Jedi Council Forums - Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003

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Author	Topic: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
Jane Jinn Registered: Jan '00	Date Posted: 10/28/03 6:18am Subject: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	PAGE I Story Reviews Before the Saga The Path of Redemption by Jedi Hood, started 21.9. Era: 3000 years before TPM Status: in progress Summary: After the murder of his wife and child, Jedi Knight Talion Voss goes on the rampage; a story about fall and redemption. Reviewer 1: Rating: very good! Comments: Very interesting and well written original characters! Writing style is very clear and powerful. Quote: "The way back from the darkness is through the light, and he can find the way-but he must do it on his own." ===== Reviewer 2: Rating: Good Comments: This is an interesting parallel to the story of Anakin Skywalker, but different enough to be interesting. The descriptions are nicely done, and the emotions are wonderfully portrayed. Quote: Had he not defied and disobeyed the council, or ignored the advice of his master, in all likelihood he would not be sitting here in this cell. He would not be considered such a danger by the council that they might just execute him, or exile him from the Republic permanently. He would not have betrayed his Master's faith in him. He would not have become an avenger, a bringer of illegitimate justice......a murderer. I would not have fallen to the dark side. ***** The Cost of Honor by Ty-gon Jinn, Era: pre-TPM Status: in progress Summary: a Queen of Naboo fic, 100 years before TPM, original characters Reviewer 1: Rating: good Comments Very original storyline. Quote "Their names all match their monarch's. Perhaps if these cadres catch on, this could become tradition." ===== Reviewer 2: Rating: Very Good Comments: An interesting look into the history and politics of Naboo - hopefully the author will give us more in that regard. The physical descriptions were excellent, and the author has a good feel for mood. The author is evidently planning on introducing quite a few characters, which could prove to be confusing. Hopefully, the author won't sacrifice the story to feed the characters. Quote: “I’m sure he means to,” the older man said, “but nothing will ever come of it. Not only would he lose, but I am fairly sure no one would support his candidacy. None of the other clans have any objections to your taking your father’s crown. The Nada clan in particular seemed relieved; they were never… overtly fond of your younger brother.” +++++ The Saga Soul of Love and Bravery by GunraysLawyer, Era: time of AOTC Status: in progress Summary: A prequel to "To Absent Friends", an AU in, around and parallel to AOTC, with some moderate changes to canon, and a look into another romance Reviewer 1: Rating: Very good Comments: This is an excellant combination of AU and cannon facts. I could almost watch the scenes come to life through his well written descriptions and accurate character portrayals. Lots of intrigue and the budding romance between Ivo and Dorme is wonderfully written. And the Kalinadian Commonwealth lead by ex-Jedi Ge-Haraza Arzhan will cause many to debate which side is correct. Quote: Obi-wan had just stared at Windu at that point. First, they had to protect and baby-sit a politician, and now they had to deal with Kisavalivo Arzhan. Kisavalivo Arzhan annoyed Obi-Wan to no end. He was flippant, arrogant, an adventure seeker and glory hound. He was worldly, and a deep believer in a theological and pantheistic view of the Force. Beyond all of this, he was a powerful Force user and well trained. All of this was an annoyance to Kenobi, but what was worse was that Anakin had befriended this man. On Arcainia, it had seemed that Obi-Wan had spent as much time trying to prevent Anakin’s downfall at the hands of Arzhan, as he had on his mission to negotiate a long-term Peace in the Civil War on the world. ===== Reviewer 2: Rating Very Good Comments Excellent use of original characters with canon ones. Very well written political situations. Quote "No Dorme, no one else is going to die for me like that. I just can't let that happen again." ***** Halberd Squadron by Alion_Sangre Era: two months before start of ESB Status: in progress Summary: Halberd Squadron must keep the Empire from tracking down Alliance cruisers as they make their way to the newly established base on Hoth. Reviewer 1: Rating: Excellent Comments: Using little-known characters from one of the X-Wing games, Alion Sangre’s tale takes place shortly before the events of Empire Strikes Back. The story follows a varied cast of pilots as they take the fight to the Empire. The banter is not to be missed, and the character interactions show more depth with every exchange between the characters. His encyclopedic knowledge of starfighters and capital ships adds depth to the story where needed, but it is the combination of brilliantly written star-fighter combat, and the internalizations of the warriors who are flying and fighting that make this read very hard to set aside. Ah, pilots! Highly recommended. Quote: We just killed three people and we want more dead. Keyan shook the thought off. Ever since Yavin he’d been quietly debating the morality of what he did for a living, slicing through ranks of enemies in showy, sterile contests of acrobatics and lasers. War isn’t fun, as every soldier since time immemorial has found out. And like every soldier since time immemorial, you stop the killing by killing everything that shoots back before it kills you. Morality would have to wait. His Heads-Up Display targeting recticle