Please check out the new blog: How To Die Trying
Same blog time. New blog channel.
xoxox
Monday, February 20, 2012
Sunday, February 19, 2012
a string of events
Some BIG news this week.
I turn 34 tomorrow. (that's not the news) Somewhere between 29 and now a lot of things changed in my life. Diabetes. Divorce. The break up of a band I'd been in since high school. New job. Travel. Now comic books.
I'm not sure I've ever worked this hard in my life, and that's saying a lot.
Which is why it hurt pretty bad to find that I had to change the name of my book. I've been calling it "Interface" for nearly a year. I think I would have kept bouncing ideas off of my friends forever if not for Alan.. (assailant logo creator and all around smart guy).. who told me to make a decision and stick with it. The problem had always been that the names I was coming up with never felt right. "the human interface" "interfacer" and "interface: the last days of alex carter". Not terrible, but all left that taste in my mouth like I had just eaten shit. I really loved "interface". It was kind of my baby. The other names were part of what I liked and part of something else.. you know... NOT getting sued. I don't mind compromise, but I'll be the first to admit that I'm a stubborn bastard.
Within 15 minutes of Alan's comment, I had the new name. It's like someone acting hysterical in a movie. You slap them in the face and they come back to reality. That's what happened to me.
So.. a couple of major changes at the last minute before printing. No big deal.
The new book title is:
Binary Gray
I love this. It's original. It's slightly abstract sounding, yet still fits perfectly within the context of the story and Alex's struggles in the book. His powers of course... but the line that he walks in the book is right on the edge of good and evil. Not really black. Not really white.
The second big change is to Alex Carter himself. His name anyway. (So glad I hadn't printed the book before this happened) Meet ALEX GRAY. A simple name change gives the book title another level of meaning and cool.
I loved "interface". I thought it was cool and sleek, but when I look at it now, it feels kind of generic. "Binary Gray" just feels right to me. When all of this renaming business went down, I was pretty upset. (again - it was just bad research on my part) But I thought deep down "you know.. i might come up with something i like better". When that didn't happen a bit of panic sunk in that wasn't much fun to deal with. Then this. I DO like this name better. I did reach that plateau. It feels good. Maybe a little panic is just good from time to time.
Ok.. enough of that. Book 1 is nearly complete and Book 2 is currently being colored. I've made the decision to print both books at the same time. The Assailant Comics website will open once the digital versions are available to purchase, with the print versions following a couple weeks after. I think that makes the most sense. If everything goes as planned I'll have both books for the first convention this Spring. If it doesn't go as planned, I'll be handing out a lot of promotion material and probably sobbing at my table. If that happens, just take a free sticker and move on.
The other big news is that this will be my last blog entry here. My good friend Dan has offered me a spot on his site, MyComicBlog.com, where I've been writing reviews for the past few months. It's not up yet, but very soon all of my new blog entries will be there and archived on that site. I'm keeping my personal blog separate from the Assailant site. It's just what feels right to me.
I like detailing the good and bad that I have to deal with and have dealt with through this process. It's like a public business diary where I can tell bad jokes. Hopefully that will bring additional traffic to my blog and additional traffic to the Assailant site and people will actually buy my books. It's worth a shot anyway. I'm excited for the change and I'll certainly make one last post here with the link to the new blog address.
In some other news... Work on Sleepless continues to look great. I just completed my first draft on my first screenplay. I have a follow up meeting for that this week but the general consensus was that it was very well received. That was a great break and fun to write. So now it's back to writing "Things Behind the Sun" and a couple of other short stories I've been working on.
Assailant shirts and stickers came in and they both look great. I'll be ordering more stickers shortly.
I'm not sure what else to say. Finger crossed. It's getting closer every day.
xoxox
I turn 34 tomorrow. (that's not the news) Somewhere between 29 and now a lot of things changed in my life. Diabetes. Divorce. The break up of a band I'd been in since high school. New job. Travel. Now comic books.
I'm not sure I've ever worked this hard in my life, and that's saying a lot.
Which is why it hurt pretty bad to find that I had to change the name of my book. I've been calling it "Interface" for nearly a year. I think I would have kept bouncing ideas off of my friends forever if not for Alan.. (assailant logo creator and all around smart guy).. who told me to make a decision and stick with it. The problem had always been that the names I was coming up with never felt right. "the human interface" "interfacer" and "interface: the last days of alex carter". Not terrible, but all left that taste in my mouth like I had just eaten shit. I really loved "interface". It was kind of my baby. The other names were part of what I liked and part of something else.. you know... NOT getting sued. I don't mind compromise, but I'll be the first to admit that I'm a stubborn bastard.
