Podcasts > What Should I Read Next? > Ep 419: Romance is my entire personality

Ep 419: Romance is my entire personality

By Anne Bogel

Dive into the enchanting world of romance literature with Anne Bogel's podcast, "What Should I Read Next?" as she hosts Farrah Rashan, an author who shares her journey from reviving her passion for reading with "The Pelican Brief" to penning her own romance novels. Rashan explores the dynamic evolution of the romance genre, reflecting on the influential works of historical romance authors and discussing the pivotal role these narratives play in providing a comforting escape with their assured happy endings.

Rashan provides a behind-the-scenes look at her transition to writing heartfelt romance, discussing the comprehensive tools that assist her creative process while emphasizing the significance of authentic voice and character development. The episode also delves into the influence of social media on reader engagement, the art of bringing settings to life in storytelling, and the profound impact of Disney on both Rashan's creative endeavors and personal life, revealing the magic that influences her writing and her dedication to inspiring readers just as she was once inspired.

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Ep 419: Romance is my entire personality

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Ep 419: Romance is my entire personality

1-Page Summary

The power of a book to reignite a love of reading

Farrah Rashan recounts her experience with "The Pelican Brief" by John Grisham, which reignited her love for reading during her teenage years. The New Orleans setting and her cousin's engrossment in the book reminded her of the joy books could bring. Farrah hopes that her own writing can inspire a similar passion for reading in others, as Grisham's work did for her.

Historical context of the romance genre's evolution

The romance genre has evolved from portraying outdated gender dynamics to reflecting contemporary social norms. Farrah finds value in historical romance authors like Judith McNaught, viewing their work as a window into the evolution of societal attitudes towards gender and romance.

The Importance of Happy Endings in Romance

Farrah and Rashan stress the importance of romance novels in offering escapism and emotional assurance to readers, with happy endings delivering solace and a sense of hope during challenging times. They believe the genre helps to reassure readers that no matter the obstacles, love and joy can prevail.

Behind the scenes of writing "frothy" romance stories

Farrah Rashan shares her transition from aspiring to write like John Grisham to finding joy in the romance genre. She emphasizes the value of plotting tools like Blake Snyder's Save the Cat and Gwen Hayes' Romancing the Beat in crafting her stories. Farrah also highlights the importance of finding and trusting one's unique writing voice and creating characters that resonate authentically with readers.

Social media's influence on the romance industry

Farrah acknowledges the power of TikTok in reviving interest in older romance books and driving them onto bestseller lists. Engagement with readers through social media platforms, particularly TikTok, has become crucial for authors to promote their books and develop their personal brands.

Bringing settings to life in books

Farrah Rashan, alongside Kennedy Ryan and Abby M&S, are recognized for their ability to make settings come alive, effectively transporting readers and even inspiring them to visit the featured locations. Vividly describing cities, integrating travel experiences into narratives, and using settings as a central element defines their approach to writing.

Disney's major impact on Farrah's life and writing

Farrah's lifelong Disney fandom has significantly influenced her creative process and writing. It led to her contribution to the Twisted Tales series with "Fate Be Changed" and nurtured her productivity, as she writes at Disney resorts and rewards herself with park visits. Her love for Disney permeates her work routine and recreational reading.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Blake Snyder's "Save the Cat" is a popular screenwriting book that outlines storytelling principles and techniques. It emphasizes the importance of creating likable protagonists and engaging story structures. The book's title comes from the idea that a character should perform a redeeming act early on to win the audience's favor. Writers across various genres, including novelists, have found value in applying Snyder's principles to their storytelling craft.
  • Gwen Hayes' "Romancing the Beat" is a popular resource for romance writers, outlining key beats and structure elements essential for crafting compelling romance stories. It provides a framework to help writers navigate the emotional and narrative arcs typical in romance novels. The book offers guidance on building tension, developing relationships, and creating satisfying romantic resolutions within a story. Writers often use this resource to enhance their understanding of the genre's conventions and to strengthen their storytelling skills.
  • Farrah Rashan is an author mentioned in the text who shares her experiences and insights related to writing and the romance genre. Kennedy Ryan and Abby M&S are also authors recognized for their ability to vividly bring settings to life in their writing, captivating readers with their descriptive storytelling techniques. These authors contribute to the literary world by creating immersive environments within their narratives, enhancing the reader's experience and engagement with the stories they tell.
  • "The Pelican Brief" is a legal thriller novel by John Grisham, known for his expertise in the legal fiction genre. The story follows a law student who uncovers a conspiracy that leads to dangerous consequences. The novel is praised for its suspenseful plot, intricate legal details, and engaging storytelling style. It has been adapted into a successful film starring Julia Roberts and Denzel Washington.

