Image
File
OtherPress.
Room 1020 - 700 Royal Ave.
Douglas College
New Westminster, BC V3L 5B2
TELEPHONE: 604.525.3542
WEBSITE: www.theotherpress.ca
EMAIL: editor@theotherpress.ca
Jacey Gibb
Editor-in-chief
editor@theotherpress.ca
Natalie Serafini
Assistant Editor
assistant@theotherpress.ca
Angela Ho
Business Manager
accounting@theotherpress.ca
Chris Paik
Distribution Manager
distribution@theotherpress.ca
Cody Klyne
Layout Manager
layout@theotherpress.ca
Joel McCarthy
Graphics Manager
graphics@theotherpress.ca
Ed Appleby
llustrator
Patrick Vailancourt
News Editor
news@theotherpress.ca
Cheryl Minns
Arts Editor
arts@theotherpress.ca
Sophie Isbister
Life & Style Editor
lifeandstyle@theotherpress.ca
Elliot Chan
Opinions Editor
opinions@theotherpress.ca
Eric Wilkins
Sports Editor
sports@theotherpress.ca
Courtnie Martin
Sports Reporter
Livia Turnbull
4a | SA
THE WRITE STATE OF MIND, THE WRONG EXECUTION
y the time you read this, we'll have entered the final week of
National Novel Writing Month—or for the shortcut artists
out there, NaNoWriMo. What started 14 years ago as a way
to get people writing has grown to a mammoth event, with
over 300,000 participants registered this year alone. The goal
of NaNoWriMo is to have people write a 50,000-word novel
within the month of November and submit it before midnight
on November 30 to a word count validator on the official
NaNoWriMo website. To sum it up, everybody goes out, buys a
caffeine-IV, and tries to write a novel in 30 days.
Maybe this is the first you’re hearing about the month-long
writing fiesta. Maybe you're already past the 40,000-word mark
and can see the word count finish line in sight. I’ve been hesitant
to write about NaNoWriMo up until this point because of how
undecided I am about the event. I’ve never undertaken such an
enormous project and I was unsure if I could issue judgment
on something I’m more than likely incapable of doing myself.
But what kind of a writer would I be if I wasn’t overly critical of
everything?
Don’t get me wrong; I think the idea behind NaNoWriMo
is a fantastic one and I think everyone, regardless of their
occupation, hobbies, or skill level, should write more. But the
failure rate of NaNoWriMo is staggering, with less than 20 per
cent of writers reaching the minimum word count back in 2009.
Even on its own, shooting out 1,666 words a day for a whole
month sounds exhausting, but paired with a regular work
and/or school schedule, the time commitment could become
too much. I’m sure people participating in NaNoWriMo have
already thought about these challenges, but I just wanted to
emphasize the undertaking.
I've read enough about NaNoWriMo that I don’t feel like I
can add much to the argument either in support or against the
movement. What spurred my decision to join the conversation
though was an idea to provide suggestions for what people
could dedicate their time and words to. Instead of taking part
in NaNoWriMo, I suggest you funnel your creative juices into
something more manageable and possibly even something
you'll actually enjoy.
A large part of our readership is composed of post-
secondary students, so is it too obvious to suggest enrolling in
a creative writing class? Douglas College has plenty to choose
from, with introduction courses on writing poetry, plays, fiction,
children’s literature, and more. Some of my favourite classes
and instructors came from the creative writing department, so
you can use that as a reference. Take a break from your usual
academic niche and pursue something that’s likely a bit more
creative. If you're a stickler for prerequisites, sometimes creative
writing courses can substitute for English classes on your
transcripts—but make sure you check with an academic advisor
before you use my Lettitor as a registration guide.
A less formal approach to more writing would be to simply
take the time to brainstorm, either by yourself or preferably
with some friends. I have a penchant for coming up with
ridiculous ideas for sitcoms and movie plots that realistically
have no chance of ever making their way onto an actual screen,
but it’s enjoyable to sit around with friends and spitball pitches.
Round up two of your favourite, most creative people and six of
your favourite, most delicious beer and see what you can come
up with. You don’t have to commit to pursuing any of the ideas,
and you never know when brilliance might strike (hint: it’s
around the three-beer deep mark).
My last suggestion for people looking to increase their
writing is to get involved with yours truly, the Other Press.
Douglas doesn’t have a journalism program so the majority of
our contributors are people who just like to write or want to get
involved with a group on campus. It’s a fantastic place to start
developing writing skills and the amount of time you put into
the paper is entirely dependent on how much you want to take
on. We even pay contributors $50 for every five issues they write
for—an offer you'll never hear from NaNoWriMo.
