Beat Those Writing Deadlines Using Your Brain
June 8, 2016
Book Launch: Promise of Deer Run – Elaine Cooper
June 16, 2016
Star Wars: The Force Awakens has made a staggering sum of money since opening 6 months ago. It has been a boon to the movie industry, but it should also serve as an encouragement to writers everywhere.
I’ve compiled a list of how The Force Awakens should encourage writers everywhere.
- Science fiction is as strong as ever.
A well written story can exist in any setting, and even though romance drives the market, science fiction stories are primed for a resurgence in the coming year as Star Wars is set to dominate the box-office for the next decade.
- Lead characters don’t have to be Caucasian.
Early reviews of the movie revel in awe of an african-american character playing a lead role in The Force Awakens. Authors can be inspired to take risks in developing ethnic and multi-cultural characters for their stories.
- Well-placed humor can make all the difference.
Sometimes a story just needs that hilarious moment or snarky, well-timed comment to break tension or allow the reader to relax and “take it all in”. J.J Abrams is a master of this and used properly, humor can bolster many stories across all genres.
- George Lucas testifies that Star Wars is just a family drama about grandparents, parents, and their children. He tells an interwoven story in a uniquely sci-fi setting, but at its heart, the story is not about adventure or war, it’s about family. And over the last 40 years, fans and reader alike haven’t been able to get enough.Readers always want more of a good story.
- The “series” is alive and well.
Seven episodes in, and Star Wars is going as strong as ever. Writers should feel free to expand upon their characters, world, or setting and allow the reader to get lost in their imaginary world for multiple books, titles, stories, or novellas.
- An excellent setting sets a glorious stage.
Can you imagine Star Wars without light sabers or the force? Neither can I. It wouldn’t be Star Wars without those things. A properly crafted world and setting can heighten a story and allow the reader to escape the reality of every day life and get lost in fantasy.
- Almost forty years later, and people are more engrossed in Star Wars lore than ever. There have been thousands of books and movies released in the last four decades, but a story that captures the hearts, minds, and imaginations of the reader is always one that’s hard to forget.A great story is hard to forget.
No matter what genre you write, remember the lessons of a successful story learned from the Star Wars saga and try to apply them in your next novel.
Which is your favorite Star Wars movie? Who is your favorite character?
Previously published under a different title at www.thewriteconversation.blogspot.com
