KD Lang’s “Hallelujah”— bringin’ up the tears

Posted on by
Reply
Listening to KD Lang brings up the same emotion for me as viewing the incomparable New Zealand landscape. @2008 ANVidean

Listening to KD Lang brings up the same emotion for me as viewing the incomparable New Zealand landscape. @2008 ANVidean

KD Lang’s “Hallelujah” tops my list as one of the most beautiful renditions ever. Even better than Justin Timberlake‘s  “Hope For Haiti Now” performance, or the 15-year-old Bobby Andonov’s “Australia’s Got Talent” interpretation.

Ask me, and I’ll tell you…
Lang, a multi-Grammy award winner, is THE voice of the 1980/1990s generation, as Adele reigns as the voice of the current generation.

What control.

Unlike me. [Listening and clutching hands to heart in an unavoidable fan-girl moment replete with tears.] Squeeeeeeeeee!

Call for songs to add to a character’s iPod in young-adult fiction series

Posted on by
1
My talented young friend John Taylor created this lovely illustration, showing the fae side of my heroine Lark Tūrehu. You can see more of his work at https://www.facebook.com/jktaylor.art.

My talented young friend John Taylor created this lovely illustration, showing the fae side of my heroine Lark Tūrehu. You can see more of his work at https://www.facebook.com/jktaylor.art.

One of my favorite things about writing the Delfaerune Rhapsody Trilogy is involving you in its creation. I’m asking readers’ input on certain scenes in the books. If you respond to one of my requests and I end up using it, I’ll credit your contribution in my “Acknowledgements” when the book is published. Those not used, I’ll add to the contributors page here on my blog.

Here are two areas for which I already need input:

1. A song to add to the heroine Lark’s iPod. I need a song of hope, but with a beat my character can walk to in a not-too-hurried rhythm. Give me a suggestion to fit into this excerpt:

“The entrance to the main path rewarded visitors to the garden with a stunning overview of the grounds. The mirror-like pond at the focal point, today reflected the fluffy clouds and blue sky. Several pebbly paths leading off into various sections of the garden broke between the flowerbeds and willow trees hugging the edge of the water.
“Nobody wandered the garden in plain sight, so Lark took a moment to plug in to her iPod. “SONG NAME” by SO-AND-SO spoke to her hopeful mood this morning. She allowed the music to set her rhythm, and walked around the pond and up a couple of the paths, expecting to run into B’rook at any turn.”

Thanks to those who already suggested songs on my Facebook post. If you want to add something new, please comment and makes sure to provide:

  • Full song name
  • Who performed/composed it
  • Description or even a few adjectives about the song, describing why it will work in this scene
  • Your name, or how you’d like to be identified in the blog or book
  • Your geographic location

(Just so you know, I may use your contact info provided via the comment to communicate with you about the book, but will not publicize it, or use it for any other reason.)

2. A recipe for my vegetarian fae to enjoy during a banquet. Please post your recipe comment to this request in my existing blog entry on this topic.

I will ask for your additional suggestions when needed as I’m writing, so stay tuned.

– Ann

Write on!
Ann Narcisian Videan
Write • Edit • Self-publish • Word-of-mouth

Reader contributions to the DelFaerune Rhapsody young-adult fiction series

Posted on by
2
You all make me happier than anything, even more than my tea addiction. (Photo by my tea-sharing friend Andrea Beaulieu.)

You all make me happy… happier even than my tea habit! (Photo by my tea-sharing friend Andrea Beaulieu.)

Huge thanks to my creative, supportive potential readers who contributed the following ideas to include in my DelFaerune Rhapsody novel series (in-progress). I could not do this without you!

