Hiya, folks!
Roleplaying has been a critical part of my creative expression and personal fulfillment for most of my life, and it's something that pains me when my emotional health and mental disabilities get in the way of my playing with folks.
As I've been exploring myself and my weaknesses, I think more and more I am becoming aware of specific faults that could be fixed with a li'l effort and some restructuring of my way of thinking about these problems.
I'd like to avoid unproductive subjects like laziness and discipline, incompatible partners, and other things out of my control. I'd really like to focus on the way I think about roleplaying, writing, storytelling, and worldbuilding, because these are things that I can improve.
It goes so very far, far beyond a lack of discipline or bad environment. I've spent the past five years in a rut and I have been trying to claw my way out of it for all of that time. I used to be such a confident, productive writer, and I enjoyed that freedom of creativity for most of my childhood. Even now as an adult, I have all the time in the world to make things, but something has changed since I went to university, and that part of me has never been the same since.
I'd like to use this thread to write about things I think about and how I feel about them, and to ask folks for their ideas and philosophies regarding roleplay. Maybe I can learn something from your experiences and improve my productivity and therefore finally get out of this hole I find myself dug into.
I've been thinking a lot lately about those li'l moments of inspiration, an image or a scene or a piece of music I very much like. Very often I find that it strikes me shallowly, without any context, motive, direction, or reason. Just a thought, a feeling, and a desire to recreate it in my own way.
Sometimes that means a character with a certain tone, but no physical description or history.
Sometimes that means a setting with no plot or characters.
Sometimes that means an abstract concept that can hardly be converted into writing at all.
And yet my instinct is always to recreate that feeling, to turn it into something my own by reimagining it and experimenting with it. But when one writes, oughtn't there be some direction?
That's this week's biggest thought for me, I think: What steps do you take to convert an idea into something practicable? What do you need before you begin to implement such an idea into your writing? What information do you base your decisions off of when inventing details about the subject? When you're designing a setting or creating a character, how do you start to flesh them out beyond that gut-wrenching desire to create this something?
I've tried things like questionnaires and I think they do provide the beginning of a solution, but they are often too shallow, or the questions are too open-ended to solve the problem of not knowing the answer. What is the intermediary step between shallow facts and deep lore?
Thank you for your time. I'm eager to read what folks have to say.
Roleplaying has been a critical part of my creative expression and personal fulfillment for most of my life, and it's something that pains me when my emotional health and mental disabilities get in the way of my playing with folks.
As I've been exploring myself and my weaknesses, I think more and more I am becoming aware of specific faults that could be fixed with a li'l effort and some restructuring of my way of thinking about these problems.
I'd like to avoid unproductive subjects like laziness and discipline, incompatible partners, and other things out of my control. I'd really like to focus on the way I think about roleplaying, writing, storytelling, and worldbuilding, because these are things that I can improve.
It goes so very far, far beyond a lack of discipline or bad environment. I've spent the past five years in a rut and I have been trying to claw my way out of it for all of that time. I used to be such a confident, productive writer, and I enjoyed that freedom of creativity for most of my childhood. Even now as an adult, I have all the time in the world to make things, but something has changed since I went to university, and that part of me has never been the same since.
I'd like to use this thread to write about things I think about and how I feel about them, and to ask folks for their ideas and philosophies regarding roleplay. Maybe I can learn something from your experiences and improve my productivity and therefore finally get out of this hole I find myself dug into.
I've been thinking a lot lately about those li'l moments of inspiration, an image or a scene or a piece of music I very much like. Very often I find that it strikes me shallowly, without any context, motive, direction, or reason. Just a thought, a feeling, and a desire to recreate it in my own way.
Sometimes that means a character with a certain tone, but no physical description or history.
Sometimes that means a setting with no plot or characters.
Sometimes that means an abstract concept that can hardly be converted into writing at all.
And yet my instinct is always to recreate that feeling, to turn it into something my own by reimagining it and experimenting with it. But when one writes, oughtn't there be some direction?
That's this week's biggest thought for me, I think: What steps do you take to convert an idea into something practicable? What do you need before you begin to implement such an idea into your writing? What information do you base your decisions off of when inventing details about the subject? When you're designing a setting or creating a character, how do you start to flesh them out beyond that gut-wrenching desire to create this something?
I've tried things like questionnaires and I think they do provide the beginning of a solution, but they are often too shallow, or the questions are too open-ended to solve the problem of not knowing the answer. What is the intermediary step between shallow facts and deep lore?
