out. Some characters are competent, too! Ask for advice -- someone out there knows what you need.
( Crack. Crack. Ka-BOOM! )
[Howard] Well, we are out of time, so we're going to turn to Mister Correia for a hopefully action-packed, violence laden, bullets flying writing prompt. Maybe that's not what you had in mind? Go!
[Larry] I want you to write an action sequence that you can title "Flailing Slapfight."
[Howard] So I appear to have been wrong.
[Dan] Well, you can have guns in your flailing slapfight.
[Larry] It will end very quickly.
[Dan] All right. You are out of excuses. Now go write.

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Writing Excuses 5.3: Writing Action