BetterMost, Wyoming & Brokeback Mountain Forum

Brokeback Mountain: Our Community's Common Bond => Brokeback Mountain Fan Fiction & Poetry => Topic started by: Brown Eyes on October 07, 2007, 04:00:13 pm

Title: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Brown Eyes on October 07, 2007, 04:00:13 pm
Heya,

If any of you are following this long-running story... it was just updated today with an interlude and some news after a long hiatus.  I personally, find the new interlude a little disturbing... but for those of you familiar with this story you'll know that this fic occasionally gets a little dark (and sometimes it goes the other way and is very sweet, etc.).  But, in any case, it's great to see the writing progress on this one again.


http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1524588.html#cutid1 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1524588.html#cutid1)


The story is 69+ chapters long (plus or minus many interludes, etc.).  Chapters 1-3 are also now available as audio files.
http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/tag/beans+and+crazies (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/tag/beans+and+crazies)




Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: belbbmfan on October 07, 2007, 04:19:25 pm
Thanks for the heads up Amanda. I discovered this story a few weeks ago and I really loved it. I'm so pleased to see an update.

*off to read*  :)
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on October 07, 2007, 05:33:38 pm




        I really liked this story to begin with, but I dont like the way she favors Jack and seems to
punish Ennis.  I am not sure whats going on there.?  But it is disturbing to me.
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Brown Eyes on October 07, 2007, 07:23:49 pm


Well, this is such a big story, I thought it was worth starting a thread for it.  But, at moments it is definitely a more difficult story than some.  Maybe this will foster some interesting discussion.

For the most part, I really enjoy the story, but once in a while a detail or an interlude (such as this most recent one) will come up that I dislike or find uncomfortable. 

I agree that she does seem to favor Jack, but a lot of the "punishment" is written as self-imposed punishment on Ennis's part, which in its own way is disturbing.  But, it seems that lots of different stories tend favor one character over the other, and this of course differs from story to story.  So, that aspect doesn't bother me so much when it comes to this fic.
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Brown Eyes on October 08, 2007, 09:46:32 pm


So, here's chapter 70... and a completely different mood from the interlude.  It's amazing how different this story can feel from update to update.
http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1529184.html#cutid1 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1529184.html#cutid1)

Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: mariez on October 08, 2007, 10:10:51 pm
Hey, Amanda!  Thanks for starting this thread.  I love this story and I'm happy to see that montana crows is safe and will be heading home soon from Iraq. 


SPOILERS





I, too, find elements of the story hard to read (and I'll admit there are sections that I skim or skip - but I have a low tolerance for violence in movies, books, etc., so that's just me). The interlude posted yesterday is one example.  That didn't work for me - I usually have a pretty high squick factor - but I didn't find that erotic. It just scared me. 

But overall I really enjoy this story.  You can tell that the author has done her share of ranch work - this is very authentic and she sure knows her stuff.  Her descriptions of ranch life and all the details are second to none.

I know what you mean about certain stories favoring Jack or Ennis and I usually pass on those stories when that becomes apparent to me. I don't play the Jack v. Ennis game - ever.  But I don't think I'd categorize this story as "favoring" anyone.  I think she's actually even-handed in her characterizations of the boys.  They've both had their turns going through some really tough stuff.  I don't consider the "punishment" stuff (even thought I'm unable to read the details) as an indication that the author is "punishing" Ennis or is favoring Jack in some way.  In fact, it could easily be argued that Jack suffers more from Ennis's "punishments" than Ennis does.  And, if I recall, Grace recently found out about that and gave Ennis hell - and this gave me hope that it will stop.  This author likes to push boundaries and explore the psychologies of the boys and I give her credit for that.  I think you said it just right - sometimes its dark and sometimes it very sweet, but it's always very real.

I thought Chapter 70 was great.  It felt really good to fall back into the story.  I'm anxious for Jack and Grace to get back.  It always makes me nervous when the boys are apart.

Marie
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: SFEnnisSF on October 08, 2007, 10:58:51 pm
La la la la - covers ears to not hear the spoilers - la la la la  :D

Ok, so just tonight I was gonna go lookin' for a new story ta read, since I've finished or caught up on all the one's I've read.  And, here this thread was.

I have read the first three chapters, and I love it.  I'm hooked!

Yippee!  :D

So far, I like the way the writing is short and to the point.  Keeps my interest.  Also, there isn't these long drawn out sex scenes.  Not that there's nothin' wrong with that.  But I more like the meat and potatoes of these AU stories, and their adventures together.  And their hardships, etc.  So far, this has got everything I'm lookin' for.

