Oh, how I love 3-octave scales, when they blister your fingers.
But really, they're awesome.
Absolutely.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Writing, Oh Writing!
How long has it been since I updated? All right, an irrelevant question; anyone can simply look at the difference between my past post date and today's. But just allow me that rhetorical question.
More updates on my writing: I have decided to scrap the current story. Not really the whole thing; just the setting. Instead of a science-fiction novel it will be a fantasy novel. Characters should remain the same, with similar personalities, but names may be altered to suit the time period. A comprehensive history and information on the demographics of the new world, as well as the specifics of its culture, technological status and magic system will be available when I get the time to work on it.
Not sure what else to say. I'll get back to you all when I remember what I want to say.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
23rd May
23rd May: a special day.
I went out with Sophia today, for a celebration. After 3 years of acquaintance, and 2 years of dating, we're still together.
I believe it says a fair amount about our devotion; most relationships I hear of last less than a month. Some can be measured in just days, in fact.
We bought a little special something today, to commemorate the occasion, as a symbol. And therefore, let us strive to keep this relationship strong and alive.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I got sick and tired of the E string on my violin the past week. The set of strings on my violin was a complete Dominant string set. The G, D and A strings sounded great: rich and with great overtones; I had no complaints there. Nevertheless, the E string had problems in satisfying my desire for a warm and soft tone. The harshness was just plain horrible. Its quality does not match the rest of the set, and apparently there is a large proportion of violinists who feel the same way.
Today, I went to the Esplanade, and chanced on a shop specializing in violins. I've forgotten the shop name, but that isn't really the issue here; the thing is, I decided to inquire about whether they stocked E strings or not. Unfortunately, they didn't stock the Jargar E string, which I'd heard plenty of wonderful reviews about; virtually all of them unanimously declared the Jargar Forte as the undisputed perfect match for the Dominants of the lower registers. I'm not really surprised they don't have it, for apparently production of these strings are somewhat sporadic, and they quickly go out of stock.
My next instinct was to try the Obligato/Eudoxa strings, but I realized these two sets were rather more expensive than I was able to pay. According to reviews, they are the only synthetic strings that sound closest to gut strings (which generally have beautifully complex overtones with a warm and gentle sound). I quickly zoomed in on the Evah Pirazzi E string: less than 10 dollars, and I hadn't heard much bad things about it.
When I went home, I changed the E string, and swiftly realized several things.
1. The string had BLOODY HIGH TENSION. It was hell to press it down onto the surface of the fingerboard in higher positions. If it doesn't stretch and settle in a few days I am going to cut my finger on it sooner or later.
2. The string is quite stable. It's easy to tune. However it does possess a rather metallic sound, which unfortunately bears resemblance to the Dominant's sound that I was trying so hard to get rid of. Bugger. I hope that it'll produce a better tone in a few days.
3. The presence of the E string has changed the tone of my violin. Now the G and D strings sound deeper with a good tone. Certainly an improvement.
Nevertheless, I will try Obligatos next. I will save up for it.
I went out with Sophia today, for a celebration. After 3 years of acquaintance, and 2 years of dating, we're still together.
I believe it says a fair amount about our devotion; most relationships I hear of last less than a month. Some can be measured in just days, in fact.
We bought a little special something today, to commemorate the occasion, as a symbol. And therefore, let us strive to keep this relationship strong and alive.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I got sick and tired of the E string on my violin the past week. The set of strings on my violin was a complete Dominant string set. The G, D and A strings sounded great: rich and with great overtones; I had no complaints there. Nevertheless, the E string had problems in satisfying my desire for a warm and soft tone. The harshness was just plain horrible. Its quality does not match the rest of the set, and apparently there is a large proportion of violinists who feel the same way.
Today, I went to the Esplanade, and chanced on a shop specializing in violins. I've forgotten the shop name, but that isn't really the issue here; the thing is, I decided to inquire about whether they stocked E strings or not. Unfortunately, they didn't stock the Jargar E string, which I'd heard plenty of wonderful reviews about; virtually all of them unanimously declared the Jargar Forte as the undisputed perfect match for the Dominants of the lower registers. I'm not really surprised they don't have it, for apparently production of these strings are somewhat sporadic, and they quickly go out of stock.
My next instinct was to try the Obligato/Eudoxa strings, but I realized these two sets were rather more expensive than I was able to pay. According to reviews, they are the only synthetic strings that sound closest to gut strings (which generally have beautifully complex overtones with a warm and gentle sound). I quickly zoomed in on the Evah Pirazzi E string: less than 10 dollars, and I hadn't heard much bad things about it.
When I went home, I changed the E string, and swiftly realized several things.
1. The string had BLOODY HIGH TENSION. It was hell to press it down onto the surface of the fingerboard in higher positions. If it doesn't stretch and settle in a few days I am going to cut my finger on it sooner or later.
2. The string is quite stable. It's easy to tune. However it does possess a rather metallic sound, which unfortunately bears resemblance to the Dominant's sound that I was trying so hard to get rid of. Bugger. I hope that it'll produce a better tone in a few days.
3. The presence of the E string has changed the tone of my violin. Now the G and D strings sound deeper with a good tone. Certainly an improvement.
Nevertheless, I will try Obligatos next. I will save up for it.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
So much work, so little time...
Or maybe, I'm just plain lazy.
