hello - Writers Forum

David Kenneth Johnson · 08-29-2003, 09:46 PM

Hi:

A long-time (20 years) academic (philosophy and mathematics), I'm new to the world of engaging prose! I think I have a couple of good ideas for stories, and I hope to learn and share a lot here. Aesthetically -- and outside of teaching philosophy -- I express myself building water gardens, double-decker playhouses, and playing jazz piano. I hope to add writing fiction to that list.

DKJ

rcallaci · 08-29-2003, 10:09 PM

Welcome David

Philosphy is a great love of mine, glad to have you on the boards. Look forward to seeing some of your work.

Warm Regards,
Bob

**Penelope** · 08-30-2003, 02:26 AM

Without philosophy, there would be no debate. Without debate, there would be no mind expansion. Without mind expansion, there would be no ability to write expressing differing philosophical viewpoints. Without differing philosophical viewpoints there would be no passion. Welcome to you - Stand and deliver.

Kimberly Bird · 08-30-2003, 08:28 AM

I'm just glad you didn't say psychologist

Welcome and have fun.

Kimberly

cdm · 08-30-2003, 08:32 AM

Welcome! I'm sure you will find people here who share much of your passions, but different, at the same time.
I know little about math, except for remembering a few things from when I was in college. I'm one of those nuts who perk up when the line, "That's impossible, according to (expert)" comes up. I trisected the angle with compas and straight-edge, posted it on my website, and have received a number of responses telling me why it can't work, and even one from a geometer from a major West Coast university who said it seems to work, but I cheated, because I trisected the arc cut by the angle, not the angle (!!).

I'm a researcher, specializing in orchids, but did some landscaping with waterfalls and that kind of thing for awhile.

I was a musician.

I write. A lot. I have a definite philosophy about politics and society in general, and the human condition we bring on ourselves through our innate greeds.

I'm a beach bum now. Favorite work of all!

David Kenneth Johnson · 08-30-2003, 08:58 AM

A happy welcome. Tell me, where would you -- any of you -- suggest that one begins the process of engaging this site? Please direct me to the best discussions. Haven't the time to figure this all out myself

DKJ

**Penelope** · 08-30-2003, 09:42 AM

You must have an analytical mind which requires direction to shift gears. If you write fiction - post one of your better pieces in the appropriate catagory. If you've had a compelling notion about a specific subject, then just write something and slot it in. Beginning a new thread in a specific forum is easy. There is an icon which directs you to do just that. I would also suggest you read some of the other submissions and if you have comments, post them. You will discover that if you don't comment on other people's work, you are more likely to be ignored. If you feel you have something absolutely brilliant or even passable submit it to the LitOrg forum which is related. You have to join there as well but it's well worth it to be in both venues.

Oh and conjure up an avatar as well. It helps define your personality.

**Penelope** · 08-30-2003, 08:05 PM

Now that is a simply elegant avatar. It reminds me of compass drawings I used to do. A 'trinity' of petals. Charming. All that's missing is colour but that might detract from the clarity.

Elphaba · 09-01-2003, 07:59 AM

Math-impaired here, but I'll still welcome you, David.

I see that you're in MA-- I lived up there for nine years, six in Salem. I miss it (but not the Halloweenies that invaded the town every October!).

Good luck to you!

Alagomeji · 09-03-2003, 08:21 AM

All of a sudden, I feel very small and not creative. I think I express myself playing video games and watching TV. Sometimes I read, and every now and then, I write. A bit.

scryer · 09-05-2003, 01:25 PM

Hello David,
Philosophy is the most perfect place from which to write fiction...you will be wonderful, I am sure. You have the perfect background for creating a believable world full of real characters, Let us bow to Plato....you know they are still searching for Atlantis! Proof that writing can cause a ripple that swells to a neverending current of cause and effect.
Welcome, pleased to add to my list of new friends!
-Lisa