Onto chapter 04.  I got a lot a catchin' up ta do with you guys.  ;D

Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: nic on October 08, 2007, 11:01:03 pm
Oh wow - I am pleased to hear there is more B&C !! I have been out of the BBM loop for several weeks due to lack of internet & was getting angsty about what I was missing on the fic side.  What a great surprise to come back to.

What I like most about this series is that it has a young J & E and that it shows that even though they haven't had all the troubles of the canon, life is not all hearts & flowers and it is fresh to see how this J & E react to challenges.  I must admit the darker aspect is a bit curious to me and I don't really understand where it comes from.  I am aware of self-harm issues but not where another person is involved.  I find the physical scenes MC writes very hot, which I think comes from it being such a contrast from the everyday life we read about yet it still seems natural for the boys, as it should be.  The occasional humour is great - I love Ennis interacting  with the other characters, usually begrudgingly so!
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Brown Eyes on October 08, 2007, 11:35:32 pm

Ok, so just tonight I was gonna go lookin' for a new story ta read, since I've finished or caught up on all the one's I've read.  And, here this thread was.

I have read the first three chapters, and I love it.  I'm hooked!

Yippee!  :D



Hi Eric!  I'm glad you're enjoying discovering this story.  You're right... there is a lot of good plot and detail to this story.  It's an interesting one to start right after the summer of '63 rather than picking things up later.  It's such a long running story... but it's been on hold for a number of months, so it's having a bit of a renaissance at the moment.  I started this one so long ago (it was recommended to me by a BetterMost Bud ages ago) that I hardly remember the first few chapters... I should probably go back and re-read a bit myself.

OK... so now I'm going to respond to mariez and nic and there will be SPOILERS... so you can turn away if you'd like. ;) :)















Oh wow - I am pleased to hear there is more B&C !! I have been out of the BBM loop for several weeks due to lack of internet & was getting angsty about what I was missing on the fic side.  What a great surprise to come back to.

What I like most about this series is that it has a young J & E and that it shows that even though they haven't had all the troubles of the canon, life is not all hearts & flowers and it is fresh to see how this J & E react to challenges.  I must admit the darker aspect is a bit curious to me and I don't really understand where it comes from.  I am aware of self-harm issues but not where another person is involved. 


I was really pleased to see this story come back too... and I was also surprised. I really thought that this one was stalled-out permanently.  I'm glad to have this thread now to discuss how people feel about the 'darker' aspects of the story.  I've learned to sort of skim them too.  The thing I find so interesting is that a lot, or I would say even most, of this story is really rather sweet and focuses on the domestic aspects of their lives.  I love Grace and all the details of their home as they grow more settled, etc. There are more brutal details about the ranch business itself, the accidents that Jack, Ennis and others get into, and even Jack's reaction up in Lightning Flat... which I actually find good in terms of realism and setting a tone for the story.  But, when it comes to some of the violence between Jack and Ennis and Ennis's seeming desire to inflict pain on himself, it's very hard for me to deal with.
I'll be honest and say that I started this thread for Beans and Crazies before I actually read the new Interlude and I had to come back and edit my original post.  Somehow I wasn't expecting the first Interlude re-starting the story to be like that.  But, now, with this new Chapter 70, I really remember why I like this story.

Hey, Amanda!  Thanks for starting this thread.  I love this story and I'm happy to see that montana crows is safe and will be heading home soon from Iraq. 


SPOILERS


I, too, find elements of the story hard to read (and I'll admit there are sections that I skim or skip - but I have a low tolerance for violence in movies, books, etc., so that's just me). The interlude posted yesterday is one example.  That didn't work for me - I usually have a pretty high squick factor - but I didn't find that erotic. It just scared me. 

But overall I really enjoy this story.  You can tell that the author has done her share of ranch work - this is very authentic and she sure knows her stuff.  Her descriptions of ranch life and all the details are second to none.

I know what you mean about certain stories favoring Jack or Ennis and I usually pass on those stories when that becomes apparent to me. I don't play the Jack v. Ennis game - ever.  But I don't think I'd categorize this story as "favoring" anyone.  I think she's actually even-handed in her characterizations of the boys.  They've both had their turns going through some really tough stuff.  I don't consider the "punishment" stuff (even thought I'm unable to read the details) as an indication that the author is "punishing" Ennis or is favoring Jack in some way.  In fact, it could easily be argued that Jack suffers more from Ennis's "punishments" than Ennis does.  And, if I recall, Grace recently found out about that and gave Ennis hell - and this gave me hope that it will stop.  This author likes to push boundaries and explore the psychologies of the boys and I give her credit for that.  I think you said it just right - sometimes its dark and sometimes it very sweet, but it's always very real.