Thank you for your time. I'm eager to read what folks have to say.
By most accounts, I should probably be dead by now. It's been a handful of decades and that comes to mind a lot when I stop long enough to look around and realize the pictures on the wall and the faces in them didn't happen yesterday. Some I wasn't even around for. Life is this long, long rhythm and I'm either on point or stumbling with two left feet. Either way, I've no idea when the song really began, I'm not interested in knowing, and when my part in it comes to a close... I can't really agree or disagree that it'll matter I was humming along.
Maybe I should finish that damn time machine...
In the meantime, I write. I do the best I can to enjoy it, but even when I don't, that isn't why I do it. For me, it's breathing. I have to breathe sooner or later, whether or not I feel like it, because if I don't my wife will start glaring at me and asking questions. I hate when she asks me questions I have no idea how to answer simply. Probably why I married her. I don't even know any more. Something about a lawn mower, I think...
My point is, expectations are nasty little devils that like to play hopscotch in our heads while the rest of our bodies swing about. There are a thousand and one distractions to keep us from doing what would come naturally to us if left to our own devices entirely. We bear witness to greatness and folly from the very start; it's natural that we learn to dread sinking and idolize conquering what challenges us. And sometimes, we stop caring entirely, or some grey area in between. There are no real rules to all of this. Oh, we may hear otherwise from people who have elected themselves as persons capable, but remember that they probably still have to pick their noses at some point, too.
I create what feels like it wants to be created. It was there long before I noticed it and will be there when I look away. I don't bother wondering if I should or shouldn't do a thing with writing, because hindsight having perfect vision is like saying wine and brandy are the same because they both involve... Never mind. Brust reference. What I'm getting at is that you'll want to do what you really want to do, and motivating yourself to this end shouldn't be a chore - but sometimes that's how it's going to go if you want the most out of it that can be obtained. People will present approaches, but there's no definitive anything that fits all sizes.
The panties of literature can be tight enough to cut your circulation, but if you plan to go without any, then feel free being naked and know that your inner self may catch the breeze before the rest of you does.
In all truth, I'm a stickler for what I prefer. I don't like to associate with many who don't see what they do as worthy of their whole selves. I've had to live desperately without before, and I so when I have a fire in me, I'm looking for cold hands. There's been more than enough material in my life that I can write as flowery as I want to describe it; I don't owe anyone an exacting nature or cardboard explanations, and its offensive to be polite just to avoid abrasive truths. This applies to the Self as well. You have to kick your own ass to get some things done, and you probably shouldn't get caught up in the particulars too deeply or you won't be going much of anywhere with anything. Some activities are only easy because they aren't worthy of your time, while some other accomplishments come with such a deadpan delivery that you stuff them in your pocket and keep moving.
Holding on to challenges that you don't feel devoted towards with great responsibility and dedication is no way to go through one's life... especially if you plan to share those efforts with others. If you're out to have a quickie or unimportant engagement with other individuals - offline or otherwise - then always be aware you get what you put in and the best aspirations can't be forced. If you feel devoid of inspiration, get off the train before you find yourself in Albuquerque marveling at how cheap the cigarettes are.
Pit stops happen. They're there and then you're not. If you aren't where you ought to be then get up and move. If you don't know how, you shouldn't get off the train. If you were pushed off, then learn to watch your own back before you figure out how your legs work this time. The rest will come when it comes.
Fantasy can be its own reward, of course. Channeling our past or perceived futures for gain isn't the worst way to spend an afternoon, whether alone or in a group. If you can add some mythos to it... why not? Even better if you can make a game of it and play it out with others, I'd say. But if you get your opinions from people you wouldn't trust with your soul, then it's likely you're going to have some regrets. I'd say avoid that.. but hell, even I don't listen to my own advice all the time. However, when you've got something you love - something so dear to your heart that it unfolds itself upon you with or without conscious involvement - dare at your own risk. If you go into the abyss of love and creation without errant, you're going to have a bad time.
There's no point playing with your food, and for me, I feed myself with creation. I don't like being too hungry or too full. I don't do it for any particular reason beyond that it's how I stay fed. I love sharing my time with others and getting a deep sense of union through reaching a result withing roleplay. I also know that not every idea will hold its own weight, that people (myself included) can be petty, and that nothing beats a Royal Flush except a few clubs. Thus, my approach is that you just stay open to change. Try not to set too many guidelines for how to behave when things turn all wobbly.
