Stories, whether they are written as a novel, a short story, as poetry, in a play or screenplay, or even spoken on your favorite podcast have an integral part in our society.
In doing my own writing, I have dabbled in the various forms mentioned above. Focus sometimes drifts, different ideas pop into the mind, and before I know it, I'm off onto another project, leaving more than a handful behind. (Only to be attacked at a later date.)
Telling stories in a variety of formats can be helpful, hopefully strengthening the ability to weave together a fabric of a story with intrigue, action, and even a touch of sentimentality.
To this extent, I have also tried to expand the genres of books I read, occasionally even stepping outside the comfort zone of fiction, biographies, and fantasy novels I've engrossed myself in over the years.
The comfort zone is a good place to reside when engaging in your stories. You know the characters, you the general layout or steps, and you feel safe in this world. That's why they call it the comfort zone, after all.
It's also a good idea to get out of that zone now and again.
This is not something you have to take part in all of the time. It can be as simple as switching genres or reading more works about different cultures and races. Put down your Twilight fan fiction for a moment and grab a book of poetry. Tuck away the poetry and read some fantasy.
Even with film, it can be as far-reaching as watching art house movies for a month in lieu of your Transformers, Fast and Furious, or stock horror films. (Or vice versa, of course).
Maybe you already do this. Good on you. Storytelling takes on so many forms with so many different voices. Even a minimal attempt at doing this might bring more understanding to your neighbors, to your friends, to strangers, and to those who might be different than you.
Stories do, after all, have that power, even if it's only a start in opening the mind.
SEPTEMBER UPDATES
After taking some time off at the end of July/first of August, I got back into the swing of things with a variety of projects.
There was much time spent prepping for the upcoming series at Alley Repertory Theater. We have an exciting set of shows planned for the 2018/19 and I can't wait for you to see them. The first two shows are listed on the Alley Rep website. For more info on what else we're up to, make sure to check out our Facebook page.
The last few weeks have been spent in the world of sports writing. College football is back and, if you're a fan of the Boise State Broncos, check out some of the work going on over at Bronco Nation News.
And if you like the Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics, or Boston Eagles, I continue to contribute to the Chowder and Champions website.
I was lucky enough to have a reading of my ten-minute play, The E-6 Debacle, at Opal Theatre's 10X10 play festival last month.
In between that, a few pages have been written for The Dragon Slayer, book two from the Magic of Crieo series. And I'm attempting to finish a youth novel in time for the holidays so focus will be placed on that here over the next couple of months.
AROUND THE TREASURE VALLEY
- The Red Light Variety Show is back at it, returning with their show titled "Black Label". This show is their 10th-anniversary show and opens on September 13.
- Campfire Theatre Festival is back for year two, starting September 7th running through September 9th.
- Boise State football has a home against the UConn Huskies on September 8 at 8:15 pm (MT)
- Look for Madam Mao at Boise Contemporary Theater, running Sept. 20 thru Sept. 22.
These are only but a few of the events happening around the Treasure Valley as we prepare for autumn.
Thanks for stopping by.
Be bold. Be kind.