New writer on site. Any advice? · 10:37am Jun 24th, 2014
Hello, new member here. I have a great love for Fantasy, History, Art and Philosophy, and as of 2013 yet another surprised fan of FIM. Until now I have had little interest in fan fiction of any kind, but after seeing some fantastic stories and art work done by the fandom (not all art mind you, there are some rubbish, strange or down right disturbing stories and artwork that come out of this fandom, such as Dusks dawn. Errgh! how I hate that video.) But for the most part there are some true works of art that I marvel at such as Past sins, Dr Whooves adventures, Fallout Equestria and more. A great example of how an idea that at first not very popular can under the right circumstances flourish into something more. The show and the fandom may not be perfect, but the ideals of compassion, understanding, wisdom and tolerance as well as determination, strength and intelligence, and most of all, the importance of allies and friends, and all this from a kids show. These ideals are something the Internet and the world desperately needs more of.
O.K. I think basing my first story heavily on such a popular and well known book as the Hobbit was a horrible idea. With my writing skills at the moment I don't think I can properly do that story justice or not make it sound like a complete copy paste. That's why I've decided to start of with a story a little less popular, not awful, just with mixed reception, so that I've got room to improve and expand the story. This story will be a rewrite of the Legend of Spyro series with a bit of Equestria thrown in, so if I do mess it up, then I'm not ruining much.
For this reason, I'm now devoting what time I've got to this story instead. I'm sorry to all those who liked The Tale of Clover the Clever, I just don't think I can properly do that story justice yet.
If any of you have any advice or constructive criticism to give I would gladly accept it.
Some tips:
1) Unless you are confident that you are a good writer, I suggest cooking up the odd one-shot to revise and develop your techniques. One shots have good emotional impacts if they are written right.
2) A good chapter length in a novel (Long story) should be anywhere between 3000 and 10000 words. So be descriptive in calm situations and snappy in things like combat situations.
3) Stay on topic and try to keep a consistent relevance, lest the writing fell disjointed.
4) Be realistic. Imagine what your character would be like in that particular situation without being far-fetched. How would they react? What would they do?
5) If the mane six are involved, think about what element they represent. This helps to judge their reactions, similar to the fourth point except this time there are some guidelines.
6) Time should be represented in longer chapters. If an event feels like it would take lots of time, make the writing drag out or mention the passing of time.
7) Try not to let day and night blend in one chapter or POV. If a chapter includes both day and night, you can give them more effect by separating them out and changing POV or having a major event bridge across, using the change as foreshadowing.
Sorry if this is a long comment. But 'the more, the merrier', right?
Thank you for the advice. Great help