– Ann

Critique partners

  • Dotti Enderle
  • Lisa Hood
  • Sheila Larkin
  • Angela Myron
  • Paul Narcisian
  • Karen Nunes
  • Sonya Weiss

Beta readers

  • Chelle Davis
  • Jennifer Hartz
  • Sara Rebennack

Maori and New Zealand words, pronunciation, and culture

World-building consultant

Cutter Videan
• Various Delfaerune, Fae, and plot ideas discussed over numerous Pei Wei lunches

Vegetarian recipes for the Noble Fae banquet scene

Joanne De Biasi
• Stuffed squash blossoms

Syd Hoffman
• Quinoa salad with organic peas and corn
• Spinach salad with onion, strawberries and balsamic vinegar

 Barbra Kebba Buckley
• Rice-stuffed grape leaves
• Nutmeat paté en croute
• Corn squash with piñon-nut stuffing

Songs for the heroine Lark’s iPod

Barbra Simon Anderson
• “Mummers Dance” by Loreena McKennitt

Deb Bader
• “I’m on my Way” by  The Proclaimers
• “Get on Your Feet” by Gloria Estefan
• “Jessica” by the Allman Brothers

Veronica Barrera
• “Song of the Lonely Mountain” by Neil Finn (The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey)

David Campbell
• “Happily Ever After,” or “All About Us” by He is We

Eduardo Cervino
• “Rumba Azul” by Armando Oréfiche–The Lecuona Boys

Joanne De Biasi
• “Love on Top” by Beyonce

Karen Mueller Bryson
• “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves

Cynde Cerf-Dehmer
• “Sunsets” by Powderfinger

Sandy Anders Crockett
“Protectors of the Earth” by Two Steps from Hell

Mark R.Hunsaker
“Jump in the Line” by Harry Belafonte’s (from his 1961 album “Jump Up Calypso”

Kathy Jones Miranda
“Your Heart is Black as Night” by Melody Gardot

Paul Narcisian
• “Runnin’ With the Devil” by Van Halen

Salih Rashid
• “Song for Mia” by Lizz Wright (folksy, sad)

Cassandra Reeves
• “Here Comes the Sun” by the Beatles

Marsha Sandoval
• “Here Comes the Sun” by the Beatles

Marcus Silving
• “Beautiful” by Christina Aguilera

Kris Tualla
• “Unchained Melody” by the Righteous Brothers

Codi Videan
• “Wake Me Up” by Avicii

Robert Videan
• “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” by Izzie

Fae version of roshambo (rock, paper, scissors)

Cherie Scott
fist with thumb up = tree houses creature
two fingers curved = ‘bunny ears’ creature eats leaf
thumb and forefinger in oval (kinda like holding a guitar pick) = leaf tops tree

__________________________

Write on!
Ann Narcisian Videan
Write • Edit • Self-publish • Word-of-mouth

#8 Writing Tip: Why authors should research the rules, then ignore them

Posted on by
Reply

You could follow every rule. Or, you could generate a little anarchy in your writing. Angel or “V,” which will you choose?
[My son portrays “V for Vendetta” with an unphased, visiting Halloween angel. @2007 ANVidean]

So many writing resources. So many how-to books. So many style manuals. As a writer, you could spend an entire life reading and studying, intimidating yourself so with everyone else’s ideas and rules that you never actually sit down to write anything from your heart.

One overarching fact crystalized in my head over years of writing/editing millions of words in business content and numerous novels — sometimes the best way to communicate an idea involves blasting away the rules and conventions with a creative blow torch. Creative license makes writing fresh… and, well… yours.

Don’t get me wrong, it is important to research and read when you’re a writer. You need to know the rules—at least the basics, so you can keep your audience intrigued. But, you also need to know when to bend or ignore those rules to best serve your own writing voice. (More on this in my #9 Writing Tip, coming soon.)

So, where to start? Here are a few of my favorite resources for learning writing basics:

For business:

For authors:

  • My favorite book for character development: Goal Motivation Conflict, Debra Dixon
  • My favorite book for plot development: The Writer’s Journey, Christopher Vogler
  • My favorite book on writing. Yes, it’s called On Writing, and it’s by Stephen King (of all people)
  • Books in the genre you’re writing. I’ve been studying Harry Potter, Hunger Games, Beautiful Creatures, and other young-adult novels.
  • Books not in your genre. What cool writing techniques, words, or ideas, can you glean from other authors and stories? New ideas formulate “outside the box.”

