I studied literature in undergraduate and have always been a voracious reader and writer. In addition, like many, I have always been moved by powerful films and feel that they have helped shape who I am today.
In 2012 I started writing screenplays at the urging of a friend who was a producer. I was never in a position to make the leap because of my military duties, also, it seemed like a ridiculous dream. In February of this year I completed almost four years of consecutive tours in the Middle East and Southwest Asia and returned home. In that time, I completed a novel that began as a script and it was well received by a professional editor. The friend who urged me passed away unexpectedly in March. I took it as a sign. I am confident that working the bevy of professions many former officers enter (consulting, financial services, etc.) is not my way forward.
I am applying to MFA programs for 2020 and will hopefully be admitted. I have a few edits on my novel before I begin the process for an agent. In my limited time home I’ve been part of a few writers groups. I feel I am pushing in the right direction and thankfully, because of my spouse and her employment, have the time to continue in this way.
Is there anyone who has gone down that road and can advise? ACP has done an exhaustive search for mentors that would fit and has not had much luck.
Thank you in advance and hopefully my title wasn’t misconstrued as pushy.
John Kovalsky
Answers
Hi John!
Thank you for sharing your inspiring story.
Good luck in applying for MFA programs and searching for an agent for your novel!
I’m a producer/writer/director.
I work on a range of projects from narrative and documentary films to commercials and corporate videos.
I like how you wrote a screenplay and then developed it into a novel, which I think is brilliant.
Unfortunately, there are so many great screenplays that are not made for whatever the reason.
By writing a novel, you can share your important story with the world.
Now you have multiple ways to sell your idea.
I would advise considering becoming a producer and publisher in addition to becoming a screenwriter and novelist.
That way, you can actualize your dream, turning your screenplay into a film or publishing your novel on your own.
Then no one can tell you no.
It’s not a simple or easy path, but it is empowering and gratifying to know that you can do it on your own.
Currently, there is a trend for both independent filmmaking/distribution and independent publishing.
Artists are cutting out the middle man and keeping all of the profits.
They are keeping control of their projects throughout the process.
I would still pursue an agent for your novel.
But if you can’t find the right one, then become your own.
You are your own best agent.
For a wide variety of great programs to workshop your script, find funding, and meet collaborators, check out:
https://www.sundance.org/create/overview
https://collab.sundance.org/
To self-publish your novel, check out:
https://www.bookbaby.com/
Good luck with all of your projects!
Best wishes,
Ming Lai
Great to hear about your interest in writing. I would suggest checking out CBS Writers Mentorship Program. In its sixteen years, over 100 emerging diverse writers have graduated from the CBS Writers Mentoring Program. Over 75 careers have been launched. The goal of the program is to positively impact the presence of diverse writers throughout the industry. The primary focus of the CBS Writers Mentoring Program is to provide access and opportunities for talented and motivated diverse writers. Take a look & keep a look out when submissions become available. https://www.cbscorporation.com/diversity_institute/writers-mentoring-program/
Hi John!
You’re very welcome!
Please let me know if you have any additional questions.
Best of luck with your bright career!
Sincerely,
Ming
As an ACP AdvisorNet staff member, I assist in monitoring and building the ACP AdvisorNet community.
Hi John,
Thank you for your question and your service! While I do not have much experience in screenplay or writing industries, I found a few resources that may be helpful during your investigation:
1. Screen Craft's "Should You Be a Novelist or Screenwriter?" article (https://screencraft.org/2017/10/30/should-you-be-a-novelist-or-screenwriter/) gives a break down of what each role (screenwriter versus novelist) entails.
2. "Should I write a novel or a script?" (https://johnaugust.com/2007/novel-or-script) poses some questions to think about when deciding which path to pursue.
I also highly recommend using ACP AdvisorNet's "Community" page to search for Advisors currently in those fields for more insight.
I hope this is helpful!
Have a great week,
Dara
ACP Operations Associate
Anthony,
I will certainly check it out. In looking at it right now it appears that the window is closed but it should begin again for the next season in March of this year.
Thank you again for the point in the right direction.
Cordially,
John
Hi John!
Thank you for sharing your inspiring story.
Good luck in applying for MFA programs and searching for an agent for your novel!
I’m a producer/writer/director.
I work on a range of projects from narrative and documentary films to commercials and corporate videos.
I like how you wrote a screenplay and then developed it into a novel, which I think is brilliant.
Unfortunately, there are so many great screenplays that are not made for whatever the reason.
By writing a novel, you can share your important story with the world.
Now you have multiple ways to sell your idea.
I would advise considering becoming a producer and publisher in addition to becoming a screenwriter and novelist.
That way, you can actualize your dream, turning your screenplay into a film or publishing your novel on your own.
Then no one can tell you no.
It’s not a simple or easy path, but it is empowering and gratifying to know that you can do it on your own.
Currently, there is a trend for both independent filmmaking/distribution and independent publishing.
Artists are cutting out the middle man and keeping all of the profits.
They are keeping control of their projects throughout the process.
I would still pursue an agent for your novel.
But if you can’t find the right one, then become your own.
You are your own best agent.
For a wide variety of great programs to workshop your script, find funding, and meet collaborators, check out:
https://www.sundance.org/create/overview
https://collab.sundance.org/
To self-publish your novel, check out:
https://www.bookbaby.com/
Good luck with all of your projects!
Best wishes,
Ming Lai
-Ming,
Thank you for your motivating response. It is a confirmation to me in hearing you say what you did about my transition from script to novel as I do feel there is more autonomy and odds with that path. Thank you for the great links, I will dig into them between these arduous applications. I truly appreciate it.
-Dara,
Thank you as well for your response, there is a meshing at times of both crafts and some have done both adroitly. James Salter, for example, was a Korean fighter pilot, fiction writer and eventually dabbled in scripts and directing (DOWNHILL RACER, with Robert Redford). These are interesting times for both these arts, hopefully Salter can be a template for my own journey.
Thanks to you both,
John
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