Stories being too similiar
Question: I have an idea for a story about people with powers and the government rounds them up and throws them in these special prisons and kills them. What I can't decide is how the people get their powers. Every idea I come up with seems to familiar to something else they all either seem like they're a copy of the darkest minds or x-men.
Idea 1:
The government was designing a super soldier serum but everyone they tested it one they end up dying. There's an accident at the lab and the serum gets released in the world and infect millions most of which end up dying but the ones that survive develop these powers. There's something inside them that caused them to survive and for the rest to die.
Idea 2:
They're the next step in human evolution. These people develop there powers at all different times but usually around the age of 13 but some aren't until much later or some have them their whole life. Well they're exposed and the government rounds them up.
I want the main character to be one of the strongest ones and her father to be the head scientist that's studying the superhumans and trying to find a cure and a bunch of other stuff. Can you help me in anyway? Is there an idea you like the best? I can't come up with
Answer: Writers certainly have used these gimmicks and others to explain superpowers (alien DNA is another example). Historically, when people believed in "a better future through chemistry," it gave rise to superheroes who got their powers from consuming special formulae. When the world was interested in esotericism, superpowers came from Eastern religious disciplines. When we were worried about nuclear war, mutation seemed a good candidate. When the internet age was being born, The Matrix gave us a hero who controlled the online world.
In other words, the gimmick can come from what is on people's mind at the moment. If you're tuned in to what people are worried about today, that may give you an idea.
(See, I can't give you a solution, just point you in a direction.)
Comments for Stories being too similiar
|
||
|
||
|
||
|
||
|
||
| site search by freefind |
Recent Postings
-
What genre is my book?
Jan 11, 20 10:37 PM
Question: It's set in Ancient Rome and has historical elements, though it doesn't really mention anything of importance that would classify it as historical
-
Pacing
Jan 11, 20 10:18 PM
Question: I seem to have a really hard time pacing my stories because none of my scenes and chapters in between major plot points feels natural. Is there
"I've read more than fifty books on writing, writing novels, etc., but your website has the most useful and practical guidance. Now that I understand how a novel is structured, I will rewrite mine, confident that it will be a more interesting novel." - Lloyd Edwards
"Thanks to your "Create a Plot Outline in 8 Easy Steps," I was able to take a story that I simply just fooled around with and went willy nilly all over, into a clearly defined, intriguing battle where two characters fight to keep their relationship intact, and try to find a balance in control of themselves and their lives. Thanks to you, I'm not ashamed of the poor organization of my writing." - Nommanic Ragus
"I am so glad I found your site. It has helped me in so many ways, and has given me more confidence about myself and my work. Thank you for making this valuable resource, for me and my fellow writers. Perhaps you'll hear about me someday...I'll owe it to you." - Ruth, Milton, U.S.A.
"I never knew what to do with all the characters in my head, but since discovering Dramatica I am writing again in my spare time. Thank you for making this available. Yes, it is a bit complex, and it does take time, but I love it because it works." - Colin Shoeman
"I came across your website by chance. It is a plethora of
knowledge, written in a simplistic way to help aspiring writers. I
truly appreciate all of the information you have provided to help me
successfully (relative term) write my novel. Thank you very much!" - Leo T. Rollins
"I
can honestly say that this is the first website that is really helpful.
You manage to answer complex questions in relatively short articles and
with really intelligent answers. Thank you for taking the time to write
these articles and sharing them so generously." - Chrystelle Nash
"...had no idea that a simple click would give me such a wealth of valuable information. The site not only offered extremely clear and helpful instructions but was a very enjoyable read as well. The education from your wonderful site has made me a better writer and your words have inspired me to get back to work on my novel. I wish to give you a heartfelt thanks for How to Write a Book Now, sir." -- Mike Chiero
