Category: Writing & Creative Process

Typically, my inspiration doesn’t work in a linear fashion–I’m gifted with an exciting scene or possibility, then I write my way towards it. Along the way, my characters develop their voices and reveal the philosophies that form their worldview. As I draft and edit, draft and edit (and once I’m finished drafting, edit edit edit…

Quentin Tarantino openly admits to stealing the composition of scenes, shot-for-shot, from certain movies. Yet there’s undeniable energy that comes through in his work–it feels fresh and unique and wholly his own. This led me to believe that originality isn’t really a primary concern, especially if it’s a list of technical boxes that needs to…

I like the idea of “writing what I know” as a thematic starting point. Understanding the themes and archetypes behind an experience is helpful, because that’s where I see relatability and universality. Once those are established, there’s a foundation for development and structural progression. Then comes the fun part: AMPING IT UP. While the archetypes…

In fiction, while I feel these needn’t be mutually exclusive, I believe immersion is more important than realism. The audience must first and foremost feel immersed in the story. If it’s a story that depends on a realistic tone or basis, then yes–research, corroboration, and detail should be included to make sure it is sufficiently…

In my experience, having the courage to write badly is a requirement for writing. I can worry about rhythm, vocabulary, and maximizing clarity when I edit it later.

This may sound weird, but I see creative expression as akin to drilling into the Earth, extracting molten iron, and forming it into a solidified structure above the surface. Creative people need to go into a sea of potential and concepts (the molten iron), stay focused so they can extract it and cool it down,…

I think of creativity as a tree that branches into every interaction, every occurrence and point of fascination. Whatever happens in my daily life…I assume that’s a building block for my creative efforts. It might not be relevant all at once, or maybe not even for a span of years, but if it sticks in…

Ever since I saw the first Matrix, I became a believer in what I call an “escalation of action.” When I first saw Neo in the dojo scene, I was like “Holy shit!” Then, when I saw him in the lobby shootout, I was like, “HOLY SHIT!” As he faced off one on one against…