Forum: Author Hangout

I don't think I've seen any stories that represent genius well, though Second Best and Strange Relationships get close.

https://storiesonline.net/series/524/second-best

Thanks. I'll give them a try, although I'm rather daunted by their lengths.

AJ

I don't think I've seen any stories that represent genius well, though Second Best and Strange Relationships get close.

https://storiesonline.net/series/524/second-best

Just finished 'Second Best' Not quite what I was looking for although I don't regret reading it.

As the story progressed the technical quality improved somewhat but it seemed to change from a character-driven erotic story to a stroke story. I preferred the early style so I probably won't bother with the sequels.

AJ

As the story progressed the technical quality improved somewhat

Not unusual, as the author grows and gets used to their own particular writing style.

but it seemed to change from a character-driven erotic story to a stroke story.

That's a bit more unusual, as traditionally, once the author gets into the heart of the story (and establishes the characters) many authors cut back on the sex. It's been a while since I've read it, but he may have been building to a harem style context.

I'm writing the story from the POV of the genius in such a way as to suggest the protagonist is actually unaware that he is a genius, although his interactions with the other leading characters are intended to show the reader that he is.

I may be failing to depict alcoholism accurately since the protagonist isn't trying to escape reality. He doesn't deliberately want nothing to do with humanity but is more like a high-functioning autistic person, only interacting when necessary.

AJ

I may be failing to depict alcoholism accurately since the protagonist isn't trying to escape reality. He doesn't deliberately want nothing to do with humanity but is more like a high-functioning autistic person, only interacting when necessary.

The specifics of character's personality disorder isn't important, but it's easier to write about a 'dysfunctional genius' than it is to depict what being a genius is like. That's why most stories about supposed geniuses don't focus on 'being smart', instead focusing on how alienated, distant and dysfunctional the character is. (It's also been argued that these stories are more readily accepted by the majority of readers, since it paints 'being a genius' as an unfortunate curse, which makes everyone feel better.)

But the main point is, focus on character flaws, rather than the subject that's harder to portray.

For the interaction with the rest of humanity, you might want to have a look at Sir Isaac Newton. He didn't disdain the rest of humanity so much as he just didn't seem to notice them.

Not an uncommon characteristic, not only of 'intelligent people', but also of focused and driven individuals. There's also a strong possibility he's either OCDC or has Asperger's, which would mean he's either unconcerned or incapable of caring or registering their opinions.

As with any 'fantasy' world you develop, you want to figure out where you want to go, research and create the proper rules for it, and then stick to those rules, rather than tossing them out initially and then ignoring them. (i.e. whatever obnoxious traits you give him (so reader's won't notice how he doesn't seen that intelligent), you want to make it consistent throughout the story). Best of all, by making him irascible, he won't have to say much being biting putdowns and impatient explanations clearly directed at his inferiors (saving you from having to show just how smart he is).

Note: I'm not presenting this as my approach, but as the more traditional approach to the situation, which gets you out of having to delve into what sets someone apart as an apparent genius.

He didn't disdain the rest of humanity so much as he just didn't seem to notice them.

You said it far better than I did.

AJ

Or perhaps he noticed them, but ignored them because they weren't interesting enough. The genius mind is not likely to be satisfied with simple entertainments, boredom is the bane of genius.

It depends on how you slice it. Tech companies love to hire young people with Asperger's, because they focus all their attention on a single project at a time, and they're often labeled 'geniuses' because they see results that no one else does. However, they notoriously lack the social skills necessary to get ahead in the world.

In one view, those geniuses can't be bothered with 'lessor mortals', while on their other their 'mental disorder' doesn't allow them to pick up on the necessary social cues.

Frankly, having a high IQ point doesn't seem to make much difference, even though that's how most people define 'intellect'. The fact that the same people, taking different IQ tests, achieve such disparate results, even over a few days time, should warn us from putting too much weight behind them--especially since they're so heavily culturally biased!

It's been noted, over the last 60 years, that most child prodigies simply disappear. The expectations exerted on them cause them to give up, turning away from both society and the very fields they might have excelled at. The exceptions are the young adults who excel before anyone labels them as "geniuses".

