Anyone else think this challenge almost contradicts itself?

Quoted from Don's Link “The gothic builds up the protagonist until he achieves what he's after, and then details the terrible consequences of achieving it. This sits in contrast to paranormal romance, wherein the main character generally seems to be rewarded for achieving (or dating) the forbidden.”

I know nothing about Gothic writing although I've read some books they mention. They all seem to end badly. Yet, we're challenged to write about a ghost who, in the end, isn't as bad as it appears. That sounds like paranormal romance to me.

Fuck it, just writing a ghost story in an old mansion/building. you can all throw your shoes at me.

James

No, I don't think it contradicts itself, but it does narrow it down slightly.

For instance the protagonist may spend his time trying to get rid of the ghost...and achieve his aim, but it turns out the ghost was actually doing something good. That would be consistent with the genre and theme.

Can the good thing the ghost tries to do, be having sex with all the characters?  That would be a good Gothic ghost, right?  Could be very romantic, even...

A ghost doing a terrible thing to a terrible person might be considered a good ghost, one dispensing justice.

I'm not sure I have a good grasp of what exactly it is, but either way I'm interested to see what you guys come up with.

I'm working on the Oct OWC. I have only just began writing so hopefully I can get some good feedback to help me as I continue.

We're there for you, Zanej!    (Just remember, it should remain anonymous until the reveal later on by Don...)  

Zane, this is the right place to start. You'll get at least 15 reads and comments, hopefully more. Do your best to stick to format, post if you have any questions.

Wasn't going to enter anything because I'm busy, but then an idea hit me right away and it's been moaning "write me! write me!" all day, so I might have to.  

Quoted from Reef Dreamer As there is no mention of budget i assume we dont have to bear this in mind, even though it's a short?

Budget is not a consideration.  Budget is up to you.

Don

Quoted from jwent6688 Anyone else think this challenge almost contradicts itself?

"The gothic builds up the protagonist until he achieves what he's after, and then details the terrible consequences of achieving it".
Get what you want and regret it.
Law of unintended consequences.
What the protag wants is actually bad. (Child abductor captures a kid! Horayyy! Oh... wait... )


"... in contrast to paranormal romance, wherein the main character generally seems to be rewarded for achieving (or dating) the forbidden."
Spirit spanking.
Lost soul humping.
Gho(st) jobs. (Yanking someone's chain in a good way)!

Quoted from Don Budget is not a consideration.  Budget is up to you.

Cool.

I'm going this route, then:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VdONYkKFmQ

To me, "Gothic Horror" is a feel, a tone, a look that involves certain "Gothic" qualities, settings, etc.  As far as I'm concerned the romance aspect ain't involved...at least it ain't gonna be involved in my Ghosts of Mars 2 script.

Romance is always an element of Gothic Horror.

Well. "always" is something that's tough to use, as molds are "always" meant to to be broken.

You go with your typical 3 act structure, cliche characters and plot, and while you're at it, why don't you even throw in one of your favorite "Save the Cat" moments, as well.

I'm going all in with Natasha Henstridge and Ghosts of Mars 2, set in a Gothic castle in Columbus, Ohio.

So it seems the old "rule" of not revealing your intent to submit to the OWC is out the window now. That's cool with me. I'm in.

I know nothing of gothic horror and ghosts stories have never been my favorite type of horror, but I came up with a fairly solid idea last night, so I think I can get it done in time. Damn, I really need to get writing and reviewing again, I've taken a break from both for far too long. The OWC is a good time to do that, I guess.

~Pete