Saturday, March 10, 2012

On Circuses, Invention, and Memorable Characters



"But the stories that astonish us, the characters that live forever in our memories--those are the result of rich imagination, perceptive observation, rigorous interrogation, and careful decision-making...When it comes to storytelling, invention is the mother of astonishment, delight and truth." --Orson Scott Card, Characters and Viewpoint

Went to the circus the other night, hubby and I, along with friends Vic and Connie (thanks for the glow-in-the-dark necklace, Connie!). Can you think of any better place for a writer to go to fuel up their creative tank?? It's a place that gives a nod to Mr. Card's list of elements for inventing stories and characters:  imagination, astonishment, and delight. Added to that, there's also...

 artistry

daring

the unexpected

tension

color and humor

stunning conclusions

What about you? From what did you draw a sense of rekindled imagination this week? Hope it was as much fun as the circus.

Have a great rest of the weekend, everyone...
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4 comments:

  1. I've been grading papers all week - in general, not as much fun as the circus. :) While the topics rarely do much for my imagination (and that's a good thing - they're supposed to be factual), I do draw a certain rekindling of purpose from them. That's a good thing, too. For imagination, I'll just look at your terrific circus photos!

    Peggy

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  2. Love this post, and the images to go with it! I'm still at my sister's place, but finally got a little time to browse my favorite blogs. I love that quote you have at the beginning of the post~ even if it's a bit intimidating! I found myself thinking, "Gosh...that's what I need to be doing!" I've never gone into story brainstorming with the intention of creating something that astonishes~ that truly leaves a mark. That's an inspiring tall order :)

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  3. Peggy--I'd say you're doing your own kind of "character building," teaching students like you do! Good luck on the grading :) And who knows, there might be an unusual answer or two that will surprise you...

    Jess--so good to hear from you :-) I've thought of you and your sister from time to time. I hope she's doing okay...

    And like you, I find Card's quote a little intimidating, too, but I have to believe that in some way, somehow, these tidbits are taking root in the mind and helping the writer's growth process. Hope so, anyway! Wishing you the best...

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  4. Not sure anything could be as fun as the circus. :)I love the quote from Card. Thank you.

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