But it just seems like there's a crapload of work to do. JC life really is quite strenuous, for all the praises that people give it (I'm kidding about the praises; it usually is classified under curses). Now, I'm well into my second year, and it's test after test after test. No week goes by without at least 1. Some subjects manage 2 tests, or even 3 a week. I don't know how I got past that.
I did, though. I got through Common Test, with rather disappointing, but expected results.
H2
Physics: A
Computing: A
Maths: C
H1
GP: C
Literature: S
Honestly, I did try my best (in the holidays) for Maths; I spent ALL my time on it, but apparently the very fact that I'd been lagging behind for a month in class or so (I blame it on my ABRSM violin examination) really condemned me down to a C. I guess I'm lucky I didn't fail. And on the day before my results for Maths were released, my teacher was sighing in a rather secretive manner about my results, which he refused to disclose. The way he went on about it, I was convinced I had failed. Looking back on it, I should at least be proud that he had such high standards for me.
Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like I'm really meeting them anymore. My work is quite behind. I need to catch up, bad.
And it's not because of my relationship with my girlfriend, or with writing, or anything like that. I have no idea why, but for all the long hours I spend at home, I rarely am able to get my arse off the chair to do some work. I haven't even been writing a single word for my novel recently, which really says a lot.
I believe I'm quite committed to it though. I suppose when I'm in a more relaxed state I'll get back to work on it. Meanwhile, the ideas flowing in are really reshaping the story. I've practically decided on using a different voice for my story: third-person instead of first-person.
Which... you can guess, involves a complete rewrite of the story.
But hey, I enjoy writing. It's my life.
Anyway, my violin teacher loaned me a violin that's half a century old recently. After doing a bit of restoration work (changing of strings, cleaning off residual rosin, etc), it sounded beautiful.
The violin will be mine, officially, in a short while. Right now, it's technically on loan to me, but since my teacher has agreed (actually, proposed) to lend it to me indefinitely, it'll be in my hands till then.
I don't know whether to laugh in joy at how well one half of my life is going, or to cry in despair at the rest.
...
I've made up my mind. Smiling is best. For all those who are reading this, thank you. Fight on in your life; let nothing stop you.
To our success in life!
But it just seems like there's a crapload of work to do. JC life really is quite strenuous, for all the praises that people give it (I'm kidding about the praises; it usually is classified under curses). Now, I'm well into my second year, and it's test after test after test. No week goes by without at least 1. Some subjects manage 2 tests, or even 3 a week. I don't know how I got past that.
I did, though. I got through Common Test, with rather disappointing, but expected results.
H2
Physics: A
Computing: A
Maths: C
H1
GP: C
Literature: S
Honestly, I did try my best (in the holidays) for Maths; I spent ALL my time on it, but apparently the very fact that I'd been lagging behind for a month in class or so (I blame it on my ABRSM violin examination) really condemned me down to a C. I guess I'm lucky I didn't fail. And on the day before my results for Maths were released, my teacher was sighing in a rather secretive manner about my results, which he refused to disclose. The way he went on about it, I was convinced I had failed. Looking back on it, I should at least be proud that he had such high standards for me.
Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like I'm really meeting them anymore. My work is quite behind. I need to catch up, bad.
And it's not because of my relationship with my girlfriend, or with writing, or anything like that. I have no idea why, but for all the long hours I spend at home, I rarely am able to get my arse off the chair to do some work. I haven't even been writing a single word for my novel recently, which really says a lot.
I believe I'm quite committed to it though. I suppose when I'm in a more relaxed state I'll get back to work on it. Meanwhile, the ideas flowing in are really reshaping the story. I've practically decided on using a different voice for my story: third-person instead of first-person.
Which... you can guess, involves a complete rewrite of the story.
But hey, I enjoy writing. It's my life.
Anyway, my violin teacher loaned me a violin that's half a century old recently. After doing a bit of restoration work (changing of strings, cleaning off residual rosin, etc), it sounded beautiful.
The violin will be mine, officially, in a short while. Right now, it's technically on loan to me, but since my teacher has agreed (actually, proposed) to lend it to me indefinitely, it'll be in my hands till then.
I don't know whether to laugh in joy at how well one half of my life is going, or to cry in despair at the rest.
...
I've made up my mind. Smiling is best. For all those who are reading this, thank you. Fight on in your life; let nothing stop you.
To our success in life!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
I Passed!
Woot! I found out yesterday that I managed to clear my music exam! Though I'm not really sure how that happened, seeing as my sight reading was all FUBAR. So now I'm officially a Grade 4 violinist. Still got a long way to go though.
On another note, I'm thinking of doing major revisions on my novel's storyline too, not just on the structure as I had mentioned earlier. These past few months of 'novel-less' time has given me a bit of perspective; particularly the weeks after my music exam ended, because I actually managed to get some time to continue thinking about the development of my story.
Anyway, I'm out.
On another note, I'm thinking of doing major revisions on my novel's storyline too, not just on the structure as I had mentioned earlier. These past few months of 'novel-less' time has given me a bit of perspective; particularly the weeks after my music exam ended, because I actually managed to get some time to continue thinking about the development of my story.
Anyway, I'm out.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Writing (yes, again)
It's been a long while since I did any work on my novel, and I regret the lapse, but it has allowed me plenty of time to think about the way I'm doing it.
The conclusion I've arrived at is simply that I cannot rely merely on my story's strengths. It has to be told well, too. I notice that people enjoy stories that, at every stage of its telling, involve something important. It could be character development, plot advancement. It could be anything that furthers the story.
What it cannot be, however, is purple prose.
