>>> Item number 27799 from WRITERS LOG9404A --- (24 records) ----- <<<
Date:         Fri, 1 Apr 1994 18:35:02 JST
Reply-To:     WRITERS <WRITERS@NDSUVM1.BITNET>
Sender:       WRITERS <WRITERS@NDSUVM1.BITNET>
From:         Mike Barker <barker@AEGIS.OR.JP>
Subject:      TECH: Plotting Quote

"The facts appear to be these:  Nothing is more important than idea and
plot for the writer who wants to be published.  Theme _is_ of
consequence, but over-emphasizing it can turn the writer into a preacher
or missionary.  Characterization is very important; its exaggeration is
a series of unpurchasable, vignette-like character sketches - for the
reader, boredom.  It's always preferable that you have something to say,
a view point on the human condition.

"But it's okay of all you have is an engrossing, involving plot founded
on interesting ideas - because that may be sufficient to place your
work." (p. 21)

(from the essay "Plotting as Your Power Source" by J.N. Williamson)

How to Write Tales of Horror, Fantasy, and Science Fiction
Ed. J.N. Williamson
1987, Writer's Digest Books
ISBN 0-89879-270-3