|
Dear Dan,
For the first issue of the New Year, I thought it would be nice to reflect on my experience with Scribal Tales, not only to give thanks and praise for the efforts of all those involved, but also to offer others some insight on the wonderful world you have created. When I first submitted my very first chapter of the Torment saga, I had no idea that the story would receive the attention that it has received. On that same note, I never really expected much to come about from it. I had always wanted to write fantasy stories, but never really had the motivation, or the venue, for that matter. Having come across the Scribal Tales website changed all of that.
I am sure you can agree with me that there is no feeling like bringing life to your characters and being able to see your work, your creation, posted for all to see. The feeling was unexpected, I assure you, as I was as nervous as a child on his first day at a new school! "What will they think? What if they hate it?" Heck, I still feel the butterflies with every submission, but that's all part of the thrill of writing. Being able to pen the Torment saga has been more rewarding that anything I could have ever asked for. But more than that, the experience itself has been unlike anything I could have imagined. Needless to say, I owe it to you and Mr. Michael Battaglia, our Pretentious Twit , each of whom have a distinct and different style of writing and yet are able to provide such insightful and constructive criticism to help me develop not only my storyline, but the characters, the dialogue and every aspect of my writing. In all honesty, my first exposure to the Twit left me a bit shaken (if not stirred)! My first instinct was along the lines of, "Who does this guy think he is?" However, soon afterwards, I found myself agreeing with much of what Michael wrote, and to my surprise, appreciated much of the feedback I had received. I was most grateful for the opportunity to respond to his critique and enjoyed the ability to exchange ideas and theories with him. There is no doubt that his words have helped me to write on a higher level, and even though I dread reading his comments every month, a side of me looks forward to reading what he has to say.
But it doesn't stop there. There are so many different ways in which the website has helped me, its sort of difficult to describe them all. Having a forum where ideas can be exchanged and developed has helped me greatly in opening my eyes to concepts that I never even thought about before. Not to mention the direct correspondence you have provided. You have managed to keep me on my toes, which I believe has allowed me to strive harder and write better.
I think the overall scheme of Scribal Tales is tactfully carried out, as it not only allows a venue for writers such as myself to let loose and entertain other Fantasy readers, but includes a healthy combination of different genres that allows Scribal Tales to open it proverbial doors to other authors as well, bringing talented minds together, all with the same goal: to write entertaining stories. Whether it be a Fantasy tale, Sci-Fi, Horror or even a Hybrid story, the website provides a place for writers and poets alike to call home, where they can thrill others with their imaginative minds by writing a fascinating tale or simply drawing an exotic sketch.
I must say, Dan, you've done a great job so far, not only as the Chief-Editor, but as a writer and contributor yourself, and I only see it getting better. I am proud to be part of such a talented pool of writers. Until next time, keep doing what you're doing, because it appears to be working!
Gabe
|