The other issue, first noticed by Einstein, is that the term "genius" is extremely age specific. No one labels older people as geniuses, regardless of what they achieve, while they're quick to label young children or young adults as geniuses. Einstein (and people like Steve Jobs) retain the title more as an honorific, earned over a lifetime of work.

The term 'genius' is of marginal value, so most people are better off never knowing their IQ score, since it's so damaging and offer little reward.

My suggestion would be to make your character "a normal (drunkard if you wish)" until he/she gets inside a lab where suddenly all bets are off.

Thank you, but I already have an outline of the plot. It's not a case of my wanting to write a story about an alcoholic genius scientist and not knowing what to write about.

If you, or anyone else, would like to further your idea, please let me know when the story is finished because I'd like to read it.

My story starts with the scientist having been fired from his latest job for turning up drunk to give a crucial client presentation.

AJ

AIUI Aspergers is just one form of over 40 types of dyslexia. One form allows the lucky one to "see" an object in 3D, to see it from all sides and, as one such told me, he could look at an apple (for example) and see it over time as it deteriorates and becomes mush. That is why over here the vast majority of architects are dyslexic. A famous name in this respect was General Patton who could see a battle in advance and adjust his plans. Some forms are minor and a da**ed nuisance - for example an ability to remember things with certain exceptions - someone else I know can remember faces, where he met them, what they talked about but can never remember the names.

That's interesting. I've never heard about that particular distinction (just as I've never heard anyone connect dyslexia and autism before). But ... I've suffered from similar symptoms. I don't see mental objects in 3D, but I do see maps that way as I figure out where I am while driving. I've also had problems, not only with names, but also faces. I'll remember almost every detail about encounters, but won't remember the person's face. With my first girlfriend, I could never remember her name (though I subsequently learned to memorize it, despite how difficult it is for me).

Do you know of any studies linking Autism and dyslexia that I could look up?

@awnlee_jawking

Thank you, but I already have an outline of the plot. It's not a case of my wanting to write a story about an alcoholic genius scientist and not knowing what to write about.

Sorry about that. From the way you initiated the initial question, I was under the impression you were still struggling with how to write the story. Still, that's the type of thing I might add to the revision phase, but again, that's just me.

That said, my point about few famous authors tackling the issue still stands, as it highlights just how difficult representing genius can be. I'm not saying it can't be done, but it's a difficult topic, even for experienced authors.

I'm not suggesting that you change the story, but like I typically do, you may want to sit back and consider how to approach the project, so you can avoid any potential plot holes (such as readers having difficulty connecting emotionally with the character). Planning out your approach generally makes for richer, more detailed stories than just charging ahead.

I'd stick with your idea of him as a drunkard, but it's always better going into a story with your eyes open to potential problems, rather than simply writing and seeing where you end up.

With that said, I'll shut up and quit repeating my advice, since it doesn't seem to fit your story in the least. 'D (Note: I've had issues with 'unlikable' characters in the past, so I've had experience with the issue and can relate to what you're facing.)

Sorry about that.

No, it was good advice and hopefully others will benefit from it. Thank you.

AJ

Sorry, I meant @Zom summarised my protagonist far better than I did.

AJ

I realize you asked for SOL stories, but I am going to give you non-SOL examples.

Thank you. I've never heard of either of those. Are the stories available on-line or dead tree?

AJ

Thanks,

AJ

Wouldn't work for any audience with any discernment at all.

Yes, that sums up the target audience ;)

AJ

In last night's episode of the TV drama series 'Scorpion', the principal genius character said, "I solved Fermat's Theorem when I was nine."

No, that simply reflects how insipid TV 'geniuses' (like Donald Trump or the Kardashians) are. I'm sure he was convinced he solved it when he was nine, but I seriously doubt anyone else (other than his mother) would concur.

I presume he meant Fermat's Last Theorem, but it's a moot point because you can't 'solve' a theorem - it is a solution.

'Scorpion' ran out of realistic plots early in the first series. Now they're just using maths and scientific jargon to prop up a brainless action/adventure series. I seem to recall 'Numb3rs' went the same way.

AJ