Whether it’s completing a novel in under a month, enrolling
in a poetry class at Douglas, or reviewing your new favourite
album for the Other Press, ] encourage everyone reading this
to allot more time in their lives for writing. It’s one of the most
useful skills to have, you'll meet some creative people doing
it, and you'll get to experience the satisfaction that comes with
writing something awesome.
And feel encouraged to continue doing all of this after
November 30 has come and gone.
So it goes,
Jacey Gibb
Editor-in-chief
he Other Press has been Douglas
The Other Press is published that includes papers from all across
College’s student newspaper since weekly during the fall and winter Canada.
1976. Since 1978 we have been an semesters, and monthly during the The Other Press reserves the
autonomous publication, independent summer. We receive our funding right to choose what we will publish,
of the student union. We are a from a student levy collected and we will not publish material
Humour Editor
humour@theotherpress.ca
Cazzy Lewchuk registered society under the Society through tutition fees every semester that is hateful, obscene, or condones
Aidan Mouellic Act of British Columbia, governed at registration, and from local and or promotes illegal activities.
oe by an eight-person board of directors national advertising revenue. The Submissions may be edited for clarity
Julia Siedlanowska appointed by Wand from our staff. Other Press is a member of the and brevity if necessary. All images
Staff Writers Our head office is located in the New Canadian University Press (CUP), used are copyright to their respective
Westminster campus. a syndicate of student newspapers owners.
Sharon Miki
Senior Columnists
Brittney MacDonald, Lauren Paulsen
Columnists
Clive Ramroop, Carleigh Baker
Contributors
Comat umdaal § _) (SF) WY
Room 1020 - 700 Royal Ave.
Douglas College
New Westminster, BC V3L 5B2
TELEPHONE: 604.525.3542
WEBSITE: www.theotherpress.ca
EMAIL: editor@theotherpress.ca
Jacey Gibb
Editor-in-chief
editor@theotherpress.ca
Natalie Serafini
Assistant Editor
assistant@theotherpress.ca
Angela Ho
Business Manager
accounting@theotherpress.ca
Chris Paik
Distribution Manager
distribution@theotherpress.ca
Cody Klyne
Layout Manager
layout@theotherpress.ca
Joel McCarthy
Graphics Manager
graphics@theotherpress.ca
Ed Appleby
llustrator
Patrick Vailancourt
News Editor
news@theotherpress.ca
Cheryl Minns
Arts Editor
arts@theotherpress.ca
Sophie Isbister
Life & Style Editor
lifeandstyle@theotherpress.ca
Elliot Chan
Opinions Editor
opinions@theotherpress.ca
Eric Wilkins
Sports Editor
sports@theotherpress.ca
Courtnie Martin
Sports Reporter
Livia Turnbull
4a | SA
THE WRITE STATE OF MIND, THE WRONG EXECUTION
y the time you read this, we'll have entered the final week of
National Novel Writing Month—or for the shortcut artists
out there, NaNoWriMo. What started 14 years ago as a way
to get people writing has grown to a mammoth event, with
over 300,000 participants registered this year alone. The goal
of NaNoWriMo is to have people write a 50,000-word novel
within the month of November and submit it before midnight
on November 30 to a word count validator on the official
NaNoWriMo website. To sum it up, everybody goes out, buys a
caffeine-IV, and tries to write a novel in 30 days.
Maybe this is the first you’re hearing about the month-long
writing fiesta. Maybe you're already past the 40,000-word mark
and can see the word count finish line in sight. I’ve been hesitant
to write about NaNoWriMo up until this point because of how
undecided I am about the event. I’ve never undertaken such an
enormous project and I was unsure if I could issue judgment
on something I’m more than likely incapable of doing myself.
But what kind of a writer would I be if I wasn’t overly critical of
everything?
Don’t get me wrong; I think the idea behind NaNoWriMo
is a fantastic one and I think everyone, regardless of their
occupation, hobbies, or skill level, should write more. But the
failure rate of NaNoWriMo is staggering, with less than 20 per
cent of writers reaching the minimum word count back in 2009.
Even on its own, shooting out 1,666 words a day for a whole
month sounds exhausting, but paired with a regular work
and/or school schedule, the time commitment could become
too much. I’m sure people participating in NaNoWriMo have
already thought about these challenges, but I just wanted to
emphasize the undertaking.
I've read enough about NaNoWriMo that I don’t feel like I
can add much to the argument either in support or against the
movement. What spurred my decision to join the conversation
though was an idea to provide suggestions for what people
could dedicate their time and words to. Instead of taking part
in NaNoWriMo, I suggest you funnel your creative juices into
something more manageable and possibly even something
you'll actually enjoy.
