Bill W

Intimacy derives from the Latin intimus ("within", "inside", "innermost", "deepest"" combined with the suffix -cy. It signifies a state of close, personal, or familiar connection, originating from the root intus ("within"). The term evolved from the concept of being "inmost" or having deep, internal knowledge. It is rooted in the Late Late Latin verb intimare ("to make known", "announce", "Impress", "bring into"). The adjective "intimate" appeared in the 1630s meaning "closely acquainted", while the noun "Intimacy" arrived in the 1640s. While the origianal meaning of intimacy indicated a close, personal friendship (1640s), the specific context of sexual intercourse appeared later, by the 1670s, becoming common by the late 19th century. Intimacy generally refers to a deep, close relationship involving shared personal, private, or familiar feelings. According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the noun intimacy was first used in English in the mid-1600s, with the earliest evidence dating back to 1641 in the writing of John Jackson. The term is derived from the adjective intimate, which appeared earlier in the 17th century. According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the earliest known use of the verb intimate is in the mid-1500s. The importance of incorporating intimacy—defined as deep emotional, physical, mental, or spiritual closeness—early in a story serves to immediately forge a bond between characters and readers, setting the stakes for the narrative. Rather than just sexual encounters, early intimacy includes vulnerability, shared secrets, or profound conversations that reveal character motivations and establish the "why" behind their actions. Importance of Early Intimacy in Storytelling: Rapid Character Connection: Introducing intimacy early allows readers to understand a character's "inmost thoughts or feelings" instantly, creating empathy and investment. Establishing High Stakes: Intimate scenes or moments of vulnerability at the start of a story signal what characters have to lose, driving the emotional tension of the plot. Developing Authentic Relationships: Emotional intimacy often begins before physical intimacy, forming a foundation that makes subsequent, more intense scenes feel earned rather than gratuitous. Driving Plot and Pacing: An intimate moment, such as a confession or shared vulnerability, can act as a catalyst that accelerates character development or shifts the power dynamics early on. Building Narrative Trust: "Narrative intimacy," or the closeness between the narrator and the reader, builds trust and allows for a deeper, more personal engagement with the story. Techniques for Establishing Initial Intimacy: Vulnerability and Confession: Starting with a character revealing a secret or a hidden fear immediately hooks the reader. The "Micro" Detail: Focusing on small, sensory details—a touch, a scent, a specific look—grounds the reader in the character's emotional experience. Setting the Tone: Early intimacy, even in non-romantic genres like thriller or mystery, helps to define the relationship between protagonist and antagonist or allies. Free Indirect Speech: Using this technique allows the reader to intimately share the thoughts, feelings, and sensations of a character. In summary, placing intimacy early in a story is not about immediately including a sex scene, but about establishing a "state of closeness" that forces characters to be vulnerable and, in turn, draws the reader into their world.

I guess you forgot about Louella. It seems no one likes her. 😧

Thanks, Tb. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter and I'm glad you love Mac and Devin. It's always good to hear when I've created likable characters.

As far as the Powerball and Lucky for Life tickets, they have to wait for the drawing, so you should find out about that in the next chapter. Liam, Liam, Liam. Is that all you guys can talk about? 😜 I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter.

I'm glad you liked this chapter and the scratch off win. I'm also glad you like the idea of how much money Mac and Devin can start raking in. 😍 And everybody seems to want to know what Liam is going to do. Do you guys all think I'm a mind reader? 😜

Australia has lots of spiders and some of the worst ones, so Aussies have ti be brave, but this dude is fuckin' nuts!

I guess you'll have to read the next chapter to find out. 😜 Who knows what devious schemes lurks in the mind of a parents?

