What's Happening?
Authors Jennifer Thorne and Lee Kelly recently discussed their collaborative writing process and the challenges faced by women in creative fields during an interview. The duo, known for their novel 'The Midnight Show,' highlighted their unique approach
to co-authoring, which has evolved over their ten years of working together. Initially, they would write separate chapters for different characters, but their process has become more integrated, often involving live writing sessions in shared documents. They emphasized that their latest book, 'The Midnight Show,' was written in a highly collaborative, dialogue-driven format, almost like a script, which allowed them to complete it rapidly, from February to June. This method, they explained, was particularly effective for a story featuring comedians, as it allowed their distinct voices to shine through without extensive prose narration. They also touched upon the meta aspect of their work, as they are two women collaborating on a book about women collaborating.
Why It's Important?
This discussion offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of collaborative authorship, particularly within the U.S. literary scene. The success of Thorne and Kelly's rapid writing process for 'The Midnight Show' demonstrates how innovative methods, such as live writing and dialogue-focused narratives, can accelerate production and potentially influence publishing timelines. Their experience also sheds light on persistent gender biases in creative industries. Kelly's anecdote about using a gender-neutral pen name for her sci-fi/fantasy work and Thorne's observations about being categorized as a 'female horror author' highlight the ongoing struggle for women to be recognized for their work without gender-specific labels. This impacts how female authors are marketed, reviewed, and perceived, potentially limiting their reach and critical reception compared to their male counterparts. Their candidness encourages a broader conversation about equitable representation and recognition in publishing and entertainment.
What's Next?
Thorne and Kelly are currently working on a new 'whodunit, locked-room mystery' with a cultural reference point. Additionally, they are expanding their collaborative efforts into screenwriting, adapting some of their solo projects, including Thorne's upcoming horror novel, into potential TV series. This move suggests a growing trend of authors leveraging their literary works for adaptation into other media, particularly television, which offers new avenues for storytelling and audience engagement. Their continued exploration of collaborative writing and adaptation could set precedents for other authors looking to diversify their creative output and reach wider audiences. The success of their current and future projects may further influence publishing strategies, encouraging more collaborative ventures and cross-media adaptations within the U.S. entertainment industry.
Beyond the Headlines
The authors' discussion delves into the deeper psychological and creative aspects of writing. Thorne's revelation that she writes to 'get it out' of her brain, and Kelly's comparison of writing to a 'necessity' like a tea kettle boiling, underscore the intrinsic drive many writers experience. Their shared 'antidote' to self-doubt – 'Shut the f*** up! Keep typing' – speaks to the universal struggle with imposter syndrome and self-criticism in creative endeavors. Furthermore, Thorne's favorite writing prompt, 'What is the worst thing that could happen in this circumstance?', highlights a method for exploring character depth and narrative tension, moving beyond superficial plot points to uncover profound emotional and psychological impacts. This approach not only enriches their storytelling but also offers a valuable lesson for aspiring writers on how to craft compelling narratives by understanding their characters' deepest fears and vulnerabilities.