A large part of our readership is composed of post-
secondary students, so is it too obvious to suggest enrolling in
a creative writing class? Douglas College has plenty to choose
from, with introduction courses on writing poetry, plays, fiction,
children’s literature, and more. Some of my favourite classes
and instructors came from the creative writing department, so
you can use that as a reference. Take a break from your usual
academic niche and pursue something that’s likely a bit more
creative. If you're a stickler for prerequisites, sometimes creative
writing courses can substitute for English classes on your
transcripts—but make sure you check with an academic advisor
before you use my Lettitor as a registration guide.
A less formal approach to more writing would be to simply
take the time to brainstorm, either by yourself or preferably
with some friends. I have a penchant for coming up with
ridiculous ideas for sitcoms and movie plots that realistically
have no chance of ever making their way onto an actual screen,
but it’s enjoyable to sit around with friends and spitball pitches.
Round up two of your favourite, most creative people and six of
your favourite, most delicious beer and see what you can come
up with. You don’t have to commit to pursuing any of the ideas,
and you never know when brilliance might strike (hint: it’s
around the three-beer deep mark).
My last suggestion for people looking to increase their
writing is to get involved with yours truly, the Other Press.
Douglas doesn’t have a journalism program so the majority of
our contributors are people who just like to write or want to get
involved with a group on campus. It’s a fantastic place to start
developing writing skills and the amount of time you put into
the paper is entirely dependent on how much you want to take
on. We even pay contributors $50 for every five issues they write
for—an offer you'll never hear from NaNoWriMo.
Whether it’s completing a novel in under a month, enrolling
in a poetry class at Douglas, or reviewing your new favourite
album for the Other Press, ] encourage everyone reading this
to allot more time in their lives for writing. It’s one of the most
useful skills to have, you'll meet some creative people doing
it, and you'll get to experience the satisfaction that comes with
writing something awesome.
And feel encouraged to continue doing all of this after
November 30 has come and gone.
So it goes,
Jacey Gibb
Editor-in-chief
he Other Press has been Douglas
The Other Press is published that includes papers from all across
College’s student newspaper since weekly during the fall and winter Canada.
1976. Since 1978 we have been an semesters, and monthly during the The Other Press reserves the
autonomous publication, independent summer. We receive our funding right to choose what we will publish,
of the student union. We are a from a student levy collected and we will not publish material
Humour Editor
humour@theotherpress.ca
Cazzy Lewchuk registered society under the Society through tutition fees every semester that is hateful, obscene, or condones
Aidan Mouellic Act of British Columbia, governed at registration, and from local and or promotes illegal activities.
oe by an eight-person board of directors national advertising revenue. The Submissions may be edited for clarity
Julia Siedlanowska appointed by Wand from our staff. Other Press is a member of the and brevity if necessary. All images
Staff Writers Our head office is located in the New Canadian University Press (CUP), used are copyright to their respective
Westminster campus. a syndicate of student newspapers owners.
Sharon Miki
Senior Columnists
Brittney MacDonald, Lauren Paulsen
Columnists
Clive Ramroop, Carleigh Baker
Contributors
Comat umdaal § _) (SF) WY
Edited Text
OtherPress.
Room 1020 - 700 Royal Ave.
Douglas College
New Westminster, BC V3L 5B2
TELEPHONE: 604.525.3542
WEBSITE: www.theotherpress.ca
EMAIL: editor@theotherpress.ca
Jacey Gibb
Editor-in-chief
editor@theotherpress.ca
Natalie Serafini
Assistant Editor
assistant@theotherpress.ca
Angela Ho
Business Manager
accounting@theotherpress.ca
Chris Paik
Distribution Manager
distribution@theotherpress.ca
Cody Klyne
Layout Manager
layout@theotherpress.ca
Joel McCarthy
Graphics Manager
graphics@theotherpress.ca
Ed Appleby
llustrator
Patrick Vailancourt
News Editor
news@theotherpress.ca
Cheryl Minns
Arts Editor
arts@theotherpress.ca
Sophie Isbister
Life & Style Editor
lifeandstyle@theotherpress.ca
Elliot Chan
Opinions Editor
opinions@theotherpress.ca
Eric Wilkins
Sports Editor
sports@theotherpress.ca
Courtnie Martin
Sports Reporter
Livia Turnbull
4a | SA
THE WRITE STATE OF MIND, THE WRONG EXECUTION
y the time you read this, we'll have entered the final week of
National Novel Writing Month—or for the shortcut artists
out there, NaNoWriMo. What started 14 years ago as a way
to get people writing has grown to a mammoth event, with
over 300,000 participants registered this year alone. The goal
of NaNoWriMo is to have people write a 50,000-word novel
within the month of November and submit it before midnight
on November 30 to a word count validator on the official
NaNoWriMo website. To sum it up, everybody goes out, buys a
caffeine-IV, and tries to write a novel in 30 days.
