Hi, am Smarion. I'm not really a writer and haven't written much save for a few abandoned blogs. I am here simply because I am stuck in a dead-end job as web dev and am hoping to use writing as an escape hatch from the monotony. I read online advice that the best way to start off is by writing fan fiction; mostly short stories to get a hang of things. Hoping that I can find help and support in this forum while at the same time meeting people who are more skilled at this craft than I am.
Welcome. If fan fiction is what appeals to you, then write fan fiction. If you want to write a shoot 'em up western, write that. If you have a fondness for talking mice who risk their lives crossing a raging river to get a special leaf to save the mice children from pellagra, write that. Enjoy exploring the possibilities, and if you don't finish anything for a while, don't fash yourself about it. Just keep playing with words and ideas and have fun.
***** The best advice I can offer is getting into the habit of writing . . . see where it takes you from there. What to write about? Anything that comes into your head is a good starting point BUT remembering to write every day PS: Welcome
You outright changed my worldview. I always thought web developers were the lucky ones, able to make a living no matter where in the world they are and what their native language is. I think that's an excellent idea. I've seen repeatedly how something that used to bother me stopped bothering me once I had written it out in a story. I can't imagine why it should be good, but I suppose they had good reasons and knew what they were talking about. Come to think of it, it's really convenient to have the framework already there, so you won't have to build your own world.
Hi ya. I'm new here too and I'm excited to see your work. I agree with Catriona, though. Fan-fiction is an easy place to start, it's actually where I turn to when I'm dead for ideas for something unique to keep my juices flowing; however, if it's not what calls to you then it might be better to turn your attention elsewhere. So long as you're enjoying what you're writing, that's what matters most.
Oh boy. I only get to do this on Sunday's and didn't expect to see so many replies to an introduction thread. And all of them kind and supportive. This really is indeed a great place with great folk. @Catriona Grace Thanks for the tip. Am half tempted to make one of my first attempts at this be about "talking mice who risk their lives crossing a raging river to get a special leaf to save the mice children from pellagra". @petra4 I should indeed make a habit of stealing half an hour everyday for this. So far I've only managed to do these on Sundays. @Lawless Yes, TBH the job is good. I should be thanking my stars and not complaining. My company and I were largely unscathed during this pandemic while lots of good folk were struggling. Even so, it's nice to do something other than write code for 12 hours and then come back home and doom scroll Twitter/Youtube till one falls asleep. @JWhy Thanks for the supportive words. The only reason am turning to fan fiction is because I can string words together once I have an idea, but since it's been very long since I've actively exercised my creative muscle, it's going to take time before am able to actually come up with any motif that's truly original. So, I guessed might as well copy and improvise while giving due credit to authors of original work. So basically, fan fiction.
Ah, I remember those days. I mostly developed embedded systems, not web stuff, but I know your feelings well. I really enjoyed the work for the first few years, but doing the same kinds of projects over and over got stale eventually, and while the pay was good, I didn't have any free time to enjoy it. I don't miss it. I hope you can find some balance in your life. Fan fiction is certainly one popular way to get started in writing, and if you find it interesting, I say go for it! But don't just write that because someone says to. Like Catriona Grace said, write something that you'll enjoy. I started during a difficult time in my life by writing short stories for my then-girlfriend. They were just silly, child-like stories about our cats and the stuffed animals she'd had since she was a kid, but they were fun to write and they cheered us both up. And as I got into the habit of writing, I had more and more ideas, all kinds of ideas, and soon--BAM!--I was hooked. So if you don't know what to write, consider that. Pick a person that you care about and write a story for them, something you think they'll enjoy. If nothing else, they'll appreciate the thought and the effort, and you'll feel good about making them happy. Everyone wins! Welcome to the board, and happy writing!
"Brother Angron, get this man a chainaxe, and we shall go on a dark crusade and gather many skulls for the Skull Throne." Well, I wish you the best of luck and happy writing. Have fun, and try not to hit too many plot holes.
I definitely think engineers also need a lot of inspiration. So, that´s an ingredient that can´t be missing. And I think that also applies to creativity, imagination, or whatever you want to call it. That being said, you´re not setting foot in a completely strange territory. Welcome. And make yourself at home !!
