I'm aware this is seen as "cliche" but I'm just curious as to peoples thoughts on these types of stories, whether reading or writing them, in case I might pick up some useful tidbits for the re-write. Also, if anyone has knowledge of archaelogical procedure it might be handy.
If you aren't going for humor, I think if you could take a fresh take on what a Djinn is by avoiding anything remotely like the popular western conception of it. I could go into that further but I'm not sure if you are literally wanting to use a Djinn type character or you were just speaking metaphorically.
I have been to many historical sites in Egypt (both from ancient egypt and arabian egypt), I know a little about archaeological procedures but I'm not an expert. If I can be of help let me know.
I'm thinking I may just bypass the archaelogical details and go right to the point.
That said, I am always prepared to give a 'three-wishes' story a go because of the challenge in trying to predict the ending--although if it looked predictable I would put it down.
It's not hard to imagine a Jinn having luck with these people, because after a few weeks, months, you start filling those long empty moments with dreaming about the things you love, and the things you lust after. You dwell on what you're going to find, anything and everything you can imagine, just to keep yourself in the zone for the next day, the next day, the next day, etc. In a business that requires you to move volumes of dirt at a snails pace so you won't break that rare peace, it can be mind-numbing and exciting at the same time. The reality is not a nearly as fun as the movies make it. So yah, feeding ground for a Jinn, remember they're looking for Aladdin's Lamp on a daily basis.
As for cliche, everything is kind of cliche right now, but a Jinn story has a far better chance than a vampire or werewolf story right now for which I believe the market is flooded with these two creatures. So a really good Jinn story might just be what they're looking for. Well- wizard in the guise of Jinn story.
Also remember - Twilight - and say this with respect to the author - is one giant cliche to me. Vampire vs vampire with werewolves on the side and the maiden in distress. It's just been translated into the genre of teen romance, and I can't knock it because while she's making her billion's I'm here wondering what's to cliche to get published.
I know I'm a novice but it seems to me to be better to have to much detail and tear down parts as needed, than start to swallow and then try and build up.
W.
[This message has been edited by walexander (edited August 03, 2010).]