Meaningless Meanderings

The Classics

In many conversations, I tend to find myself at a loss. While speaking of new movies, I reference their origin, whether it is a book, play, older movie or oral tradition. At this time, many people seem confused as they ask about the original story of Beowulf, what inspired the hit movie series Star Wars, and how could the odd plot of a strange science fiction movie tie in with Shakespeare's The Tempest.

Perhaps its my education as an English Major that allows me to see these plots beyond what they are, and cause the enjoyment of actually seeing them. Comparing The 13th Warrior to Beowulf is just as interesting as comparing adaptations of Romeo and Juliet. But it doesn't end with the direct adaptations; remember that references to the Bible, Shakespeare, or even Mythology is common.

So why bother bringing this up? I know, I ask this question with every blog, but I'm sure at least someone out there among my readers is asking this question.

Almost two weeks ago, I found myself in a serious conversation about story and plot with an old friend from high school. We were discussing characters, and we somehow found ourselves comparing Daedalus (character from Greek Mythology known for his genius, for those who do not know) to a character from a short story that he was writing. The comparison, of course, caught my attention. I didn't understand why he did it, but his short response is all that was needed to be said.

"People don't pull inspiration from the classics anymore."

I was shocked to realize how correct he was. Many writers, whether professional or novices, seem to forget that many stories have been written (and if you look at some beliefs, all "original" stories have already been written) and inspiration can be found within them. Characters, plot devices, new approaches or even a new tangent to step onto can be found within the collected pages of almost any story.

Next time you watch a movie or read a new novel, just think about what you see. The classics are everywhere, if people were to only pay attention to them. . .