I love the fact that Stage 32 has a Karma score. I looked at mine this morning and thought wow, not bad. But what is karma and how do we earn it in the writing community? I looked up the formal definition online, and this is as good as any. “The definition of karma is the destiny that you earn through your actions and behavior.” Scriptwriters are an interesting mix of personalities; and they all have different philosophies on how to write and what they share with others. One thing most of us share, is a desire to see our work become a film or television show. There are people here who have achieved varying degrees of success. Personally, I read a number of scripts from other writers this month and have been very impressed with the level of talent that I've encountered. I’ve really enjoyed interacting with these other writers and have blessed to provide them with what I believe is constructive feedback. By my way of thinking, this means without any personal agenda or desire to fortify my ego at someone else’s expense. The only thing I’ve sought to strengthen is my reputation as a writer who helps other writers. Therefore, if someone asks me for my assistance, I always endeavor to do that in a professional way. This is a great method to use in building long term relationships. Karmically speaking, you never know when someone you assist will do the same for you. Though this may not happen anytime soon, it could happen somewhere down the long road of seeking to accomplish your goals… whatever they may be. I’ll leave you with my favorite passage of dialogue regarding writers reviewing other writer’s work. This is from Woody Allen’s whimsical film “Midnight in Paris”. Here, main character Gil asks Ernest Hemingway to read his manuscript: Gil Would you do me the biggest favor in the world – I can’t even ask. Hemingway What? Gil Would you read it? Hemingway Your novel? Gil It’s only about four hundred pages – If you would just give me your opinion. Hemingway My opinion is I hate it. Gil You do? Hemingway If it’s bad I’ll hate because I hate bad writing and if it’s good I’ll be envious and hate it all the more. You don’t want the opinion of another writer. Gil But there’s no one I really trust to evaluate it. Hemingway Writers are competitive. Gil I could never compete with you.
Screenwriting : The Nature of Writer's Karma by Phillip E. Hardy, "The Real Deal"
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Phil, you are an example of what it is that which we strive to become. I'm impressed with your thoughts, (that you choose to share), and more importantly, I'm attracted to what it is you (do) for others. I enjoy writing, and I enjoy living in the characters that I form. I believe that every writer does too, in some way, but I also know why... It's that special (high) that we get from thinking up that subtext. That emotional breakthrough that ties our plot together that we discover driving home from the gym... That long drive on the par 5 that we (knew we had) in our game, but surprised us anyway at a time when we were looking for a reason to keep coming back to the sport. Every single one of these points are what I find in your contribution in this community. Either with another writer within the Lounge, or when you've selflessly reviewed my script at the drop of a dime... I thank you as a peer, and I look forward to personally celebrating another one of your successes! Stage 32, and any screenwriter that's humble enough to learn is grateful for your service Phil! Great post!!!
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I KNOW good karma is coming your way! I too am a little confused about the karma counts on Stage 32. Not sure how one achieves karma--but it's definitely at work here and in the universe!
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Thanks for this, Phillip. Well timed and very much appreciated. :)
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@All Appreciated!
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Owen: Thanks; and always impressed by your contributions @ S32.
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Karma! Indeed. Enjoyable post, Philip.
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Ok didn't read all that stuff but have definitely been wondering - what's the point of karma points?
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@Lauran You deserve 25 Karma points just for asking.
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I don't think we will ever know, Lauran.
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Okay... Karma Points is a measurement of a member's activity level on Stage 32. You build "good karma" by creating content, adding members to your network and interacting with the community. Good things come to people with good karma. ;) That's it. Simple.
"If it’s bad I’ll hate because I hate bad writing and if it’s good I’ll be envious and hate it all the more. You don’t want the opinion of another writer." Wow. People are like that in all walks of life then. The best reviews are those outside your circle. They have no hang ups about your talent. The absolute best reviewers are the public who don't do what you do. If you know how to find lots of those please let me know ;-)