Counterarguments

  • While Farrah Rashan's experience with "The Pelican Brief" was transformative for her, not all readers may find their passion for reading reignited by a single book or author.
  • The evolution of the romance genre is a positive change, but some readers may still enjoy the traditional tropes and dynamics of older romance novels.
  • The emphasis on happy endings in romance novels is comforting to many, but others might argue that more complex or realistic endings could also be satisfying and provide a different kind of emotional catharsis.
  • Plotting tools like Blake Snyder's Save the Cat and Gwen Hayes' Romancing the Beat can be helpful, but some authors may find that strict adherence to formulas can stifle creativity or lead to predictable storytelling.
  • The impact of social media platforms like TikTok on the romance industry is significant, but there may be concerns about the sustainability of such trends and the pressure it puts on authors to constantly engage online rather than focus on their writing.
  • The ability to bring settings to life is a skill, but some readers may prefer a stronger focus on character development or plot rather than detailed descriptions of locations.
  • Disney's influence on Farrah's life and writing is clear, but not all readers or writers may resonate with or find inspiration in Disney themes or settings. Some may also critique the commercial aspects of integrating such a prominent brand into one's creative work.

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Ep 419: Romance is my entire personality

The power of a book to reignite a love of reading

Farrah Rashan eloquently captures the essence of finding a book that can spark a lifetime passion for reading. Through her personal experience with "The Pelican Brief," she highlights how a single story can profoundly impact one's literary journey.

John Grisham's The Pelican Brief inspired Farrah to rediscover reading as a teen

Farrah Rashan's rediscovery of her love for reading was serendipitous. As a self-professed romance snob, her typical reading choices did not include the genre. It wasn't until her sister introduced her to Laverne Spencer that she ventured into romance books. But it was John Grisham's "The Pelican Brief" that truly rekindled her romance with reading during her teenage years. The familiar New Orleans setting, complete with recognizable landmarks such as the Riverwalk, brought the story to life for Farrah, contributing significantly to her reinvigorated interest in books.

The experience of finding Grisham's book in a library and seeing her cousin completely absorbed by it reminded Farrah of the pure joy reading could provide—an activity the allure of video games had pulled her away from.

Farrah hopes her writing can similarly inspire new readers

The gratitude Farrah feels towards Grisha ...

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The power of a book to reignite a love of reading

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Farrah Rashan's rediscovery of her love for reading was serendipitous means that her renewed passion for reading happened unexpectedly or by chance, without deliberate planning. It suggests that the event was fortunate and fortunate, as if it was a happy accident that reignited her interest in books. This term implies that the resurgence of her love for reading was a pleasant surprise that occurred naturally, rather than being a result of intentional effort.
  • Farrah's self-professed status as a "romance snob" indicates that she typically prefers not to read romance novels and may have a tendency to look down on or dismiss them. This term suggests that Farrah had a strong bias against romance literature before her experience with "The Pelican Brief" and her subsequent exploration of different genres.
  • The New Orleans setting and landmarks in "The Pelican Brief" play a significant role in creating a vivid backdrop for the story. They add depth and authenticity to the narrative, immersing readers in the atmosphere of the city. The inclusion of recognizable locations like the Riverwalk helps readers connect more deeply with the plot and characters. Overall, the setting enhances the reader's experience by providing a rich and memorable backdrop for the events of the novel.
  • Farrah's cousin being absorbed by "The Pelican Brief" served as a reminder to Farrah of the ...

Counterarguments

  • While Farrah Rashan's experience with "The Pelican Brief" is powerful, not all individuals may find their passion for reading ignited by a single book; for some, it may be a gradual process influenced by multiple works or other forms of storytelling.
  • The idea that romance novels are a gateway to reigniting a love for reading might not resonate with everyone, as reading preferences are highly subjective and varied.
  • The impact of a book's setting on a reader's engagement can differ; some readers might not require a familiar setting to become immersed in a story.
  • The notion that seeing someone else deeply engaged in a book can remind others of the joy of reading might not hold true for individuals who are not as easily influenced by the behaviors of others.
  • While Farrah hopes to inspire new readers, it's important to acknowledge that not every author will have the same influence or reach as John Grisham, and success in inspiring others can vary widely.
  • The aspiration to pass on the gift of inspiration through writing is noble, but it's also important to recognize that not every book will resonate with every reader, an ...

