This podcast was recorded at a workshop I did with Kalin Nenov of the Human Library on the mechanics and conventions of writing genre fiction. In this part of the workshop I talked about how to make a good story or a good scene.
You should:
Control the reader’s emotions (make it exciting)
Make the reader sympathize with the characters. And develop the character if you’re particularly cool.
Make the characters do things that make sense for them (don’t lead them) and maintain the internal logic of your world.
Make progress in the plot.
Be deep. The scene reinforces the theme or main message of the book.
Also:
And Victorian Porn!
Also exposition?
Thus ends our humble workshop. Next week get ready for some more fun with Simon Roy and Memo Kosemen (at the same time!)