Do what you love, love what you do, and owe it to yourself to keep on paths that actually have an end result worthy of what you feel you're worth. Approach your tasks like they matter, because goofing off and having fun should still amount to experiences that extend into leading a richer, stronger life. You deserve happiness, and if you like roleplaying, then just do what comes most natural without squeezing your skull for answers that probably won't come. Most people are pretty understanding of the hang ups. Whether you rush to the light or not, when it turns red, you'll still have to stop. Not doing so is dangerous for everyone around you.
If you feel you've changed, you probably have. Are you still approaching your writing the same way, aiming for the same results? Have you tried asking a cat? You're going to get all manner of methods on how to alter, refocus, remain inspired, and ect. I personally recommend whiskey for all of the above, but I am no one worth aspiring to emulate.
Oh, and if I may say... nice choice of music. Not my usual cup of tea, but I enjoyed what was on your profile. However... if I connect it to your question (whether or not that was your intent in presenting either), it seems to me you might just be trying to squeeze the same ol' orange instead of growing a whole new tree. Maybe uproot the garden, no analysis, no expectations. Letting ideas just spring up is all well and good, certainly... but if you want something to resonate in your spirit, you have to make it a better offering than spitting over the railing.
As for deep lore and shallow facts, they're often one and the same. Like life itself, we usually put meaning to things that have almost none worth alluding towards. As a unit, however, it all has a mystery to it, and leaving that mystery in tact isn't a bad place to aim for when you've got what you're after. I personally create lore like I'm trying to feed a child; most of it is gonna fly off and get everywhere other than the target anyway, but it's gotta be so, and the whole experience makes up the meal. Whether I do the choo-choo or land the plane... that's how it's gotta be. Nothing and no one is above being shallow at times. Why should lore be any different? Just enjoy the experience and try to make the most of whatever you feel keeps questions on the table... or the floor... or the bib... or on you... Then, try to make answers that not only feel right, but don't complicate the issue.
Anyhow, that's it. Maybe that gave some insight; probably not. Best I've got at the moment. Happy rping, best of luck, I'm a jackass. Off I go.
Maybe I should finish that damn time machine...
In the meantime, I write. I do the best I can to enjoy it, but even when I don't, that isn't why I do it. For me, it's breathing. I have to breathe sooner or later, whether or not I feel like it, because if I don't my wife will start glaring at me and asking questions. I hate when she asks me questions I have no idea how to answer simply. Probably why I married her. I don't even know any more. Something about a lawn mower, I think...
My point is, expectations are nasty little devils that like to play hopscotch in our heads while the rest of our bodies swing about. There are a thousand and one distractions to keep us from doing what would come naturally to us if left to our own devices entirely. We bear witness to greatness and folly from the very start; it's natural that we learn to dread sinking and idolize conquering what challenges us. And sometimes, we stop caring entirely, or some grey area in between. There are no real rules to all of this. Oh, we may hear otherwise from people who have elected themselves as persons capable, but remember that they probably still have to pick their noses at some point, too.
I create what feels like it wants to be created. It was there long before I noticed it and will be there when I look away. I don't bother wondering if I should or shouldn't do a thing with writing, because hindsight having perfect vision is like saying wine and brandy are the same because they both involve... Never mind. Brust reference. What I'm getting at is that you'll want to do what you really want to do, and motivating yourself to this end shouldn't be a chore - but sometimes that's how it's going to go if you want the most out of it that can be obtained. People will present approaches, but there's no definitive anything that fits all sizes.
The panties of literature can be tight enough to cut your circulation, but if you plan to go without any, then feel free being naked and know that your inner self may catch the breeze before the rest of you does.
In all truth, I'm a stickler for what I prefer. I don't like to associate with many who don't see what they do as worthy of their whole selves. I've had to live desperately without before, and I so when I have a fire in me, I'm looking for cold hands. There's been more than enough material in my life that I can write as flowery as I want to describe it; I don't owe anyone an exacting nature or cardboard explanations, and its offensive to be polite just to avoid abrasive truths. This applies to the Self as well. You have to kick your own ass to get some things done, and you probably shouldn't get caught up in the particulars too deeply or you won't be going much of anywhere with anything. Some activities are only easy because they aren't worthy of your time, while some other accomplishments come with such a deadpan delivery that you stuff them in your pocket and keep moving.
