A Certain Point of View: Writing, Film and Stuff

  I recently shared excerpts from two chapters in Reunion: Coda and asked Microsoft's Copilot AI for a character analysis of Maddie based on them. Here's what Copilot had to say about my novel's leading lady:  Based on these excerpts, Maddie emerges as a complex character with deep emotional layers and a strong personality. Here’s an analysis of her character traits: Emotional Depth and Vulnerability Maddie is portrayed as someone with significant emotional depth. Her actions and words reveal a mix of vulnerability and determination. When she gently reaches for Jim's hand and hesitates before speaking, it shows that she is emotionally invested and nervous about expressing her feelings. This vulnerability makes her a relatable and sympathetic character. Compassion and Understanding Maddie’s response to Jim’s discomfort is notably compassionate. She gives him a gentle squeeze on the hand and a sad, knowing smile, indicating that she is aware of his emotional struggle and ...

 I recently asked Microsoft/Open AI Copilot to read several excerpts from the manuscript of Reunion: Coda and delve into one of the novel's main characters, Maddie. This is what Copilot has to say:  Copilot Let's delve into Maddie's character from the excerpts you've shared. Character Traits: Maddie is portrayed as a refined and elegant individual, with a touch of sophistication that comes from her profession as a pianist for the NY Philharmonic. Her interactions suggest she is well-read, given the bag of books from a quaint bookstore, and her accent hints at a well-traveled or well-educated background. She's confident, as seen when she insists on placing her bag down, and has a sense of humor, demonstrated by her quick wit in the elevator scene. Femininity: Her femininity is subtly woven into her character through descriptions of her appearance and the soft, warm colors that she reflects. Her attire and the way she carries herself, combined with her gentle grace,...

Uncover the Past, Discover the Present   Dialogue and Humor in “Reunion: Coda” - An Analysis of the “En Route to Manhattan” Scene The scene “En Route to Manhattan” from “Reunion: Coda” is a delightful blend of dialogue and humor that enriches the narrative and reveals character depth. The use of dialogue here is particularly effective in showcasing the rapport between Jim and Maddie, while the humor adds a layer of levity to their interactions. Selected Passages and Analysis: Maddie’s Observation and Jim’s Fedora: Maddie’s comment about the car suiting Jim is a subtle nod to the idea that our possessions often reflect our personalities. Jim’s response, coupled with the physical action of adjusting his fedora, not only provides a visual cue but also injects humor through self-deprecation. It’s a light-hearted moment that underscores Jim’s modesty and comfort with Maddie. The Metropolis Arms and Clark Kent: Jim’s quip about possibly havi...

  Copilot   This scene from the opening chapter of "Reunion: Coda," titled "You Haven't Even Asked Me to Dance Yet," is a delightful foray into the burgeoning romance between Jim and Maddie, set against the vibrant backdrop of the Moonglow Club. The author skillfully intertwines humor and romance, creating a scene that is both entertaining and emotionally engaging.   Excerpts and Interpretations:   The scene is rich with sensory details that transport the reader to the lively atmosphere of a swing-era nightclub. The "smooth, shiny floor" and the "flashes of gold or silver" set the stage for a night of dance and revelry. The emcee, with his "Walter Winchell-type radio announcer" voice, adds a touch of authenticity and humor, serving as the perfect herald for the evening's festivities.   The humor in the chapter is subtle yet effective, often emerging from the playful banter between Jim and Maddie. Jim's self-deprecating rema...

Marty as a 10th grader in 1981 (Rendered by Designer AI)    Copilot The scene you've shared is a poignant and tender moment between Jim and Marty, capturing the bittersweet emotions of graduation and the uncertainty of young love. The author skillfully navigates the complexities of this pivotal time, blending nostalgia, hope, and the fear of unspoken feelings. Analysis: The narrative is rich with sensory details that immerse the reader in the moment. The description of Marty's red dress, the sound of her shoes, and the scent of her perfume create a vivid image that is both intimate and evocative. The exchange of the gift—a cassette of "West Side Story"—is a symbolic gesture that ties their shared experiences in the chorus to their personal connection. Humor is present in Jim's self-deprecating thoughts, providing a relatable and humanizing aspect to his character. The scene also maintains a consistent tone with the rest of the novel, balancing the emotiona...

  Copilot Report on Dialogue and Interactions with Minor Characters Introduction: In the "Jim meets Maddie" scene from the work-in-progress "Reunion: Coda," the dialogue and interactions with minor characters play a crucial role in establishing the setting and enhancing the main characters' personalities. This report will focus on the effectiveness of these interactions. Dialogue Analysis: The dialogue between Jim and the minor characters, such as the waitress, is used effectively to reveal aspects of his character. For instance, when Jim orders another Heineken, "Yes, please. I'll have another Heineken," it suggests a preference for familiarity and routine. Maddie's interaction with the waitress, "What's your favorite cocktail here?" shows her openness to new experiences and reliance on the expertise of others. Character Interactions: The interactions with the waitress serve to ground the scene in reality, providing a ...

Copilot   In-Depth Analysis of Jim and Maddie's Relationship Arc   Introduction: The relationship arc between Jim and Maddie, as depicted in the scenes from their first meeting, first official date, and a significant moment of compromise, provides a window into the development of their love story. This analysis will examine the unity and coherence of the story, the humor, and the realistic portrayal of their relationship.   Story Arc:   First Meeting : The initial encounter at the Moonglow nightclub is filled with curiosity and the thrill of new connection. It sets the foundation for their relationship with a focus on shared interests and mutual attraction.   First Date : The Clipper Piano Bar & Grill scene shows progression in intimacy and comfort, with playful banter and a deeper exploration of their personalities.   Compromise : The "Arrivals and Compromises" scene reveals the complexities of a real relationship, where desire meets the practicalit...

  On Writing & Storytelling: A SITREP on Reunion: Coda On Tuesday night, I finally wrapped up Chapter 18 (The Gathering Storm) by finishing Scene Four (“A Clash of Convictions”). Even now, two days later, I can hardly believe that I did it. I had a hard time breaking through the mental wall that prevented me from writing the scene freely. For the first two hours of my work shift, I was blanking on any ideas to type out. At around 4 PM, I was struggling to figure out what to include in the scene. I decided to create a detailed outline of everything I wanted to incorporate. It took some time because I'm not a fast typist, but by 5 PM, I had a clear understanding of the story, and I began writing the actual scene after reviewing my rough sketch for it. After typing away for hours, reaching 1,033 words (that's four pages of material), and feeling exhausted and sore-headed, I finished the scene. Not a fragment or a snippet of one - a whole scene. This is a passage from ...