Tons and tons of beautiful, elaborate imagery describing an incident or entity, that happens to do nothing but what was just mentioned. You could try reading the following passage and think about what actually happens in it.
Notice how your eye has the tendency to skip ahead? At least, mine does. I assure you, I had a hard time writing this crap (purely for demonstration purposes). And, I can say in a short sentence what the above paragraph took.. well.. a paragraph to say: The woman combed her hair.
Admittedly, the passage did throw in some other details, and we can infer a fair amount from what we read there: that the woman was (probably) prim and proper, that she had a (shiny blue) comb and a handbag, and that she had (good) hair.
But come on, would you really want to read something like that? I see a fair amount of this, and I often think, "Get on with it already!"
A lot of thick fat books on the market get by with something like this *hint* recent popular series *hint*, and fans flock to them like... I don't know. Suggest a good expression for fans.
Like, "Squeeeeee!" (sound that fangirls make)?
If I ever write like that shit, please bash my head against the wall.
But tell me first.
At any rate, now I'm working on tightening up my writing. There is a lot of background information thrown in as dialogue. Or at least, there was. It shouldn't be the case. Characters should not mention things that they know about to each other simply to let the reader know about it. An example of a telephone exchange, by yours truly, to demonstrate my point, is as follows:
I don't think I need to point out why this conversation is so horribly crafted. Nevertheless, for those not familiar with it:
This is widely known amongst writers as the "As you know, Bob" form of dialogue. It is, in fact, a term used by Wikipedia: "As you know, Bob"
I'll take a break for now.
The conclusion I've arrived at is simply that I cannot rely merely on my story's strengths. It has to be told well, too. I notice that people enjoy stories that, at every stage of its telling, involve something important. It could be character development, plot advancement. It could be anything that furthers the story.
What it cannot be, however, is purple prose.
Tons and tons of beautiful, elaborate imagery describing an incident or entity, that happens to do nothing but what was just mentioned. You could try reading the following passage and think about what actually happens in it.
The woman seated her posterior down primly upon the sleek wooden bench, and reached daintily into her pink fluffy handbag. With a gentle flourish, she brought out a shiny blue comb, bringing it through her lustrous golden hair, playfully teasing her locks in the way she usually styled her hair. Bringing it through once, and twice, she concluded her session of personal grooming, and placed her comb back into her handbag.
Notice how your eye has the tendency to skip ahead? At least, mine does. I assure you, I had a hard time writing this crap (purely for demonstration purposes). And, I can say in a short sentence what the above paragraph took.. well.. a paragraph to say: The woman combed her hair.
Admittedly, the passage did throw in some other details, and we can infer a fair amount from what we read there: that the woman was (probably) prim and proper, that she had a (shiny blue) comb and a handbag, and that she had (good) hair.
But come on, would you really want to read something like that? I see a fair amount of this, and I often think, "Get on with it already!"
A lot of thick fat books on the market get by with something like this *hint* recent popular series *hint*, and fans flock to them like... I don't know. Suggest a good expression for fans.
Like, "Squeeeeee!" (sound that fangirls make)?
If I ever write like that shit, please bash my head against the wall.
But tell me first.
At any rate, now I'm working on tightening up my writing. There is a lot of background information thrown in as dialogue. Or at least, there was. It shouldn't be the case. Characters should not mention things that they know about to each other simply to let the reader know about it. An example of a telephone exchange, by yours truly, to demonstrate my point, is as follows:
Bob: Hi Jane, my dear wife.
Jane: Hi.
Bob: What are you doing?
Jane: Cleaning up the old and musty shed using our blue broom.
Bob: I see. I thought you're supposed to be at the wake of our dear friend John, who died in a tragic car accident last Monday?
Jane: Oh no! I forgot all about it! Well, sorry. Anyway, I found out some details of his demise from Elena, who is his wife.
Bob: Tell me then. It remains an absolute mystery to everyone what happened.
Jane: As you know, Bob, John was driving along the PIE highway. When he was about to exit to CCK, he veered off course and smashed his beautiful Lexus into a lorry. Luckily, his wife survived the crash.
Bob: Yes. I know she survived the crash.
Jane: Yes. That's why this conversation is absolutely pointless.
I don't think I need to point out why this conversation is so horribly crafted. Nevertheless, for those not familiar with it:
This is widely known amongst writers as the "As you know, Bob" form of dialogue. It is, in fact, a term used by Wikipedia: "As you know, Bob"
I'll take a break for now.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Of Strings and Laptops
4 days after my music exam (i.e. today), I purchased a set of Thomastik-Infeld Dominant strings, and had them fitted on my violin. It cost me 50 dollars, but hell, it was worth it. The sound is rich and beautiful. It certainly makes a massive difference. Though I will have to change strings every 6 months to keep the sound, it's worth the cash. I'll keep shelling it out for the sake of my music career.
I took a dive and replaced Ubuntu with Fedora 10 on my laptop. I got sick of having to tweak Ubuntu all the time. Fedora 10 works out of the box. WOOT!
I took a dive and replaced Ubuntu with Fedora 10 on my laptop. I got sick of having to tweak Ubuntu all the time. Fedora 10 works out of the box. WOOT!
Friday, February 27, 2009
Finally...
... my music exam has ended.
I can say I did the best I could. I wonder how I'll do. The results will probably be out within two months, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
Anyway, now that it's over, I can focus on other things. I've just started to write again, continuing revising my novel. It won't be done for a long time. Besides this, I'm also learning some violin pieces that I've always wanted to play but couldn't because I was too focused on the exam pieces I had to play.
