Blocks and Blogs

For some reason unknown to me, the first posting of this got erased, so here's Try # 2.

One question I am sure people wonder about is Writer's Block. I am fortunate enough to say I've never really experienced it. My lack of desire to write is usually caused by depression, illness or sleep deprivation or the occasional intrusion of real life.

When I can't think of what to write, I have an "Idea File" on my computer that I consult. In a given day, I have more ideas than time, so I often will type them out in point form and consult them when necessary. Most times, I've got enough there to re-construct the story I had in mind, if not, there's a framework for something new. I also will, on occasion, write a sequel to a previous story.

I try to write often to keep the mind clear. Some days are easier than others, but I like what I do.

Confessions of a Porn Writer

I am sure many think that writing porn is easy, that any fool could do it.

They're wrong.

I have written over 400 stories for my publisher, heading towards 500. My contract calls for 300 a YEAR. That is about 1 story per day. 200 words minimum.

That's 600,000 words a year - MINIMUM - for those doing the math.

I can basically write what I want (save for now - my publishers are overstocked and I am only writing in one genre at the moment) but still, you try not to repeat yourself. I have written sequels though.

I've cheated and re-written a few stories from a different angle, plagiarized myself in a way, although I try to change as MUCH as I can, usually adding a thousand words or more.

I've been asked if I get turned on writing my own stuff? No. It'd be counter-productive. Matter of fact, I find I have to shut down a bit - although if I am in a blahh mood (like today) I can't write either. I have to be in the middle.

I can find my own stuff sexy when I read it later on, but I have to be removed from it for a while.

I was asked by a few "friends" (Linn Thomas, Heather Carolin & a few others) if I ever use real women in my stories. Yes and No. When I write a story about "Linn" or "Lynn" I might be THINKING about her body type and look, etc - but I wouldn't try to write a story about her, that's an infringement on her personal life. I would if asked, but otherwise, I have a line I don't cross. I also never put myself in my stories.

Is it fun. Yes? Demanding? Yes. I have NEVER missed a deadline, although I've cut it short a few times (like this past week). Rewarding? Ehhh ... not especially. My publishers are cheap and I don't get fan mail, I just have to hope readers like my stuff. I write on a Website and have a LOT of hits and get fan mail there - that helps.

Am I a good writer? I like to think so. I try to build a story with content and humor and such, be creative. I have women fans who tell me they like my stuff because I am a "visual" writer, I try to be. What are the characters wearing, how do they look, what does the sex look like, the room, the clothes ... all of it.

IF anyone reads this and wants to ask questions or chat, feel free to message me. I do love my work and want to continue doing it for a while.

You'd think being a creative person, I'd be okay with women, but that is the part of life that has eluded me. Those who don't get write about it, I guess.

I will muse again soon.

BrettJ

The Art of Writing - Kinda

Yes readers, whoever you might be, I know kinda isn't proper English, but it still amazes me that "D'Oh" is now in the Dictionary.

I have always enjoyed writing and I love the beauty of the written word. Some writers just know how to spin a web of beauty with their words. Some examples include J.K. Rowling, Frank McCourt, Emily Bronte and Irwin Shaw.

Some writers overuse - the most blatant example is JRR Tolkien, who could write 4 pages about a bowl of porridge. ~heavy sigh~

I didn't expect to become a professional writer, I thought my life was almost set in stone until a few years ago - when I retired from a life of hellish existence, meaningless drudgery and had the time to sit at home, here at the computer and enjoy myself. I contacted a writer / artist whose work I liked, she put me in touch with a Website she liked and voila! - I was writing again. Not what I wanted to write (comic books, an artform I treasure) but something I enjoy.

Dear Reader, whoever you may be - I write erotica. Or, as some may call it, porn. Smut.

I'm good at it too, which led to my being discovered by many readers on the site, which led to my being discovered by a publisher here in Canada, which led to a rocky start, then increased work and finally, a contract last year.

It's been a bumpy year. I made my way through the creative process, not missing any deadlines so far and have written nearly 300 new stories. It's hard not to repeat myself or become dull, but I succeed, for the most part. Writing, no matter what kind, involves intelligence, creativity and no small amount of sweat. Some may not like what I do, but damn, I'm good at it.

I lost a bit this year - the young lady who was acting as my agent and I had a falling out, but perhaps the adage that all writers must suffer a little has some truth. I ached and will likely always feel the loss, but I soldiered on. My company and I are close to signing another contract. I'd still like to write comics, but seeing my name in print and knowing men and women (I get a lot of female fan mail from the website, which I still write for) enjoy what I do is very gratifying.

I wish I could draw, but I am happy with the fact that as I head towards 50, I am finally doing something that brings me joy.

BrettJ