As a writer, it is sometimes difficult to place the destiny of a written work into the hands of a publication. On one hand, there is the excitement that comes with the waiting period of the publication's decision to publish the work. When submitting a story (or novel for that matter) it is customary for the writer to adhere to the publication's guidelines. Those guidelines include the response time it will take for the publication to render its decision of the story. Whether its the author's first time submitting to a publication or their fiftieth story they have submitted to a publication, I have to believe that there is always that brimming anticipation of checking one's email or mailbox for that letter fateful of acceptance. On the other hand, there is also a fear that that accompanies such high hopes. Some call it "fear of failure/rejection" and others deem it "lack of confidence." I recognize it as a subconscious entity that I relate to as my "writer's beast." What it boils down to is that most artists--whether they be writers, sculptors, or vocalists--are their own worst critic; therefore, it is common to experience such self-doubt when submitting their art for examination.
On that note, I finished editing my story, Puppeteer, this afternoon, prepared that all important query letter (that should accompany any story) and have submitted it for possible publication. The waiting game ensues.
In Puppeteer (as with many of my latest writings), I wanted to create a blend of realism and the dark fantastic to the final product. Therefore, to achieve a modern reality that could segue into a world of horror, I began brainstorming the concept of true evil. Of course, the first thing I thought of was how Man himself is his own worst enemy. Not to mention, Man is quite possibly the most evil being inhabiting the Earth. This is due to Man's ability to express emotion. Think of it...Man has the ability to affect others with his emotions of sadness, happiness, jealousy, fear, control...ahem...CONTROL. We have a winner!
Control was the key premise to the creation of Puppeteer (does the title make sense now?). Soon, using the power of a writer's best friend--brainstorming--I began thinking of a realistic scenario of control. The idea of control in a relationship immediately came to mind. I can't even count, on two hands, the number of people I have met in my life who have suffered the spiteful wrath of a domineering boyfriend (or girlfriend) while in a relationship. Just think...how far would one go to control his or her better half? To what extent would he or she profess his love to MAKE the other KNOW that he or she loved him? For better, for worse. How much worse? Where is the imaginary line that draws the boundary of going too far in the name of love? What's more, can the control of a person's love be so great that extends into the afterlife?
With all these thoughts at hand, it became easy to understand who the adversary of my story was and who the victim. It was plain to associate the act of control with that of a monster reminiscent of legend. Hence, Puppeteer was born.
I could go on and on, but I don't want to spoil the story. I need my readers to be able to enjoy the end product! However, it's funny to think of how much thought goes into a plot when the story itself is short. After all, Puppeteer is approximately 1500 words in length. Still, it make a statement and punches the reader into a reality turned maddening.
Of course, I will keep you all updated on possible publication of Puppeteer. Simply tune in to my future blogs. Until then, remember that control begins and ends with you.
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andrew_wolter- Andrew Wolter
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