Within 15 minutes of Alan's comment, I had the new name. It's like someone acting hysterical in a movie. You slap them in the face and they come back to reality. That's what happened to me.
So.. a couple of major changes at the last minute before printing. No big deal.
The new book title is:
Binary Gray
I love this. It's original. It's slightly abstract sounding, yet still fits perfectly within the context of the story and Alex's struggles in the book. His powers of course... but the line that he walks in the book is right on the edge of good and evil. Not really black. Not really white.
The second big change is to Alex Carter himself. His name anyway. (So glad I hadn't printed the book before this happened) Meet ALEX GRAY. A simple name change gives the book title another level of meaning and cool.
I loved "interface". I thought it was cool and sleek, but when I look at it now, it feels kind of generic. "Binary Gray" just feels right to me. When all of this renaming business went down, I was pretty upset. (again - it was just bad research on my part) But I thought deep down "you know.. i might come up with something i like better". When that didn't happen a bit of panic sunk in that wasn't much fun to deal with. Then this. I DO like this name better. I did reach that plateau. It feels good. Maybe a little panic is just good from time to time.
Ok.. enough of that. Book 1 is nearly complete and Book 2 is currently being colored. I've made the decision to print both books at the same time. The Assailant Comics website will open once the digital versions are available to purchase, with the print versions following a couple weeks after. I think that makes the most sense. If everything goes as planned I'll have both books for the first convention this Spring. If it doesn't go as planned, I'll be handing out a lot of promotion material and probably sobbing at my table. If that happens, just take a free sticker and move on.
The other big news is that this will be my last blog entry here. My good friend Dan has offered me a spot on his site, MyComicBlog.com, where I've been writing reviews for the past few months. It's not up yet, but very soon all of my new blog entries will be there and archived on that site. I'm keeping my personal blog separate from the Assailant site. It's just what feels right to me.
I like detailing the good and bad that I have to deal with and have dealt with through this process. It's like a public business diary where I can tell bad jokes. Hopefully that will bring additional traffic to my blog and additional traffic to the Assailant site and people will actually buy my books. It's worth a shot anyway. I'm excited for the change and I'll certainly make one last post here with the link to the new blog address.
In some other news... Work on Sleepless continues to look great. I just completed my first draft on my first screenplay. I have a follow up meeting for that this week but the general consensus was that it was very well received. That was a great break and fun to write. So now it's back to writing "Things Behind the Sun" and a couple of other short stories I've been working on.
Assailant shirts and stickers came in and they both look great. I'll be ordering more stickers shortly.
I'm not sure what else to say. Finger crossed. It's getting closer every day.
xoxox
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Two steps forward, One step back.
It is my sad duty to inform you that I cannot use the title "interface" for my book. Epic Comics (an offshoot of Marvel) released a comic book called "interface" in 1989 that ran for 8 issues. I'm not sure how I missed that while researching, but I did and there's not much I can do about it now.
I'm pretty down about it honestly, but thankful that I caught it before the first issue went to print. I've spent the last few days learning a great deal about copyright and trademark law. Neither is very fun or interesting. I would just like to get my story out there without having to worry about getting my ass sued off despite the fact that the book has been out of print for over 20 years. That's just part of the game, I suppose.
The new title will be announced shortly.
The full artwork for the cover of issue #1 (with the old title of course) is up on the TriStateCon website. Check it out if you're curious. It's a great piece of work.
I've also been delving into the world of promoting and marketing my books and Assailant Comics. There are a ton of options, none of which are free (haha), but I'm looking forward to the days ahead where I can focus more on that and less on the start up aspect, getting everything together, trudging carefully through each step trying not to make too many mistakes. Getting back to a steady writing schedule will be nice as well.
I received my new Assailant Comics business cards, promotional postcards and some assorted goodies today, so that was fun. Didn't it sound fun in that sentence? Yeah, it did.
That's all for now.
As always, thanks for reading.
I'm pretty down about it honestly, but thankful that I caught it before the first issue went to print. I've spent the last few days learning a great deal about copyright and trademark law. Neither is very fun or interesting. I would just like to get my story out there without having to worry about getting my ass sued off despite the fact that the book has been out of print for over 20 years. That's just part of the game, I suppose.
The new title will be announced shortly.