burned yellow as his targeting computer began to chirp. The chirp turned into an electronic scream, the torpedoes howling to be released. “Two, save your torps in case any other visitors show up.” “Why does some idiot Agamarian farmboy always get the glory while I get left in the cold?” “Because I’m a commander and you’re a captain.” ===== Reviewer 2: Rating Excellent Comments It gets 4.5 out of 5 X-wings. I'd definitely recommend this fic. Alion blended incredible realistic space battles with witty remarks from the pilots, making me feel like I was reading an actual Star Wars novel. The sequences are well thought out and extremely believable. His characters are already multi-dimensional and the story is just beginning. Bring on the next post! Quote It was a four-hour jump to Hoth, and at best it was going to be an extremely boring trip. Least there’s no kids – or fighter pilots from Tanaab – to sing “Are we there yet?” +++++ Beyond the Saga: Where It Counts by Sebulba2179 Era: NJO, Jacen is 18 Status: in progress Summary: Jacen's folks are less than thrilled when he goes out for pod racing, but an old enemy of the Solo clan is delighted with the news. Reviewer 1: Rating: Very Good Comments: A repost of the author’s first story, this tale has undergone a rewrite, and is now very very AU: the war with the Vong came to an early conclusion, and the Galaxy has been gradually remembering where it was headed. The three Solo kids head off on their own adventures, revolving around Jacen’s plan to fly a pod-racer in order to hone his long-neglected Jedi gifts. Jaina and Anakin Solo are along for the ride, acting as Jacen’s pit crew. The story has a good opening: clearly establishing the timeframe, and the focus of the story. Sebulba’s an established author with a loyal following, for excellent reason. His age and the maturity of his skills as an author are clearly shown. The characterisations in this story are spot-on, and the descriptions are spare but evocative. This is an author with a solid skill-base and good at engaging the readers through his story-telling. Quote: Despite its low point during the Imperial years, there is one that has been a sporting, a historical and even a family tradition for at least a millennium. It is one that has frightened millions and thrilled billions, making careers and taking lives. It is Podracing... "Ah, but you overlook the variables, dear Jaina," Jacen said with a roguish grin that rivaled his father's. "Most pod racers just enter for the exhilaration and excitement of ludicrous speed. They get so wrapped up in it that they lose their concentration and crash. Also, I'll wager that most of them don't have any Jedi powers to hone. And finally, they haven't got a pair of hydrospanner jockeys like you two on their side." He went on grinning, spreading his hands to leave it up to them. Anakin looked at Jaina, nodding and raising his eyebrows. "Well, when he puts it that way, I run out of arguments fast," he said matter-of-factly. "You know what Mom will say, though," Jaina said... ===== Reviewer 2: Rating: Very Good. Comments: This story is off to a fantastic start. The premise for the story is unique and interesting (if a bit farfetched). The character interaction is excellent - in fact, the interaction between the Solo kids is the best I've seen so far in a fanfic. Very well written overall. Quote: "For there is one about to enter the racing arena, one who already has his share of notoriety, one who will be worthy of the legend of Sebulba. Even he knows not that his participation in the pod races will lead him down a far more harrowing path, which will leave an indelible mark on history, and bring yet another change to the galaxy that will spawn a different kind of race amongst historians." ***** Deception by Dark_Lighter Era: NJO, around the time of Force Heretic: Refugee Status: in progress Summary: It seems that somebody wants to get rid of Jag. Reviewer 1: Rating: Fair Comments: Obviously a new author to the forums, this is his first story. Dark_Lighter has a good time with his story, creating intrigue and suspense with each post. Characterisation feels weak: a little too surface, not enough depth, but we are only five posts into the story. He has added a very good twist to the story, a solid hook for his readers. Dark_Lighter references the NJO books just enough for the fans to place his story clearly in the timeline, without building too much on the themes or events within any one novel: this is very much his own story. He seems to have a good idea, and a sly sense of having fun with his readers. He is careful to reply to each new reader, and address their speculation and commentary without giving anything away. Quote: “This had better be important…” “I’m sorry for disturbing you at this late hour, Master Jedi, but I believe that you will find this well worth your time. We met earlier on Hapes, and you agreed to help me with a certain matter, so long as I was willing to help you in kind. I know understand what you did, they by helping each other, we would be helping ourselves. Is your offer still open?” The tired Jedi’s eyes focused as he realized who he was talking to. “Of course the offer is still open. I’m more than ready to be rid of your friend, but he seems intent on staying.” A sly grin formed on Bronze’s face. “Well, let me tell you what is already started and we can work from there…” ===== Reviewer 2: Rating: Good Comments: This story seems to be off to a good start, despite the fact that I was somewhat confused by the author's attempt to provide some context for this story by borrowing from the text of Force Heretic II. Some more background info at the beginning