hollywood system: art

Steve Parks adjusted his wool vest, savoring the cold air brushing against his face. He was a man who cherished and embraced the chill, though it was a pity he worked in California. Taking advantage of his travel expenses, he visited a woman he considered a rare beauty—an author crafted to be loved. He had met her one day when she wasn't wearing a bra, and he had been captivated ever since.

–Good afternoon, Johanna, as beautiful as ever.– Steve said, kissing her knuckles and lingering slightly. As always, Steve Parks wore a hat to disguise his bald head. His sideburns were streaked with gray, teetering on the edge of youth as he had just turned forty.

–Mr. Parks.–

–I'm sorry to bother you, but could you join me? There's a matter of utmost importance we need to discuss.– Steve said, holding her hand gently.

–Do be careful, Mr. Parks.– Johanna murmured, a touch anxious.

Throughout dinner, Steve never broached the topic of business. Instead, he asked about her life, her favorite books, and how her work was progressing. His questions were personal yet delivered so politely that she couldn't help but answer candidly. Steve Parks was the epitome of charm and decorum.

When they had finished dining, both were sipping wine, and Steve began to share some good news, albeit in a roundabout way. First, he reassured her that her grant would remain intact until 1998, long enough to publish the first volume of Harry Potter. The second volume was nearly ready, but more time was needed before its release.

–That's wonderful news.– Johanna Rowling remarked.

–Good news always comes like pearls of joy. Sales statistics show you've sold 25,000 copies, which is an exceptional achievement for a debut writer. At Tor Books, as a non-profit initiative, we hope those numbers continue to grow, encouraging more people to cultivate reading habits.– Steve Parks explained. Though he found her delightful, his demeanor retained the calculated undertones of a seasoned negotiator. He knew how to flatter, draw people in, and strike a deal—understanding the true value of something often meant leaving its price deliberately vague, shaped by factors like friendship, opportunity, and even deception.

–It's fantastic that you focus on supporting writers.– Johanna said.

–We do what we can, but there have been some challenges.– Steve admitted.

She frowned, puzzled as to what problems a large company like Tor Books could face.

–What could go wrong?– she asked, her curiosity piqued.

–Well, it's always about money. They want more rights, but as a non-profit organization, giving more would harm the scholarship initiative. Writers tend to move on to other companies once they've tasted success. To make the program sustainable, we've extended the recovery period to fifteen years. Right now, we're supporting 20 scholars globally, to reach at least 100.– Steve replied.

–A noble goal... but your owner, Billy Carson, is said to be quite wealthy.–

–Being wealthy doesn't mean having excess. He's rich because he knows how to create wealth—something not many can claim.– Steve countered.

Steve's aim was clear: to secure long-term rights for everything from royalties to merchandising, ensuring decades of profit for the company.

–But let's not dwell on that for now. Let's enjoy the day.– Steve concluded with his characteristic charm.

***

Tor Books specializes in publishing science fiction and fantasy. The clauses of their agreements were well-received by many prominent writers, including Terry Brooks, Neil Gaiman, and Ursula K. Le Guin, all of whom supported the ambitious project.

Rachel had been in talks with Ursula K. Le Guin for weeks, aiming to bring The Earthsea Cycle to life through animation. They discussed every detail meticulously, with Ursula having final approval. Billy, along with other enthusiasts, drafted a screenplay, but the author would have the last word.

Since its inception in 1969, the Earthsea saga has grown, with subsequent novels released in 1971, 1972, and 1990. Ursula was now overseeing its adaptation, involving a major investment in animation. Lux Toons, the chosen studio, had established a new headquarters in Atlanta, benefiting from tax incentives and completing its construction in record time. A dedicated team of 19 animators along the East Coast was already hard at work.

–Good morning, Ms. Ursula. It's an honor to meet a writer of your caliber.– Rachel greeted her enthusiastically. She had read many of Ursula's books, marveling at their exploration of magic, personal growth, and gender perspectives. Though she had set them aside years ago, this project had rekindled her admiration.

–Dear,– Ursula replied warmly, exuding simplicity and grace.

–It's true. Now that we're here, let's go over the contract agreements.– Rachel said, beaming. She loved the thrill of traveling, negotiating, and witnessing the birth of great cinematic works. Even playing a small part in the process brought her immense joy.

–Oh, my dear, let's have some coffee first and talk about the contract later.– Ursula suggested.

The agreement granted exclusive rights to Lux Animation for Ursula's series. Beyond Earthsea, she also created Orsinia in 1959 and numerous other works up to the 1964 release of The Left Hand of Darkness, part of the Hainish Cycle.

–I spoke with Billy over the phone. He assured me I would have complete freedom before production began. We'll refine the scripts for the trilogy, following my characters' journeys. It's a massive investment. I'm curious, though—who is Billy Carson?– Ursula asked.

Rachel sipped her coffee thoughtfully. The question stirred a mix of admiration and wistfulness for her boss—a brilliant man with a penchant for dating models. Though she harbored a distant crush, she knew him best as an astute and visionary leader.