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Ep 419: Romance is my entire personality

Historical context of the romance genre's evolution

The romance genre has undergone significant changes over time, with its earliest offerings reflecting much different gender dynamics than those found in contemporary works.

Early romance novels portrayed outdated gender dynamics

In the beginning stages of the romance genre, novels often portrayed gender roles and dynamics that are now considered outdated. The presentation of relationships and interactions between characters reflected the social norms and expectations of eras gone by, necessitating a degree of context when revisiting them today.

But Farrah finds value in revisiting classic authors like Judith McNaught

Despite the outdated gender dynamics found in early romance novels, enthusiasts like Farrah recognize the importance of revisiting classic authors such as Judith McNaught. By refle ...

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Historical context of the romance genre's evolution

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Early romance novels often depicted traditional gender roles where men were portrayed as strong, dominant figures while women were often depicted as submissive and in need of protection. These novels typically featured storylines where the male protagonist was the one who took charge and made decisions, while the female protagonist relied on him for guidance and support. The dynamics in these early novels tended to reinforce stereotypes about gender roles and relationships that were prevalent in society at the time. These portrayals reflected the societal expectations and norms of the eras in which the novels were written, shaping the interactions and dynamics between male and female characters in the stories.
  • Judith McNaught is a prominent author in the romance genre known for her bestselling novels that have captivated readers for decades. Her works often feature compelling characters, intricate plots, and emotional depth, contributing to her enduring popularity among romance enthusiasts. McNaught's storytelling style and ability to create engaging narratives have had a significant influence on the genre, inspiring other authors and shaping the expectations of romance readers worldwide. Through her contributions, McNaught has left a lasting impact on the evolution and diversity of romance literature.
  • Farrah's perspective is highlighted because she represents enthusi ...

Counterarguments

  • The term "outdated" may be subjective and could imply a value judgment that dismisses the historical context and cultural significance of early romance novels.
  • The evolution of the romance genre is not linear and can vary greatly depending on cultural and regional differences, which may not be fully represented by focusing on authors like Judith McNaught.
  • While understanding the historical context is important, some may argue that the value of literature lies in its emotional and artistic impact rather than its role in charting societal changes.
  • The focus on classic authors might overshadow the contributions of lesser-known or marginalized writers who have also played a role in the evolution of the romance genre.
  • Some readers may find that the gender dynamics in early romance nove ...

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Ep 419: Romance is my entire personality

The Importance of Happy Endings in Romance

Providing Readers Escapism and Emotional Assurance

Farrah and Rashan offer insights into the pivotal role that the romance genre plays in providing comfort and escapism for its readers, particularly during difficult times.

Farrah describes the romance genre as a happy place and an escape, which is what inspired her to start writing romance novels. She finds value in the positive and uplifting nature of the genre, which serves as a haven for many readers seeking solace and a temporary break from the realities of their lives.

Rashan echoes Farrah's sentiments by emphasizing the significance of the guaranteed happy ending in romance stories. She acknowledges that she puts her characters through various challenges, believing that it makes them more interesting and relatable. The journey and growth of the characters often culminate in a rewarding and joyful conclusion.

Both Farrah and Rashan highlight the comfort and assuranc ...

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The Importance of Happy Endings in Romance

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Farrah and Rashan are individuals mentioned in the text who provide insights into the importance of happy endings in romance novels. They both share perspectives on how the romance genre offers comfort and escapism to readers during challenging times. Farrah is described as finding inspiration in writing romance novels as a positive and uplifting escape, while Rashan emphasizes the significance of happy endings in providing emotional assurance to readers. Both individuals highlight the role of romance stories in offering hope and stability through their narratives.
  • In romance stories, the guaranteed happy ending is a defining feature that assures readers of a positive and satisfying conclusion for the main characters. This element provides emotional closure and reinforces the themes of love, hope, and resilience throughout the narrative. The promise of a happy ending creates a sense of anticipation and comfort for readers, knowing that despite the challenges faced by the characters, they will ultimately find happiness together. It serves as a key factor in fulfilling the genre's role in offering escapism and emotional reassurance to its audience.
  • In romance novels, the journey and growth of characters typically involve their emotional development, overcoming obstacles, and evolving relationships. This progression often showcases how characters learn from their experiences, change their perspectives, and mature throughout the story. It adds depth to the narrative by exploring the complexities of human emotions and relationships. Ultimately, this character development contributes to the overall arc of the story and influences the resolution, including the happy ending that is a common feature in romance literature.
  • Romance novels offer an emotional respite by providing readers with a break from their own challenges and allowing them to immerse themselves in a world of love and happiness. The guaranteed happy endings in these stories create a se ...

