Fic author’s meme

[aadler]

 
I’ve seen this in several places, and failed to answer any of them because I just can’t think of any intelligent answers. I’m posting it for myself on the tenuous assumption that someone, somewhere, might care enough to offer an opinion:

What would you say are the trademarks of my writing? What themes or quirks or turns of phrase have you noticed? What is it that makes a story by me … well, a story by me?

Comments

[izhilzha.livejournal.com]

I haven't read all of your work, but in the fics I have read, I've noticed that your descriptions add a lot to the mood of the piece--they're not padding, but integral to the emotion of the story.

[aadler]

Well, thank you. “Integral” is more than I would have claimed for myself, but I’m happy to hear that it seems that way to at least one external reader.

[texanfan.livejournal.com]

These are impressions so take it in that spirit.

Your writing usually has a tight character focus. the exterior plot is usually secondary to the character's journey. You rarely take the perspective of one of the major characters of the source material, working your magic by fleshing out the minor characters or original characters, often viewing the major characters through that unique lens. Come to think of it, that's one of the big trademarks, regardless of whose voice you're using or the setting, you're always telling the story from some unique angle, an internal or external perspective that makes us blink and try to get our bearings.

[aadler]

You essentially apologized in advance, but for what? Nothing you said was negative.

It surprises me a little to hear that my stories are seen as character- rather than plot-driven. I still think of myself as primarily focused on action … but, yes, the characters, their feelings and motivations and reactions, are what provide meaning to the events, so I’ve found myself increasingly paying attention to that part of the equation.

As far as finding a unique angle — be it from the perspective of a major character, a minor, or an OC — you’ve got me absolutely pegged. Everybody has their own slant on things, there’s never a unanimity of agreement, and I take unending delight in finding and highlighting viewpoints that seem to skew from the accepted picture of things.

Thanks. Makes me feel good

[texanfan.livejournal.com]

The apology was not because I anticipated saying anything negative. It's more in regard to possible inaccuracy. I should have reread several stories before answering, which would be no hardship, but I found myself without time to do so.

You have substantial plots but I'm going to stand by the character journey being the primary movement of the story.

I'm glad you're pleased. You're an exceptional writer and deserve to be told so.

[sroni.livejournal.com]

It always takes a little while to figure out whose pov the story is from. You're very good at making the reader feel smart, by letting them realize the twist a split second before it's explained... exactly when you want them to get it.

[aadler]

That’s the idea, anyhow. I’m glad at least one person feels that I succeed in meeting the intent.