The full artwork for the cover of issue #1 (with the old title of course) is up on the TriStateCon website. Check it out if you're curious. It's a great piece of work.
I've also been delving into the world of promoting and marketing my books and Assailant Comics. There are a ton of options, none of which are free (haha), but I'm looking forward to the days ahead where I can focus more on that and less on the start up aspect, getting everything together, trudging carefully through each step trying not to make too many mistakes. Getting back to a steady writing schedule will be nice as well.
I received my new Assailant Comics business cards, promotional postcards and some assorted goodies today, so that was fun. Didn't it sound fun in that sentence? Yeah, it did.
That's all for now.
As always, thanks for reading.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Up and At Them!
Bulk shirts ordered today. I hope someone buys them. haha. I love my sample shirt, but I guess I'm a little biased.
Half of Interface #1 is being lettered. I received the remaining colored pages today. With a couple small fixes those will be ready to be lettered as well. I still have to get the inside cover info together and figure out the layout for the logos and whatnots. fun stuff. (not really)
Here's a sample of the cover by David Hollenbach. (this is the fun stuff)
Printing is right around the corner now. Issue 2 pencils/inks are almost complete. If everything stays on track I should have the first two books ready before my first convention at the end of April.
Received the first character sketches from Joe this week for his Sleepless story. Really nice. I love the process of seeing everything come together. It's all very fulfilling. It's still new, but I don't see how this could get old.
Confirmed for Cincinnati Comics Expo, SPACE and TriState Con. (go me) My info should be up on their sites soon, but definitely check out the other exhibitors and dates so you can come say hi to me.
I have a new review up on MyComicBlog of an old classic. The first Batman story in Detective Comics #27. Definitely check it out. Fun, short and free.
I completed a new short story for Sleepless, which will be penciled and inked by Rowel Roque (Interface). I'm pretty excited about that. I also started work on a screenplay for a local film studio. More details as I can share them. Completely sidetracked myself from Things Behind the Sun, but I know it'll be there when I'm ready for it. I now have a huge list of story ideas. It's hard to pick what to work on.
Still tweaking the Assailant site, but it shouldn't be too much longer before the book is done and everything is up and running and I'll know if I'm in over my head or not.
The real question is - who will take over if I ever get to take a vacation?
Good luck to us all.
xox
Half of Interface #1 is being lettered. I received the remaining colored pages today. With a couple small fixes those will be ready to be lettered as well. I still have to get the inside cover info together and figure out the layout for the logos and whatnots. fun stuff. (not really)
Here's a sample of the cover by David Hollenbach. (this is the fun stuff)
Printing is right around the corner now. Issue 2 pencils/inks are almost complete. If everything stays on track I should have the first two books ready before my first convention at the end of April.
Received the first character sketches from Joe this week for his Sleepless story. Really nice. I love the process of seeing everything come together. It's all very fulfilling. It's still new, but I don't see how this could get old.
Confirmed for Cincinnati Comics Expo, SPACE and TriState Con. (go me) My info should be up on their sites soon, but definitely check out the other exhibitors and dates so you can come say hi to me.
I have a new review up on MyComicBlog of an old classic. The first Batman story in Detective Comics #27. Definitely check it out. Fun, short and free.
I completed a new short story for Sleepless, which will be penciled and inked by Rowel Roque (Interface). I'm pretty excited about that. I also started work on a screenplay for a local film studio. More details as I can share them. Completely sidetracked myself from Things Behind the Sun, but I know it'll be there when I'm ready for it. I now have a huge list of story ideas. It's hard to pick what to work on.
Still tweaking the Assailant site, but it shouldn't be too much longer before the book is done and everything is up and running and I'll know if I'm in over my head or not.
The real question is - who will take over if I ever get to take a vacation?
Good luck to us all.
xox
Thursday, January 26, 2012
new artists, Derby City Con confirmation
As I'm driving to work this morning in a disgusting cold drizzle, a car in the other lane, just ahead of me hit a puddled pothole perfectly, sending a huge splash of water directly onto my windshield, aimed at my face. No matter how many times this has happened to me, I always flinch and blink frantically. Just once I would like to know (confirmed) that I've done that to someone else and that they've had a similar reaction.
That was not comic related and I apologize.
In any case. I've just received the cover for Interface #1 from David Hollenbach. Absolutely amazing. I can't wait to share it with everyone and that time is coming closer every day. Two new artists for "Sleepless":
Joe Badon - working his magic (pencil/ink/color/letters) on a story for the book.
Gail Southworth - taking on the cover art. I've already seen her rough sketch and it's amazing.