I thought Chapter 70 was great.  It felt really good to fall back into the story.  I'm anxious for Jack and Grace to get back.  It always makes me nervous when the boys are apart.

Marie


Hi Marie,  I agree with this description and analysis pretty much completely.  My old role around BetterMost is to try to find and emphasize balance between Jack and Ennis too.  So, I understand where you're coming from.  And, actually, I think you're right about this story... both guys have it rough at different times in the story.  But, I think the self-inflicted punishments on Ennis's part seem to be saying something unpleasant about his character in particular... which is why I can see people seeing this story as favoring Jack (if only slightly).  That whole situation with Ennis is just so odd.  I'll keep saying it... I don't really know how to deal with it.  I mean, aside, from that aspect of the story and details like the recent Interlude, I really, really like the story.  I was happy to see the new Chapter 70 follow so closely on the Interlude.  I really like the new chapter.



Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: SFEnnisSF on October 09, 2007, 12:08:22 am
Chapter 04 SPOILERS

(I didn't read the post above after where you said spoilers)


Ok, Chapter 04 is where it turned into an S&M novel.  Didn't see that comin'.  :laugh:


I loved the fight scenes.  Excellently written:  "Jack caught him again, on the side of his jaw, laying him out on the sun-warmed dust outside the bunkhouse."   I felt that warm dust!


I found it a little hard to believe Prazacz listened and jack told him what Ennis wanted done.  And then he gave him advice on it.  :o  (Ok, I just thought that was a little far fetched is all.)


I can see many folks mighta stopped reading here.  Back in April 2006 when this was written, most folks were lookin' for happy stories and alternatives at that time.  Although this has taken a direction I hadn't thought it would, I understand it, and am gonna stick with it.  It will be interesting to see if Ennis works this out or not.

I have lots of thoughts and ideas on the subject, but I wont go into it now.

On to Chapter 05...
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: belbbmfan on October 09, 2007, 01:44:12 am
I can agree with everyone here. Easy huh?  :)


Ok, Chapter 04 is where it turned into an S&M novel.  Didn't see that comin'.  :laugh:

I found it a little hard to believe Prazacz listened and jack told him what Ennis wanted done.  And then he gave him advice on it.  :o  (Ok, I just thought that was a little far fetched is all.)


I can see many folks mighta stopped reading here.  Back in April 2006 when this was written, most folks were lookin' for happy stories and alternatives at that time.  Although this has taken a direction I hadn't thought it would, I understand it, and am gonna stick with it.  It will be interesting to see if Ennis works this out or not.


Yes, i tend to skip these parts of the story, or read through them very fast. I don't quite 'get' this part of their relationship. But I don't worry too much about it. I love the realism of the tough ranch life. And they feel very 'canon' to me. Rough-mannered and rough-spoken.



SPOILER




And one of the reasons I will continue to read this story, is Joanna. I find her a very interesting character. I hope we can learn more about her and her history. I love it when an author creates a great OC.



*off to read chapter 70
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: SFEnnisSF on October 09, 2007, 01:45:43 am
More Spoilers...

Ok, I've read through Chapter 07 for the evening.  After the initial shock of the S&M chapter  :laugh:, it's turned into a fantastic and well written story.  

I'm enjoying it very much.  Looking forward to continuing to read more.  I'm real hooked now!  :D
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: nic on October 09, 2007, 02:48:57 am
I can agree with everyone here. Easy huh?  :)

Yes, i tend to skip these parts of the story, or read through them very fast. I don't quite 'get' this part of their relationship. But I don't worry too much about it.  ....

I'm pretty much the same, but I'd really like to have a plausible explanation for the dark stuff.  We all know Ennis has a violent streak but this tends to be him lashing out becuase of his inner turmoil.  In B&C, it's not him lashing out but asking the most important person in his life to be violent towards him... so very puzzling. I can understand why Jack goes along with it, because he loves Ennis so will do it even though he doesn't know why.  I can't see M_C elaborating on it any further.  I don't think it's anything truly S&M-based, or even a religious self-flagellation thing.  I'm truly stumped, but granted it does give an intriguing angle to the story to muse over. 