might have been helpful. However, the author does an excellent job of adding elements of intrigue, mystery, confusion and suspense - Jaina's apparent betrayal of Jag, and the hostile presence lurking behind the feelings of triumph and victory, were two excellent examples. The romantic by-play between Jag and Jaina was also well done. Although I feel that the author's habit of providing "teasers" unnecessary, I did feel that this should turn out to be an very good story, if the author can keep it up. Quote: Still unseen, Jag watched in utter sadness for a few moments longer before turning and slowly walking away. As he reached the corner, he heard Kyp's voice come echo out of the room and into the hall. “You better get going, my love. You don’t want to have to explain why you weren’t there when Jag arrives.” Jag wanted to yell back There's no need to worry! Instead he turned the corner quickly, the pain in his heart never-ending. -----signature----- Mostly retired now Just making the occasional guest appearance
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Jane Jinn Registered: Jan '00	Date Posted: 10/28/03 6:19am Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	PAGE II Vignette Reviews: by Amidala_Skywalker Smoke by obaona Era: Before the Saga, about 10 years pre-TPM Status: Vignette, complete Summary: A moment between Qui-Gon and Tahl Comments: Instead of launching into an elegant first sentence describing the beauty of this thoughtful respite between two rarely written characters, I think I should pluck a feather from the writer’s hat. Since this vignette was simple and striking, it is only fitting that the review should mirror that format. If you haven’t read this piece, I am not going to jab you in the ribs and hope that you realise you have been missing out on something. I am, however, going to make sure you remember one word: smoke. It seems to be on everyone’s tongues. What is it about smoke? Personally, I’m not going to sky-drive into pyromania, but evidently the author is just equally fascinated by the grey wisp in the air as I am. If you dismiss the enchanting dialogue and the sprinkling of Jedi romance (yes, the kind where no one ends up with the girl), the author’s perception of smoke is absolutely true. I like to look past the obvious and see what the author has buried within the words. I had to drag a vacuum cleaner down with me, but I think I resurfaced with an answer. It’s not about smoke, it’s about life. Life grows and changes, just as love does. Jedi are taught to be passionate, and in a round-about-way, to be lovers. To love life and the gifts they have been given. The author portrays this feeling very well under the disguise of “smoke”. It isn’t something you would expect a discussion to circle around in GFFA, but then again, we can’t always dwell on the Dark Side. After reading this piece, the first thing that hit me was the love of love flowing throughout the piece. I’m almost certain that I sound like a broken record in a nightclub, but there is nothing like enjoying a good love story. Nothing like it – except smoke. Rating: A sublime, yet juicy 8 out of 10. ==== From Hell by Mar17swgirl Era: The Saga, Episodi III Status: Vignette, complete Summary: Anakin becomes Vader. Comments: After reading this vignette, I had to ask myself a vital question. Do reviews require babbling first reactions? I could pass off a few mismatched sentences as “having a bad hair day”, but I’m not going to ruin this author’s prose. Actually, I’m not even going to gate-crash Anakin’s coming of Vader party. In this story, our sparkling blue-eyed “new age guy” is turned into the revolutionised Big Bad. Throughout the transformation, flashbacks are shown of his fateful duel with Obi-Wan. I have to comment on how well the integration of such scenes is pulled off. Along with the streamlined dialogue, I really felt myself embracing the birth of Vader. The most remarkable feature of this vignette is the way Anakin’s emotions are represented. Simple, yet surprising. I never expected Anakin to feel proud of what he had become – though, my opinions were drawn from the Vader we first saw in the OT. Readers can definitely identify with the difference. This Vader seems refreshed, and as energetic as a bat out of hell. The OT Vader is tired. Tired of yearning for revenge. After all, Obi-Wan, Padme, and the Jedi Order are long gone. In that respect, I believe that the author captures the essence of the emerging Vader. The most intriguing section of the vignette is, without a doubt, the conversations between Palpatine and Anakin. You can detect the link between them, but at the same time, you know they are not friends. They need each other more than they are ready to admit. By that same token, it also seems like they’re weaker than they would care to admit. Rating A handsome 7/10 for this story. ===== Nowhere by Deneveon Era: NJO Status: Vignette, complete Summary: A short vignette on Kyp Durron Comments: I have never been able to say that I absolutely adore the NJO. However, I absolutely don’t abhor it. I’m more like the shy cracker in the bottom of the box unwilling to come out and play. That metaphor is all nice and good, but when it comes to Kyp vignettes, I completely fall to pieces. Come to think of it, I always fall for the bad boy. Well, not to say that Kyp is our regular “blast ‘em up evil”. I prefer the term “scoundrel” – and it seems like the author of this vignette agrees on that accurate description. To echo the words of the author, this isn’t your ordinary kind of fan fic. The first thing that strikes me is the unique point of view the author has taken. Personally, I envision a “little voice” within