VERY fortunate to have found them both. These are relationships that I hope to keep and grow as more and more books start to flow out of Assailant Comics. When you find people like these, whose work you appreciate and they're equally great to get along with, it just makes this whole experience that much better.
Received my first confirmation for the stretch of cons I submitted to for 2012 - Derby City Comic Con
After giving it zero thought, they wrote and asked me to write a short bio for the website and send over the Assailant logo. It hadn't even occurred to me that I would need something like that. I guess I've just been too busy. So I threw something together. Hopefully it's ok and doesn't offend anyone. And of course there's the lovely link to my website, which is still Under Construction. But that's ok. The con is in June and we'll be up and running in a matter of weeks.
I've been working on a slogan as well. Doesn't have to be permanent, but I thought it would be cool if I could come up with a good one. I just don't want it to pigeon-hole me in the long run.
Assailant Comics - "stories with KILLER style"
What do you think? Let me know. Granted the logo (see previous blogs) has a knife on it. It seems much more to the point (pun super intended) with that graphic.
I was also asked to pen a script for a live action production here in Cincinnati. More details as I have them.
That's it for today. More news soon!
That was not comic related and I apologize.
In any case. I've just received the cover for Interface #1 from David Hollenbach. Absolutely amazing. I can't wait to share it with everyone and that time is coming closer every day. Two new artists for "Sleepless":
Joe Badon - working his magic (pencil/ink/color/letters) on a story for the book.
Gail Southworth - taking on the cover art. I've already seen her rough sketch and it's amazing.
VERY fortunate to have found them both. These are relationships that I hope to keep and grow as more and more books start to flow out of Assailant Comics. When you find people like these, whose work you appreciate and they're equally great to get along with, it just makes this whole experience that much better.
Received my first confirmation for the stretch of cons I submitted to for 2012 - Derby City Comic Con
After giving it zero thought, they wrote and asked me to write a short bio for the website and send over the Assailant logo. It hadn't even occurred to me that I would need something like that. I guess I've just been too busy. So I threw something together. Hopefully it's ok and doesn't offend anyone. And of course there's the lovely link to my website, which is still Under Construction. But that's ok. The con is in June and we'll be up and running in a matter of weeks.
I've been working on a slogan as well. Doesn't have to be permanent, but I thought it would be cool if I could come up with a good one. I just don't want it to pigeon-hole me in the long run.
Assailant Comics - "stories with KILLER style"
What do you think? Let me know. Granted the logo (see previous blogs) has a knife on it. It seems much more to the point (pun super intended) with that graphic.
I was also asked to pen a script for a live action production here in Cincinnati. More details as I have them.
That's it for today. More news soon!
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Not so short... but sweet.
I've spent basically every waking moment (that I haven't been working my regular job) on the Assailant Comics website, with some help from a couple friends, thankfully. I don't know HTML, but I can say that I have a greater understanding of it now and a deep respect for those who work with it regularly.
It's actually coming along pretty well despite looking like it traveled from 1997 to sell comics in the present. Only a handful of bugs to fix and some new content to add and it will be up and running!
Test shirts I ordered were a success and I'm working to get a bulk rate for the big order. Waiting to hear on that. Paypal business account set up. Trying to find a carrier for digital distribution. So many little things go into this. It's insane.
A bit of slowdown on the coloring end of the first issue, so that's been delayed a bit. Nothing I'm concerned about. I've also started working with David Hollenbach on a series of Interface covers that I'm very excited about.
I'll start looking for artists for additional "Sleepless" stories soon. Yes, that's the name I'm sticking with for the short story anthology book.
I haven't had time to write lately due to the website, but I had a couple of short story ideas this week that I'm excited to get to in the near future.
Sending in my registrations for a handful of cons for 2012 as well. Lots of things in the works!
Set up my Assailant comics Twitter and Facebook accounts. Give me a "follow" or a "like" if you have a second. I appreciate all the support I can get!
more soon.. xox
It's actually coming along pretty well despite looking like it traveled from 1997 to sell comics in the present. Only a handful of bugs to fix and some new content to add and it will be up and running!
Test shirts I ordered were a success and I'm working to get a bulk rate for the big order. Waiting to hear on that. Paypal business account set up. Trying to find a carrier for digital distribution. So many little things go into this. It's insane.
A bit of slowdown on the coloring end of the first issue, so that's been delayed a bit. Nothing I'm concerned about. I've also started working with David Hollenbach on a series of Interface covers that I'm very excited about.