"Devotion" originates form the Latin dēvōtiō ("consecration", "a formal vow", "sacrifice", or "dedication"). It stems from the verb dēvovēre ("to dedicate by a vow", "sacrifice oneself", or "vow away"). It combines de- ("down", "away") with vovēre ("to vow"). It entered English via the Old French devocion (referring to piety or religious devotion) and entered Middle English as devocioun, appearing in the 13th-14th century, initially meaning "a profound religious emotion or reverence. Historically, it signifies a solemn promise, dedication, or profound religious, loving, or loyal commitment to a person, cause, or deity. According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the earliest known use of the noun devotion in English is from around 1225 in the Ancrene Riwle (or Ancrene Wisse), a guide for anchoresses. Devotion plays a fundamental role in writing, serving as the bridge between creative, technical skill and impactful, resonant storytelling. It acts as the "why" behind the "what," transforming writing from a mere task into a purposeful, often transformative, act. In the context of devotional writing, it is the personal, faith-driven foundation, while in a broader creative sense, it represents the dedication to the craft and the nurturing of one's creative spirit. Here is the Importance of Devotion in Writing: Deepens Connection with the Reader: Devotion allows writers to connect with their audience on a deeper, more emotional level. Writing that comes from a place of sincerity and humility—key elements of devotion—enables readers to see, hear, and feel the story, making it more engaging and impactful. Provides Purpose and Direction: Devotion centers the writer's work on a higher purpose, ensuring the writing serves the reader rather than just the writer's ego. It helps to focus on providing value, such as encouraging, instructing, or comforting the reader. Enhances Authenticity and Vulnerability: A devoted writer is often more willing to share personal, raw experiences, which makes the story more relatable. It encourages sharing honest accounts of struggles, failures, and successes, which in turn fosters trust and empathy with the reader. Fuels Creativity and Overcomes Blocks: Devotion to the creative process helps in overcoming writer's block by fostering a consistent practice. When a writer is devoted to their craft and truly loves their subject, it is easier to break through creative paralysis. Ensures Sustained Effort and Growth: Devotion is described as superior to, and the foundation of, discipline. It is the engine that keeps a writer producing work,, refining their skills, and growing in their ability to tell compelling stories. Acts as an Act of Worship/Service: Writing can be a form of devotion itself, acting as a spiritual practice to reflect, process, and find meaning. It enables the writer to create something that can outlive them, leaving a legacy of wisdom or encouragement. Guarantees Emotional Resonance: Devoted writing often connects with the deepest needs of the reader. It allows the writer to share personal stories that make abstract concepts, like faith or hope, real and tangible. In essence, devotion is what moves a story from being merely entertaining to being deeply resonant, making it a powerful, and perhaps even necessary, element for impactful, lasting storytelling.

Yes, Lee, it was a lot of work for Mac to do, but he's the software engineer, so it's in his bailiwick, not Devin's, so he gets stuck doing the work. It would be interesting to see it, though, if it were actually real.

Yes, Mr. Dog, the boys' magic touch is still working and the extra cash always helps out. Hmmm, parents can be sneaky and can come up with ways to get what they want, so we'll have to wait and see what Liam does. I'm not sure how he plans to convince the boys to do what he wants, since he goes through Mike to pass messages to Mac and Devin, so this should be interesting.

Thank you, Johnny, and I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. Yes, the auction of the baseball cards, as well as the gold and silver coins, along with the various antiques that were also found in those bags, should fetch a nice sum at auction. I haven't dealt with Heritage auctions personally, but from what I read, they appeared to be a very reputable and thorough group. It will be interesting to see how those auctions turn out and how much money is raised.

Chapter 34 – Spring Break When we eventually went down to have lunch with my parents, and while we were eating, Mom made a comment. “As soon as you finish your meal, we want you boys to get ready to go shopping with us.” “Why do we have to go grocery shopping with you?” “We’re not taking you grocery shopping. We thought it would be a good idea to take you boys to purchase suits, dress shirts, ties, and pocket squares. We feel those things will make you look stylish when you

