Merlin's Musings

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Summary: A great blend of information, stimulation, and affirmation
Review: "Merlin's Musings" truly is a "love letter to writers everywhere." It's a validation of why we, as writers, do what we do, and why the process and the commitment have meaning and importance. In one chapter/column after another, words and ideas jump off the page to affirm support, honor the creative process, throw down challenges, and remind us how fulfilling the writing process can be. "The ability to write is a gift, and, as such, it requires time and care to make it blossom." "Perception is the miracle we're given each moment we notice we're still breathing." "You must not only see the movies you write, but feel, hear, smell, and taste them." We're encouraged to find the depth in our characters, craft the words that bring images alive and fine-tune moods, understand the importance of balance in a script, look inside ourselves for that authentic voice. It's daunting stuff, but it's delivered in a way that gives you a sense of excitement about going back to the script with a bit more critical eye.

And underpinning it all is the heart that comes through in every piece, the love and compassion and courage that infuse these musings, whether they're about writing, selling, movies, the industry, politics, or her own "remarkable family of writers." I believe that whether this book finds a writer who is still thinking about it, or just starting out, or has been at it for twenty years, the same message will be discovered: "Trust in what you know. Be brave. Welcome to the unknown."


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Summary: Not Your Typical Screenwriting Book...
Review: ...and all the better for it. If you are a fan of Sally Merlin's column in Scr(i)pt magazine you are already familiar with her witty and spiritual view of the writing process. If you are not familiar with Merlin's Musings you won't be disappointed. Far from another "how to," Merlin's poignant essays get right at the essence and heart of writing--the "why" is more important than the "how." (The section entitled "Magic" says it all.) From memories as a child of Hollywood writers to her own experiences in the film industry, her authentic voice rings through on every page. Her own hauntingly beautiful photos compliment the prose--she could have yet another career as a photographer if she so desired.

Sally's love of writing, and of writers, shines through these fifty-three columns spanning her thirty-some years in the film trade. As she says so herself in her introduction, "This book is my love letter to writers everywhere." And it shows. This is a book for the rest of us who are in it for the passion of the dream and the pure love of writing.


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Summary: TO BE A WRITER YOU MUST BE A SELLER, TOO
Review: I learned many things from this book. But chief among lessons learned was that if I am to be a successful writer it is imperative that I spend 50% of my time selling myself and my work.

The section of movies was particularly enjoyable. My favorite chapter there: Who Will Follow Harry and Frodo?

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Summary: Moving and Inspiring!
Review: I've been reading Sally's column for many years, as well. It is the first thing I turn to when my magazine arrives and she NEVER disappoints.

I'm so excited to be able to hold all her columns in my hand and browse through them at will. Like Sally herself, this book lifts the writer to a magical and more creative plain, inspiring one to dig deeper and write with more honesty and clarity.

This isn't a book of "have tos." This is a book of "cans." This book is the next best thing to be mentored by her personally.

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Summary: Anthony Dimitrius Brown, Screenwriter, Washington, DC 2004
Review: Sally Merlin is the essence of what it means to be a writer.

In lyrical prose she sings to the very spirit of the artistic heart with a symphony of years of experience. Her book, 'Merlin's Musings,' is not only educational and insightful but inspirational as well.

Merlin's Musings is a must for every teacher, class, writer or novice not intimidated to sail the open seas of imagination and creativity.

Enrich your life and your craft. Get the book!

Rating:
Summary: A Gift of the Spirit
Review: You don't have to be a screenwriter to enjoy and embrace Sally Merlins musings. Ms. Merlins compilation of personal anecdotes and philosophical musings is truly a gift of the spirit and a must read for all writers in all disciplines. Be prepared though, to learn the business and the magic of writing along with a thing or two about yourself. Musings manages to find
the common thread of spiritual truth within the film business and artfully weaves both together in a way that shows her great respect and love for all writers. I strongly recommend this book to anyone who is either embarking on a writing path or is already on one. Even non-writers will enjoy Ms. Merlin's anecdotes of Hollywood and her depth of feeling for the process of writing.