Oh yes, and there's academics as well. Yeah.
I can say I did the best I could. I wonder how I'll do. The results will probably be out within two months, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
Anyway, now that it's over, I can focus on other things. I've just started to write again, continuing revising my novel. It won't be done for a long time. Besides this, I'm also learning some violin pieces that I've always wanted to play but couldn't because I was too focused on the exam pieces I had to play.
Oh yes, and there's academics as well. Yeah.
Friday, February 13, 2009
CJ0990
I was recently given a couple of very amusing toys.
A Breadou Emoticon from Action City. It has an 'XD' face on it, and is very soft. I have to say it has come in useful many times recently; as a stress ball it works perfectly. Furthermore, the funky face on it really is rather cute.
On to Mokozi, A.K.A CJ0990.
Why CJ0990? Well, I guess because the little green toy, bearing a heart in its arms, fits nicely on my shoulder. And I realized that it was identical to how CJ7 sat on the kid's shoulder in the movie of the same name. Damned cute.
Thank you so very much for the gifts.
A Breadou Emoticon from Action City. It has an 'XD' face on it, and is very soft. I have to say it has come in useful many times recently; as a stress ball it works perfectly. Furthermore, the funky face on it really is rather cute.
On to Mokozi, A.K.A CJ0990.
Why CJ0990? Well, I guess because the little green toy, bearing a heart in its arms, fits nicely on my shoulder. And I realized that it was identical to how CJ7 sat on the kid's shoulder in the movie of the same name. Damned cute.
Thank you so very much for the gifts.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Birthday!
Wheee, another birthday come and gone! And with it comes new challenges, new goals, new aspirations, and renewed motivation. So much to do this year. Let's see:
1) Score well for my A'Levels
2) Pass my music exam at the least
3) Finish revising my novel and then scout for a good (:D) agent to market the book for me
4) Learn to draw (properly) and start putting my characters on paper
5) Continue to learn to play the violin and study music at my own leisurely pace
There. 2) will be concluded on 25th February, leaving just 1) and 3) to focus on for the year. Once the year is up, 1) will be gone, FOREVER.
Then what's remaining is 3), 4) and 5) ;D
Which is stuff I absolutely love to do.
I'm leading a good life I think. I have so much I want to learn, so much I want to do, and I have some very wonderful people who are there for me when I need them.
If you're reading this, there is a fairly high chance you are one of them. Nobody else actually gives a damn about this blog, to be honest.
But hey, I maintain a blog for fun ;D Have fun in life!
It's an adventure, right? Right?
:D Bouken desho desho
Till my next post, then.
Anyway, I now have a wishlist on the left ;) If you know me well, you'll know where to get at least 1 of what is listed.
1) Score well for my A'Levels
2) Pass my music exam at the least
3) Finish revising my novel and then scout for a good (:D) agent to market the book for me
4) Learn to draw (properly) and start putting my characters on paper
5) Continue to learn to play the violin and study music at my own leisurely pace
There. 2) will be concluded on 25th February, leaving just 1) and 3) to focus on for the year. Once the year is up, 1) will be gone, FOREVER.
Then what's remaining is 3), 4) and 5) ;D
Which is stuff I absolutely love to do.
I'm leading a good life I think. I have so much I want to learn, so much I want to do, and I have some very wonderful people who are there for me when I need them.
If you're reading this, there is a fairly high chance you are one of them. Nobody else actually gives a damn about this blog, to be honest.
But hey, I maintain a blog for fun ;D Have fun in life!
It's an adventure, right? Right?
:D Bouken desho desho
Till my next post, then.
Anyway, I now have a wishlist on the left ;) If you know me well, you'll know where to get at least 1 of what is listed.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Some music shuffle quiz
IF SOMEONE SAYS "IS THIS OKAY" YOU SAY?
Breath Of Life - Howard Shore
Doesn't make a lot of sense, but then again, what would you expect?
WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL?
SELECT? - Chihara Minori
Okay, I'm selective.
HOW DO YOU FEEL TODAY?
Yuki, Muon, Madobe Nite. - Chihara Minori
Okay. I'm feeling melancholic, that's true.
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE?
Hare Hare Yukai - Chihara Minori
To have fun? Yeah, actually I would have to agree.
WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
Kaza Yomi Ribbon - Hirano Aya
Don't quite know the meaning of the song; however seeing a few familiar phrases in the lyrics I'd say it's optimistic. And it's correct.
WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
Bouken Desho Desho? - Hirano Aya
Adventurous? I don't know. You decide.
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR PARENTS?
Twilight and Shadow - Howard Shore
Ah, ominous.
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
Nerevar Rising - Jeremy Soule
I don't think about the Nerevarine all that often, but I do think about the rise of people to noble fame through their deeds, yes.
WHAT IS 2+2?
Phantom of the Opera - Phantom of the Opera
How factual is that?
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
A Knife in the Dark - Howard Shore
It brings a sign of betrayal. Damn it.
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
I Say Yes - Zero no Tsukaima
Damn straight.
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
Hare Hare Yukai - Hirano Aya/Chihara Minori
Optimism, again, and I'd say it's true.
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
COOL EDITION - Kuwatani Natsuko
A cute, clever, popular, charming and sociable student whose only personality defect is to want to stab you in the guts, and still smile at you as though it were just a discussion about a trip to the movies?
How about no.
WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again - Phantom of the Opera
Yep.
WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
Glory of Cyrodiil - Jeremy Soule
I sure hope I'll be the glory of the land one day. ;)
WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING?
Kentai Life Returns! - Sugita Tomokazu
Hmm...
WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
Opera #2 - Vitas
Best funeral song ever. I love it.
WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
Vamo' alla Flamenco - Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra
Aha, now that is nice. Digging up treasure on a yellow bird doesn't really appeal to me though, but I think the orchestral version is destined for greater things, so yeah...
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
The Council of Elrond - Howard Shore
Cooperation? I sure hope so.
WHAT'S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN?
The Breaking of the Fellowship - Howard Shore
Aptly randomized.
HOW WILL YOU DIE?
Ash and Smoke - Howard Shore
Sounds like a war's coming.
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU REGRET?
One Winged Angel - Nobuo Uematsu
Steeped in blood so deep, that turning back would be as tedious as going the full mile?
I've never killed, but yeah.
WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH?
SELECT? - Chihara Minori
What the hell?
WHAT MAKES YOU CRY?
Forth Eorlingas - Howard Shore
That scene was pretty damned good.
WILL YOU EVER GET MARRIED?
I Say Yes - Zero no Tsukaima
The title says it all. And I know to whom I will say it to.
WHAT SCARES YOU THE MOST?
Hunter's Pursuit - Jeremy Soule
To be the prey is to live in fear.
DOES ANYONE LIKE YOU?
The Elder Scrolls Suite - Jeremy Soule, rearranged by Schleichmann
I'd say yes.
IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE?
May It Be - Enya
It's a reflective song, so I guess it works.
WHAT HURTS RIGHT NOW?
God Knows... - Hirano Aya
Yes. God knows.
WHAT WILL YOU POST THIS AS?
Hare Hare Yukai - Matsuoka Yuki
Something happy? Again?
Forgive all the Hare Hare Yukai instances. I have the one sung by Hirano Aya/Minori Chihara, AND 9 other versions tailored to the individual characters in SHnY.
There you go. Incidentally Matsuoka Yuki is the VA of Tsuruya-san.
Breath Of Life - Howard Shore
Doesn't make a lot of sense, but then again, what would you expect?
WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL?
SELECT? - Chihara Minori
Okay, I'm selective.
HOW DO YOU FEEL TODAY?
Yuki, Muon, Madobe Nite. - Chihara Minori
Okay. I'm feeling melancholic, that's true.
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE?
Hare Hare Yukai - Chihara Minori
To have fun? Yeah, actually I would have to agree.
WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
Kaza Yomi Ribbon - Hirano Aya
Don't quite know the meaning of the song; however seeing a few familiar phrases in the lyrics I'd say it's optimistic. And it's correct.
WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
Bouken Desho Desho? - Hirano Aya
Adventurous? I don't know. You decide.
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR PARENTS?
Twilight and Shadow - Howard Shore
Ah, ominous.
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
Nerevar Rising - Jeremy Soule
I don't think about the Nerevarine all that often, but I do think about the rise of people to noble fame through their deeds, yes.
WHAT IS 2+2?
Phantom of the Opera - Phantom of the Opera
How factual is that?
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
A Knife in the Dark - Howard Shore
It brings a sign of betrayal. Damn it.
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
I Say Yes - Zero no Tsukaima
Damn straight.
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
Hare Hare Yukai - Hirano Aya/Chihara Minori
Optimism, again, and I'd say it's true.
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
COOL EDITION - Kuwatani Natsuko
A cute, clever, popular, charming and sociable student whose only personality defect is to want to stab you in the guts, and still smile at you as though it were just a discussion about a trip to the movies?
How about no.
WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again - Phantom of the Opera
Yep.
WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
Glory of Cyrodiil - Jeremy Soule
I sure hope I'll be the glory of the land one day. ;)
WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING?
Kentai Life Returns! - Sugita Tomokazu
Hmm...
WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
Opera #2 - Vitas
Best funeral song ever. I love it.
WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
Vamo' alla Flamenco - Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra
Aha, now that is nice. Digging up treasure on a yellow bird doesn't really appeal to me though, but I think the orchestral version is destined for greater things, so yeah...
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
The Council of Elrond - Howard Shore
Cooperation? I sure hope so.
WHAT'S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN?
The Breaking of the Fellowship - Howard Shore
Aptly randomized.
HOW WILL YOU DIE?
Ash and Smoke - Howard Shore
Sounds like a war's coming.
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU REGRET?
One Winged Angel - Nobuo Uematsu
Steeped in blood so deep, that turning back would be as tedious as going the full mile?
I've never killed, but yeah.
WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH?
SELECT? - Chihara Minori
What the hell?
WHAT MAKES YOU CRY?
Forth Eorlingas - Howard Shore
That scene was pretty damned good.
WILL YOU EVER GET MARRIED?
I Say Yes - Zero no Tsukaima
The title says it all. And I know to whom I will say it to.
WHAT SCARES YOU THE MOST?
Hunter's Pursuit - Jeremy Soule
To be the prey is to live in fear.
DOES ANYONE LIKE YOU?
The Elder Scrolls Suite - Jeremy Soule, rearranged by Schleichmann
I'd say yes.
IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE?
May It Be - Enya
It's a reflective song, so I guess it works.
WHAT HURTS RIGHT NOW?
God Knows... - Hirano Aya
Yes. God knows.
WHAT WILL YOU POST THIS AS?
