Sunday, June 08, 2014

Stories

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I am thinking of publishing some of my short stories here on the blog. What do you think, Anna? Do you think they would appeal to a global readership?

Did I tell you that I have enrolled on this 'film' course? It is sponsored by the British Film Institute and covers everything from 'script to screen'. I have done two sessions and find it fascinating. 

Of course you always said that the true outlet for my work was the cinema, reaching as it does, a far larger audience. And I am coming around to your way of thinking. I have hitherto turned my nose up at film as an art form, believing that nothing could compete with the printed word. However, I have changed my mind. Some of the films I have seen recently, during my enforced exile, have convinced me that the screen offers another dimension to a work of art - well, two really: sound and vision. To see one's characters brought to life on the screen, the dialogue actually spoken aloud, not to mention the music and effects... well, what better way could there be of telling a story?

It's not about money, Anna, it's about bringing your message (yes, I am not afraid to use that word, despite what Sam Goldwyn said) to as many people as possible. And when I say 'film' I include, of course, television. Thousands, millions watch television who never (or rarely)  pick up a book. This is where our audience is today. Yes 'audience', not 'readership'. Of course I shall always be a reader.  Television was in its infancy - a novelty - when I was growing up. It was books or 'the pictures', which is what we working class called the cinema.

I can't wait to see you, when I hope you will, as you say, rectify matters. It seems ages since I last had a good rectifying.

Anyway, best of luck with the exams.

George

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