I am heartbroken. My friend, mentor and screenwriting inspiration Blake Snyder (www.blakesnyder.com) died suddenly of a heart attack yesterday. He was only 52. I adored Blake – he inspired me to write and was one of life’s good guys.

I quoted him in my Big Peace book because I was fascinated by his take on story and transformation (in fact, it was just what I was talking about in my blog post yesterday.)

“All stories are about transformation,” said Blake. “All stories are the caterpillar turning into a butterfly in some sense. All stories require a death and rebirth to make that painful and glorious process happen.

And it occurs in movies … and in life.

We transform every day, re-awaken to new concepts about the world around us, overcome conflict, and triumph over death … only to start again each morning.

It’s why stories that follow this pattern resonate. Because each day is a transformation machine and so are our lives.”

I met Blake over three years ago when I decided to follow my flow and do more of what I was inspired to do – I wanted to write a screenplay/visit Cornwall/ celebrate my birthday. I googled all three and discovered Blake Snyder, a Hollywood Guru was coming to Cornwall on my birthday. Coincidence or pure synchronicity?

I spent four days with Blake and we went from coming up with a ‘logline’ of a film to writing out a 40 card structure. I have since written the screenplay called Half Man and am awaiting feedback from agents.

Blake was not at all what I expected from a Hollywood guru (big cigar, cowboy hat?) No, he was the sweetest, kindest, most spiritual man – who just wanted to see everyone on the course create and fly.  We went on to become friends and colleagues when he launched The Storyville Club for me, (my writing events in London).

Again, a delight to work with, and to be with. Fun, generous, enthusiastic and he could really make you laugh out loud with his tales of Hollywood life.

I cannot believe he has gone. He was a shining light not only in the Screenwriting world, but in my world.

I will miss you, Blake.