Hare Hare Yukai - Matsuoka Yuki
Something happy? Again?
Forgive all the Hare Hare Yukai instances. I have the one sung by Hirano Aya/Minori Chihara, AND 9 other versions tailored to the individual characters in SHnY.
There you go. Incidentally Matsuoka Yuki is the VA of Tsuruya-san.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Going up and up
The word count is really climbing now. After a lull without any fresh things to move things along in my writing, suddenly my mind has been inundated with interesting ideas. In checking with my beta readers, these are quite viable.
I'm really quite excited at the direction my writing is taking. I suppose they've come alive, in a sense, for me. Now, it doesn't matter that much to me even if it doesn't get published. I've learnt a lot from this first novel, and I do not intend to stop any time soon.
The work stands at 66 thousand words. Most of it is complete; the major story arc has been completed. The story was actually completed at about 56 thousand words, but with that also came the revealing of the (admittedly rather skeletal) personalities.
I decided to flesh out my characters a little (okay, a LOT) more than what they were. Now I think they are no longer those stereotypical heroes and villains who are motivated by unrealistic goals. They have fulfilled my vision. A difference of 10 thousand words dedicated solely to character development, with a conservative estimate of 2 thousand more to come is quite a lot I think.
As a result of this, the main story arc had to change. After the personalities were fleshed out, I realized there were points when what was said or done was not nearly real enough for me. However, I do enjoy working on it; it is an absolute pleasure for me.
Unfortunately, I have other duties as well. Academic obligations and music examinations looming ahead are also a large part of my life that I cannot discard. My academic results may well determine my future in this horribly unfair economy. Also, music is something that I will not give up, even if I could. I love it too much to do so.
At any rate, it seems I'm juggling quite a few things at the moment. We'll see how things go. Ultimately, my academics will have to come first, if things get nasty.
Oh and, happy early Chinese New Year! ;)
I'm really quite excited at the direction my writing is taking. I suppose they've come alive, in a sense, for me. Now, it doesn't matter that much to me even if it doesn't get published. I've learnt a lot from this first novel, and I do not intend to stop any time soon.
The work stands at 66 thousand words. Most of it is complete; the major story arc has been completed. The story was actually completed at about 56 thousand words, but with that also came the revealing of the (admittedly rather skeletal) personalities.
I decided to flesh out my characters a little (okay, a LOT) more than what they were. Now I think they are no longer those stereotypical heroes and villains who are motivated by unrealistic goals. They have fulfilled my vision. A difference of 10 thousand words dedicated solely to character development, with a conservative estimate of 2 thousand more to come is quite a lot I think.
As a result of this, the main story arc had to change. After the personalities were fleshed out, I realized there were points when what was said or done was not nearly real enough for me. However, I do enjoy working on it; it is an absolute pleasure for me.
Unfortunately, I have other duties as well. Academic obligations and music examinations looming ahead are also a large part of my life that I cannot discard. My academic results may well determine my future in this horribly unfair economy. Also, music is something that I will not give up, even if I could. I love it too much to do so.
At any rate, it seems I'm juggling quite a few things at the moment. We'll see how things go. Ultimately, my academics will have to come first, if things get nasty.
Oh and, happy early Chinese New Year! ;)
Sunday, January 18, 2009
The Future
For those, who are of my age, and are contemplating your prospects, whether you think you have any or not...
What do you want to be when you grow up? What do you want to do? What do you want to achieve? Is there anything, in life's twisting path, that you desperately want to experience?
Perhaps, all of you have different answers. I don't know yours, but I'd love to hear them. I invite your comments.
Yet, I am sure, somehow or another, all of your responses could be summed up in one sentence: "I want to succeed in life".
Such a vague statement. It almost seems trite, doesn't it? However, I think my surmise is correct.
I think that everyone wants to do well in life. To people it may mean excelling in school. It may mean riches or fame. But maybe, to a small group of people, it might just mean being happy. Would you rather be a miserable tycoon, or a happy pauper? I'd choose the latter.
For us, we're put through the Singapore education system. And certainly, I see a lot of resentment towards that very fact. I hear people say that it produces graduates who are unimaginative, as a result of the rote-learning that is prevalent in virtually every level of the system.
I'd first like to say that I too have an inherent distaste for this. I feel like a cookie-cutter student, destined to be the same as everyone else. We're sometimes made to take subjects that we simply are not interested in, and the reason for that is apparently because we should have some form of a broad-based education. That is why we cannot dedicate ourselves solely to the science stream, or to the arts stream. Regardless of how badly we fail in one stream, we simply have to take the subject. It tends to be that subject that prevents us from reaching those oh-so-lofty institutions of higher learning that we've always desired to enter.
There are some subjects I did that I really didn't want to do at all. I wanted to spend my time on other things; learning stuff that I enjoy. Academics are not everything; there are other pursuits, such as art, music and the like.
And yes, I did neglect those subjects. I failed miserably. But I don't regret it at all, not in the slightest. I've learnt far more in an hour studying what I love, than I have in a month memorizing all the stuff tested for the neglected subject.
My point is this: success is happiness. Do what you love, and love what you do; you'll get really good at it. Maybe you'll be the best. Don't listen to those people who say that you'll never make a living with it. You might not earn much, especially not in this lousy economy, but you'll be glad you learnt something you love.
Don't accuse me of saying that academics are not important. Sadly, they are, because the world places emphasis on credentials. That sucks.
But then again, that's only if you want a well-paying job, right?
