Things I'm learning

I'm a fan of reality TV. I admit it. Maybe it's the psychology degree. Maybe it's how utterly ridiculous most of the shows are. I don't know. I just love it. I'm a discerning soul, though. Not just any show. (Ok. Most shows. At least, the network ones. Cable is something that doesn't happen at my house.)

I'm currently watching the Bachelor, Kitchen Nightmares, and the Biggest Loser. There is so much DRAMA! But I keep coming back. I love it when the preview for the next episode says: "You will not believe what happens next!" Like it's some kind of never-heard-of, completely off-the-wall thing. I can almost always tell that something out of the ordinary is going on and a little of what it is going to be, but I still tune in for the next episode.

I think there is something to be learned for my writing. It might not matter if I have the most predictable turn of events, as long as I package it in an unexpected way. A friend of mine told me that every story has been written. All romances are essentially Romeo and Juliet. All adventure stories are really a Greek play. The thing that makes my story different is how I package it. I have to find a way to make it seem fresh and exciting. Just like the Bachelor can make a cheating girlfriend "unbelievable" and "unexpected."

Watch for more things I learn from the TV. It's actually very informative for a writer. ("What's that honey? Why do I have to watch the Bachelor? I'm getting ideas for my next big novel!")