Maybe this is the first you’re hearing about the month-long
writing fiesta. Maybe you're already past the 40,000-word mark
and can see the word count finish line in sight. I’ve been hesitant
to write about NaNoWriMo up until this point because of how
undecided I am about the event. I’ve never undertaken such an
enormous project and I was unsure if I could issue judgment
on something I’m more than likely incapable of doing myself.
But what kind of a writer would I be if I wasn’t overly critical of
everything?
Don’t get me wrong; I think the idea behind NaNoWriMo
is a fantastic one and I think everyone, regardless of their
occupation, hobbies, or skill level, should write more. But the
failure rate of NaNoWriMo is staggering, with less than 20 per
cent of writers reaching the minimum word count back in 2009.
Even on its own, shooting out 1,666 words a day for a whole
month sounds exhausting, but paired with a regular work
and/or school schedule, the time commitment could become
too much. I’m sure people participating in NaNoWriMo have
already thought about these challenges, but I just wanted to
emphasize the undertaking.
I've read enough about NaNoWriMo that I don’t feel like I
can add much to the argument either in support or against the
movement. What spurred my decision to join the conversation
though was an idea to provide suggestions for what people
could dedicate their time and words to. Instead of taking part
in NaNoWriMo, I suggest you funnel your creative juices into
something more manageable and possibly even something
you'll actually enjoy.
A large part of our readership is composed of post-
secondary students, so is it too obvious to suggest enrolling in
a creative writing class? Douglas College has plenty to choose
from, with introduction courses on writing poetry, plays, fiction,
children’s literature, and more. Some of my favourite classes
and instructors came from the creative writing department, so
you can use that as a reference. Take a break from your usual
academic niche and pursue something that’s likely a bit more
creative. If you're a stickler for prerequisites, sometimes creative
writing courses can substitute for English classes on your
transcripts—but make sure you check with an academic advisor
before you use my Lettitor as a registration guide.
A less formal approach to more writing would be to simply
take the time to brainstorm, either by yourself or preferably
with some friends. I have a penchant for coming up with
ridiculous ideas for sitcoms and movie plots that realistically
have no chance of ever making their way onto an actual screen,
but it’s enjoyable to sit around with friends and spitball pitches.
Round up two of your favourite, most creative people and six of
your favourite, most delicious beer and see what you can come
up with. You don’t have to commit to pursuing any of the ideas,
and you never know when brilliance might strike (hint: it’s
around the three-beer deep mark).
My last suggestion for people looking to increase their
writing is to get involved with yours truly, the Other Press.
Douglas doesn’t have a journalism program so the majority of
our contributors are people who just like to write or want to get
involved with a group on campus. It’s a fantastic place to start
developing writing skills and the amount of time you put into
the paper is entirely dependent on how much you want to take
on. We even pay contributors $50 for every five issues they write
for—an offer you'll never hear from NaNoWriMo.
Whether it’s completing a novel in under a month, enrolling
in a poetry class at Douglas, or reviewing your new favourite
album for the Other Press, ] encourage everyone reading this
to allot more time in their lives for writing. It’s one of the most
useful skills to have, you'll meet some creative people doing
it, and you'll get to experience the satisfaction that comes with
writing something awesome.
And feel encouraged to continue doing all of this after
November 30 has come and gone.
So it goes,
Jacey Gibb
Editor-in-chief
he Other Press has been Douglas
The Other Press is published that includes papers from all across
College’s student newspaper since weekly during the fall and winter Canada.
1976. Since 1978 we have been an semesters, and monthly during the The Other Press reserves the
autonomous publication, independent summer. We receive our funding right to choose what we will publish,
of the student union. We are a from a student levy collected and we will not publish material
Humour Editor
humour@theotherpress.ca
Cazzy Lewchuk registered society under the Society through tutition fees every semester that is hateful, obscene, or condones
Aidan Mouellic Act of British Columbia, governed at registration, and from local and or promotes illegal activities.
oe by an eight-person board of directors national advertising revenue. The Submissions may be edited for clarity
Julia Siedlanowska appointed by Wand from our staff. Other Press is a member of the and brevity if necessary. All images
Staff Writers Our head office is located in the New Canadian University Press (CUP), used are copyright to their respective
Westminster campus. a syndicate of student newspapers owners.
Sharon Miki
Senior Columnists
Brittney MacDonald, Lauren Paulsen
Columnists
Clive Ramroop, Carleigh Baker
Contributors
Comat umdaal § _) (SF) WY
Room 1020 - 700 Royal Ave.