There you have it. A couple of great starting places. Now, go forth and create your  masterpiece… I’m eager to read it in your very own voice.

Write on!
Ann Narcisian Videan
Write • Edit • Self-publish • Word-of-mouth

P.S.  What writing resources are your favorites? Please comment below.

“Fearless” friendship and forgiveness — borrow it this weekend

Posted on by
Reply
Read Rita's novel on Kindle. It's free March 8–12 in honor of International Women's Day on Friday.

Rita’s touching novel is free to borrow on Kindle March 8–12 in honor of International Women’s Day.

I recently had the pleasure of editing a debut novel by Rita Costick, Ph.D. Her thought-provoking book, Fearless: On the Wings of Forgiveness, makes a perfect read for anyone who believes in the power of friendship to see you through life’s challenges.

The book premise involves a heartwarming glimpse into the lives of five former female roommates who reunite for a long weekend at a beachside California vacation cottage and, while reconnecting after many years, demonstrate the healing power of friendship and the unquestioned stamina of forgiveness.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Rita is making available the Kindle version of Fearless for free this weekend — March 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12 — at Fearless Kindle Edition. A print version is also available for purchase through Amazon Books at Fearless Paperback Edition.

I’ve enjoyed the privilege of editing a good number of novels in a variety of genres in recent years, and I can say without hesitation Rita’s novel is the most real, touching, and hopeful story I’ve edited. But don’t just take my word for it. Check out what readers posted on Amazon:

“[This book] reminded me that I need to take time to reflect, renew and rejoice in the wonderful friendships with extraordinary women who have helped me grow emotionally and spiritually.” —SGY
 
“In telling this story, the author reminded me how precious true friends‘ viewpoints can be in our lives, and the value of keeping these friendships intact, or re-establishing them if they have fallen by the wayside. Book clubs should consider Fearless because of the multitude of discussion possibilities.” —CLR
 
“It is a captivating story of how facing the truth and forgiving the past can set us free to have and be the life we desire and deserve.”—SL
 
“As a psychologist, I can say that Costick has a keen understanding of how a therapist’s life is enacted simultaneously on two very different intimate stages: the consulting room and private life. Even more to the point, Costick has a fine grasp of the complexity of crafting a life on one’s own terms.”—GG

See? A book you don’t want to miss.

Write on!
Ann Narcisian Videan
Write • Edit • Self-publish • Word-of-mouth

P.S.  Jot a reminder on your calendar right now to borrow Fearless: On the Wings of Forgiveness this weekend.

P.S.S.  Please share your gratitude for/experience with a specific friendship, a powerful forgiveness, or a moment of fearlessness in the comments below.

Coffee CommuniTea: Vinyl Rush Cafe – Downtown Mesa, AZ

Posted on by
Reply

Today’s Cup o’ Tea
Organic Bean Café
[formerly Vinyl Rush Café]
Downtown Mesa, AZ

Park right on the street in front and enter here... ©2013 ANVidean

Park right on the street in front and enter here…
©2013 ANVidean

Perks (what I really like!)

...walk down the courtyard alley...©2013 ANVidean

…walk down the courtyard alley, where you may want to sit later…        ©2013 ANVidean

  • Courtyard seating. A cute, narrow courtyard between the rows of small businesses in the building.
  • Intimate setting. “Side A:” the coffee bar where you order your goodies, and “Side B:” a room across the courtyard where you can sit, chat and listen to music away from the sounds of blenders and counter chatter.
  • Album clocks. The owners decorated with lots of charming music paraphernalia, including a large collection of vinyl record album covers—33s and 45s—which they’ve turned into clocks.

    ...purchase delectables on Side "A" and enjoy them here in the comfort of "Side B." ©2013 ANVidean

    …purchase delectables on Side “A” and enjoy them here in the comfort of “Side B.”
    ©2013 ANVidean

Share a cuppa (the stories about the owner, building, history, name)
Missy, one of the owners, is both a coffee and music lover. She and her coffee partner bring you 38 years in the restaurant, hotel, and retail industry. At Vinyl Rush, they roast their own coffee beans, favoring full-bodied, medium-dark to dark roast styles. Just be ready for it!

