Quote Originally Posted by Rhabbi View Post
Yes, this is definitely turning out to be a prologue rather than a first chapter. In rewriting this I wanted to address a couple of the issues that Mad had raised about the reason a ghost ship could do the Phoenix did, and also introduce Captain James to his new command. I think I forced it a bit.

The actual story starts much earlier, and is getting quite interesting. This actually makes two novels I am working on at the same time, and somehow that should confuse me, but does not. Really do not think it is a good writing habit though. I need to develop some type of discipline there.

Does this mean I am ready to move on to my next assignment for here? there is a short story that I have been poking occasionally that I was thinking about letting you all go at. After the bloody shreds are picked over by you I know it will be worth giving to my friend.
I actually didn't mean to dump a brand new novel on you.... Yeah I guess I did.
The funny thing about the creative process is the synergy that can develop. It really can help to have two or three stories up in the air. I confess I'm curious about this one (the pirates and the ghost ship) and will eagerly read what you want to share. As for the short story in need of a stiff poking well that's more along Mr Deans expertise but lets have at it.

A common technique for real writers (so I've been told) is to develop a network of two or three fellow writers to read and critique as you are developing a story. Some swear by a R/L face to face meeting on a regular (often weekly) basis. Others feel an internet exchange works just fine. This should be more than a technical picking of nits it should be a real exchange of ideas, Where's the story going? Why the hell did you do that to character X for? I liked her, besides now how are you gona fix Y's broken warp drive if X has gone off to.....
you get the idea, talk about the big picture of the story leave the niggling details for later.
If you want to post the short I'll talk to Dean, he's already sharpening his fork and club.
Mad