I'll start looking for artists for additional "Sleepless" stories soon. Yes, that's the name I'm sticking with for the short story anthology book.
I haven't had time to write lately due to the website, but I had a couple of short story ideas this week that I'm excited to get to in the near future.
Sending in my registrations for a handful of cons for 2012 as well. Lots of things in the works!
Set up my Assailant comics Twitter and Facebook accounts. Give me a "follow" or a "like" if you have a second. I appreciate all the support I can get!
more soon.. xox
Friday, January 13, 2012
stumbling forward
It's been one of those weeks. A lot of progress coupled with the frustrations that go along with it.
Stumbling forward is stumbling... but still forward. I have to say that I've had a few reality checks this week on the scope of what I'm trying to accomplish, but it still seems better than doing nothing. At least I hope that's right.
First things last. Interface.
I have the pencils for the first 12 pages of Issue #2 and they look amazing. I honestly can't wait to share this story. I've often thought that it starts a bit slow (though I've been told otherwise) considering that it's a super hero story, but I like the pace. It's like taking a detailed look at that first issue of spider-man. Sure I could have given him his powers in the first few pages and ramped up the action, but I think in this case, the study of main character and his transformations of the first story arc are pretty compelling.
2ndly. The book of short stories I'm working on (which shall remain nameless until I decide on a better title) got a new story and a new artist this week. "Three Years" details one mans situation 3 years after the apocalypse of 2012. The artist is David Hollenbach and I absolutely love his work. I also received the first page of art for another story in the book called "Empty". The book is shaping up nicely. Not rushing on this. The plan is to have it ready to release for Halloween.
I've taken a break from writing this week (other than Three Years) and started focusing on the website for Assailant Comics. There's a nifty "Under Construction" page up now, but behind the scenes, there's definitely "STUFF" going on. Honestly, it's a real pain in the ass. I'm a computer guy, but building a website sucks. Hopefully with a little luck and a little help I'll be able to get it up and running in time for the first issue of Interface.
In addition to this (and in coordination with) I also have the new Assailant Comics logo. I have ordered a couple of shirts to test before I commit to a larger quantity, and some stickers coming soon as well. The logo is gorgeous.
So... things are happening. Churning. I'm stumbling over some the business aspects of starting my own company (even if it is for blatant self-promotion). Ideally, I'd like the ability to publish the works of other writers and artists out there and I need a way to do that that benefits everyone in the best possible way.
Oh yeah.. and I have another review up at MyComicBlog - a new Image book called "Whispers". Really, an excellent book. I'm looking forward to reading more.
That's it for now. xo
Stumbling forward is stumbling... but still forward. I have to say that I've had a few reality checks this week on the scope of what I'm trying to accomplish, but it still seems better than doing nothing. At least I hope that's right.
First things last. Interface.
I have the pencils for the first 12 pages of Issue #2 and they look amazing. I honestly can't wait to share this story. I've often thought that it starts a bit slow (though I've been told otherwise) considering that it's a super hero story, but I like the pace. It's like taking a detailed look at that first issue of spider-man. Sure I could have given him his powers in the first few pages and ramped up the action, but I think in this case, the study of main character and his transformations of the first story arc are pretty compelling.
2ndly. The book of short stories I'm working on (which shall remain nameless until I decide on a better title) got a new story and a new artist this week. "Three Years" details one mans situation 3 years after the apocalypse of 2012. The artist is David Hollenbach and I absolutely love his work. I also received the first page of art for another story in the book called "Empty". The book is shaping up nicely. Not rushing on this. The plan is to have it ready to release for Halloween.
I've taken a break from writing this week (other than Three Years) and started focusing on the website for Assailant Comics. There's a nifty "Under Construction" page up now, but behind the scenes, there's definitely "STUFF" going on. Honestly, it's a real pain in the ass. I'm a computer guy, but building a website sucks. Hopefully with a little luck and a little help I'll be able to get it up and running in time for the first issue of Interface.
In addition to this (and in coordination with) I also have the new Assailant Comics logo. I have ordered a couple of shirts to test before I commit to a larger quantity, and some stickers coming soon as well. The logo is gorgeous.
So... things are happening. Churning. I'm stumbling over some the business aspects of starting my own company (even if it is for blatant self-promotion). Ideally, I'd like the ability to publish the works of other writers and artists out there and I need a way to do that that benefits everyone in the best possible way.
