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“Be not afraid of greatness”
My head has been filled with nothing but Shakespeare for weeks now.
My literature class is studying Twelfth Night, and today we watched the film version of Shakespeare’s great gender-bending comedy. Of course the exquisite use of language draws me, but the complexity of the thematic emphases, plotting, and characterization are also alluring. No one painted the realm of humanity quite like Shakespeare, and no one wove a more beautifully tangled web of its mysteries. However, what fascinates me most about his work is the way it so readily lends itself to varying interpretations: different performances reveal otherwise hidden facets of the story and characters.
A large portion of my college studies were devoted to film adaptations of great works of literature, Shakespeare being no exception. Today, as we sat in the overheated classroom listening to Viola, Malvolio, Orsino and the gang, it struck me how much storytellers can learn from watching film adaptations. Approaching a subject from another angle can refresh what once seemed tired. Perhaps writing from another character’s perspective can lend new insight into a plot line you’ve grown bored with, or a new setting can revamp your style, or adding depth to a previously flat character can convince you to revisit a story you’d discarded. If Shakespeare taught us anything, it’s that there’s always a new way to tell an old story.
After you’ve tried something new, before submitting your latest and greatest to the grid, we’re back to a moderated grid at yeah write, so reviewing the submission guidelines is a good idea. A refresher course–or a peek at our guidelines if you’re new–will help you to click that submit button with confidence.
Meet our members
Yeah write is a 100% volunteer run organization, and we couldn’t do what we do without the support of some amazing members. Why don’t you swing by and see who they are? While you’re there, give them a big thank you, or maybe a hug. And if you’re so inclined, consider becoming a member yourself.
Why are you naked?
The optional prompt above can serve as inspiration for your fiction or poetry. Use the question word for word in your story or poem, or just answer it. A naked soul or a naked bum, it’s up to you. Already have a different story thought up? No problem! Use the prompt only if you need it.
More inspiration
Need a bit more? For this month’s focus on fiction, we are brooding at our desks smoking a Noir brand cigarette. In the poetry corner, we’re conjuring up riddles.
Still drawing a blank? You can also find writing exercises in the coffeehouse to get things started. You’ll notice we moved it to a Facebook group: much easier access and interaction!
Is this your first time here?
Check out Sunday’s post which kicked off the week here at yeah write. If you don’t think you can remember to check back every Sunday, sign up for our email blasts. We send them directly to your inbox. No fuss!
Yeah write #235 fiction|poetry writing challenge is open for submissions!
You can check out the submission guidelines and join us with your essay using the link below.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
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