What’s Brewing (coffee, tea, food)

  • Fresh roasted coffee
  • Espresso drinks
  • Smoothies
  • Hot teas (a nice selection)
  • Pastries and bagels

The Grind (what I would change)
Not a thing. Just be prepared to enjoy your goodies in a close, intimate setting.

Percolation Factor (the activity/environment/energy/service)
If you want your own album clock, they’ll make one for you. Each is custom designed with the time movement and hands placed creatively to compliment the cover image. http://vinylrushcafe.com/clocks/

The Grounds (location)
Downtown Mesa, AZ
40 N. Macdonald Street
Mesa, AZ 85201
480.615.4333

Tea Times (hours)
Monday – Friday 6:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Yelp rating:
4 stars (62 reviews)

Who recognizes the symbol under their “Vinyl Rush Cafe” signs?

……………………

I love connecting people and ideas, so I’ve been creating small villages my entire life. Really, what better places can writers and musicians find to create “village” than independent coffee/tea shops? I wrote most of my Rhythms & Muse novel and Delfaerune Rhapsody series-in-progress in coffee/tea venues, so it seemed natural to create this blog. Whether you came here to find a new favorite hangout, or suggest a spot not yet not posted, may you find Coffee CommuniTea exactly to your taste!

Jada Pinkett Smith, Wicked Evolution, “Burn” – Today’s Video Pick

Posted on by
Reply
Ms. Smith appears to love wildly stylish, tall shoes. Maybe not these... @2012 CEVidean

Ms. Smith appears to love wildly stylish, tall shoes. Maybe not these… @2012 CEVidean

A lovely face.

A stunning acting ability.

A delightful attitude about family, served in a loving and common-sense way.

And, now we discover Jada Pinkett Smith, the beautiful singer. Catch her fronting her band, Wicked Evolution, with “Burn.”

Yep, all-around gorgeous.

P.S. I rather admire her talented husband, Will, too. So, who do you admire?

Pink hair + grandpa + gratitude = ???

Posted on by
1
Not really John Styn's hair, but still outrageous, yes? :) ©2007 ANVidean

Not really John Styn’s hair, but still outrageous, yes? 🙂 ©2007 ANVidean

Sure go ahead. Take pink hair and an outrageous personality. Mix it with a minister grandpa who lives in intense gratitude. What do you get?

One of the most inspiring TEDx talks ever. (And, I love TED talks.) John Styn recorded this 17-minute talk about his grandfather Rev. Caleb Elroy Shikles, and the beauty of gratitude and giving.

My favorite part is astrologer, writer, poet, singer, and songwriter Rob Brezsny’s concept of Pronoia, “the belief that the universe is conspiring in your favor.” I say, let’s live it, friends. You in?

Thanks to my friend Andrea Beaulieu for sharing this uplifting video.

P.S. Share a link to your favorite TED talk in our comments below.

Peter Gabriel, even more “spacey” than usual

Posted on by
Reply
Three people living somewhere up there, higher than the blue, spoke with Peter Gabriel this month. "Howard, CO sky" ©2008 ANVidean

Three people living somewhere up there, higher than the blue, overcame the limitations of space with Peter Gabriel.          “Sky in Howard, CO” ©2008 ANVidean

I just could not resist sharing this video of three astronauts on the space station quite literally “hanging” around, talking and sharing music with Peter Gabriel and his family at NASA.

The English singer, musician, and songwriter (Genesis), remains one of my all-time favorite lyricists, creative thinkers and humanitarians.

A YouTube video gem. You’re welcome. 😀

P.S. Share a link to a unique video about your favorite musician.

#7 Writing Tip: Is your written content legal?

Posted on by
Reply

That quote you pulled from the Internet to use in your marketing, or your book…can you legally use it?