I could be wrong about some things. If you disagree with me on the economy or on the education system, by all means, tell me about it.
What do you want to be when you grow up? What do you want to do? What do you want to achieve? Is there anything, in life's twisting path, that you desperately want to experience?
Perhaps, all of you have different answers. I don't know yours, but I'd love to hear them. I invite your comments.
Yet, I am sure, somehow or another, all of your responses could be summed up in one sentence: "I want to succeed in life".
Such a vague statement. It almost seems trite, doesn't it? However, I think my surmise is correct.
I think that everyone wants to do well in life. To people it may mean excelling in school. It may mean riches or fame. But maybe, to a small group of people, it might just mean being happy. Would you rather be a miserable tycoon, or a happy pauper? I'd choose the latter.
For us, we're put through the Singapore education system. And certainly, I see a lot of resentment towards that very fact. I hear people say that it produces graduates who are unimaginative, as a result of the rote-learning that is prevalent in virtually every level of the system.
I'd first like to say that I too have an inherent distaste for this. I feel like a cookie-cutter student, destined to be the same as everyone else. We're sometimes made to take subjects that we simply are not interested in, and the reason for that is apparently because we should have some form of a broad-based education. That is why we cannot dedicate ourselves solely to the science stream, or to the arts stream. Regardless of how badly we fail in one stream, we simply have to take the subject. It tends to be that subject that prevents us from reaching those oh-so-lofty institutions of higher learning that we've always desired to enter.
There are some subjects I did that I really didn't want to do at all. I wanted to spend my time on other things; learning stuff that I enjoy. Academics are not everything; there are other pursuits, such as art, music and the like.
And yes, I did neglect those subjects. I failed miserably. But I don't regret it at all, not in the slightest. I've learnt far more in an hour studying what I love, than I have in a month memorizing all the stuff tested for the neglected subject.
My point is this: success is happiness. Do what you love, and love what you do; you'll get really good at it. Maybe you'll be the best. Don't listen to those people who say that you'll never make a living with it. You might not earn much, especially not in this lousy economy, but you'll be glad you learnt something you love.
Don't accuse me of saying that academics are not important. Sadly, they are, because the world places emphasis on credentials. That sucks.
But then again, that's only if you want a well-paying job, right?
I could be wrong about some things. If you disagree with me on the economy or on the education system, by all means, tell me about it.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Achievements
I just enabled comments on my blog. Anyway..
These past months, I've been thinking a lot. About life, purpose, you know. Success, happiness, that sort of stuff.
I've been drifting all along like an aimless boat, not knowing what will happen, what I want, and not giving a damn about it. I didn't know what success felt like, because I never did set any goals to reach. Yet, looking back on the last quarter of 2008, I've suddenly realized that things are much clearer now. It seemed like a dream, but now it all makes sense.
It all came from my writing, but since I've been blabbing about it for so long at you all, I think I'll not mention it in detail. However, it is what gave me my first sense of success.
My first goal was to hit 60 thousand words, the average length of a novel. 75 thousand, perhaps, for some publishers, but I set it at the former. I never really thought I would hit that goal. It seemed just like the clouds; I could see it, even envelope myself in it, but it would never become tangible in my hands. And yet... I simply persisted.
It was hard work, perhaps, but the real secret is.. some sort of blind, unwavering passion. Sometimes, you just have to go a little crazy. Sometimes, just grab inspiration from the wildest things. Dream big, jump in, don't plan, and don't stop.
I hit my goal a long time ago. And now, it's still inching its way upwards, towards the 75 thousand mark. Not because I'm forcing anything in, but because my characters demand it.
Don't think about how far there is left. Don't discourage yourself by thinking 'there's like a crapload more to do'. There is much more to you than you think. Just take things a little at a time. Looking down at the ground, you slowly inch forth. Progress may be like a snail, but keep moving. Putting your feet, one in front of the other, repeating the same motions, suddenly you look up, and there it is. There you are, at your goal, at the place you never dreamed you'd be.
You may not have done a very good job, but you've done it. You've achieved what you've always wanted. You've done what you never thought you could do.
The next time round, the difference is, you know it's possible.
And you know, without a hint of hesitation, that you can do it again.
These past months, I've been thinking a lot. About life, purpose, you know. Success, happiness, that sort of stuff.
I've been drifting all along like an aimless boat, not knowing what will happen, what I want, and not giving a damn about it. I didn't know what success felt like, because I never did set any goals to reach. Yet, looking back on the last quarter of 2008, I've suddenly realized that things are much clearer now. It seemed like a dream, but now it all makes sense.
It all came from my writing, but since I've been blabbing about it for so long at you all, I think I'll not mention it in detail. However, it is what gave me my first sense of success.
My first goal was to hit 60 thousand words, the average length of a novel. 75 thousand, perhaps, for some publishers, but I set it at the former. I never really thought I would hit that goal. It seemed just like the clouds; I could see it, even envelope myself in it, but it would never become tangible in my hands. And yet... I simply persisted.
It was hard work, perhaps, but the real secret is.. some sort of blind, unwavering passion. Sometimes, you just have to go a little crazy. Sometimes, just grab inspiration from the wildest things. Dream big, jump in, don't plan, and don't stop.
I hit my goal a long time ago. And now, it's still inching its way upwards, towards the 75 thousand mark. Not because I'm forcing anything in, but because my characters demand it.