Douglas College
New Westminster, BC V3L 5B2
TELEPHONE: 604.525.3542
WEBSITE: www.theotherpress.ca
EMAIL: editor@theotherpress.ca
Jacey Gibb
Editor-in-chief
editor@theotherpress.ca
Natalie Serafini
Assistant Editor
assistant@theotherpress.ca
Angela Ho
Business Manager
accounting@theotherpress.ca
Chris Paik
Distribution Manager
distribution@theotherpress.ca
Cody Klyne
Layout Manager
layout@theotherpress.ca
Joel McCarthy
Graphics Manager
graphics@theotherpress.ca
Ed Appleby
llustrator
Patrick Vailancourt
News Editor
news@theotherpress.ca
Cheryl Minns
Arts Editor
arts@theotherpress.ca
Sophie Isbister
Life & Style Editor
lifeandstyle@theotherpress.ca
Elliot Chan
Opinions Editor
opinions@theotherpress.ca
Eric Wilkins
Sports Editor
sports@theotherpress.ca
Courtnie Martin
Sports Reporter
Livia Turnbull
4a | SA
THE WRITE STATE OF MIND, THE WRONG EXECUTION
y the time you read this, we'll have entered the final week of
National Novel Writing Month—or for the shortcut artists
out there, NaNoWriMo. What started 14 years ago as a way
to get people writing has grown to a mammoth event, with
over 300,000 participants registered this year alone. The goal
of NaNoWriMo is to have people write a 50,000-word novel
within the month of November and submit it before midnight
on November 30 to a word count validator on the official
NaNoWriMo website. To sum it up, everybody goes out, buys a
caffeine-IV, and tries to write a novel in 30 days.
Maybe this is the first you’re hearing about the month-long
writing fiesta. Maybe you're already past the 40,000-word mark
and can see the word count finish line in sight. I’ve been hesitant
to write about NaNoWriMo up until this point because of how
undecided I am about the event. I’ve never undertaken such an
enormous project and I was unsure if I could issue judgment
on something I’m more than likely incapable of doing myself.
But what kind of a writer would I be if I wasn’t overly critical of
everything?
Don’t get me wrong; I think the idea behind NaNoWriMo
is a fantastic one and I think everyone, regardless of their
occupation, hobbies, or skill level, should write more. But the
failure rate of NaNoWriMo is staggering, with less than 20 per
cent of writers reaching the minimum word count back in 2009.
Even on its own, shooting out 1,666 words a day for a whole
month sounds exhausting, but paired with a regular work
and/or school schedule, the time commitment could become
too much. I’m sure people participating in NaNoWriMo have
already thought about these challenges, but I just wanted to
emphasize the undertaking.
I've read enough about NaNoWriMo that I don’t feel like I
can add much to the argument either in support or against the
movement. What spurred my decision to join the conversation
though was an idea to provide suggestions for what people
could dedicate their time and words to. Instead of taking part
in NaNoWriMo, I suggest you funnel your creative juices into
something more manageable and possibly even something
you'll actually enjoy.
A large part of our readership is composed of post-
secondary students, so is it too obvious to suggest enrolling in
a creative writing class? Douglas College has plenty to choose
from, with introduction courses on writing poetry, plays, fiction,
children’s literature, and more. Some of my favourite classes
and instructors came from the creative writing department, so
you can use that as a reference. Take a break from your usual
academic niche and pursue something that’s likely a bit more
creative. If you're a stickler for prerequisites, sometimes creative
writing courses can substitute for English classes on your
transcripts—but make sure you check with an academic advisor
before you use my Lettitor as a registration guide.
A less formal approach to more writing would be to simply
take the time to brainstorm, either by yourself or preferably
with some friends. I have a penchant for coming up with
ridiculous ideas for sitcoms and movie plots that realistically
have no chance of ever making their way onto an actual screen,
but it’s enjoyable to sit around with friends and spitball pitches.
Round up two of your favourite, most creative people and six of
your favourite, most delicious beer and see what you can come
up with. You don’t have to commit to pursuing any of the ideas,
and you never know when brilliance might strike (hint: it’s
around the three-beer deep mark).
My last suggestion for people looking to increase their
writing is to get involved with yours truly, the Other Press.
Douglas doesn’t have a journalism program so the majority of
our contributors are people who just like to write or want to get
involved with a group on campus. It’s a fantastic place to start
developing writing skills and the amount of time you put into
the paper is entirely dependent on how much you want to take
on. We even pay contributors $50 for every five issues they write
for—an offer you'll never hear from NaNoWriMo.
