[net.sf-lovers] Absolute Rules

jimb@ISM780.UUCP (01/23/86)

["According to Hegelian induction, I have proved that there is no such
 thing as a line-eat-- "]

While on the subject of rules for writing, i.e., description, there come to
mind a tale of a writing workshop that, if it isn't true, it should be.

Pompous but enthusiastic instructor in front of class.

"Fiction depends on character.  Your characters must live.  They must begin
to breathe in the very first paragraph, and if they are not fully alive at
the end of the page... your fiction is a failure."

Brief pause, and from the back of the room a sepulcharal voice intoned,
"Marley was dead, to begin with."
		     (Charles Dickens, A CHRISTMAS CAROL)

		    -- from the bewildered musings of Jim Brunet

			     ihnp4/ima/ism780B