Hell no!
e.g. I started writing a sitcom. Like, erm, 'My Hero'. The character learned his dialogue from intercepted transmissions. Initially his whole dialogue was made from media samples, he couldn't change the context. Give him a neigbour named Gerrard! (is that Barry Davies) and you're off and running.
So yes, I've got some wool. No, I'm not trying to sell it. If you can use it to start something or add to something you're welcome to it.
I think it was Graham Linehan who described writing with a partner as paid socialising. In a recent South Bank Show about Bird & Fortune they seemed to spend most of their working hours in stitches.
Most successful broadcast comedy writers have begun by collaborating, even if they have later gone their own ways (e.g. Marshall & Renwick). Others who have lost their writing partner have sought out replacements (e.g. Ray Galton with Johnny Speight and John Antrobus).
I suspect it is as much about moral support anything. It is easier to maintain your belief that you are funny when someone else is laughing at your jokes.
Quote: Timbo @ November 2 2008, 6:18 PM GMTI suspect it is as much about moral support anything. It is easier to maintain your belief that you are funny when someone else is laughing at your jokes.
I agree about the moral support. That old disease 'self doubt' is always lurking close by, but with another person involved you can motivate and encourage each other. It is always great to have someone watching your back so to speak. I really miss this element of writing with another person.
Def.