It's Only Funny Because It's True

On Saturday, the fabulous Lou Anders spoke to my local RWA chapter about the editorial process and publishing in general.  It was one of the best presentations I have seen in a long time.  If you ever have a chance to see him speak, DO IT!  He shared this You Tube video that I have been watching on a continuous loop.

Meet Lou Anders!

I am looking forward to tomorrow's Southern Magic meeting.  Lou Anders, four-time Hugo Award nominated editorial director and Chesley Award winning art director, will discuss the editorial/publishing process as well new releases from Pyr Books. His presentation will be followed by Q and A on writing and publishing. 

Poker Face

While I am loathe to admit it, when I go to court, I am usually humming Lady Gaga's Poker Face.  I know how to maintain a stoic expression in the craziest of circumstances (I didn't flinch when I had a client rip off her wig during a deposition and shake her tresses at opposing counsel; I continued to sip my Pumpkin Spice Latte and look bored). While this mad skill helps me tremendously in the legal profession, it has worked against me in my writing.

I have a quest; I must find a better way to show the emotions my characters are experiencing. Trust me, as a Southerner, my first inclination is not to tell you how they feel. Southerners bury our emotions in a deep dark pit that makes the abyss look homey, but that is an entirely different blog post. So, my professional experience leaves me void of ways to show emotion, as does my upbringing. I need to find a muse to help with this, because my current efforts are, well . . . lacking in style.

My current techniques involve a lot of things going on with the eyes. They squint, glare, and avoid glances. I've also invited appendages to the party.  I have shoulders slouching, hands balling into fists, and feet shuffling. But none of this seems to express the sentiment my characters are feeling. I would love new ways to show emotion for my characters.

Maybe Lady Gaga can help (but in case she can't, I'd love to hear your suggestions).

Why Wine Is An Unlimited Good

Loved, loved, loved SNL with Justin Timerberlake and Lady Gaga, so I had to post this.