4 Responses to The Basic Basics of Writing” by Algis Budrys

  1. Hezekiah says:
    February 14, 2009 at 7:52 am

    Good article. I just finished reading “Story” by Robert McKee, which it reminded me of in a lot of ways.

  2. John Brown says:
    February 14, 2009 at 3:22 pm

    It IS good.

    However, one thing it’s missing is surprise. Stories thrive on the unexpected disaster and twist. It’s also missing the fact that the disasters are often yes-but turns. So many times it looks as if the hero actually succeeds, but we find out very soon they haven’t. And “problem” isn’t quite enough. Any old problem won’t do. It has to be a problem that meets certain criteria. Still, it’s an excellent article. For the basic basics, it’s perfect.

  3. Hezekiah says:
    February 15, 2009 at 10:17 am

    I’m interested in hearing what are the criteria for a good problem.

  4. John Brown says:
    February 15, 2009 at 4:13 pm

    You’re coming to LTUE, right? I’ll be talking about it then.