…seem to blog about real world events a lot.

I read somebody’s post about a fantasy writers’ convention. It sounded scary, because she said the panel discussions were… I think the word she used was “intense.”

Sounded like I’d end up crying alone in a corner. Because that’s what usually happens when I go to things where I don’t know anybody.

She also said there were lots of smart people there, which I’ve never found to be a good thing — not that I’m not smart, I just don’t usually like people who are branded as “smart” instead of “nice.” Nice is safer. Nice doesn’t compare Nice’s writing to yours and then privately gloat about being awesomer. And Nice tends to prefer talking about cats and funny t-shirts instead of metaphysical poetry and the effect of beauty on cynicism and optimism.

I can follow those conversations.  But a few years ago, after I sat through a few in college, I thought “What’s the point?” and just stopped.  Now when Smarts get together to talk like Smarts, I ignore them and work on one of my stories in my head instead.

Much more productive.

Alex confirmed that I start my stories without much plot.

So I’m outlining Frostbite to see what parts don’t really work. This will be easier to print and mark up than a manuscript.

I’m also starting out the new Deathlock as an outline. Bone structure first. It seems to be going well, and I’ve started a Character notebook with extensive profiles of my characters. ^_^ Very pleased.