"Ache" originates from the Old English verb acan ("to suffer pain") and noun æce ("a pain"), rooted in the Proto-Germanic akanan and akiz. It is believed to stem from a Proto-Indo-European root (*ag-es-) potentially imitative of groaning, with related terms in German and Frisian referring to pain, injury, or festering. The spelling shifted from ake (verb) to ache (noun) due to a mistaken 17th-century association with the Greek akhos. Historically, the verb was spelled ake, but it adopted the noun's spelling (ache) in the 17th century, largely due to Samuel Johnson's dictionary work. Ache refers to a continuous, dull pain or, metaphorically, a yearning. According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the earliest known use of "ache" (both as a noun and a verb) is in the Old English period, which is prior to 1150. Ache, encompassing both physical pain and deep emotional heartache, is a fundamental component of storytelling that anchors characters in reality and drives reader empathy. By incorporating ache, writers can deepen emotional stakes, create realistic character development, and make narratives more memorable and impactful. The Importance of Ache in Writing Stories: Creates Empathy and Connection: Pain is a universal human experience. When characters suffer, readers relate to that suffering, which builds a strong emotional connection to the story. Deepens Emotional Stakes: Ache (emotional pain) highlights what a character stands to lose, making their journey more significant and compelling. Enhances Realism: Realistic depictions of physical pain—including recovery time and lasting effects—prevent characters from seeming invulnerable and add a layer of truth that makes the story more believable. Drives Character Growth: Physical or emotional suffering often forces characters to change, adapt, or overcome, leading to significant character arcs. Adds Dramatic Tension: Ache can be used to raise the stakes, placing hurdles in the way of the protagonist, which increases the dramatic tension of the plot. Reveals True Character: Similar to a "pearl within a shell," pain serves as a tool to break down a character’s defenses and reveal their true nature. Key Considerations for Writing Ache: Link Pain to Emotion: Effective storytelling connects physical pain to emotional, psychological, or internal pain. Avoid "Over-doing" It: While pain is important, it should be integrated into the plot, not just used to make a scene dramatic. The intensity of the description should match the severity of the pain. Utilize Sensory Details: Describing the physical sensations of pain, rather than just stating a character is in pain, creates a more immersive experience for the reader. Use "TOMBS" for Depth: To create a fully realized character, consider the Trait (selfishness, naivety), Origin (what caused the pain), Manifestation (how it's shown), Benefits (what they get from it), and Sacrifices involved in the pain. In summary, incorporating ache allows writers to explore profound, relatable human experiences, transforming a simple plot into a deeply resonant, unforgettable story.

The crying was referring to drp's tenderizing mishap.

As the old Otis Redding song goes. "Try a little tenderness", and if that doesn't work- cry!

"Tenderness" (13th-14th century) originates from the Old French tendre (soft, delicate, young), derived from the Latin tener or tenerum (soft, delicate, young). It is rooted in the Proto-Indo-European ten- ("to stretch"), suggesting a progression from "stretched" to "thin," "weak," and ultimately "delicate" or "youthful". The suffix -ness was added to the adjective tender to denote the quality or state of being tender. In the 13th Century, tenderness was used to describe softness, fragility, and youth. In the 13th–14th Century, tenderness extended to mean "affection, loving kindness", and, in a physical sense it meant "sensitivity to pain. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the noun tenderness was first used in English during the Middle English period (1150-1500), with the earliest known evidence appearing before 1382. It was found in the Wycliffite Bible (early version). Other sources, such as the Online Etymology Dictionary, indicate it was in use by the early 14th century, meaning "delicacy, sensitivity to pain". Tenderness in writing stories is the deliberate infusion of gentle affection, warmth, and care into a narrative, acting as a vital counterweight to conflict and trauma. It is essential for creating deeply relatable characters, fostering an empathetic bond with the readers, and providing emotional depth that makes a story memorable. By focusing on vulnerability and human connection, tenderness transforms a plot-driven story into an emotional, resonant experience. Here is the importance of tenderness in writing stories: Forging Reader-Character Connection: Characters who exhibit tenderness—even amid conflict—become more three-dimensional and sympathetic. This allows readers to invest emotionally in the characters' fates, making them care more about the story's outcome. Balancing Emotional Arcs: While tension and conflict drive a plot, excessive, unrelenting negativity can lead to emotional exhaustion. Tenderness serves as a necessary "breather," providing contrast to intense moments and enhancing the overall emotional impact of the story. Enhancing Vulnerability and Realism: Writing with tenderness means showing the softer, unguarded moments of life. This creates a raw, real experience that resonates with readers because it mirrors the complexities of human emotion and relationships. Evoking Empathy and Affective Response: A tender, well-crafted scene can trigger a "gut" reaction in readers, making them feel the emotion rather than just reading about it. This emotional "holding" makes the narrative memorable. Deepening the Writer’s Voice: Approaching characters with care and, at times, vulnerability allows the writer's authentic voice to emerge. It requires the writer to "feel" the scene, bringing a layer of truth and compassion to the work. Cultivating Compassion: In a world that often prioritizes conflict, stories that include tenderness encourage understanding, compassion, and a deeper appreciation for the human condition. In essence, tenderness allows a writer to show "heart" in their work, ensuring that even in dark stories, there is a glimmer of humanity that keeps the reader attached.

