Frequently Asked Questions
Jul. 1st, 2010 12:30 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
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What is a Round Robin?
A Round Robin is a style of story telling where multiple authors co-write in the style of an Exquisite Corpse. One author begins the story, and then another author picks up where ze left off. A third author takes over from the second, and so one and so forth, until every author has written a piece. Then it circles around to the first author.
How much should I write?
As much or as little as you like. We encourage 100-1000 words, but there is no minimum or maximum. If you are having writers block when your turn comes, feel free to shoot off a single paragraph. If the story is really speaking to you, let it rip. However, be warned against taking over the story. Posts that are consistently huge (5000+ words, for example) will get you a tap from the Mod Bat.
Where is the story planned or outlined? How do I know what to write?
There is no outline, or plan. Each author has near total freedom with zir part. Again, we encourage authors to stick with the tone and atmosphere established with Post 0, but it's not a requirement.
You just said "near total freedom". What are the restrictions?
Our Rules and Policies post has details on specific content that's not welcome. For everything else, we strongly encourage authors to write honestly. Deus ex machina, "it was all a dream", magic retcons and blatant disregard for what others have written will earn a warning. Other things that will earn a steely eyeball are wild and inexplicable OOC, shady tropes and triggery content that has not been passed by the Mods.
What about triggers?
We do not want to stifle creativity, but as a multi-author work, the Robin must respect each of those author's needs. If you would like to include something potentially triggery in your part that hasn't been covered in any the Header post or any of the discussion, PM the mods. We'll have a community discussion to make sure there are no objections. Your post may be required to pass Modly inspection before being submitted to the community. See our rules and policies for more detail.
Why Steve/Tony? How will it be enforced?
Because we loves them, Precious. ♥ But, more seriously, Steve/Tony is a loose guideline. We would like the Robin to meander its way in that direction, but we will not bring down Modly Wrath if it takes the scenic route. The only time Modly Intervention will come is if it starts to look like it's not headed back towards the main pairing. Expect this Modly Intervention to take the form of a pointed Turn that sets things back on track.
What about other pairings?
Other pairings that don't involve Steve or Tony are completely welcome.
When will a new Robin start?
Technically, a new Robin starts when the previous Robin has reached its logical conclusion. The trick with Robins is that there's no telling when that might be. We'll play it by ear. When the current Robin seems to be winding down, there will be a Mod Post about starting a new one.
What if I can't play for a while?
If you can't play for a length of time (vacation, ill health, whatever), just drop the mods a PM and we'll put you on hold. PM us again when you get back so we can work you back into the rota. You do not have to inform anyone of why you need a break, or how long you expect to be. An example of this would be:
Leaving: I'm sorry, but I have to take a break from the Robin. Please hold my place.
Returning: I'm back and would like to rejoin the Robin. Please put me back in the rota.
Feel free to copy/paste the above, if you're uncomfortable with contacting the mods. There is no penalty for taking a break. When you return, we'll put you back in line and let you know who to follow, as well as provide links to recent posts. Chances are you'll be put at the end of the round to avoid confusion.
What if someone misses a turn?
We'll provide a three day grace period for posting. If three days passes without a word, that user will be placed on hold and have posting access revoked. PM a mod to have it returned. People with frequent unexplained absences may be removed from the Robin.
I would like to participate/read, but for personal reasons this is difficult. What do I do?
Please contact the mods so that we can do our best to accommodate your needs. The Robin requires a minimum of participation, but if there is some way we can make it easier for all comers, please let us know!
I have another question.
Reply to this post or PM one of the mods. We'll be happy to answer. ♥