Whether it’s completing a novel in under a month, enrolling
in a poetry class at Douglas, or reviewing your new favourite
album for the Other Press, ] encourage everyone reading this
to allot more time in their lives for writing. It’s one of the most
useful skills to have, you'll meet some creative people doing
it, and you'll get to experience the satisfaction that comes with
writing something awesome.
And feel encouraged to continue doing all of this after
November 30 has come and gone.
So it goes,
Jacey Gibb
Editor-in-chief
he Other Press has been Douglas
The Other Press is published that includes papers from all across
College’s student newspaper since weekly during the fall and winter Canada.
1976. Since 1978 we have been an semesters, and monthly during the The Other Press reserves the
autonomous publication, independent summer. We receive our funding right to choose what we will publish,
of the student union. We are a from a student levy collected and we will not publish material
Humour Editor
humour@theotherpress.ca
Cazzy Lewchuk registered society under the Society through tutition fees every semester that is hateful, obscene, or condones
Aidan Mouellic Act of British Columbia, governed at registration, and from local and or promotes illegal activities.
oe by an eight-person board of directors national advertising revenue. The Submissions may be edited for clarity
Julia Siedlanowska appointed by Wand from our staff. Other Press is a member of the and brevity if necessary. All images
Staff Writers Our head office is located in the New Canadian University Press (CUP), used are copyright to their respective
Westminster campus. a syndicate of student newspapers owners.
Sharon Miki
Senior Columnists
Brittney MacDonald, Lauren Paulsen
Columnists
Clive Ramroop, Carleigh Baker
Contributors
Comat umdaal § _) (SF) WY
Room 1020 - 700 Royal Ave.
Douglas College
New Westminster, BC V3L 5B2
TELEPHONE: 604.525.3542
WEBSITE: www.theotherpress.ca
EMAIL: editor@theotherpress.ca
Jacey Gibb
Editor-in-chief
editor@theotherpress.ca
Natalie Serafini
Assistant Editor
assistant@theotherpress.ca
Angela Ho
Business Manager
accounting@theotherpress.ca
Chris Paik
Distribution Manager
distribution@theotherpress.ca
Cody Klyne
Layout Manager
layout@theotherpress.ca
Joel McCarthy
Graphics Manager
graphics@theotherpress.ca
Ed Appleby
llustrator
Patrick Vailancourt
News Editor
news@theotherpress.ca
Cheryl Minns
Arts Editor
arts@theotherpress.ca
Sophie Isbister
Life & Style Editor
lifeandstyle@theotherpress.ca
Elliot Chan
Opinions Editor
opinions@theotherpress.ca
Eric Wilkins
Sports Editor
sports@theotherpress.ca
Courtnie Martin
Sports Reporter
Livia Turnbull
4a | SA
THE WRITE STATE OF MIND, THE WRONG EXECUTION
y the time you read this, we'll have entered the final week of
National Novel Writing Month—or for the shortcut artists
out there, NaNoWriMo. What started 14 years ago as a way
to get people writing has grown to a mammoth event, with
over 300,000 participants registered this year alone. The goal
of NaNoWriMo is to have people write a 50,000-word novel
within the month of November and submit it before midnight
on November 30 to a word count validator on the official
NaNoWriMo website. To sum it up, everybody goes out, buys a
caffeine-IV, and tries to write a novel in 30 days.
Maybe this is the first you’re hearing about the month-long
writing fiesta. Maybe you're already past the 40,000-word mark
and can see the word count finish line in sight. I’ve been hesitant
to write about NaNoWriMo up until this point because of how
undecided I am about the event. I’ve never undertaken such an
enormous project and I was unsure if I could issue judgment
on something I’m more than likely incapable of doing myself.
But what kind of a writer would I be if I wasn’t overly critical of
everything?
Don’t get me wrong; I think the idea behind NaNoWriMo
is a fantastic one and I think everyone, regardless of their
occupation, hobbies, or skill level, should write more. But the
failure rate of NaNoWriMo is staggering, with less than 20 per
cent of writers reaching the minimum word count back in 2009.
Even on its own, shooting out 1,666 words a day for a whole
month sounds exhausting, but paired with a regular work
and/or school schedule, the time commitment could become
too much. I’m sure people participating in NaNoWriMo have
already thought about these challenges, but I just wanted to
emphasize the undertaking.
I've read enough about NaNoWriMo that I don’t feel like I
can add much to the argument either in support or against the
movement. What spurred my decision to join the conversation
though was an idea to provide suggestions for what people
could dedicate their time and words to. Instead of taking part
in NaNoWriMo, I suggest you funnel your creative juices into
something more manageable and possibly even something
you'll actually enjoy.