Oh, & I agree that Joanna is an excellent OC.  I love to read great female characters.  I couldn't blame her for getting a little besotted with eithr of the guys & her reaction to inadvertently spotting them in flagrante was priceless !
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Brown Eyes on October 09, 2007, 11:16:54 am


Ok, Chapter 04 is where it turned into an S&M novel.  Didn't see that comin'.  :laugh:



Hi Eric,

Well, this is exactly what all the discussion here is about.  These "dark" moments pop up here and there in this story... sort of out of nowhere.  I really enjoy the vast majority of the chapters in this story except for the odd "dark" and S/M type moments.

You've now encountered the first example.

I'd really like to understand better what this implies about Ennis's character in this particular story.  And, unlike nic, I don't really understand why Jack goes through with it in these scenarios. 

But, again, this story is definitely well-worth reading and well-written.
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: mariez on October 09, 2007, 01:01:09 pm
And one of the reasons I will continue to read this story, is Joanna. I find her a very interesting character. I hope we can learn more about her and her history. I love it when an author creates a great OC.

Yes!  Joanna ranks as one of my favorite OCs ever.  There is so much to explore about her - and her presence, along with Grace's (and what a great job she's done developing her character) create some really interesting dynamics. 

I'd really like to understand better what this implies about Ennis's character in this particular story.  And, unlike nic, I don't really understand why Jack goes through with it in these scenarios. 

But, again, this story is definitely well-worth reading and well-written.

Yes, I would like to understand better, too.  But, as I've said, I hope that Grace's knowledge will now put an end to it. 

I agree with nic that these punishments are not truly S&M based - I wouldn't use that term to describe them.  There is punishment - but I don't see an element of enjoyment, sexual or otherwise.  Ennis may feel he deserves it or needs it or whatever, but it hasn't come through to me that he's enjoying it.  And Jack definitely is not enjoying any aspect of it.  I do think the latest interlude was a form of S&M - and while I don't mind that generally (I love TTTB, for example) - that one didn't really work for me.  But, I agree with all of you, these things don't take away from my overall enjoyment of a really excellent and well-written story.  I'm already anxious for the next chapter. 

Marie
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Brown Eyes on October 09, 2007, 01:53:00 pm
 

I agree with nic that these punishments are not truly S&M based - I wouldn't use that term to describe them.  There is punishment - but I don't see an element of enjoyment, sexual or otherwise.  Ennis may feel he deserves it or needs it or whatever, but it hasn't come through to me that he's enjoying it.  And Jack definitely is not enjoying any aspect of it.  I do think the latest interlude was a form of S&M - and while I don't mind that generally (I love TTTB, for example) - that one didn't really work for me.  But, I agree with all of you, these things don't take away from my overall enjoyment of a really excellent and well-written story.  I'm already anxious for the next chapter. 

Marie


Hi Marie,

I think you raise a good point.  And S/M is probably not the right way to describe what's going on in B & C.  You're right that neither character seems to find pleasure in the activity, which to me, is why it's so disturbing.  As for Jack's participation... it's really hard to understand why he (or anyone) would go through with activities that seem so unhealthy for his partner.  I think Ennis's attitude towards these "punishments" is more in line with something like self-mutilation or cutting.  And, from the beginning Jack has seemed to recognize how distasteful this activity is.  I guess I can see him getting carried away by Ennis... but it's still hard to imagine how he could get himself to participate in these self-destructive, violent bouts.  It is definitely a good thing that Grace now might be able to intervene now that she knows.

And, I also agree that Grace and Joanna are great, very well-rounded characters.

Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: mariez on October 09, 2007, 08:54:24 pm
... I think Ennis's attitude towards these "punishments" is more in line with something like self-mutilation or cutting.  And, from the beginning Jack has seemed to recognize how distasteful this activity is.  I guess I can see him getting carried away by Ennis... but it's still hard to imagine how he could get himself to participate in these self-destructive, violent bouts.  It is definitely a good thing that Grace now might be able to intervene now that she knows.

Hi Amanda,

SPOILERS






Yeah, I'd have to agree with your self-mutilation and cutting analogy.  It seems to me (and I'm going to have to do a re-read on the most recent chapters to get the details) that after Grace gave Ennis hell over how much he was hurting Jack with these punishments, I think Ennis and Jack had a talk about it - and Jack was really honest with Ennis for the first time about what it was taking out of him. I hope more discussions along that line - along with Grace's intervention - will help.  Maybe once they stop the punishments, and Ennis finds a healthier way of dealing with his issues, they can have more discussions and we'll get a little more insight.