I can use this shot of my daughter in a high school production of "Clue," because I took it. The play title is royalty free, but if I quoted any of her lines here, I'd need to pay royalties, since someone else wrote the words. @2013 ANVidean

I can use this shot of my daughter Codi (the “Police Chief” in her high school production of “Clue”), because I took it. The play title is royalty free, but if I quoted any of her lines here, I’d need to pay royalties, since someone else wrote the words. @2013 ANVidean

Do you think if you simply provide a source, you’re covered? It’s likely you’re not. You may need to ask permission, or even pay royalties to use it.

When I wrote my novel, Rhythms & Muse, I included famous advertising quotes, celebrity names, song titles, even some lyrics. Not wanting to borrow trouble later, I sought out the advice of a copyright attorney to see what I needed to do to use these snippets of other people’s material. I used Etherton Law Group, but can also recommend Kevin Keener an intellectual property attorney at Keener, McPhail, Salles, LLC.

Advertising quotes

The lawyer informed me I could not use ad quotes, no matter how much people banter them about in common conversation. I had to find a way around it, like in this excerpt from the novel.

      “You mean like, that anti-stomach acid commercial with the Italian guy sitting on the bed saying he can’t believe he ate…’” Alex started.
      Suzanne continued, “Yeah, yeah. …the entire bowl of spaghetti.” She laughed. “Something like that.”
            “Well, I can’t believe I dreamed this whole thing about Matt.”


Celebrity names

Since it is against the CreateSpace Terms of Agreement, I ended up not using celebrity names at all. This forced me—in a fun, creative way—to allude to recognizable characteristics:

“Great. Now, if your local studio doesn’t work out for some reason, we’ll make arrangements to do all recording at our LA studios. I’m hoping for ‘Frankies’ place, though,” Mr. Grandberg said, his unexpected smile lighting up behind the cigar. “Recording at the home studio of my all-time favorite crooner – rest his soul – would be a rare privilege, not to mention the great PR it would make for the single.”

I also used recognizable nicknames, as in this excerpt:

      “Hey, Lex, I have great news!”
      “You mean, the King of Rock and Roll really does live?”
      Suzanne laughed. “No. I’ve patched things up with Kathy.”

I found out Priscilla Presley owns the rights to her late husband’s name, and she requires you to get permission or pay to state his name, depending on how you use it. (Can you say “amass a fortune?”)

Another interesting and frustrating discovery: if you’re self-published, Disney won’t allow you to use any character name. Period. You can’t even pay to use it. [sigh] That led me to sections like this:

“Look, she’s surrounded by all her little dorks right over there. Anyone of them would be glad to have her in their little cottage cooking and cleaning for them. See?” She started pointing one by one to the jocks. “Doofy.  Dippy. Dweeby. Dullard…”


Music artists, song titles, and lyrics

You can use the name of musical artists and their song titles without sourcing or paying royalties. But, if you plan to use any portion of the lyrics, you must pay for their use. This involves contacting music rights management firms like ASCAP, BMI or Hal Leonard in writing, with detailed specifics about how the information will be used.

I ended up paying a few hundred dollars to use a few lines of lyrics from John Denver’s “Annie’s Song,” Ewan MacColl’s “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” as sung by Roberta Flack, and Tim Rice’s “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” from the play/movie Jesus Christ Superstar.

Of course, I own full rights to my own original lyrics appearing in the book, and the book’s “soundtrack” of original tunes I wrote and recorded on CD.

Even quotes from famous people are often copyrighted, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. If you use anyone else’s materials in your writing, be sure to clarify its use with a qualified copyright lawyer. If someone else uses your work, you want them to source it or pay for it, now don’t you?

P.S. If you’re the first to comment, answering the following four questions correctly, I’ll send you a $10 gift certificate from Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Can you guess:

  1. The name of the product I alluded to in the ad above?
  2. The name of the crooner who actually owned a home on Hayden Lake in Idaho? (It’s not Frank Sinatra, despite my using “Frankie’s place.”)
  3. The real name of the King of Rock and Roll?
  4. The Disney character I suggest who cooks and cleans house for her little guys?