Counterarguments

  • While romance novels often provide comfort with their happy endings, not all readers seek escapism or emotional assurance from their reading material; some may prefer more realistic or ambiguous endings that reflect the complexities of real life.
  • The emphasis on happy endings in romance could be seen as formulaic, potentially limiting the diversity of storytelling within the genre and the range of emotional experiences offered to readers.
  • The predictability of a happy ending might reduce the tension and stakes within the story, as readers come to expect that all conflicts will be resolved favorably.
  • Some critics argue that the focus on idealized love and happy endings in romance novels can set unrealistic expectations for relationships in the real world.
  • The genre's emphasis on escapism might be criticized for encouraging readers to disengage from addressing real-life issues, rather than confronting and dealing with them.
  • There is a wide range of literary tastes, and some readers might find greater satisfaction in genres that challenge them intellectually or emotionally, rather than pr ...

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Ep 419: Romance is my entire personality

Behind the scenes of writing "frothy" romance stories

Farrah Rashan takes us through her personal journey from writing in the style of John Grisham to finding her niche in the vibrant world of romance novels.

Farrah's intensive plotting process

Though the early part of her career found her emulating the tone of more serious novelists, Rashan soon discovered that writing romance was much more enjoyable for her. Rashan specifically discusses her use of Blake Snyder's Save the Cat for plotting her romance novels, revealing her dedication to the structural elements that readers anticipate in romance stories. Additionally, she relies on Gwen Hayes' Romancing the Beat to understand the high points required in a successful romance narrative. Through these resources, Rashan ensures that she meets the expectations of her readers while also keeping her stories fresh and engaging.

Rashan's approach to plotting is described as organic, letting her choose the structure that best fits the developing story. She understands the crucial balance between adhering to the conventions of the genre and innovating to make each tale unique.

The challenge of finding your unique writing voice

After years of writing and over 40 published books, Farrah Rashan expresses how vital it is to find and trust one's unique writing style. Early on, she attempted to emulate the voices ...

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Behind the scenes of writing "frothy" romance stories

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Blake Snyder's "Save the Cat" is a popular screenwriting book that outlines storytelling principles, emphasizing the importance of creating likable protagonists by showing them performing a kind or noble act early in the story. The phrase "Save the Cat" comes from the idea that a character can win audience sympathy by doing something good, like saving a cat. This technique helps establish a connection between the audience and the character, setting the tone for the rest of the narrative. Writers often use this concept to engage readers or viewers emotionally from the start of a story.
  • Gwen Hayes' "Romancing the Beat" is a popular guide for romance writers, outlining essential beats or moments that are crucial in crafting a successful romance narrative. It helps writers understand the key emo ...

Counterarguments

  • While Rashan uses established plotting methods, some might argue that strict adherence to formulas like Save the Cat could potentially stifle creativity and lead to predictable storytelling.
  • The idea of an organic plotting process might be seen as inconsistent with the use of structured plotting guides, suggesting a potential contradiction in Rashan's approach.
  • The emphasis on meeting reader expectations could be criticized for possibly prioritizing marketability over artistic expression.
  • The importance of finding a unique writing style is highlighted, but it could be argued that originality is not the only path to success, and some writers may thrive by fitting into established niches.
  • Rashan's style is described as infused with humor and depth, but some might argue that humor in romance can sometimes undermine the emotional stakes of the story if not balanced correctly.
  • The ...

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Ep 419: Romance is my entire personality

Social media's influence on the romance industry

Social media, and TikTok in particular, has dramatically reshaped the romance industry in recent years, leading to a renewed interest in older titles and necessitating author engagement with the platform.

TikTok breathing new life into old romance favorites

Farrah, an author, acknowledges the significant impact of TikTok on the romance industry, highlighting its unique ability to revitalize interest in older romance titles. She points out that due to TikTok's influence, books that have been off the shelves for 15 years are reappearing on bestseller lists.

