The Carver's House

It's nice to do a short piece now and then. Something like 90 minutes for this one. Click on the image to enlarge.

Success can only go so far, especially if you don't know how you achieved success in the first place. That was my dilemma when the first Zaturnnah book hit it big. While many nice people have told me how "brilliant" the graphic novel was, I was at a loss. Where was the brilliance? Why did a lot of people like it, talk about it, and share it, as opposed to other Filipino comics? I had no clue. One could argue that the camp humor, the "gayness" and the nostalgia had a lot to do with the success. But were they the only factors? Could someone else have similarly combined all those bits in a narrative and achieve the same enthusiastic audience reception? Was the Zaturnnah book a fluke, something of novelty that no one had thought of making, and something that was in its own league? Maybe. Possibly. It became a challenge to me when I decided to create a sequel, because I felt I didn't have enough ammunition--camp humor, gayness, nostalgia--to fill another Zatu...

These five tips are more reminders to myself than anything else. A) Punch your reader with a strategically-placed potentially iconic moment , that is, 1) a critical part of your story that's 2) not only visually arresting, but also 3) triggers a strong emotional response in your reader that 4) lingers long after your book is put down. It becomes iconic when the reader 5) associates that moment with a real-life event. B) Make advantages disadvantages, and vice-versa. Add depth to your characters by exploring situations where a character's strength is actually a weakness (because perfection is boring), and where a weakness is actually a strength (because we root for underdogs). And make these developments matter in the course of your story. Strengths and weaknesses can be, but are not limited to, abilities, a personality trait, a status in society, or even a relationship. C) Apart from dramatic roles, assign thematic roles to charac...

[Press release from Tanghalang Pilipino] In honour of Jose Rizal’s 150th birthday, Noli Me Tangere: The Musical will officially open Tanghalang Pilipino’s Silver Theater Season. The critically acclaimed musical adapted by Ryan Cayabyab from Rizal’s most famous work will be restaged, with libretto by National Artist Bienvenido Lumbera and under the direction of theater luminary Audie Gemora . Costume design is by National Artist Salvador Bernal . The artistic panel is now on its final stages in completing the powerhouse cast, including the finalization of the participation of Mark Bautista as Ibarra and Cris Villonco as Maria Clara. The official cast will be announced during the latter part of May. A series of special events are now in the planning stages as part of the prestigious celebration, such as an exhibit of Bernal’s works – which will be mounted during the entire run of the production. A special auction is also set as renowned jeweler, Hans Brumman, creates pieces ins...

With the May issue of Good Housekeeping, you'll learn: how to save time, money, and effort prepping for the coming school year; recipes your kids can help make; how to add oomph to your garden with potted plants; the most important lessons celebs learned from their moms; Mother's Day ideas and treats, and a whole lot more... for only P100!! Mas mura pa sa sine! Also, get the chance to win a P150,000 Kitchen Makeover! Buy na! Now na!

click image to enlarge

EDITORIAL SENIOR STAFFWRITERS – [2] YES! Must be 25-35 y/o and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication, Management, or any related field At least a year of related work experience preferably gained in a publishing industry. Able to write, edit, and think creatively and independently; A self-starter and can conceptualize new ideas on a constant basis Able to communicate well with confidence. Detail oriented, focused, and has a knack on meeting deadlines without sacrificing the quality of work to be done. Hard working, patient, and organized, very resourceful and high-spirited. BEAUTY EDITOR – OK! At least a Bachelor's/College Degree in Editing & Publication, Mass Communications, Advertising/Media or equivalent. At least 2 years of related working experience. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Very interested and well-versed in beauty topics. Loves topics involving women issues. A team player, very organized and focused on deadlines...