Don't think about how far there is left. Don't discourage yourself by thinking 'there's like a crapload more to do'. There is much more to you than you think. Just take things a little at a time. Looking down at the ground, you slowly inch forth. Progress may be like a snail, but keep moving. Putting your feet, one in front of the other, repeating the same motions, suddenly you look up, and there it is. There you are, at your goal, at the place you never dreamed you'd be.
You may not have done a very good job, but you've done it. You've achieved what you've always wanted. You've done what you never thought you could do.
The next time round, the difference is, you know it's possible.
And you know, without a hint of hesitation, that you can do it again.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Done!
It's a little late to say this, but I'm done with the first draft of my book.
Long done actually. Now I'm moving into several revision stages that will see the cutting out of deadwood, and the addition of vital points. I've sent it out to a few people for reading and for honest feedback, and to these people I express my utmost gratitude. There are some mistakes which I, as the writer, would never have managed to catch if not for their discerning eyes. The contribution of valuable ideas also helped me a lot, and I have to thank them for their help.
Now I realize, what I've always really wanted to be isn't a programmer, or anything like that. Certainly, I'm technically inclined, as can be seen by my nerdy disposition and my obsession with any physics concept that could potentially turn your brain inside out (like quantum mechanics, time travel, relativity).
I've always wanted to be a writer. My English has, I think, always been at an acceptable standard, and I love to read and write. I'm a real sucker for a good story, especially for those that engage the mind and not just the heart. It probably all started when I read Tolkien's books. And given the ceaseless encouragement of my teachers, and even my classmates (when my teacher made me write an article for Straits Times in exchange for waiving detention for the whole class), it has never stopped ever since.
However, it fell into a period of stasis for a while. I didn't read or write much in my secondary school days. I used to make excuses such as "no time". Last October (I think, maybe earlier), I was suddenly spurred on to write a novel, given the hearty encouragement of one of my friends.
This novel is the culmination of several years of ideas that I've always wanted to put into a story, inspiration from several TV shows and books that I've watched and read, and many sleepless nights, cups of coffee and bars of chocolates. My writing style is influenced heavily by Douglas Adam's non-sequiturs, Terry Pratchett's hilarious sarcasm, and Tanigawa Nagaru's cynicism (in Tanigawa's case, indirectly, for I simply read translations of his work). Though Tolkien was what really caused my love for literature in the first place, I have moved past the highly descriptive style that he enjoys, preferring to enter the ground of the short, the terse and the succinct.
All this will show in my novel. Whether it is going to be published or not, I really have no idea, and to be honest, I don't quite give a damn. I wrote it because I had a story I wanted to tell. I will be seeking an agent when I have the time, and hopefully I will be able to find one with connections in New York. If there's a story you want to read, but cannot find in any book, then be the one to write it.
For those who have expressed interest in reading it, I thank you. Even if I haven't sent my work to you, I cannot express how much it means to me that there are actually people who desire to read it. It's what keeps me going. There are subsequent novels in the planning stages, and I do not plan to stop any time soon.
If you've read this far without skipping, it means you can stand my verbose writing and are willing to read it. To end off, yet again, thanks.
Long done actually. Now I'm moving into several revision stages that will see the cutting out of deadwood, and the addition of vital points. I've sent it out to a few people for reading and for honest feedback, and to these people I express my utmost gratitude. There are some mistakes which I, as the writer, would never have managed to catch if not for their discerning eyes. The contribution of valuable ideas also helped me a lot, and I have to thank them for their help.
Now I realize, what I've always really wanted to be isn't a programmer, or anything like that. Certainly, I'm technically inclined, as can be seen by my nerdy disposition and my obsession with any physics concept that could potentially turn your brain inside out (like quantum mechanics, time travel, relativity).
I've always wanted to be a writer. My English has, I think, always been at an acceptable standard, and I love to read and write. I'm a real sucker for a good story, especially for those that engage the mind and not just the heart. It probably all started when I read Tolkien's books. And given the ceaseless encouragement of my teachers, and even my classmates (when my teacher made me write an article for Straits Times in exchange for waiving detention for the whole class), it has never stopped ever since.
However, it fell into a period of stasis for a while. I didn't read or write much in my secondary school days. I used to make excuses such as "no time". Last October (I think, maybe earlier), I was suddenly spurred on to write a novel, given the hearty encouragement of one of my friends.
This novel is the culmination of several years of ideas that I've always wanted to put into a story, inspiration from several TV shows and books that I've watched and read, and many sleepless nights, cups of coffee and bars of chocolates. My writing style is influenced heavily by Douglas Adam's non-sequiturs, Terry Pratchett's hilarious sarcasm, and Tanigawa Nagaru's cynicism (in Tanigawa's case, indirectly, for I simply read translations of his work). Though Tolkien was what really caused my love for literature in the first place, I have moved past the highly descriptive style that he enjoys, preferring to enter the ground of the short, the terse and the succinct.
All this will show in my novel. Whether it is going to be published or not, I really have no idea, and to be honest, I don't quite give a damn. I wrote it because I had a story I wanted to tell. I will be seeking an agent when I have the time, and hopefully I will be able to find one with connections in New York. If there's a story you want to read, but cannot find in any book, then be the one to write it.
For those who have expressed interest in reading it, I thank you. Even if I haven't sent my work to you, I cannot express how much it means to me that there are actually people who desire to read it. It's what keeps me going. There are subsequent novels in the planning stages, and I do not plan to stop any time soon.
If you've read this far without skipping, it means you can stand my verbose writing and are willing to read it. To end off, yet again, thanks.
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