Kyp dictating the facts of his character and his life. We all know that there has been a sudden avalanche of depressing Kyp fan fiction, and yes, this particular character is sometimes dabbed with the wrong brush, but with a bit of spit and polish this author has given his spotlight. I can truthfully say that I love it when authors first intend to build an extension onto the side of their proverbial “house” (character), and end up buying a condo in Florida. Alert me if I start sounding repetitive, but I am incapable of not loving the simple word continually distributed throughout this vignette. It makes the piece stronger. Granted, the writing stands very firmly on its own two legs, but I’m a sucker when it comes to ending vignettes with a lone word. In this case, the author goes with one of my utter favourites: nowhere. No, we’re not in Kansas anymore. We’re somewhere else – somewhere exciting. Rating: A delightful cocktail of 9/10. +++++ Author Profile By obi_ew In the new edition of the newsletter, we will attempt to profile authors whose work maybe doesn't receive the attention they deserve. In this issue we will be talking to a fairly new author named Happy Hobbit Padawan . HHP first came to the boards in February of this year. A friend told her about the site and the boards after learning that she had an idea for an Episode 3 story. Picking a user name that combines her two loves, Star Wars and Lord of the Rings, she dove right in. Let's sit down and find out a little about this highly under rated author. When did you first become interested in Star Wars? My dad got me interested in science fiction when I was little, but it wasn’t until I saw the re-release of A New Hope in the theater and the prequels came out that I really became a Star Wars fan. Have you always been interested in writing and have you written in any other fandoms? I do write my own original stories, which I’ve done for quite a while; fan fiction started out as a nice breather from my own work, but now that the fan fiction bug has bitten me it won’t let go! I tried writing an X-Files story a few years back – which is locked safely in my desk drawer – and I’ve written a few Lord of the Rings stories, which are posted to a LOTR site. Are there any writers in particular either on the boards or in literature who have inpsired you to try writing? I’ll get all hobbity for a moment and say Tolkien. Not only reading his Lord of the Rings trilogy recently but experiencing The Hobbit as a child as well. My father got me interested in books by reading stories aloud to me and my sister when we were little, and The Hobbit was one of our favorite stories. I can’t help but think that is what instilled in me a love of stories and storytelling. As for writers on these boards – there truly are too many to mention. Every author I’ve read has shown me something new, which I try to work in my own writing. And there’s nothing more inspiring than being surrounded by people who love to read and write. After Episode 3 comes out, do you see your interest in fan fiction waning? I don’t believe so. It’s kind of funny because I got into fan fiction in the first place due to an interest in Episode 3. Something I’ve learned quickly on these boards is that there’s always something new to see in a character, another way of understanding a relationship. I don’t think it’ll ever get old. Do you have a favorite character and if so why him or her? I’ll confess my dark side tendencies and say Xanatos. He was one of the first EU characters I met when I first began lurking on these boards, and I admit I like a good villain. Although his fate is sealed in the JA books, so many authors have seen different sides to his character. I like that there are many different ways to approach him. And I must say that obi_ew’s The Face Inside and obaona & vader_incarnate’s The Water’s Edge are the two stories which got me hooked on him. Thank you for the look into your world HHP! Now here is a link to the first in her wonderful Mirage Series, go and read it! Dark Mirage +++++ Showcase: Less-Popular Genres Tusken Raider Fic: Hajji’s Children by Wilhelmina Forced to flee by an intruder in the camp, a lone Tusken Raider on the brink of adulthood must survive alone in the desert--but this is only the beginning. His journey will test his strength, his faith, and his view of the universe. Gungan Fic No Good Deed by Seldes_Katne After escaping the Trade Federation’s forces’ attack on the city of Otoh Gunga, Captain Tarpals and his patrol of Gungan riders rescue a group of their people from a droid convoy. In doing so, they inadvertently liberate a number of Naboo youngsters and their guardians as well. During the journey to the nearest human settlement, the combined group must face wild animals, droid scouts, and the long-running distrust between Gungan and human. +++++ Locked Thread Recommendation for October The Right Place at the Right Time by Lilith Demodae Teaser: Men, no matter how young, who look like -that- should not be allowed to walk around shirtless without a verbal warning and clearly posted danger signs. Those would have been her thoughts if her mind had been organized enough to produce coherent thoughts. His short-cropped hair was sleep tousled and his lips were pulled into a slight, mischievous grin, but that was the least of it. There was not a single ounce of extra flesh on that body. His muscles were all clearly, beautifully defined. From his trim, flat stomach, to his broad shoulders, to the ends of his corded arms he was a complete and utter drool fest. ++++ Most Unusual Thing of the Month: Diary of an X-Wing the fate of a forgotten hero, as told by the X-wing itself. +++++ Plot Bunnies Before the Saga What if Xanatos survived the drop into the acid pit? Horribly scarred and with a grudge against the Jedi and the light side of the Force, he wanders the galaxy. In the course of time, he comes to the court of Gardula the Hutt. There, he seduces Shmi. Can you find a logical reason for him to erase her memory of what happened that night? Or should the Force take care of that for both of them; i.e., they both wake up one morning and have no idea why they’re together or what happened, or even who the other person is. At the very end of the story, Xanatos can find out that the girl is named Shmi. ===== The Saga “Who is this man, this Scarlet Pimpernel?” Write a story that takes place when the Empire is at its height. Peer’Si is rich, his wife is accomplished, the Chancellor takes a very great liking to them both; they are the acknowledged leaders of fashion and of style. Peer’Si’s coats are the talk of the galaxy, his inanities are quoted, his foolish laugh copied everywhere. Although everyone knows that he is hopelessly stupid, they still seek to be invited to his fetes, and his ships are the finest found anywhere. He seems proud of his clever wife and cares little that she takes no pains to disguise the good-natured contempt that she evidently feels for him, or that she amuses herself by sharpening her ready wits at his expense. But Peer’Si is secretly a Jedi and perhaps even a leader of the early Rebellion. He is a maddeningly elusive figure who defies the vast network of fanatics, informers and secret agents set up by the Emperor to catch its enemies, the former Jedi, and others who would rebel. He is a man of many disguises, endless ruses, and infinite daring, saving fellow Jedi almost before they are caught and helping Rebels escape the grip of the Empire. Show us how he outwits his most formidable opponent and manages to keep his identity hidden while helping the Rebellion form and prosper. ===== Beyond the Saga Author, you saw the movie Alien, right? And you want to do a crossover between that film and Star Wars. Imagine, then, that your favourite NJO characters are on board a very large ship. The ship meets up with a convoy, takes a freighter on board, and starts unloading. Nobody sees that something alien has attached itself to the outside of the freighter, or that it detaches itself once in the hangar. The first signs of trouble is discovered when two technicians disappear and a maintenance shaft near the hanger has suddenly grown organic material. The two technicians are discovered entombed into what looks like a cocoon. The Captain of your ship does not pay much attention to this discovery and has the maintenance shaft cleaned of the organism. The second sign of trouble is when that cleaning crew disappears. You still with me, Author? Anyway, a detachment is sent to investigate, only to discover more of the shaft has grown more of the stuff. Before they could report their finding they are attacked by something "alien". Then a second detachment is sent to investigate the disappearance of the first detachment and discover that, whatever the source of the growth is, it’s heading toward Engineering. They report this in and are immediately recalled. The surrounding area of the shaft is quarantined. Am I scaring you yet, Author? Before the crew can destroy the growth in the shaft, Engineering calls an emergency and is silenced in mid-call. Then main power of the ship is disabled. In complete darkness save for the occasional emergency light, your characters and the crew of the ship they’re on now find themselves fighting for their lives against a creature they have never seen or heard of before. You still with me, Author? Author? -----signature----- Mostly retired now Just making the occasional guest appearance
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Jane Jinn Registered: Jan '00	Date Posted: 10/28/03 6:20am Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003 - Date Edited: 10/28/03 6:27am (2 edits total) Edited By: Jane Jinn
	PAGE III Grammar Tip of the Month Make plurals simply by adding an ‘s’ to the end of the word. Example: Blaster -- blasters, ship – ships, lightsaber -- lightsabers. NEVER EVER ADD AN APOSTROPHE! Even if you see it in common usage, it is wrong. Learn to shudder at words like blaster’s, ship’s, and lightsaber’s. Words ending in ‘y’: Remove that ‘y’ and add ‘ies’: Story – stories, baby – babies. Jedi and Sith are the same in singular and plural. One Jedi, two Jedi, one Sith, two Sith. +++++ Writing Tip of the Month Commonly misspelled words in SW Fan Fiction: By Wilhelmina Here’s a list of some characters, creatures, locations, species, etc. whose names are commonly misspelled in fanfic and discussion. It’s heavy on Saga terms—those EU terms that appear are courtesy of Sache8 and Sebulba2179. Characters 1. Anakin Skywalker (Two “a’s” and one “i” in that order.) 2. Padmé Naberrie 3. Obi-Wan Kenobi (Note the hyphen and the fact that both Obi and Wan are capitalized) 4. Qui-Gon Jinn (Again, note the hyphen and the fact that both Qui and Gon are capitalized.) 5. C-3PO or See-Threepio 6. R2-D2 or Artoo-Detoo 7. Jar Jar Binks (No hyphen here.) 8. Wedge Antilles 9. Jaina Solo (It’s “i” before “n”, not after it.) 10. Zam Wesell (One “s”, two “l’s”.) 