Reaching modern readers requires author engagement on platforms like TikTok

Farrah emphasizes the importance of an author's presence on soc ...

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Social media's influence on the romance industry

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • TikTok has reshaped the romance industry by revitalizing interest in older romance titles through viral trends and book recommendation videos. Authors now engage directly with readers on TikTok, creating a more personal connection and increasing visibility for their work. The platform's algorithm promotes niche content, allowing for a wider range of romance subgenres to gain popularity. TikTok's short-form video format makes it easier for authors to showcase their personalities and writing processes, attracting a younger audience to the romance genre.
  • TikTok revitalizes interest in older romance titles by enabling users to create short, engaging videos recommending books, which can quickly go viral and reach a wide audience. These videos often showcase unique aspects of the books, sparking curiosity and prompting viewers to seek out and read these older titles. The platform's algorithm also promotes content based on user engagement, further amplifying the visibility of these recommended romance books. This cycle of user-generated content and algorithmic promotion helps bring older romance titles back into the spotlight and onto bestseller lists.
  • TikTok's unprecedented effect on the romance genre stems from its ability to create viral trends around specific books, characters, or tropes, leading to increased visibility and interest in romance novels. The platform's algorithm-driven content discovery has enabled niche romance titles to reach wider audiences, diversifying the genre's readership. TikTok's format of short, engaging videos allows authors and readers to connect in a more direct and interactive way, fostering a sense of community within the romance book community. The pla ...

Counterarguments

  • While TikTok can revitalize interest in older titles, it may also contribute to a homogenization of taste, where only certain books that gain viral attention receive widespread readership, potentially overshadowing other deserving works.
  • The emphasis on social media engagement could lead to a disproportionate focus on marketing over writing quality, with authors spending more time on social media than on their craft.
  • The pressure for authors to be present on social media platforms like TikTok might disadvantage those who are less skilled or comfortable with these mediums, potentially impacting the diversity of voices in the romance industry.
  • The trend-driven nature of social media platforms may lead to a short-term boost in sales rather than long-term interest in an author's work, which could affect the sustainability of an author's career.
  • The reliance on social media algorithms to promote books can be unpredictable and may not always align with an author's best interests or the quality of their work.
  • The need for author engagement on social media could contribute to issues of privacy and burnout, as authors are expected to share more of their personal lives and ...

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Ep 419: Romance is my entire personality

Bringing settings to life in books

Farrah Rashan, Kennedy Ryan, and Abby M&S are authors who masterfully use setting as a central element in their writing, effectively transporting readers to various locations and encouraging them to explore these places in reality.

Vivid descriptions transport readers to new places

Farrah Rashan emphasizes the role of setting in her storytelling, likening it to another character that breathes life into her books. She believes in writing rich descriptions to create vivid images for readers, thereby adding atmosphere to her narratives. This method of writing allows Rashan to set her novels in vividly rendered cities such as New Orleans, New York, Austin, Rome, and Istanbul to enrich the reader's experience.

Rashan reveals that she integrates her travel experiences into her writing. Although not everything she encounters during her travels makes it directly into her books, she feels these experiences nonetheless contribute to the quality of her work. Moreover, she enjoys the change of environment that working in hotels and resorts offers when she writes while traveling.

Encourages readers to travel and explore destinations from books

Rashan hopes that the locations she brings to life through her words will inspire readers to visit these destinations. She talks about the allure of New Orleans beyond the French Quarter, highlighting the Garden District and the experience of taking the St. Cha ...

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Bringing settings to life in books

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Setting is a crucial element in writing as it establishes the backdrop for the story, influencing the mood, atmosphere, and characters' actions. Authors often use vivid descriptions of locations to immerse readers in the narrative and evoke a sense of place. By bringing settings to life, writers can transport readers to different worlds, making the story more engaging and realistic. A well-developed setting can enhance the overall reading experience and provide context for the events unfolding in the plot.
  • Authors integrate travel experiences into their writing by drawing inspiration from the places they visit, incorporating details like sights, sounds, and local customs into their narratives. These experiences help authors create authentic and vivid settings in their stories, adding depth and realism to the fictional worlds they build. Traveling allows authors to immerse themselves in different cultures, landscapes, and atmospheres, which can enrich their storytelling and provide unique perspectives for their readers. By infusing their writing with personal travel experiences, authors can evoke a sense of place that resonates with readers and brings a unique authenticity to their work.
  • Featuring act ...

