|
Post by Lugnutz on Jun 14, 2015 3:15:47 GMT -5
I should work on mine again. Have a couple started and a plan for them both since their tied together.
|
|
|
Post by Dabeagle on Jun 14, 2015 10:00:29 GMT -5
We do tend to give these characters happy endings but I think there is enough reality in the real world. The world is changing, growing more accepting all the time, but there are still hurdles to overcome. It's still scary to be a kid and realize something about you is different. My great hope is that some kid having a hard time of things comes across these stories and draws a little comfort from them. Maybe even comes away with a feeling of hope because if things can work out for these characters, maybe they can work out for him too. That said, I do think there are some things coming to the series that will surprise you guys. It's going to be an interesting summer in the Springs. Ryan and Dave, I don't think there will be any problem with you throwing surprises into the mix. The Rickshaw Run, Part 1 story is an example of a plot twist I didn't see coming. What Samuel said about various categories of sexuality is important as well, as more and more CDs (cross dressers), Trans persons, and others become better known in the world. I know at least one trans woman; she was a good friend as a man and is a good friend as a woman. And I look forward to more straight allies and friends in the SS universe. Just because the gay and bi persons may be more interesting in many ways, the straight friends and allies (of those, the most obvious seem to be Sophie, Gavin, Sean, Jamie, and Chloe at the moment, in the high school student age group) are very important to the gay/bi/pan/trans/other kids. Man, thanks for the individual quotes! I have some favorites too, but those all brought back memories. For the most part, I use the straight kids and adults in supporting roles. Sophie, Gavin, Chloe, Bobby. I took a long time to warm to Jamie, partially because he was a straight character I had no interest in writing. As Ryan has developed him and he's become more complex, I've been more interested in him as a character. I'll keep your thoughts in mind in case something good comes along where I can take advantage of it.
|
|
|
Post by Nick Deverill on Jun 14, 2015 11:13:05 GMT -5
This must be one of the few series' that has made me like many characters. Alex has developed from a 'smart ass' kid to a wonderful man. You just know he's going to be a really good social worker.
Griffin and Devyn - what's not to love? Two boys who've had it tough, fall into each others arms. Itty Bitty Bestie has to be one of my favourite stories.
I could carry on but really, all have become complex characters - as are people in real life. Perhaps it's this aspect where the series scores, with some characters ripe for further development. I'm sure Philip will reappear and he's one worth watching.
True the series has perhaps too many happy endings, although there is sadness there too, remember Charlie? But it is fiction, not real life so I cut a bit of slack.
And lastly, I can't wait for part 2 of Rickshaw Run. I suspect the Griswolds won't win the first prize, but I'm thinking along the lines of them winning a fictitious prize for the team that has the most fun. (Something I can empathise with, having fixed the car that went on to beat me in a hillclimb many years ago).
|
|
|
Post by ryanbartlett on Jun 14, 2015 16:27:11 GMT -5
It's not really a race, the prize is pretty much just making it to the finish line. Look for lots of mayhem and mischief along the way. My hope is this story comes off as a fun filled summer adventure for our guys after a pretty serious school year.
|
|
|
Post by Nick Deverill on Jun 14, 2015 16:45:45 GMT -5
I perhaps didn't expand enough. The Rickshaw Run is the sort of event where I'd expect there to be as many trophies are teams. As said, the whole thing is a bit of fun. In case anyone wondered, it is a real event: Rickshaw RunAnd there is even a bit of competition as there is another event on the same lines too: Rickshaw ChallengeWhat is for sure, the Griswolds are going to have a good time, I'm green with envy! PS Ryan - I think the team name was a masterstroke!
|
|
|
Post by ryanbartlett on Jun 14, 2015 17:31:44 GMT -5
Thanks Nick. I'm jealous too. I found out about the Rickshaw Run somewhat by accident but as I started writing the story I also started making plans with a couple of friends. We'd like to attempt this challenge in 2017. Hey, maybe we can put together a DaBeagle.com team LOL
|
|
|
Post by Dabeagle on Jun 14, 2015 17:36:25 GMT -5
I perhaps didn't expand enough. The Rickshaw Run is the sort of event where I'd expect there to be as many trophies are teams. As said, the whole thing is a bit of fun. In case anyone wondered, it is a real event: Rickshaw RunAnd there is even a bit of competition as there is another event on the same lines too: Rickshaw ChallengeWhat is for sure, the Griswolds are going to have a good time, I'm green with envy! PS Ryan - I think the team name was a masterstroke! That's where Ryan stumbled on the idea - it sounds like fun, with the right people!
|
|
|
Post by Dabeagle on Jun 20, 2015 11:06:43 GMT -5
A reader emailed me, uncomfortable with board posting, but said I could copy/paste their response, leaving out their personal details.
1.) What is your favorite scene/scenes in the SS universe? Feel free to go for something penultimate or a set of favorites or a line or two that really worked for you.
my favorite scenes involve moments of 'seeing' another character or empathy... -Ash reaching for Sean's ready hand when insecure - reflects his trust of Sean and Sean's trustworthiness -Alec's description of Sasha in Meet the Parents - he sees and values all of Sasha, not the surface prettiness -Jamie's instant connection with Sean even though Sean is more reserved -Alec's wit is marvelous - his voice can be outrageous but he makes unconventional connections (perhaps a better sign of intelligence than memorization skills or good grades)
-I wonder which character(s) are highly sensitive see <http://hsperson.com/> the emotional sensitivity they display suggests several may be (Kale's prickliness coule easily be a defense mechanism)
2.) What are your predictions for where we are headed this summer and beyond? I say this knowing there is, now, about three months worth of SS written ahead at a one week posting schedule, so I'd like to get a sense if Ryan and I are about to surprise you or if we've become too predictable
-Alec, Lucien, Sean and now Griffin have played white knights so the rescue pattern will likely continue
-Relationships between your teens and adults are highly polarized; either fully supportive/loving or non-functional (unable to meet their own needs much less those of a dependent). Chase's mother does a 180 flip.
|
|
|
Post by jamessavik on Jun 21, 2015 10:08:15 GMT -5
I love the SS stories but I do have one criticism of them: all most of the protagonist are too perfect. The flaws in characters are what makes them human, relevant and relate-able. I'm pleased with the direction of Saving Philip, however none of these kids are making the traditional teen mistakes. None of them smoke weed, participate in underage drinking, bully others, etc. Yeah- a lot of them are outstanding people but there has been quite a lot of trauma in their lives. Not one of them has even been tempted to drink a beer? (except Asher) My twisted mind boggles. PS- How about a sweet but dumb kid that struggles in school?
|
|
|
Post by Dabeagle on Jun 21, 2015 10:43:12 GMT -5
That's a good talking point, James. I think I've gone from the point of view that my characters have more been the victims than anything else. I think some of the things you are talking about, believe it or not, are coming soon - in fact, are already written and just waiting. I should also point out that, since I don't find smoking attractive, I tend to leave it out. My interaction with pot is limited, and so my lack of real world experience is also, limited. Alcohol I have more experience with and it tends to make more of an appearance in my work, overall.
|
|