Screen Writing Class

Last night was my second screen writing class from TDSB.  It should probably be called intro to screen writing, instead of just Screen Writing, but you get what you pay for.  So far its been very basic stuff, terminology and formatting.  I took several writing classes when I was in college, and I'm getting doubtful that I'll learn anything really new.  On the other hand the writing exercises have been fun, and they are getting me to at least write something.  If I manage to produce anything of worth from these exercises I'll be sure to post it here for anyone to see and comment on. 

As for the story I'm working on now.  I've made pretty good progress, turning out about 5 pages thus far.  Considering I haven't written creatively in some time I'm happy with the progress.  The trouble I'm having is getting what seems like a great and wonderfully worded idea down on paper.  I can make notes in an outline form, and get the basic idea down, but turning that into pros isn't easy.  I have a new found respect for my favorite authors and even for those who's work ranks as mediocre, and makes one wonder how they ever managed to get published. 

But speaking of authors and books read.  I just finished reading "The Lies of Locke Lamora" by Scott Lynch.  The book was recommended by my favorite author George R.R. Martin, and by the blog Pat's Fantasy Hot List.  It was an enjoyable read, and impressive for a first time author.  The characters and setting were unique.  And the world he's built shows promise for future novels.  I'm not sure if I liked his use of "Interlude" chapters.  The author had these interspersed throughout the book and would use them almost like flashbacks giving the reader a context for what lay ahead in the following chapter or in reference to something mentioned by one of his characters directly proceeding the interlude.  It's great to have some of the back story available without having to sift through the book to put the historical pieces together, but at the same time it takes some of the fun out of the book and also takes the reader from the story.  I feel that for the most part the content of these chapters could have been weaved into the story or omitted completely.  But regardless, it was still a fun read, and I look forward to a sequel.