I'm worried about Eric, too, in Vietnam.  Wonder when Joanna will be getting another letter. 

Marie
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: nic on October 09, 2007, 09:03:30 pm
Yes, the self-harming analogy is the closest but it doesn't add up for me as in my understanding self-harming occurs mainly either for attention-seeking to a serious emotional problem or as a distraction from the turmoil that problem is causing within.  I can't see that it would involve directly reaching out to someone else, as in B&C, unless this Ennis' communication problems are really that messed up - which is always a possibility.  Ennis is always such a complex character to me!
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Brown Eyes on October 09, 2007, 09:53:16 pm
Yes, the self-harming analogy is the closest but it doesn't add up for me as in my understanding self-harming occurs mainly either for attention-seeking to a serious emotional problem or as a distraction from the turmoil that problem is causing within.  I can't see that it would involve directly reaching out to someone else, as in B&C, unless this Ennis' communication problems are really that messed up - which is always a possibility.  Ennis is always such a complex character to me!

Yes, the fact that Ennis has wanted to involve Jack in the activity is very, very strange.  I agree.  Complex indeed.


Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: nic on October 11, 2007, 12:45:01 am
I had more or less been glossing over these darker aspects of B&C but these recent posts have got me pondering & I have come up with two ideas that could represent a potential explanation.  However, I have commited the cardinal sin of not going back to rigorously research all the source material (ie re-read) & so these ideas are nothing more than clutching at straws in the asbsence of anything else.  I’ll stick them here FWIW.

First – Ennis has a guilt complex causing inner pressure, from jilting Alma, from being a sinner, from being queer, etc  Although he loves Jack completely, at some subconscious & mean level he also sees Jack as the cause of this inner turmoil (I got this from the cannon Ennis at the lake scene; “it’s cos of you….”).  He knows to release the inner pressure he needs a violent outlet so by asking Jack to dispense this, he gets his outlet & eases that mean internal voice by knowing that it is also punishing Jack as it hurts Jack to do it.  Ennis is not aware of this complex explanation though.

Second – similar to above but with a more self aware Ennis.  He has the inner turmoil & knows he needs the physical outlet, hence the “accidents” he’s been having around the ranch – tearing his hand on fencing, etc  He realizes this is not enough of an outlet & can’t let himself be more careless in case it ends up more seriously & he ends up badly hurt so can’t work on the ranch (or worse).  If that happened, it would end up hurting Jack by causing all sorts of hassle.  He also realizes he can’t go off into the town & get into random fights, as that would certainlyl ook odd.  So he reaches out to Jack to mete out the violence on him, as he thinks Jack would want to help him out & it also imposes a control valve, ie he knows Jack wouldn’t go too far –even though he’s aware it is hard on Jack, at least it means his feelings are dealt with, which is better for the both of them & the relationship, & Ennis remains in one piece.

I certainly think that whatever the reasons, then Ennis is not doing it out of conscious maliciousness towards Jack.  I would also like to think there is an actual explanation as why else would the author throw this in?  Quite amusingly this fic is often referred to as a Utopian Ranch Fic yet these episodes are definitely not utopian!
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: mariez on October 11, 2007, 12:59:33 pm
SPOILERS




Those are excellent thoughts, nic!  Yep, Ennis and guilt go hand-in-hand, so it's never surprised me that Ennis would feel he "deserved" whatever kind of hardships that would come his way, accepting those as his "punishment."  It's the self-inflicted part that I struggle with, along with bringing Jack into the picture.  I think, also, Ennis struggles with the idea (evidenced by the awful dream he had) that because he is living openly with Jack he has put both of them in the very danger he has always feared - adding another layer of guilt. 

Both your explanations make a lot of sense - I would probably lean toward the second.  In this story, Ennis isn't "nothing and nowhere," so I don't think he's feeling that level of resentment toward Jack - although he is still obviously not as comfortable with being gay as Jack is.  (But as we saw when Jack's dad died, Jack his own issues.)  I also think that he hasn't been aware (until recently when Jack told him expliciitly) of just how hard it was for Jack to do as he asked - so I agree that he is not consciously trying to hurt Jack at all. 

