My lead became an extremely careful driver. Both hands on the wheels, never coasting, always shifting up through all the gears and then downshifting correctly...
 |
| And who wouldn't in this speed machine! |
Yeah, not very engaging. There had to be a clear picture of what my character was physically doing, but not detailed descriptions every time she hit the clutch to change the gear. I redrafted and focused on the horrible feeling of being chased, knowing capture meant death, racing, escaping, hurry, go faster!
The best way to know how to write a great chase is to watch some first. Here's what to look out for:
- Lots of rapid shot changes. You can do this with sharp sentences: Foot down. Car speeding. Engine growling. Horns blaring. She checked her mirror. Damn. She hadn't lost him.
- Blink-and-you-miss-it snapshots of the driver driving. Gentle reminders to show the character in control.
- Occasional reminders of the speed. It's a chase scene - the audience knows it'll be fast.
- Cutting between the "hero" and the "enemy". Keeps up a sense of urgency.
- The wider impacts of the chase - forcing others off the road, fleeing pedestrians etc...
Quantum of Solace:
(Any excuse for a James Bond reference!!)
The Bourne Identity:
Watch them, think about what both scenes focus on (SPEED AND DESTRUCTION!!!), and see if you can mirror the pace in your own writing.
Have fun!
Oooh, and I totally treated myself for an epic weekend of writing:
^____________^
I looooove both of those car chases! :D I can't remember if I've ever read a car chase in a book. Huh.
ReplyDeleteAlso, yum, yum, yum!!
Laura: I can think of a couple. One in the Young Bond book "Double or Die", which is AWESOME by the way. READ THAT SERIES NOW! The other was in a book part of a series and I totally can't remember which book it was. Aren't I helpful? :P
ReplyDeleteI think they're relatively rare. They're not the easiest thing to convey with words.
I have to say, I don't think I've ever read a car chase in a book, either but it'd be interesting to see how it's done! And... I so want that cupcake. Maybe I should crack down on my writing more so I can treat myself! :D
ReplyDeleteGracie: It took me quite a while to think of any, but they are out there.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely treat yourself! Life is for living and eating delicious cupcakes, so say I!