Now, let's talk about MRUs. In writing, an MRU is a Motivational Reaction Unit. This is a handy concept to keep in mind as you write. The idea is that your character must have a stimulus and then react to it. It sounds really simple and it is. But sometimes writers don't follow this and it can cause the reader problems.
1. confusion-character's actions are not chronologically logical
2. useless words-sentences which do not move the story forward
I love this concept because you can look at it on may levels. First, on the novel level. Your character has a crisis. He/She must react. Second, apply that to a scene. Novels are really just scenes strung together. Each scene should follow the MRU too. The character has a crisis and must react. And then, the MRU works on the paragraph level. Character motivation, then reaction.
Here's an example just in two sentences: The pot boiled over. Mary ran to the stove and moved it.
This is a physical reaction. But charcters can react with a feeling or by speaking too.
To learn more about MRUs read Randy Ingersol's article on "Writing the Perfect Scene".
http://www.advancedfictionwriting.com/
Ever wondered how to make Truffles? Here it is... And remember, according to that new belly fat diet dark chocolate has all sorts of health benefits!
Dark Chocolate Truffles
Yield: 30 Truffles
- 2 cup(s) 60% Cacao Bittersweet Chocolate Chips
- 1/3 cup(s) Unsweetened Cocoa
- 1/3 cup(s) heavy whipping cream
- 6 tablespoon(s) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Directions
In a small saucepan, bring the cream to a simmer. Add the butter and stir until melted. Add the chocolate chips. Stir until completely melted and smooth. Remove from the heat and pour into a shallow bowl.
Cool, cover, and refrigerate the mixture until firm, at least 2 hours.
Using a melon baller or small spoon, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the cocoa. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Note: The Unsweetened Cocoa can be replaced with 3/4 cup of chopped almonds or pecans.
1 comments:
Hi Kit: I'm laughing because when I read about MRUs above, I thought you were talking about motivating the writer (me) to write and them rewarding me with chocolate! This is what I usually do when writing after lunch. Then I continued reading and understood the real concept. Thanks for posting the recipe also. I do love chocolate.
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