A large part of our readership is composed of post-
secondary students, so is it too obvious to suggest enrolling in
a creative writing class? Douglas College has plenty to choose
from, with introduction courses on writing poetry, plays, fiction,
children’s literature, and more. Some of my favourite classes
and instructors came from the creative writing department, so
you can use that as a reference. Take a break from your usual
academic niche and pursue something that’s likely a bit more
creative. If you're a stickler for prerequisites, sometimes creative
writing courses can substitute for English classes on your
transcripts—but make sure you check with an academic advisor
before you use my Lettitor as a registration guide.
A less formal approach to more writing would be to simply
take the time to brainstorm, either by yourself or preferably
with some friends. I have a penchant for coming up with
ridiculous ideas for sitcoms and movie plots that realistically
have no chance of ever making their way onto an actual screen,
but it’s enjoyable to sit around with friends and spitball pitches.
Round up two of your favourite, most creative people and six of
your favourite, most delicious beer and see what you can come
up with. You don’t have to commit to pursuing any of the ideas,
and you never know when brilliance might strike (hint: it’s
around the three-beer deep mark).
My last suggestion for people looking to increase their
writing is to get involved with yours truly, the Other Press.
Douglas doesn’t have a journalism program so the majority of
our contributors are people who just like to write or want to get
involved with a group on campus. It’s a fantastic place to start
developing writing skills and the amount of time you put into
the paper is entirely dependent on how much you want to take
on. We even pay contributors $50 for every five issues they write
for—an offer you'll never hear from NaNoWriMo.
Whether it’s completing a novel in under a month, enrolling
in a poetry class at Douglas, or reviewing your new favourite
album for the Other Press, ] encourage everyone reading this
to allot more time in their lives for writing. It’s one of the most
useful skills to have, you'll meet some creative people doing
it, and you'll get to experience the satisfaction that comes with
writing something awesome.
And feel encouraged to continue doing all of this after
November 30 has come and gone.
So it goes,
Jacey Gibb
Editor-in-chief
he Other Press has been Douglas
The Other Press is published that includes papers from all across
College’s student newspaper since weekly during the fall and winter Canada.
1976. Since 1978 we have been an semesters, and monthly during the The Other Press reserves the
autonomous publication, independent summer. We receive our funding right to choose what we will publish,
of the student union. We are a from a student levy collected and we will not publish material
Humour Editor
humour@theotherpress.ca
Cazzy Lewchuk registered society under the Society through tutition fees every semester that is hateful, obscene, or condones
Aidan Mouellic Act of British Columbia, governed at registration, and from local and or promotes illegal activities.
oe by an eight-person board of directors national advertising revenue. The Submissions may be edited for clarity
Julia Siedlanowska appointed by Wand from our staff. Other Press is a member of the and brevity if necessary. All images
Staff Writers Our head office is located in the New Canadian University Press (CUP), used are copyright to their respective
Westminster campus. a syndicate of student newspapers owners.
Sharon Miki
Senior Columnists
Brittney MacDonald, Lauren Paulsen
Columnists
Clive Ramroop, Carleigh Baker
Contributors
Comat umdaal § _) (SF) WY
Room 1020 - 700 Royal Ave.
Douglas College
New Westminster, BC V3L 5B2
TELEPHONE: 604.525.3542
WEBSITE: www.theotherpress.ca
EMAIL: editor@theotherpress.ca
Jacey Gibb
Editor-in-chief
editor@theotherpress.ca
Natalie Serafini
Assistant Editor
assistant@theotherpress.ca
Angela Ho
Business Manager
accounting@theotherpress.ca
Chris Paik
Distribution Manager
distribution@theotherpress.ca
Cody Klyne
Layout Manager
layout@theotherpress.ca
Joel McCarthy
Graphics Manager
graphics@theotherpress.ca
Ed Appleby
llustrator
Patrick Vailancourt
News Editor
news@theotherpress.ca
Cheryl Minns
Arts Editor
arts@theotherpress.ca
Sophie Isbister
Life & Style Editor
lifeandstyle@theotherpress.ca
Elliot Chan
Opinions Editor
opinions@theotherpress.ca
Eric Wilkins
Sports Editor
sports@theotherpress.ca
Courtnie Martin
Sports Reporter
Livia Turnbull
4a | SA
THE WRITE STATE OF MIND, THE WRONG EXECUTION
y the time you read this, we'll have entered the final week of
National Novel Writing Month—or for the shortcut artists
out there, NaNoWriMo. What started 14 years ago as a way
to get people writing has grown to a mammoth event, with
over 300,000 participants registered this year alone. The goal
of NaNoWriMo is to have people write a 50,000-word novel
within the month of November and submit it before midnight
on November 30 to a word count validator on the official
NaNoWriMo website. To sum it up, everybody goes out, buys a
caffeine-IV, and tries to write a novel in 30 days.