Oh yeah.. and I have another review up at MyComicBlog - a new Image book called "Whispers". Really, an excellent book. I'm looking forward to reading more.
That's it for now. xo
Sunday, January 8, 2012
TEAM INTERFACE - and other notes of interest
So.. after a long search, I finally found my letterer for Interface: Brant Fowler!
I love his work and I'm happy to be working with him. He'll be up to bat soon as the colored pages of Issue 1 start to filter in. The current team looks like this:
Writer: Chris Charlton
Pencils/Inks: Rowel Roque
Colors: Anthonie Wilson
Letters: Brant Fowler
I've been working with Kenny Jeffry this week on a logo for Assailant Comics. I love this. Not for the cover, but for marketing. Stickers, Shirts, Handouts, etc.
It's gritty and violent. Intimidating and a little scary. Perfect.
I have also have the logo for Interface thanks to my friend Alan, who is also working on the Assailant logo for the book cover. His work really blows me away. Can't wait to unveil it.
In addition... I just completed an editorial for MyComicBlog.com on the subject of digital vs physical comics. It's a subject close to my heart and as I state in the article, there's just something romantic about going to the shop and picking up my books every week. Maybe I'm a creature of habit. I'm definitely a collector. In any case, check out the article and leave a comment. Let me know what you think. I took the picture in the article myself. Is there anything I can't do? Yes, actually lots.
For instance, putting a website together. Holy shit is this confusing. Squarespace or Wordpress or... a third option? I have no clue. And then I have no clue once I decide. Feel free to leave me notes and ideas. I'm lost.
Ok - wrapping it up. I'm finalizing my first draft of the script for the video game I'm working on, "Jetpack Jack", although I believe they're going with a new title now. Still writing "Things Behind the Sun", and I've just completed a new short story for "Libretto", although I'm searching for a new title for that book. And as luck would have it, networking has led me to multiple talented artists that say nice things about my writing and seem genuinely interested in working with me, which is a very nice feeling.
I was also bombarded with a slew of short comic strip ideas last night. A rainy day project, but it's nice when things like that come to you out of the blue.
Oh yeah.. I promised writing tips. Dammit this thing is too long already. SOON!
Have a great week! I'll update soon!
I love his work and I'm happy to be working with him. He'll be up to bat soon as the colored pages of Issue 1 start to filter in. The current team looks like this:
Writer: Chris Charlton
Pencils/Inks: Rowel Roque
Colors: Anthonie Wilson
Letters: Brant Fowler
I've been working with Kenny Jeffry this week on a logo for Assailant Comics. I love this. Not for the cover, but for marketing. Stickers, Shirts, Handouts, etc.
It's gritty and violent. Intimidating and a little scary. Perfect.
I have also have the logo for Interface thanks to my friend Alan, who is also working on the Assailant logo for the book cover. His work really blows me away. Can't wait to unveil it.
In addition... I just completed an editorial for MyComicBlog.com on the subject of digital vs physical comics. It's a subject close to my heart and as I state in the article, there's just something romantic about going to the shop and picking up my books every week. Maybe I'm a creature of habit. I'm definitely a collector. In any case, check out the article and leave a comment. Let me know what you think. I took the picture in the article myself. Is there anything I can't do? Yes, actually lots.
For instance, putting a website together. Holy shit is this confusing. Squarespace or Wordpress or... a third option? I have no clue. And then I have no clue once I decide. Feel free to leave me notes and ideas. I'm lost.
Ok - wrapping it up. I'm finalizing my first draft of the script for the video game I'm working on, "Jetpack Jack", although I believe they're going with a new title now. Still writing "Things Behind the Sun", and I've just completed a new short story for "Libretto", although I'm searching for a new title for that book. And as luck would have it, networking has led me to multiple talented artists that say nice things about my writing and seem genuinely interested in working with me, which is a very nice feeling.
I was also bombarded with a slew of short comic strip ideas last night. A rainy day project, but it's nice when things like that come to you out of the blue.
Oh yeah.. I promised writing tips. Dammit this thing is too long already. SOON!
Have a great week! I'll update soon!
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
This is my blog title. There are many like it, but this one is mine.
Not to much to report on the news front. Still narrowing down that lettering job. Some very talented people are interested, which makes me feel great despite the fact that I'm offering American dollars.
I cooked through the first 3rd of Issue #2 the other day, after sitting in front of the computer for most of the day. It's a good feeling to walk away with something after not giving up.
NOTE: I am not a professional writer.