Counterarguments

  • While setting can be a central element, not all successful writing requires a strong emphasis on setting; some stories may prioritize plot or character development over detailed descriptions of locations.
  • Likening setting to another character can be effective, but it might also overwhelm the narrative if not balanced with other story elements.
  • Rich descriptions can create vivid images, but they can also slow down the pace of a story if they become too lengthy or detract from the main action.
  • Setting novels in well-known cities can enrich the reader's experience, but it may also lead to clichés or stereotypical portrayals if not handled with originality and care.
  • Integrating travel experiences into writing can add authenticity, but it's important to ensure that the portrayal of different cultures and places is respectful and accurate.
  • Writing in hotels and resorts might provide a change of environment, but it could also be seen as less relatable to readers who do not have the means or opportunity to travel.
  • Inspiring readers to visit locations from books is a positive outcome, but it could unintentionally contribute to issues like overtourism or the commercialization of certain destinations.
  • Encouraging readers to explore ...

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Ep 419: Romance is my entire personality

Disney's major impact on Farrah's life and writing

Farrah Rashan shares with Anne Bogel her deep-seated love for Disney, which she tells has become a significant part of her life and work, particularly influencing her writing and daily routine.

Lifelong fandom inspires Farrah's Twisted Tales novel Fate Be Changed

Farrah's fandom extends beyond mere enjoyment; it has inspired her work. She penned a Twisted Tales novel, "Fate Be Changed," which reflects a unique marriage between Disney's "Brave" and "Back to the Future." Farrah was actively interested in marrying her love for Disney and romance writing, which, although initially her proposals were rejected, eventually translated into a young adult series opportunity for "The Princess and the Frog."

Writing at Disney resorts: her favorite motivation and reward

As a longtime fan, Farrah takes her Disney experiences to heart, illustrating that by becoming a Disney Vacation Club member. This not only facilitates her frequent visits but also allows her to embrace the magical ambience of Disney resorts as creative spaces. Farrah has cultivated a writing rout ...

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Disney's major impact on Farrah's life and writing

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Farrah Rashan's Twisted Tales novel "Fate Be Changed" merges elements from Disney's "Brave" and the movie "Back to the Future." This unique blend combines the themes and characters from both stories to create a new narrative. Farrah's creative approach intertwines the worlds of these two distinct sources to craft a fresh and imaginative storyline. The novel showcases a creative fusion of the adventurous spirit of "Brave" with the time-travel elements of "Back to the Future."
  • Farrah initially proposed a project that combined her love for Disney and romance writing, but her ideas were rejected at first. Despite facing rejection, her persistence and passion for merging these two interests eventually led to an opportunity to work on a young adult series based on "The Princess and the Frog." This rejection and eventual success highlight Farrah's journey in navigating the intersection of her creative inspirations and professional endeavors.
  • Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is a timeshare program that allows members to purchase points to use for accommodations at Disney Vacation Club resorts. Members can stay at various Disney resorts worldwide, enjoying amenities like larger rooms, kitchen facilities, and unique theming. DVC membership provides flexibility in vacation planning, offering options to stay at Disney properties beyond traditional hotel rooms. Members can also enjoy discounts on dining, merchandise, and other perks during their stays at Disney resorts.
  • Farrah Rashan has a writing routine where she spends her days writing at Disney resorts, finding inspiration in the magical atmosphere. She sets writing goals for herself and rewards her progress by visiting the Disney parks. This routine helps her st ...

Counterarguments

  • While Farrah Rashan's love for Disney has positively influenced her writing, it could be argued that focusing heavily on Disney-related themes may limit the diversity of her work and audience.
  • The novel "Fate Be Changed" may not appeal to readers who are not fans of Disney or who prefer original stories over retellings or mashups of existing ones.
  • The success of Farrah's "The Princess and the Frog" young adult series, while inspired by initial rejections, might suggest that perseverance is key in the publishing industry, but it also highlights the challenges new authors face in getting their work accepted.
  • Writing at Disney resorts could be seen as an extravagant or inaccessible routine for many writers, potentially setting unrealistic standards for what constitutes a productive writing environment.
  • Using Disney parks as a source of motivation and a reward system might not be sustainable or relatable for writers who do ...

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