Slinging Pens with =SingingFlames

What are your favorite fandoms to write for?

I love writing for Transformers. Almost all of my fan fictions are set in the Transformers universe. I also truly enjoyed my foray into the Batman fandom.

What is it about these fandoms that inspires you? I'm a sucker for a well-defined and thought out antagonist. Give me interesting bad guys, and I'm sold. Both of those fandoms have intriguing antagonists. I love exploring their motivations and how they got where they are. In almost all of the Transformers continuities, my favorite characters have been amongst the Decepticons (the antagonists, for those unfamiliar with the fandom). And I've always believed that Batman has some of the best villains I've ever encountered. Their backstories make us sympathize with them. We can understand them, and part of us wishes that things worked out for them (okay, perhaps not when they're trying to blow up Gotham, but you get my meaning).

By no means does this mean I don't like the two series' protagonists. It's hard not to feel inspired by them. But the classic "good guy" is more familiar territory for most people. We already know their motivations, and we're relatively sure they will conquer any moral and/or physical obstacles they face (maybe not how they'll do it, but that's why we watch/read about them). They may falter, suffer and occasionally die (and possibly come back - yes, I'm looking at you Optimus Prime, in pretty much every Transformers continuity). But we know what to expect.

With antagonists, they play by different rules. And sometimes cheat.

What fandom would you like to write for but haven't yet, and why?

Hmm, that's a tough one. I'm a fan of so many. But I'll narrow it down to two: Star Wars and Star Trek. As for why, I'll also give you two reasons: I am a perfectionist, and I am horrible at techno-babble. If I write something, I want my fic to do justice to the original work(s). Both of those franchises have so much history and technology to draw from. I research all my stories, unless it's something I know backwards, forwards, and the shoe size of. I'd be worried about overlooking something obvious, or trying to include some bit of technology, misunderstanding it and then using it wrong.

What authors have had the most influence over your own writing style?

Neil Gaiman has had an impact on how I approach my story ideas. I once read an interview where he stated that he tried to never write anything similar to his previous works. I try to always find new situations to explore, new conflicts. I never want to get repetitive. If I see that I've mainly used Characters A and B for the last couple fics, but Character C hasn't done much, I'll be sure that the next story focuses on him or her.

Another author I greatly admire is Stephen King. The man is a master at details and characterization. I've often attempted to describe my cast through their actions, not by actually stating their traits, as Mr. King does so well.

What is your favorite thing about the deviantART fanfic community?

We really are a community. Everyone is so supportive and helpful. I have made several friends with my fellow fanfic writers and readers. deviantART is my social network.

Give me a shoutout to two deviants who have given you some good advice!

Go back and find the first story you posted on dA, fanfic or original, and post the thumb here. Now tell us about a flaw in past-you's writing style that present-you no longer has!

Transformers: Subterfuge Ch 1NOTE: This is based on the movie-verse continuity.This fic occurs about a year after Revenge of the Fallen. Soundwave is still in orbit, and Laserbeak is the only Transformer from DOTM who makes an appearance in this. Rated G
Chapter One
Truly, the indigenous lifeforms of this planet were convoluted, Starscream mused. Case in point, he considered the name they bestowed to the landmass he flew over. More than 75% of the surface was covered in ice, yet the fleshings called this place 'Greenland.' In fact, little green existed anywhere here. The  Decepticon idly scanned for the color as he patrolled, compiling a ratio of occurrence between green and other colors present to pass his time. The results did not impress him.
As he circled toward the west coast, he strayed within a few miles of one of the humans scientific stations. The weather was clear – as it had been on Starscream's other flybys – and he wondered if the 'observation outpost' would 'observe' him. H
This fic has a special place in my heart. It's the first fan fiction I ever wrote, and it got me back into writing after almost a decade away from a keyboard. Looking back, I can see that it's rough. I was trying to sound "techy," as it's told mainly from a Transformer's POV. However, it comes off as too wordy and unnatural. I admit I'm horrible at judging the quality of my own work, but I believe (hope) I've improved my literary voice since then.

How about some goals you have, writing-wise?

Simply put, to improve my skill. I see so many outstanding authors online and in print, and I hope to write at that level some day. I have several areas in my writing that I know could do better, so I constantly try to develop those.

A long time goal I've had since I first buried my nose in a book is to be published (in a physical format). I'm currently working on a short story that I want to submit to some literary magazines. I would also love to actually finish my novel, regardless of whether anyone else will ever read it. Just the sense of accomplishment from that feat would be a wondrous.

Anything else you'd like to say in conclusion, some words of wisdom or advice for your fellow writers?

It's hardly original advice, but truly the best thing a writer can do is read. And then read some more. Really see the words, and the structure. Pay attention to how grammar and punctuation work. You can study all the "How To" books out there, but actually seeing the language in action is the best way to learn. You'll get a feeling for how grammar works, and can catch mistakes before making them.

This advice also applies to writing dialogue, plot devices, pacing, and any aspect of writing. Look at the stories you read, take it apart and see what works for you, what didn't and why. Why did that bit of dialogue seem so natural? Why did that scene drag? Nothing can teach you these things like reading will.