It’s August 4th, again.
It’s an emotional day for many of us. Two years ago today, Blake died.
I had written a draft of this blog yesterday; in it, I detailed every second of that day – down to what I wore, what I ate, who I met with, what happened when I received that terrible, sad call… the subsequent calls, the flight home, having to Tweet out the news…
To be truthful, I couldn’t help myself. For many people, at times of trauma, the events that precede and follow the crisis become hard-wired into the brain, sometimes permanently.
Upon reflection, I realize that it’s best to celebrate Blake’s life, as opposed to reliving his death. So, I’m scrapping aforementioned draft, and offer this:
Blake’s presence in my life was a complete and unexpected gift to me. My work has grown; my voice is fluid and strong. I owe this all to Blake, who took me under his wing. He cheered me to the finish line – and beyond. He challenged me by telling me to always seek excellence. To rewrite until my fingers were nubs, and then rewrite again. I like to think that he would be proud of my work. He didn’t just tolerate me, he seemed to honestly enjoy me, even though I was (and always shall be) a bit of a handful.
So, on Blake Snyder Day, I’m going to do a few things. I’m going to read Blake’s final blog. I’m going to get out and take a long walk. I’m going to treasure the time that I had with him – and treasure the time that I still share with BJ and the rest of the Cats. You know who you are. You are brisket fat to me.
Oh. One other way to celebrate BSD. I’m going to write. That is how I can honor him most.
So can you.
Now, go write.
HRH – Princess Scribe
Princess Scribe's Blog 
I consider myself a lardon in your brisket’s fat. And I look forward to the fall when we can break bread.
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Thanks for the reminder. I learned about Blake too late to meet him, but have come to admire him as a communicator and person.
Now, write your heart out!
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I only had the honor of meeting Blake once, but I keep Save the Cat on my desk as a constant reminder of my purpose. On moments of doubt about my writing career, I glance to the left and there I see the cat hanging from the rope… and it’s me. OK, some days it’s buried under crap, but I know it’s there. It’s not only our stories that have “Save the Cat” moments, it’s our lives. Let’s make Blake proud today and choose to write.
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I remember the first Save the Cat book was literally flying off the shelves at the 2006 Expo. I bought it, went back to my hotel room, started reading and couldn’t stop. In my opinion, Blake’s insight and wisdom far surpassed anything they were teaching in the sessions that year. His genius, among other things, was his ability to articulate and clarify the structure, not formula, of screenwriting like no one else before or since. Thanks for your excellent tribute to this great teacher.
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I was crushed. Blake was the most loving, challenging, funny, inspiring, mentor I or anyone who ever met him could conjure up. His BS2 Beats and Masters classes were priceless. Shear panic on day two by everyone. You wanted to work hard to please the master. His words were direct, inspiring and kind. It took me a couple of weeks for it to finally sink in. I still miss his email replies.
I, like you, treasure Blake’s memory…. Smiles
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can’t believe it’s been TWO years
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Muah
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