Week 4 Lab: Writers Write

 For my week 4 lab, I decided that it would be a good idea to explore the Writers write page and find articles that might catch my attention. A lot of articles caught my attention, however the articles on "5 Things to Remember while writing a Novel" and "The Edit" stood out to me the most. 

5 Things to Remember while writing a Novel

This post focuses on a few important rules to keep in mind when writing a novel. Writing a novel is a time consuming task and requires a lot of patience and attention. This article focuses on 5 basic yet important rules when writing a novel. First rule is to gather a complete thought or idea to base the novel off of. Your plot could change any second, it is important to stay goal oriented and focus on a certain idea or goal. The second rule is to pay attention to time. Your masterpiece requires time, and this is important. Having a set schedule might help your writing process go smoothly. Number 3 is to have a game plan. Having your plot lines planned out before you write is a great way to stay organized and not jumble your mind with last second ideas that might mess up a perfect plot. Staying in a focused route and having a determined mindset is important as well. Rule number 4 is an unique idea that many authors fly right over. It is to know your audience and your genre. Stick to something of your skillset, this will help you get the most optimal writing to your audience. Finally the post focuses on a very important step, editing. This is a step that every writer will need to master in order to go from a good writer to a great writer. 

The Edit

This short article or story focuses on the steps after you have finished writing a book or project. It helps you ask yourself questions such as have you written the best version of your book, or have you made any mistakes? Editing is a very important role in writing as it helps you catch mistakes you might have previously made. The article explains how "the Edit" is the last step in the process. 

Having an editor is a great start to a writing career, as having an editor allows you to have fresh eyes on a project at all times, thus negating any minor mental errors. Someone else is more likely to catch your mistakes rather than yourself. The article explains how there are different forms of editing, such as developmental editing, proofreading, open communication and more. Either way at the end of the day, editor just want to make you a better writer and only looks into improving your skills. 

Editing is so hard

Reading Notes: Ramayana Notes Part D

     The plot thickens in the last of the reading as is begins with the creation of Rama's bridge. Rama was conflicted with the idea of crossing the ocean to get to Lanka. He witnessed Hanuman leap the gap by using his power, which he lacked. His way to solving his situation is by dealing with the Gods and performing sacrifices to get the God of Ocean on his side. 

    However, attempt to do this was a failure, as the God had no interest in him. He grew with rage and took out his rage by blindly firing arrows and weapons into the water. Hanuman continues to be a bold character in the plot as he hops into battle with Rama and Ravana. Hanuman was a very clever character as he was able to outsmart any situation with the help of his powers. One part of the plot that interested me was when he was able to manipulate the look of Sita so she can be hidden from the public and no one would know.

    Rama is crowned king, and is instantly dealt with a tough choice to make. Sita was looked down by the people and Rama was forced to banish his own wife. Sita left the kingdom and gave birth to two sons, Lava and Kusha. Rama eventually seeks out his wife and son through the help of the Gods and sacrifice. Rama finally found his family and Sita and Rama confess their love to each other. 

    There was many characters seeking drama and revenge. The ending of this story was tragic as the death of Ravana, which was the ultimate ending needed for the story. The story ended with a peaceful trip to heaven, as Laksh and Rama wanted to leave the responsibilities of Earth. 

Rama Crowned King

Public Domain Edition Ramayana: The Bridge by Donald A Mackenzie

Public Domain Edition Ramayana: Rama Attacks by Sister Nivedita

Reading Notes: Ramayana Part C

Ramayana Reading Notes Part C

Character

    The story introduces Sugriva, which is the monkey king, and Hanuman the son of Wind God and monkey God. 

More Names: Vali, Tara, Angada, Sampati, Indrajit

Plot

    The plot begins with Rama and Lakshmana laving Shabari in search of Sugriva. Hanuman serves as a guide and taken then to Sugriva. Then the quick introduction of Vali, Sugriva's older brother made an appearance in the fight scene in the cave. He was battled with physical and mental trauma. Later a plot battle with Rama, Sugriva and Vali turned out in a death. Vali was killed by a flank from Rama. 

    Search for Sita sends seeker in the direction to Lanka, as this is where Sita is held captive by force. Sampati, which is Jatayu's brother (bird), sends a helping hand by guiding in the right direction. An important plot line in the reading was Hanuman's Leap, as he was conflicted with the truth of his birth story, as well as battles with Rakshasi. 

    Hanuman eventually finds the palace where Sita is held captive, but has a hard time finding Sita. Hanuman finds Sita as well as Ravanna trying to convince Sita to help him rule the kingdom as his wife. This did not sit well with Hanuman. Hanuman was able to convince Sita that it was him by showing her Rama's ring. 

    The plot thickens as Hanuman battles multiple dramatic scenes, as Sita bring more trouble to him. The reading on The Burning of Lanka showed that Hanuman cared deeply for Sita as the city of Lanka is caught on fire and being burned down, and all he can think about is the safety of Sita. Tables turn and more allies turn to enemies. 

Hanuman sets Lanka on Fire

Source: Ramayana Online: Public Domain Edition