11. Lando Calrissian 12. Chewbacca 13. Cliegg Lars 14. Shmi Skywalker (Look, mom, no “c”!) Creatures 1. kouhun 2. massiff 3. Sarlacc 4. tauntaun 5. ysalamiri Locations 1. Alderaan 2. Corellia 3. Coruscant 4. Dagobah 5. Geonosis 6. Jundland Wastes 7. Kashyyyk 8. Kessel 9. Neimoidia 10. Obroa-skai 11. Otoh Gunga 12. Tatooine Species 1. Gamorrean 2. Geonosian 3. Kaminoan 4. Mon Calamari 5. Neimoidian 6. Tusken Raider 7. Twi’lek 8. Wookiee (Two “e’s” here.) 9. Yuuzhan Vong Miscellaneous 1. Millennium Falcon 2. comlink 3. lightsaber (One word, not two!) 4. sabacc 5. Rogue Squadron (Not Rouge – that’s what women put on their cheeks to make them more red.) +++++ Feedback Tip of the Month Here comes the interactive part of the newsletter. If you have a feedback tip, please post it in a reply. Thanks! +++++ Humour Read the caption! "After the destruction from the war we only had 1970's leather couches to make our clothes from. I am in fact wearing a Lay-Z-Boy recliner." See the picture! +++++ Article of the Month PAIN WITH PURPOSE: ESCAPING THE BONDS OF BAD ANGST By DarthIshtar We've all seen it before. Without naming names, we can summon the basic plotline from the annals of fanfiction history without much effort. Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon (being the most handsome pair of Jedi to ever grace the silver screen) are called to head a seemingly harmless diplomatic mission in the Outer Rim. They arrive, make friends, and are model Jedi as they should be. Then, a building blows up. The speeder gets wrecked and the last thing either remembers is seeing the man that was supposed to be their friend who has now betrayed them. They awake strung up by their wrists and shirtless at the very least. (Sometimes, they'll be risque and have them wearing even less!) And they will hold the secret that only they can reveal. Qui-Gon refuses to speak, so they go after Obi-Wan to make him more cooperative. Blasters, knives, lightsabers, blow-torches, electric prods, and a tickling feather later, Obi-Wan is nearly dead, Qui-Gon is ready to tell them anything they need to know... And then the Jedi or some other unlikely rescue party burst in and save the day, leaving us with a mushy medwing ending and a high probability of a nightmare-filled sequel. And through it all, we, the audience, sit and weep and groan and wish we could help poor, half-naked Obi-Wan. Now granted, this is a heart-breaking, sometimes heart-warming story and it's generally an entertaining read. Contrast this then with Attack of the Clones. Sure, we see Anakin lose his mother, his arm, his dignity, and his ability to speak a sentence without some kind of romantic innuendo. But we see in these losses a progression from the "Hitler in short pants" of Episode I towards the onyx demon of Episodes IV-VI. It's a tragic story, but it has a definite purpose, as all pain should. What we as fanfiction writers of the world need to abandon is this misguided need to inflict any possible pain just for the sake of something we categorize as angst. Marion G. Romney, a prominent speaker, once said that "These are our navigating orders...We must either go back or move forward, but we must never stand still." Pain without purpose is dead, is a stalemate. We are caught in the immobilizing trap of obsession and neither we nor our characters can progress with this sort of attitude. In terms of torture, we must take initiative and think carefully why we are doing this to the storyline. This line of thought may come as a shock to those of you who have ever read my stories. I have been accused of "Senseless violence" or having the stones of strife turn into an avalanche of angst. People look at such stories and think that "here is a person who thrives on pain." Unless I have failed myself, there is nothing senseless about my violence. What I wish to share here are some tips on how to turn angst into progression. First, begin with the end in mind. This is a little trick my piano teacher mother taught me, that if you start out a song knowing what level you want to come to by the end, everything in your performance will have a purpose, a progression towards that goal. If you start the story knowing that you want to achieve something with the characters, you will have your purpose and your focus. Second, your focus determines your reality. I had a teacher who, frustrated with my inability to focus in on themes in my papers, forced me to take a five-minute scene of a three-hour movie and write a 10-page paper on that. That principle changed my writing forever. I do not wish to imply that all "Obi-Wan shirtless and screaming" fics are bad, in fact, I wish to commend a multitude of you who are doing this right! I have read several fictions where yes, there is angst and torture, but the clarity of thought and detail, the process going through the mind of a Master caught between a rock and a very hard place, is breathtaking. You cannot have purpose without precision and precision always demands our whole-hearted devotion to the work. Third and lastly, do not play hero. Do not think that just because they are Jedi, they are going to be stoic. Do not, however, render them lunatics. Put yourself in that situation. Emma Thompson, the famous British actress, described once that when acting a particularly emotional scene in Sense and Sensibility, she forced herself to feel the level of emotion that she had experienced when her father died. As a result, she was able to express the grief of her character appropriately. Now, we all have traumas, we all have grief, and we can all put them to use. When we build on our own patchwork of emotion, we build a sure foundation for a powerful story. The Star Wars universe that we all so dearly love was built on some of the deepest foundations that humankind can experience--love, hate, pain, recovery, and forgiveness. When we are willing to not only embrace these values but use them to enrich our stories, we cannot fear. +++++ Forum News by Amidala_Skywalker Despite the significance of the first issue of the newly revised newsletter, the Fan