Edgar Allan Poe's "The Gold Bug" can now become "The Gold Spider".

"Yearning" originates from the Middle English yerning, stemming from Old English gierning (a longing, desire) and the ver giernan (to strive, desire, beg). It traces back to the Proto-Germanic gernjaną ("to desire") and further to the PIE root *𝑔𝑒𝑟− ("to like, want, desire"). It is related to Old Norse gjarn ("desirous") and German gern ("gladly, willingly"). According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the earliest known use of the noun yearning is in the Middle English period, specifically appearing around 1371-1373. The noun is formed within English through derivation (yearn v.¹ + -ing suffix²). The term, derived from the verb yearn, was used to denote a deep longing or desire, and dates back to the Old English period (before 1150). The earliest recorded use of the adjective yearning is later, appearing in the early 1500s (specifically 1522 in the writings of John Vaus). The word has evolved from signifying simple eagerness to describing a deep, emotional longing. Yearning in writing stories is a fundamental, deeply emotional, and internal force in storytelling that goes beyond simple, surface-level desires (what a character wants) to represent what they need to feel complete. It functions as a powerful, often bittersweet, motivator that drives character development, plot progression, and audience empathy. Drives Character Depth and Transformation: Root of Character: While a "want" might be external (money, fame), a "yearning" is internal (to be loved, to find belonging) and acts as the "fiery core" from which all actions, thoughts, and traits surge. Character Arcs: Yearning implies a necessary change, often mapping a journey from a state of longing to fulfillment (or poignant loss), such as moving from isolated to connected, or naive to experienced. Underlying Motivation: It explains why a character takes risks, makes sacrifices, or endures pain, making their actions more compelling than simple goal-seeking. Strength Plot and Tension: The "Engine" of Story: As writer Robert Olen Butler notes, stories are fundamentally about desire, and yearning is the deepest form of desire. It drives the narrative by creating a "gap" between what the character has and what they desire, creating tension. | Obstacles as Focus: The plot becomes the story of the character's yearning hitting obstacles, which allows the reader to see the intensity of the character’s inner world. High Stakes: Yearning transforms ordinary goals into life-or-death, "do-or-die" situations, forcing characters to face their deepest fears. Fosters Reader Empathy and Connection: Universal Relatability: Yearning taps into primal human desires—nostalgia, love, freedom, or home—that make characters feel real, flawed, and human. Emotional Resonance: A character's longing for something just out of reach creates a "bittersweet" feeling that hooks the reader, forcing them to care about the outcome. Internal Monologue: It guides internal thoughts, making them feel authentic and evocative, rather than just delivering information. Key Types of Yearning in Narrative: Romance: Characters often yearn for each other, building anticipation through longing and tension. Coming-of-Age: Deep yearning to be more—to be proud, skilled, or worthy—drives growth. Quest/Journey: A longing for change (internal or external) drives the narrative from the status quo to a new state. Existential: A search for identity or a place in the universe. Tips for Incorporating Yearning: Focus on the "Why": Ask what deep-seated, often emotional, "vacuum" needs to be filled, rather than just what the character wants. | Show, Don't Tell: Use visual cues (empty spaces, a character staring into the distance), small details (a smell or sound), and actions to demonstrate longing. Use Subplot: Use subplots to allow raw, emotional yearnings to surface and be thwarted, making the desire deeper.