In fact, I was given so little time of day by publishers, (ok, I only submitted to a couple), that I've decided to publish my own work. I'm not sure if that's just dumb or ballsy. Could be both.
That said, I wanted to document some writing habits for anyone who is interested.
1. Do not give up. Force yourself to write if that's what you intend to do. The pacing may be all wrong and scenes may be out of order. None of that matters. You can swap things around and fix things later. The most important thing about sitting down to write is the actual writing portion.
2. Keep a notebook or something handy for those times when you're not sitting down to write. I keep one beside my bed. Especially when I'm elbow deep in a story. I find that when I lay down to sleep, characters and scenes churn around quite a bit. In fact, if I have trouble getting to sleep, I take that as a good sign. AND I've had multiple dreams that have inspired scenes for my writing. One of the larger super hero battle scenes in Interface, for example.
3. Outlines and check lists. For me personally, I like to have a general idea of the main points of an issue before I sit down to write it. The end result does not always match this. In fact, what comes out is usually much better when I'm "in the zone" versus when I've put an outline together, but it's incredibly helpful to have a reference when I'm stuck. I also keep an updated outline in my notebook as I go along and check off the scenes as I write them. This is incredibly helpful when first starting to put a story together. I have pages of check lists. Characters, backgrounds, scenes, things to research, questions that still need answered. You get the idea. Organization is very important and keeps my brain-thoughts flowing smoothly.
4. Pacing. Again, this is just how I handle this and there are (I'm sure) thousands of ways that work for others that would not work for me. But I prefer, if at all possible, to keep a page of comic book script equal to one page of the finished product. That's just me. If the book is 22 pages, you're going to get a 22 page script. Maybe 21 if there's a double-wide splash page. It helps me get creative with descriptions and dialogue. Keeps from rambling on as I'm obviously prone to doing, and pushes me to tell the story more through the art. Show vs Tell. When I sit down to read a comic, my general preference is to be able to read it fairly quickly. I prefer a similar flow for my own work. Especially as an independent writer who no one has ever heard of. WHEN my first book is finally published, I'd like someone to pick it up and be hooked right off the bat and hopefully purchase the book. Take George Perez's recent Issue #1 of Superman. There was so much dialogue I got bored and didn't finish it. The man is obviously a talented writer. He's writing Superman for Christ's sake. BUT, that's not for me. If I want to read a novel, I'll read a novel. My guess is he wrote 3 pages of script for each page of the actual finished comic. That seems excessive to me. Again.. attention deficit disorder.. a lack of patience? I don't know. I'm sure I have both.
Speaking of which, this is a long blog. I'm tired of writing it. I can only imagine how bored you are reading it. I'll do some more tips next time. (A reason to come back?! I knew you'd be excited.)
Special thanks to all the new followers and people who have been pimping my blog. You have no idea how much I appreciate it. It's really warmed my heart, despite the fact that my fingers are frozen because I can't afford to heat this place.
NOTE TO SELF: Purchase fingerless gloves.
Thanks! xox
I cooked through the first 3rd of Issue #2 the other day, after sitting in front of the computer for most of the day. It's a good feeling to walk away with something after not giving up.
NOTE: I am not a professional writer.
In fact, I was given so little time of day by publishers, (ok, I only submitted to a couple), that I've decided to publish my own work. I'm not sure if that's just dumb or ballsy. Could be both.
That said, I wanted to document some writing habits for anyone who is interested.
1. Do not give up. Force yourself to write if that's what you intend to do. The pacing may be all wrong and scenes may be out of order. None of that matters. You can swap things around and fix things later. The most important thing about sitting down to write is the actual writing portion.
2. Keep a notebook or something handy for those times when you're not sitting down to write. I keep one beside my bed. Especially when I'm elbow deep in a story. I find that when I lay down to sleep, characters and scenes churn around quite a bit. In fact, if I have trouble getting to sleep, I take that as a good sign. AND I've had multiple dreams that have inspired scenes for my writing. One of the larger super hero battle scenes in Interface, for example.
3. Outlines and check lists. For me personally, I like to have a general idea of the main points of an issue before I sit down to write it. The end result does not always match this. In fact, what comes out is usually much better when I'm "in the zone" versus when I've put an outline together, but it's incredibly helpful to have a reference when I'm stuck. I also keep an updated outline in my notebook as I go along and check off the scenes as I write them. This is incredibly helpful when first starting to put a story together. I have pages of check lists. Characters, backgrounds, scenes, things to research, questions that still need answered. You get the idea. Organization is very important and keeps my brain-thoughts flowing smoothly.