Fiction forum has been relatively quiet in the past few weeks. In older news, the forum did gain an additional moderator, Mistress_Renata. She has been welcomed into the administrative team (or wooed, I should say) and is currently settling into the position. Congratulations are also in order for long-time missionary/Fan Fiction writer, DarthIstar, who recently announced her engagement. Best wishes to the bride, the groom, and moreover, to the marriage. As you are all aware, it is Halloween time again. Following the tradition set last year, we are presently celebrating “Halloween Week” – an entire seven days of fun. The Fan Fiction forum will be going all out when it comes to competitions and the like, but those will occur later in the week and much closer to Halloween itself. Details of the competitions are provided below. If you were around during Talk Like A Pirate Day, you will notice that we have revived and revamped a few competitions. Considering the release date of this newsletter, the competition details have been rushed. You will notice that the first contest has not been confirmed, but we assure you that once the time comes around, we’ll be ready for any pumpkins you throw at us and any monsters you use to scare us. Firstly, with the permission of Lady_Moonbeam, her original challenge thread will be transformed into the main mod-endorsed Fan Fiction challenge. In the midst of discussion, Mistress_Renata did suggest calling the contest “L_M’s Ghastly Fiction Challenge”. At the nod of the original creator, Lady_Moonbeam and the three Fan Fiction moderators would serve as judges to decide which piece of work should be awarded the 48-hour VIPship on offer. Further details can be obtained within the thread itself (located here. ), or by contacting Lady_Moonbeam. Keep in mind that this idea is unconfirmed, as discussion has just been initiated with Lady_Moonbeam. In the steps of its Talk Like A Pirate Day companion, we will be having a “Spooky Treasure Hunt”. This involves a moderator editing words such as “vampire” and “ghost” into a random post in one of the Fan Fiction forums. It is then the task of the participating users to locate the word(s) as fast as they can, and to notify the mod in charge of the contest to win the 24-hour VIPship. Words will be hidden in every forum – Writers’ Resource, three era forums, and the Classic Story forum – which means that four 24-hour VIPships will be on offer. A “Halloween Vignette Challenge” will also be conducted by the moderators. We will be supplying the participants with a list of words they must include in their vignette. Participants will also be required to start their entry with a sentence of our choosing. This competition will be judged by the three Fan Fiction moderators. The prize is a 48-hour VIPship for one person. As usual, we will be having two rounds of Halloween trivia. Such trivia will be both general knowledge and Fan Fiction-based. There will be twenty questions in a round, and upon winning one round, you will receive a 24-hour VIPship. A pass-around ghost story will also be on offer. There are no colours involved in this one, and you do not have to sign up to participate. Authors will write without prompting, adding onto an unplanned story. Maximum length for a post: 500 words. Minimum length for a post: 100 words. This is not a game of any sort – just a bit of fun. Lastly, we will be having a “Trick of Treat” thread. The idea of this is to encourage people to read something they know they would never read – whether it be because of lack of interest in that particular timeframe, etc – and to leave a constructive comment for this author. To qualify for putting a link to that story in the “mother thread” in the Writers’ Resource, you, as the reader, will have to put “trick or treat” at the bottom of your post. However, this is not an invitation to spam. The usual rules on spamming still apply. Technically, there are no tricks involved, but we will just pretend. At this current moment in time, we have no other competitions planned. It is doubtful that we will be adding anything further to the mix. After all, too many cooks in the kitchen spoil the broth. In case you are confused by all the mod socks that are floating around the boards, I’m going to let you in on our mischievous disguises. I am ruining sleep under the guise of “Appartion_SlySlayer”, Kit is wrecking havoc under the name of “Kit-terror”, and Mistress_Renata is stirring trouble to the boil with her “Mistress_Elvira” sock. Happy Halloween, everyone! Enjoy the celebrations! +++++ Credits: Reviewers: DarthLeia6669 Derisa Ollamhin InyriForge obi_ew Jedi Hood Articles: DarthIshtar Writing Tips: Wilhelmina Vignettes and Forum News Amidala_Skywalker Newsletter Organizer: Jane Jinn +++++ Links to previous Newsletters Fan Fiction Newsletter 1, March 2003 Fan Fiction Review Newsletter #2, April 2003 Fan Fiction Review Newsletter, Edition 3, May 2003 +++++ Advertisements Fan Site Reviews for TFN Newsletter, done by JediStryker: FanSite Reviews on TFN Give your fellow writers a boost by mentioning them here: Support Your Local Writers: The Review Challenge That's it for this month, and thanks for reading! -----signature----- Mostly retired now Just making the occasional guest appearance
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obi_ew Registered: Apr '02	Date Posted: 10/28/03 12:10pm Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	Excellent job putting this together Jane! I especially enjoyed the writing and grammar tips. -----signature----- In Loving Memory Of CC Price of Courage- Obi/Whie/Luke- http://boards.theforce.net/The_Saga/b10476/20124958/?37 Updated 4/20 Finally!!