The word "execution" originated in the late 14th century from the Latin executionem (nominative executio), meaning "an accomplishing" or "a performing". it came to English via the Anglo-French execucioun and Old French execucion. It is closely related to the verb execute (14th century) and the noun executor (13th century), both sharing the root meaning of carrying out or following through. According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the earliest known use of the noun execution in English is from around 1360. The word appeared in the Middle English period (1150–1500) with meanings related to "a carrying out, a putting into effect; enforcement; performance (of a law, statute, etc.)". While it meant "carrying out" generally, the specific sense of "act of putting to death" (capital punishment) originated in the mid-14th century, often from phrases like don execution of deth ("carry out a sentence of death"). The related verb execute is recorded slightly later, in 1387. Execution is arguably the most critical component in storytelling, often outweighing the originality of the idea itself. While a unique premise can attract initial attention, it is the execution—the voice, pacing, character development, and prose—that determines whether a story is engaging, memorable, or successful. Good execution can elevate a cliché premise, while poor execution can ruin a brilliant, original idea. Why Execution Matters in Writing Stories: Transforms Ideas into Reality: Ideas are intangible "seeds," but execution is the soil and care that allows them to grow into a complete, readable, and emotional story. Dictates Reader Engagement: A well-executed story grabs a reader's attention and maintains it through polished prose and effective structure. Poor execution often leads to disinterest, even if the premise is interesting. Builds Credibility and Immersion: Good execution justifies character actions and plot points, making the world believable rather than "cheap" or immersion-breaking. Distinguishes the Writer's Voice: The uniqueness of a story often lies not in the plot itself, but in the specific rhythm, style, and emotional depth the author brings to it. Saves Weak Premises: A common adage in writing is that there are no bad ideas, only bad executions. A well-executed story can make a clichéd or mundane concept feel fresh and interesting. | Separates Amateurs from Professionals: In the industry, "execution-dependent" scripts are common. A solid, well-executed script is often more valued than a brilliant, unrefined idea. Core Components of Good Execution: Character and Plot Development: Ensuring characters act in-character, and that plots follow a logical, engaging, cause-and-effect structure. Technical Proficiency: Strong, clean writing, proper pacing, and effective dialogue. Editing and Refinement: The willingness to revise, cut, and polish scenes for the sake of the overall narrative. How to Improve Execution: Finish What You Start: Consistently completing stories is the fastest way to improve execution. Study Craft and Theory: Reading extensively and studying the techniques other authors use to build scenes and tension. Seek Feedback: Having work critiqued to identify where the story breaks down. In summary, Execution is the hardest part of writing stories, because once the authors create a concept for a story, they then have to bring it to life in a way that will be interesting, believable, and relatable.

The scholarship was one idea they were kicking around, but it will depend on how much money they get. We'll see what happens. As far as the wedding and who is included in the wedding party, I will leave that up to Mac and Devin. 😜

A whimsical story about two young gay men, Ryan and Aaron, who met quite by accident, and after a cautious beginning, eventually build a mutual attraction. This marvelous short story is filled with humor, a budding relationship, sex, and many surprises. It also has very likeable and believable characters, so if you're a sucker for romantic stories that are refreshing and fun, then this should be right in your wheelhouse, so check it out!

Another wonderful story, @Paladin. I loved the concept ot the time machine, and that you named it Eric and made it invisible. I'd love for someone with a time machine to drop into my car when I'm out for a drive, so I'll send you my address so Aaron can pass it along to one of his contacts in the future.

Ok, @Paladin. You've got me hooked, now reel me in. When Aaron first appeared in Ryan's car, and I read about Ryan's reaction, my first thought was that Ryan was a ghost. I like the idea of him being a time traveler even better. I love their banter, I love that Ryan wants to be cautious, yet eagerly participates. I love Ryan's family dynamics, and I can't wait to read chapter 2. I think I said the same thing with the last story of yours that i read. 😜

A funny and quirky short story that I considered to be a mating between Star Trek and Lost in Space. There are so many things about this story that will bring a crooked smile to your face, from the computerized navigation system, the gay members of the crew, the name of the spaceship, and to the name of a planet the ship went to after getting lost. It is also a celebration of the U.S. version of Thanksgiving and the typical American Thanksgiving dinner, and it also points out how Thanksgiving brings a family together (although not always in a good way) - and this last theme plays a key role in an unexpected fashion. Do yourself a favor and read this short story. I promise it will bring a few delightful smiles to your face, and it will most likely elicit a few healthy guffaws from deep in your core.

Wonderfully funny story that I could definitely relate to. When I went to visit my mom after i got married and moved about 40 miles away, she would always take us to Denny's, and it didn't make a difference if it was for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. That was her go to place. I did momentarily question how the ship had both frozen and live turkey onboard, but they kept telling the crew there were no turkey on the ship. hmmmm. Oh, and when I saw Heisenberg, I thought of Walter White from Breaking Bad - his drug lord persona. Thanks for the great read.