4. Pacing. Again, this is just how I handle this and there are (I'm sure) thousands of ways that work for others that would not work for me. But I prefer, if at all possible, to keep a page of comic book script equal to one page of the finished product. That's just me. If the book is 22 pages, you're going to get a 22 page script. Maybe 21 if there's a double-wide splash page. It helps me get creative with descriptions and dialogue. Keeps from rambling on as I'm obviously prone to doing, and pushes me to tell the story more through the art. Show vs Tell. When I sit down to read a comic, my general preference is to be able to read it fairly quickly. I prefer a similar flow for my own work. Especially as an independent writer who no one has ever heard of. WHEN my first book is finally published, I'd like someone to pick it up and be hooked right off the bat and hopefully purchase the book. Take George Perez's recent Issue #1 of Superman. There was so much dialogue I got bored and didn't finish it. The man is obviously a talented writer. He's writing Superman for Christ's sake. BUT, that's not for me. If I want to read a novel, I'll read a novel. My guess is he wrote 3 pages of script for each page of the actual finished comic. That seems excessive to me. Again.. attention deficit disorder.. a lack of patience? I don't know. I'm sure I have both.
Speaking of which, this is a long blog. I'm tired of writing it. I can only imagine how bored you are reading it. I'll do some more tips next time. (A reason to come back?! I knew you'd be excited.)
Special thanks to all the new followers and people who have been pimping my blog. You have no idea how much I appreciate it. It's really warmed my heart, despite the fact that my fingers are frozen because I can't afford to heat this place.
NOTE TO SELF: Purchase fingerless gloves.
Thanks! xox
Monday, January 2, 2012
Making Productivity My Bitch Since 1978.
overstatements are my favorite.
I do have some good news though. We'll start with Interface. Pencils and Inks are completed for Issue #1 and pencils for Issue #2 are currently underway. In addition, I'm close (very close) to finding a letterer. Trying to negotiate a page rate that I can afford. Unfortunately, that isn't much. AND AND AND.. I've hired someone to put my "Interface" logo together for the cover. Very exciting stuff. This is getting closer to completion every day.
In other news, I've hired an artist to start work on the first short story for my new book, tentatively titled "LIBRETTO". Another big step in a great direction. Starting the process of putting my second book together for Assailant Comics. The artist is Greg Woronchak. Be sure and pay his site a visit.
Continuing work on "Things Behind the Sun". The 2nd issue is coming along, but I've been devoting most of my time to the character profiles. I think it's important to have that reference. If I'm working on a story with multiple characters (especially when starting out), it's great to have that to take a look at as a reminder of who I'm dealing with... where they came from, and their motivations (both conscious and subconscious). I'm absolutely in love with this story. I hope it translates to the reader.
I also have a new review up on MyComicBlog.com for American Vampire #22. It pretty much speaks for itself. Scott Snyder is my hero.
I drove to work today and realized I have the day off. The roads were icy and it sucked. So should I be happy that I have the day off, or upset that I missed an opportunity to sleep in?
Hope your New Year was better than mine. Onward and Upward.
xoxoxox
I do have some good news though. We'll start with Interface. Pencils and Inks are completed for Issue #1 and pencils for Issue #2 are currently underway. In addition, I'm close (very close) to finding a letterer. Trying to negotiate a page rate that I can afford. Unfortunately, that isn't much. AND AND AND.. I've hired someone to put my "Interface" logo together for the cover. Very exciting stuff. This is getting closer to completion every day.
In other news, I've hired an artist to start work on the first short story for my new book, tentatively titled "LIBRETTO". Another big step in a great direction. Starting the process of putting my second book together for Assailant Comics. The artist is Greg Woronchak. Be sure and pay his site a visit.
Continuing work on "Things Behind the Sun". The 2nd issue is coming along, but I've been devoting most of my time to the character profiles. I think it's important to have that reference. If I'm working on a story with multiple characters (especially when starting out), it's great to have that to take a look at as a reminder of who I'm dealing with... where they came from, and their motivations (both conscious and subconscious). I'm absolutely in love with this story. I hope it translates to the reader.
I also have a new review up on MyComicBlog.com for American Vampire #22. It pretty much speaks for itself. Scott Snyder is my hero.
I drove to work today and realized I have the day off. The roads were icy and it sucked. So should I be happy that I have the day off, or upset that I missed an opportunity to sleep in?
Hope your New Year was better than mine. Onward and Upward.
xoxoxox
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