Homage Vs Copyright Vs Cliche in writing books

[Kim]

One thing that you should keep in mind that is often my downfall is think about the medium you're writing it for. For example, you're writing a book, but, based on what little I know, it gives off the impression that it would work better in manga form, as even though it's fantasy, a lot of the elements would seem less out of place. So, when you have an idea, really think about what medium the idea seems best suited for. Would it be better as a book, or a live action television show? Would it be better as an anime, or as a three panel webcomic? Obviously, unless you have some art skills, you're generally going to be restricted to the book medium, but it does help to take some time to think about what medium your idea would work best in.

[Bells]

Both, although having a power evolve would make more sense if it was at least described in a way that makes it more sentient or at least ever-changing.

This actually spans over the entire narrative. It's the physical element that i use to showcase a character that goes from a peacefull strategist, to a frontline warrior, mostly because he starts to see that basically, he needs to be that person he doesn't like to be. The "Verbal" trigger for spells is something that i use in a ... dynamic way, you could say.

As basically, you can create an effect without saying a word or doing any gesture. But when you need to juggle several effects in short time with full power (like in a intense battle situation).. those triggers come in play like "mental shortcuts". So i guess i understand what you're saying... and i can put it under control. But maybe i should tighten the leash a bit more on that element.

One thing that you should keep in mind that is often my downfall is think about the medium you're writing it for. For example, you're writing a book, but, based on what little I know, it gives off the impression that it would work better in manga form, as even though it's fantasy, a lot of the elements would seem less out of place.

Actually, and this is not bragging, it's just that i really like how this thing ended up shaped. If i could draw, i'm sure this could be a kick ass manga. No doubt... but over the years, when i think of the dialog and the descriptions... it all sorta, grew into a more detailed narrative... I'm actually struggling at some points because some dialogs are running too long

[bluestarultor]

See, I really don't see a problem with using keywords for your spells. That's half of what makes things magic in most cases. What you DO need to strive for is consistency, so that any attacks that build from one another build verbally as well.

Take, for instance, someone who uses a sonic attack. Let's call her Maria, and her attack word can be "sonora." If she fires it from one hand, it's just Sonora. If she needs to fire it from both, it might be Sonora Third, after a third musical interval. If she also fires one from her mouth, it might turn into Sonora Major, after the chord using a base, dominant, and descant, in a 1, 3, 5 pattern of notes. It's all Sonora, and the building happens in musical terms to go with the sound. And because Maria is a Spanish name, using "sonora" as her keyword is appropriate.

In short, you want to stick to a base and stick to a theme. Done right, it's a nice way to avoid filling your pages with gibberish.