Massive thanks to SL-LOST.com reader James for sending us the following info about last night’s “Meet The LOST Writers” event:

This is James just back from the LOST Writers Event. Being from San Diego, it was a bit of a drive up to Beverly Hills, but it was definitely worth it. The panel itself consisted of writers Elizabeth Sarnoff, Adam Horowitz, Edward Kitsis, Damon Lindelof, and Carlton Cuse. In addition, writer Robin Schiff moderated. All of the writers introduced themselves and talked about the general outline for writing the script. It’s mostly stuff we already know, such as the process of writing the script while another episode is prepped while another episode is filmed. One of the pieces of information that was new to me was their version of mini-camp, which is a meeting that takes place in the summer prior to writing/filming where TPTB pitch to the rest of the writers the overarching mythology of the entire season. It’s basically an overview of what they want to accomplish from premier to finale during the course of the season. And with only one season left, there’s only one mini-camp left.

For the life of me, I can’t remember everything that was talked about or asked during the panel, but I’ll try my best. One of the main things they talked about were the core themes of LOST which, as they’ve said many times before, is about the characters. And they will continue to remain as true to that as possible. There was a lot of talk about the episode of when Jack got his tattoo. Every time it was mentioned, Damon would give a face-palm, indicating just how clear TPTB understand how much of a turning-point that episode was.

There was a question asked about the DUI myth…their answer was actually ambiguous. Yes? No? I think this will remain an unanswered question on LOST. But I can tell you that some ‘mysteries’ were answered. A lot of people wonder what John Locke meant when he told Walt he had a secret for him. Well, I bet it’s confirmed that he definitely meant the fact that he was paralyzed. So all those conspiracy theorists out that can put that mystery to rest. Another question was asked about how some of the writers got into the business, and specifically writing for LOST, and the bottom line is this: start where ever you can (being a P.A. is a good first step) and have good relationships with the people you meet. They introduced a new writer, Jim, who will be on their team as of Season 6, and he simply started as a P.A. This, I believe, is something that many aspiring writers can take to heart.

After the event, everyone spilled into the lobby where the writers answered people’s questions in a small group setting, taking pictures, and signing autographs. I unfortunately didn’t bring anything with me to get autographed, but getting a picture with both Damon and Carlton was good enough for me. And I actually did get to ask Damon the question I’ve been wondering: “When LOST is all said and done, with you (the writers) do any extra form of fan service, such as releasing an Ultimate Guide to LOST that answers all the unanswered questions and talks about what went through their minds along the writing process through the years.” Damon’s answer was that after the end of LOST, they’ll lay low for a while, and then come back to answer fan’s questions. But what they will not do is answer things that weren’t clearly answered in the show. They would rather let us fans theorize over the years than giving us a definitive answer on something, such as ‘Why did Jack not want to be with Kate while she had Aaron after her trial, but later on he’s ready to propose to her.’ That’s a question that’s up to us to decide to answer. And I actually prefer it that way.

Guillaume Dabinpons (Robert)

Overall, the event was really great. No big name actors were at the event, but I was able to snag a picture of a Frenchman. Now, correct me if I’m wrong, but it was Guillaume Dabinpons (Robert). I have a couple of pictures to share, but some of them came out blurry because I turned off the flash. I didn’t want to be rude. Luckily, though, shaking both Damon and Carlton’s hands, and getting a picture with them, was the highlight of the night. I never would have even known about this event were it not for the SL-LOST team, so thank you for letting us fans know.

Thank you,

-James

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