Holding on to challenges that you don't feel devoted towards with great responsibility and dedication is no way to go through one's life... especially if you plan to share those efforts with others. If you're out to have a quickie or unimportant engagement with other individuals - offline or otherwise - then always be aware you get what you put in and the best aspirations can't be forced. If you feel devoid of inspiration, get off the train before you find yourself in Albuquerque marveling at how cheap the cigarettes are.
Pit stops happen. They're there and then you're not. If you aren't where you ought to be then get up and move. If you don't know how, you shouldn't get off the train. If you were pushed off, then learn to watch your own back before you figure out how your legs work this time. The rest will come when it comes.
Fantasy can be its own reward, of course. Channeling our past or perceived futures for gain isn't the worst way to spend an afternoon, whether alone or in a group. If you can add some mythos to it... why not? Even better if you can make a game of it and play it out with others, I'd say. But if you get your opinions from people you wouldn't trust with your soul, then it's likely you're going to have some regrets. I'd say avoid that.. but hell, even I don't listen to my own advice all the time. However, when you've got something you love - something so dear to your heart that it unfolds itself upon you with or without conscious involvement - dare at your own risk. If you go into the abyss of love and creation without errant, you're going to have a bad time.
There's no point playing with your food, and for me, I feed myself with creation. I don't like being too hungry or too full. I don't do it for any particular reason beyond that it's how I stay fed. I love sharing my time with others and getting a deep sense of union through reaching a result withing roleplay. I also know that not every idea will hold its own weight, that people (myself included) can be petty, and that nothing beats a Royal Flush except a few clubs. Thus, my approach is that you just stay open to change. Try not to set too many guidelines for how to behave when things turn all wobbly.
Do what you love, love what you do, and owe it to yourself to keep on paths that actually have an end result worthy of what you feel you're worth. Approach your tasks like they matter, because goofing off and having fun should still amount to experiences that extend into leading a richer, stronger life. You deserve happiness, and if you like roleplaying, then just do what comes most natural without squeezing your skull for answers that probably won't come. Most people are pretty understanding of the hang ups. Whether you rush to the light or not, when it turns red, you'll still have to stop. Not doing so is dangerous for everyone around you.
If you feel you've changed, you probably have. Are you still approaching your writing the same way, aiming for the same results? Have you tried asking a cat? You're going to get all manner of methods on how to alter, refocus, remain inspired, and ect. I personally recommend whiskey for all of the above, but I am no one worth aspiring to emulate.
Oh, and if I may say... nice choice of music. Not my usual cup of tea, but I enjoyed what was on your profile. However... if I connect it to your question (whether or not that was your intent in presenting either), it seems to me you might just be trying to squeeze the same ol' orange instead of growing a whole new tree. Maybe uproot the garden, no analysis, no expectations. Letting ideas just spring up is all well and good, certainly... but if you want something to resonate in your spirit, you have to make it a better offering than spitting over the railing.
As for deep lore and shallow facts, they're often one and the same. Like life itself, we usually put meaning to things that have almost none worth alluding towards. As a unit, however, it all has a mystery to it, and leaving that mystery in tact isn't a bad place to aim for when you've got what you're after. I personally create lore like I'm trying to feed a child; most of it is gonna fly off and get everywhere other than the target anyway, but it's gotta be so, and the whole experience makes up the meal. Whether I do the choo-choo or land the plane... that's how it's gotta be. Nothing and no one is above being shallow at times. Why should lore be any different? Just enjoy the experience and try to make the most of whatever you feel keeps questions on the table... or the floor... or the bib... or on you... Then, try to make answers that not only feel right, but don't complicate the issue.
Anyhow, that's it. Maybe that gave some insight; probably not. Best I've got at the moment. Happy rping, best of luck, I'm a jackass. Off I go.
wwwwwwwwoooooooooaaaahh. what the heck. are you guys writing a book. geez
Samster wrote:
What steps do you take to convert an idea into something practicable?
Of course, love is blind, so I never know if I've actually got something interesting until I try, which is why it's important to go for it! I could get tons of great RP and/or personal satisfaction, or the end result could bore other people (or me) in which case there's no harm trying again. It happens.
MitsuHarp wrote:
wwwwwwwwoooooooooaaaahh. what the heck. are you guys writing a book. geez
I'll take some jasmine tea if you're offering, sland. I keep running out. Some red rooibos, too, would be excellent. Make sure it has the lion on the box, though, or you'll just be making multiple trips. >.<
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