Maybe this is the first you’re hearing about the month-long
writing fiesta. Maybe you're already past the 40,000-word mark
and can see the word count finish line in sight. I’ve been hesitant
to write about NaNoWriMo up until this point because of how
undecided I am about the event. I’ve never undertaken such an
enormous project and I was unsure if I could issue judgment
on something I’m more than likely incapable of doing myself.
But what kind of a writer would I be if I wasn’t overly critical of
everything?
Don’t get me wrong; I think the idea behind NaNoWriMo
is a fantastic one and I think everyone, regardless of their
occupation, hobbies, or skill level, should write more. But the
failure rate of NaNoWriMo is staggering, with less than 20 per
cent of writers reaching the minimum word count back in 2009.
Even on its own, shooting out 1,666 words a day for a whole
month sounds exhausting, but paired with a regular work
and/or school schedule, the time commitment could become
too much. I’m sure people participating in NaNoWriMo have
already thought about these challenges, but I just wanted to
emphasize the undertaking.
I've read enough about NaNoWriMo that I don’t feel like I
can add much to the argument either in support or against the
movement. What spurred my decision to join the conversation
though was an idea to provide suggestions for what people
could dedicate their time and words to. Instead of taking part
in NaNoWriMo, I suggest you funnel your creative juices into
something more manageable and possibly even something
you'll actually enjoy.
A large part of our readership is composed of post-
secondary students, so is it too obvious to suggest enrolling in
a creative writing class? Douglas College has plenty to choose
from, with introduction courses on writing poetry, plays, fiction,
children’s literature, and more. Some of my favourite classes
and instructors came from the creative writing department, so
you can use that as a reference. Take a break from your usual
academic niche and pursue something that’s likely a bit more
creative. If you're a stickler for prerequisites, sometimes creative
writing courses can substitute for English classes on your
transcripts—but make sure you check with an academic advisor
before you use my Lettitor as a registration guide.
A less formal approach to more writing would be to simply
take the time to brainstorm, either by yourself or preferably
with some friends. I have a penchant for coming up with
ridiculous ideas for sitcoms and movie plots that realistically
have no chance of ever making their way onto an actual screen,
but it’s enjoyable to sit around with friends and spitball pitches.
Round up two of your favourite, most creative people and six of
your favourite, most delicious beer and see what you can come
up with. You don’t have to commit to pursuing any of the ideas,
and you never know when brilliance might strike (hint: it’s
around the three-beer deep mark).
My last suggestion for people looking to increase their
writing is to get involved with yours truly, the Other Press.
Douglas doesn’t have a journalism program so the majority of
our contributors are people who just like to write or want to get
involved with a group on campus. It’s a fantastic place to start
developing writing skills and the amount of time you put into
the paper is entirely dependent on how much you want to take
on. We even pay contributors $50 for every five issues they write
for—an offer you'll never hear from NaNoWriMo.
Whether it’s completing a novel in under a month, enrolling
in a poetry class at Douglas, or reviewing your new favourite
album for the Other Press, ] encourage everyone reading this
to allot more time in their lives for writing. It’s one of the most
useful skills to have, you'll meet some creative people doing
it, and you'll get to experience the satisfaction that comes with
writing something awesome.
And feel encouraged to continue doing all of this after
November 30 has come and gone.
So it goes,
Jacey Gibb
Editor-in-chief
he Other Press has been Douglas
The Other Press is published that includes papers from all across
College’s student newspaper since weekly during the fall and winter Canada.
1976. Since 1978 we have been an semesters, and monthly during the The Other Press reserves the
autonomous publication, independent summer. We receive our funding right to choose what we will publish,
of the student union. We are a from a student levy collected and we will not publish material
Humour Editor
humour@theotherpress.ca
Cazzy Lewchuk registered society under the Society through tutition fees every semester that is hateful, obscene, or condones
Aidan Mouellic Act of British Columbia, governed at registration, and from local and or promotes illegal activities.
oe by an eight-person board of directors national advertising revenue. The Submissions may be edited for clarity
Julia Siedlanowska appointed by Wand from our staff. Other Press is a member of the and brevity if necessary. All images
Staff Writers Our head office is located in the New Canadian University Press (CUP), used are copyright to their respective
Westminster campus. a syndicate of student newspapers owners.
Sharon Miki
Senior Columnists
Brittney MacDonald, Lauren Paulsen
Columnists
Clive Ramroop, Carleigh Baker
Contributors
Comat umdaal § _) (SF) WY