Business Writing and Fan Fic

One of the things that has struck me since becoming interested in fan fiction is the difference between the process of writing for business and fan fiction. In some ways business writing seems easier, but the writing actually has meaning, import and purpose beyond entertainment. Fan fic exists for the entertainment value, but can seem more difficult.

The reports that I have written about defense contractors involve statistics, analyzing compliance with contract obligations, company history, structure and organization, what they do v. what they are supposed to do, and so forth and so on. Sometimes you even get to talk about things like hundred dollar hammers or five thousand dollar coffee makers. (They really buy those things!) These reports have established formats that are controlled by written policy. There are set facts to work with and defined areas of varying importance. These reports can and often do hold sensitive data, so have to be handled in a very specific manner.

Then there is fan fic. There is no set format. There are almost no defined parameters. The only facts or firmly established concepts are found in the works of and studies of J.R.R. Tolkien. The author basically has free reign. The possibilities and decisions can be rather mind boggling! Then there are the times that I read what I have written and discover a rather major ooops. (like writing a scene that includes a character who was supposed to be dead, in Valinor, or etc.)

When business writing crosses the line and becomes fan fic (at least when I do it) the results are a bit disconcerting. It can read like a dry report on elven romance and sexual practices. Then I read the works of so many fine authors and am amazed and awed at their creativity.

I just want to express my appreciation for the abilities of the many wonderfully talented authors who lend their time and energies to providing hours of enjoyment. Thanks.

Insanity, Pity, Reality and Fear

My stalker had been rather quiet since the Sherriff paid a visit to serve a criminal trespass warning. He was for some reason furious with my neighbors, but I was ignored. Today he fired of another barrage of e-mails about me. This time he included exact dates of times when "we" did something together or that I said or did something loving to/for/about him.

This time one of the e-mails was sent to my parents! He invited them to his home to talk about his love. Said it is of the mind, soul and soon body!

There are many who feel sorry for him. They say that insanity must be excused. He doesn't know any better. He has said publicly that he will get out of a DWI by using his mental condition. In another e-mail he has assured everyone that he has been to jail and it is not a threat. He will just be released because he doesn't have the mental capacity to tell right from wrong.

I am scared. I have considered moving, but am afraid that he could track me unless I leave the state and/or change my name. That is a possibility. A man volunteered to call him for me, but my immediate reaction was to beg him not to. I am afraid that he will be shot if he does. Even more terrifying is the thought of my father actually going to the home of an insane man intent on protecting his daughter. He is old with a heart condition. It would kill him.

I am mad. I am scared. I am trying to decide which breed of large dog to buy. I was loaned a gun, but Thursday am going to buy one. Right now my life is not my own. I live in fear for myself and those I care about.
I post here because I can not talk to anyone right now. It is too emotional. Then I think of those who feel so very sorry for him. They think him harmless. They can't know what it is to be stalked by insanity.