Collaborating

[sartorias]

My BVC post today is on history that never was.

Another thing I've been thinking about is collaboration. I just finished writing the first draft of a YA post apocalyptic adventure with rachelmanija. It's been great fun. (She talks about it here.) I've collaborated a number of times over the years, and in different ways, beginning as a kid with another kid

Comments

[asakiyume]

I think, if it can work out the way it did for you and rachelmanija collaboration must be just one of the most fun things in the world (not to deny the hard work! Not at all--but just, the sharing and the enthusiasm--fantastic).

[sartorias]

It really is. As you know, writing can be a lonely and arduous thing when the story isn't flowing by itself. (When it does, there is no high better. But not all stories cooperate like that.) Having another person there to talk it out, whose ideas catch fire for you--it's just so much fun.

[mamculuna]

Norton and Baum! I can see how that could be extremely difficult, but still--what an appropriate confirmation of you as a writer. And what a professional you are, to be able to go through with those things.

I like what you say about ownership, though--very true in writing, but also in other things. I've seen mothers take ownership of babies, for example, and manage to exclude the dad even while they complain that he doesn't do his share.

[sartorias]

Oh wow, you are so right. Yes. Ownership of children, didn't I see a lot of that when I was a teacher. *shudder*

[sartorias]

Thanks!

[emilyeternity]

I think I'm a bit too protective/selfish to work in a collaboration, and everything you've said only reinforces it.

But I'm glad it works for you. :)

[sartorias]

*nodding*

Several people have told me that the very idea gives them cold grues. Every writer's process is different.

[emilyeternity]

Yes.

It's the exact same reason why I'd have issues with fanfic.

[sartorias]

Yes, several writers have indicated the same thing. And I'm glad to see fic writers (for the most part) respecting their wishes, when they make their preferences known.

[sartorias]

Oh, I hope you find your way back to doing it again.