Reinventing the classics, a.k.a idea recycling

Recycling isn't just for paper, folks. It just occured to me how often people take old ideas, whether they be classic works of lit like Pride and Prejudice, or Greek mythology, or some random story their great-grandma told them about ghosts in the cuboard, and insert it into their lastest novel and/or screenplay.



In an interview, Suzanne Collins said the Hunger Games was inspired in part by Greek legends surrounding th Minotaur demanding child sacrifice.



The Twilight Saga has many references and underlying themes rooted in classics such as Romeo and Juliet, Wuthering Heights, and Pride and Prejudice.

Practically half of YA books draw on some sort of mythology or folklore.

Why do people do this? The themes from classics are still relevant. There's a reason these books and legends have stuck around so long. They draw on the essential characteristics of human nature- the good, the bad, and the ugly. Whenever I read Shakespeare, I'm always amazed at how some things don't change in four hundred years. And it's usually those things that matter.



I've heard people complain of how afore-mentioned idea recycling leads people to ignore the originals, but I disagree. Authors wish to add, not subtract. Expanding on a particular idea creates more interest, instead of less, and often leads a reader to read the inspiration for a book they love.

So I guess my point is (If I have one) feel free to put your own spin on an old idea. Recycle. It's cool to be green.

Nanowrimo Excitement Overload

According to the official website, Nanowrimo starts in one day, ten hours, 25 minutes, and seven seconds! *cue hysteria and compulsive cookie baking* In case you aren't familiar with Nanowrimo(national novel writing month), it's pretty simple. 50,000 words. 30 days. Let the craziness ensue! If you're interested, there's a link in the side bar. Check it out!
Anywho, I am so phyched for november to begin. I have a tentative title, a somewhat sketchy plot, and a couple of core scenes I am so ready to write. And a playlist. Who can write without a soundtrack for your characters' woes and triumphs? For me, music really influences the mood of what I write. I try to create playlists that reflect the characters and the feelings I want people to take away from a story. Mood. It's a big deal. But plot is probably more important. Which is why I should go work on that sketchy outline of mine......

The Balancing Act

The ground is an eternity away
Swaying to and fro
Each mattress a treacherous foe
Seperating me from the reality of the future
A kernel of hope too small to be foreseen
Wedged between royalty and mediocrity

I love cameos.....

Melancholy Notes Linger by OldFashioned featuring Jessica Elliot necklaces