Thanks for the link @peachalulu, I just signed up for Open Library, never even occurred to me there's such a thing.
Hmmm... I never thought of it in this way. @jazzabel, every writer is a bit of a nerd on some level. don't worry about sending it. I will use OpenLibrary. Otherwise I will wait to buy it (Cuz ASU's fast library doesn't have it either >) @peachalulu, thanks for the link. I have an account with these guys. I forgot the name of the website though when my laptop was stolen long ago. I never did find my way back. I had a couple of books checked out through them. I'll look for it there! And thanks for the commentary on Lolita. I think you're right, too. If the tension can be held that may help define and carry a scene.
I understand scenes as an event happening in real time. It is sensory and you can visualize it. Also, there should be a function, a purpose, of the scene (does it reveal a character trait? does it move the story? does it foreshadow?). Contrast to narrative summary where events are sped up in time. They are sped up since they don't add anything to the story or the plot, but function as a transition between scenes.
By far the clearest, most useful explanation of scene I've ever come across is this article by Anna Keesey. She doesn't use the "scene and sequel" concept, and deals with the "show-don't-tell" concept more plainly than anyone else I've seen. I'd trade both Swain's and Bickham's approaches to scene for this one article any day. Have a look. It's free at Gotham Writers Workshop, so I assume I can link to it without copyright infringement. I hope it helps you!
That is actually a really good consideration of a scene. I like that you mention, 'in real time." That seems like one of the crucial identifying points. Thanks for the link!I found it highly insightful. I've never really considered scenes like that. It shed a lot of light on the different styles and progression. It also helps that I've read most of the works she's quoted, by this point.
