You want to write? Are you sure?

I know a writer very well. His name is Gareth James Brookes. He is a TV and film screenwriter, editor, script consultant and has been a script and story executive for major companies (Sony, FremantleMedia, Granada, BBC - the lot). Until I saw him "in action" I had no idea how writing (story telling, story outlining, character development, dialogue) is done.

"A story is a metaphor for life."

This is the first thing Gareth taught us, the ones working in the writing department, young aspiring TV writers and editors almost 20 years ago. It sounds easy and simple but when you start applying this concept you realise it's not that easy. It takes passion and dedication and research and a lot, a lot of elbow grease.

Gareth loves living in Romania. As you can see, it's indicated with flags.

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Gareth writes every day for at least 6 hours. He is one of the hardest working person I know. When he feels a bit tired or sick, he doesn't stop writing, he switches to researching. 10 % inspiration, 90% perspiration is aptly used in this context.

Let me continue with a gross understatement: writing is not an easy job. He sits at his desk all day and thinks. And then he writes a little. To the people around him (he works in Coftale), he looks a bit mad I suppose, eyes glazed, imagining different situations his characters are in.

And believe me when I tell you he has the best, funniest, meatiest characters in the world.

Every time he creates a new character he or she becomes my favourite ever. You cannot blame me too much.

My latest crush is Chantelle Chartreuse - the noir femme fatale private detective. She is smoking hot but cool and likes whisky and cake and does noir poses against the blinds in the office. "She exists in a monochrome world of murder, mystery and monologues".

Here's one:

Yeah, lots of screwing in this game. Did I mention Chantelle is a parody? Oh yeah. She's funny and cool and collected at all times.

The moment Chantelle becomes real in a form or another you will be the first to know.

He has other great characters. Actually lots of them. He writes comedy, drama, romance or apocalyptic scenarios with the same gusto and visual flair.

You can (and I strongly advise it) check his IG page where there are many quotes like the one above from his work over the years. They are taken out of context but you'll get a feel for his immense talent.

Gareth has been known to teach writing workshops before and he's up for another one soon. He thinks he can share his experience with both aspiring and established writers, video game creators, blog writers, influencers, youtubers and all people out there who need a bit of structure in their story telling.

Gareth's story workshop is called The Story Road Trip (February 22, 2020/Lucrativ in Bucharest) and you can register here. You will leave with a better idea of how to write your stories and build stronger characters but you will also have lots of fun. Gareth is a cheeky scouser and is know to be a social animal. He comes alive amongst people and will deliver a great performance. It will not be a boring event, it will be fun, engaging, interesting and stimulating. I should know. I live with the man.

If you do decide to go, drop me a line, it will be interesting to hear from you. If you don't you can help by sharing this article.

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#writing #screenwriting #storytelling #Netflix #scriptwriting #HBO #creatingworlds #passingonknowledge

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