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Daughter_of_Yubyub Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 10/28/03 12:37pm Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	Great job. I know I've found at least one new story from this. YubYub and TG- Protecting fangirls from hormonally gifted fanboys since 2002 -----signature----- The Timbit Evangelist Dark Lady of the JCC Yubsié, Handmaiden of the Crest EUDF Commodore\| Assistant Empress etc.- WJFC See my bio for my memberships and fanfiction
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AlrikFassbauer Registered: Apr '03	Date Posted: 10/28/03 1:01pm Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	I'm impressed ! Excellent work ! thumbs up -----signature----- "May the Enya equivalent of the Force be with you." (Uncle Darthvyd)
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DarthIshtar Title: Former CR Registered: Mar '01	Date Posted: 10/28/03 2:03pm Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	This was so cool! Except for that rotten article by that hack DarthIshtar. -----signature----- "I feel like a more down-to-earth Pink 5 when I'm writing Leah. Same attitude, less lip gloss." ~Me on how to get in the right mindset for Twilight fanfic.
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dianethx Registered: Mar '02	Date Posted: 10/28/03 4:24pm Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	Loved the whole thing. Very professionally done and it gave me lots of new stories to look at. I especially liked the spelling heads-up and the grammar tips!!! Wonderful. If you need another reviewer, I'm back and willing to help...although it doesn't seem that you need any! Great job. -----signature----- Betrayal - http://boards.theforce.net/s/b1/10935143 updated 11/2/09 jedidas3's Master Merlin - Diplomatic Immunity - http://boards.theforce.net/nswff/b10808/30459852
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obaona Registered: Jun '02	Date Posted: 10/28/03 7:04pm Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	Very interesting, I'll have to go back and read it more thoroughly when I'm looking for something to read. -----signature----- MS Word is designed by sadists with masochists in mind. - teh atty my recent Atton (KOTOR2) fic: http://boards.theforce.net/before_the_saga/b10475/30335989
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Wilhelmina Registered: Jul '02	Date Posted: 10/28/03 7:49pm Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	Excellent newsletter, everybody! tosses roses and chocolate to Jane & Co. I'm definitely going to check out some of those story links, and I especially liked Ish's article on angst. -----signature----- Questions about the Archive? Ask me! http://fanfic.theforce.net/
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Darth_Leia_6669 Registered: Apr '03	Date Posted: 10/28/03 7:57pm Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	Nice job! Thank you Jane for organizing this so nicely! --later-- 6669 -----signature----- SOTH: When Worlds Collide http://boards.theforce.net/message.asp?topic=28532068&brd=10476 Chapter 17 up 10-8!! Master to Lisbev! Vader for Prez in '08! Check my profile for more stories and art!
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kristeh Registered: May '03	Date Posted: 10/28/03 8:18pm Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	I enjoyed reading the newsletter. Thank you to everyone who put it together. -----signature----- God has not promised us a quiet journey, but He has promised us a safe arrival. List of fics in profile-Skywalker family AUs
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Nazgul_Hood Registered: Oct '03	Date Posted: 10/28/03 9:32pm Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	Very good. One suggestion, though - fire that reviewer, Jedi_Hood. He sucks - worst reviews I ever read. -----signature----- Give up the ring, n00b!!
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DarthBreezy Title: Retired Mos Everett Cantina Founder & JMPR Registered: Jun '02	Date Posted: 10/28/03 10:51pm Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	Don't you mean....The Scarlet PUMPERNICKLE???? Sorry, bad joke... Computer crashes that sent the PC to the shop msake one cranky. -----signature----- http://boards.theforce.net/beyond_the_saga/b10477/29640754/p1 Dear Tam - an AU post ROTJ story told through the eyes of a child "It's hard, being a Jedi..." - Pem Skywalker Anywhere Is Possible
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_Derisa_Ollamhin_ Registered: Jul '00	Date Posted: 10/28/03 11:37pm Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	I'm part of Jane and Co! That's so cool! Newsletter looks awesome, Jane, and fellow Co. members. Great plot bunnies, (I even drew up a silly cartoon when I was thinking about the newsletter). Loved the article by Ish, and the viggie reviews by Ams: she's a good reviewer! Keep up the good work, peeps! Derisa -----signature----- In memoriam: Talon Squad Leader . When you can't run anymore, you crawl and when you can't do that...well, you know the rest. . Clear skies, General. You will be missed.
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Amidala_Skywalker Title: Manager Emeritus Registered: Jul '01	Date Posted: 10/29/03 2:56am Subject: RE: Fan Fiction Newsletter, Edition 4, October 2003
	What can I say? I’m astounded by the work put into this newsletter! There is such quality . Am -----signature----- Amsié, Crest of Handmaidens . ___ TF.N Archive Reviewer ___ Battlestar Galactica is the new way.
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