The Writers' Strike
I’m going to miss my favorite TV shows as much as the next person, but I support the writers’ strike. Why? Because I’m a writer and the same issues that affect screenwriters also affect–or will in the near future–all writers. If you’re interested in understanding what the screenwriters are fighting for, this simple YouTube video provides a good explanation.
Just as the vast majority of novelists don’t make the income of Nora Roberts or Stephen King, the vast majority of screenwriters don’t make the income of the writers of Lost or Desperate Housewives.
The Internet is incredible. I’m not sure how I survived without it. But it’s very quickly thrown all of the creative arts into a new world that’s both full of promise and danger. Unless we figure out now how to protect our rights, none of us will be able to afford to “create” any longer.
Thanks for the explanation, very clear and grossly unfair.
Jo
Teachers often strike because we don’t make as much in our state as others. However, I have not lived here during a strike. If they do, I will not support it. Teachers belong in the classroom. Our state is a poor state and does the best they can. When I went into teaching, I was in my 40’s, and I knew going in that I would not get rich. As to other strikes, I don’t know much about them.
P.S. Speaking of writers…I probably just asked you this. Are you planning a workshop next year?
Brenda, I respect your thinking about teachers’ striking. That’s a tough one because it has such an enormous impact on students. Not quite the same thing as the creative arts. Still, teachers are often so underpaid and overworked, I can understand their frustration.
Very good video Diane. I was glad to see some of the stars such as Tim Robbins & Susan Sarandon supporting the strikers also.
“Support living artists.” I love it, Kathy!
Forgot to tell you guys. THE SLEEPING DOLL by J. Deaver is intriguing…some twists and turns.
I am back At work tomorrow after three days running errands, etc. I did not get not get to read as much as I liked.
Research papers and essays are fun too.
As to the writers’ strike…I don’t know much about it…however, it does not “hurt” people the way the teachers’ strike does… As to television writers, I don’t watch much except C. Minds and a few movies. I am sure you guys know much more about it than I have read.
Take care-keep writing…
Kathy-I agree with you that soon writers won’t need to write. The generations of readers are slacking off as we get older. Young folks have to be made to read. One teacher told me that in a few years, he thinks the students will be able to do high school on the Internet totally (not just as a few do today). It is so sad.
How many of you remember Bookmobiles??? They are ALMOST obsolute…
From what I am hearing from students, friends, at high school, college and email-this strike might not have the impact that the one did in 1988. Those interested tell me they will watch DVD’s, do Internet, and actually READ…we’ll see what they say after it lasts awhile…
Reading would be good. But it all will ultimately lead to the same result. No screenwriters = no new movies which eventually leads to no new DVDs, and if writers can’t afford to keep writing, there will be nothing new to read either.
Just call me Doomsday Diane.
I agree with you totally, but others don’t see the long-term effects. Don’t worry DD (:) money will win out, and everyone will go back to work. Bills must be paid. Authors do not get enough money for what they do-it is evident from reading your blogs…and your work…
Can u guys help on a essay for my school
about the Writers strike?