Perhaps the author is trying to make us aware that, just because Ennis didn't leave Jack when they came down from the mountain, he still has the same fears, guilts, insecurities, and paranoias as the Ennis that did leave Jack does, and these have to be addressed in some way.   Just a guess.  And, yes, I've always been amused by the use of the word "utopian."  :)

Thanks,
Marie
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: mariez on November 05, 2007, 01:04:29 pm
Montana_Crows is back home in the U.S.!  Yay!   :D  And we have and update!

http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1621155.html?#cutid1 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1621155.html?#cutid1)



SPOILERS





The last lines of the chapter:


"Who in the hell taught you everything's your fault?"

He couldn't answer, couldn't say if it was K.E.'s heavy hand or the way Cheryl had always looked at him when things went wrong, couldn't put into words the feeling of endless blame that didn't seem to have any particular origin. He just stood there, wet his lip with his tongue and looked at the floor.

"Jesus Christ," Jack said quietly, then those long arms were around him, Jack's nose in his hair. "Swear to God, if you could cause half the trouble you think you do, you'd be the devil himself, Ennis."


God, that's beautiful.  And it really gets to the heart of Ennis and our sweet Jack.

Marie
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Brown Eyes on November 06, 2007, 12:31:57 am
Hey Marie!!

I had just copied those last several lines to post here too!  (I read the update before reading your post).  The end of this chapter was great and really speaks to some deep issues for Ennis I think. 

So, this was definitely one of those good chapters that makes this story really worthwhile.
:)

Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: SFEnnisSF on November 08, 2007, 12:43:25 am
Jes' want to check in and let ya'all know I'm still readin' this.  I'm up to where Jack just got his cast off.  (Yes, I'm a slow reader.)
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Brown Eyes on November 08, 2007, 01:17:21 am
Jes' want to check in and let ya'all know I'm still readin' this.  I'm up to where Jack just got his cast off.  (Yes, I'm a slow reader.)

 :)

How are you liking it?

Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Penthesilea on November 08, 2007, 06:18:48 am
Chapter 04 SPOILERS

(I didn't read the post above after where you said spoilers)


Ok, Chapter 04 is where it turned into an S&M novel.  Didn't see that comin'.  :laugh:


I loved the fight scenes.  Excellently written:  "Jack caught him again, on the side of his jaw, laying him out on the sun-warmed dust outside the bunkhouse."   I felt that warm dust!


I found it a little hard to believe Prazacz listened and jack told him what Ennis wanted done.  And then he gave him advice on it.  :o  (Ok, I just thought that was a little far fetched is all.)


I can see many folks mighta stopped reading here. 


Thanks Eric. This put the light bulb on. I knew B&C sounded familiar to me and that once I had started reading it. Now I know what everybody means with "the dark stuff" and punishments.

Oh yes, I didn't read on this story because of these elements. I read on after chapter four, but I don't remember how much chapters I've actually read.

From what I have in memory from back then when I read B&C, I had the feeling the story focuses on that dark stuff. That's why I stopped reading it. Now I see most of you think the focus is more on the domestic and 'sweet' side, with only occasionally turning dark. I think I may give this one another try...
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Brown Eyes on November 08, 2007, 10:02:44 am

From what I have in memory from back then when I read B&C, I had the feeling the story focuses on that dark stuff. That's why I stopped reading it. Now I see most of you think the focus is more on the domestic and 'sweet' side, with only occasionally turning dark. I think I may give this one another try...

Hi Chrissi,

Well, it definitely goes back and forth between these two very different moods.  I can understand completely why you stopped reading after chapter 4.  When this story was initally recommended to me long ago, I was warned about the "darker" aspect of this story and was told that it's not the main focus of the story, so I was at least a bit prepared.  But, I remember that I also stopped reading this story for a while because of some of its more upsetting themes.  In general, though, I still think the interesting qualities of this story outweigh the disturbing issues.  It's nice to have a discussion going here to help work through some of the more difficult themes that come up in the story.

Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: SFEnnisSF on November 08, 2007, 04:46:56 pm
I did some power readin' last night and they jes' finished the calvin'. 


Spoiler


Oh and Ennis felt he needed ta be whipped again.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on November 09, 2007, 02:59:25 am





              This is the only story I have ever quit reading after getting into it several chapters.  It was
like chapter 15 or 16...  I didnt like the violence and hateful side of it.
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: belbbmfan on November 09, 2007, 08:07:37 am
Another chapter has been posted.

http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1635478.html#cutid1 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1635478.html#cutid1)


***SPOILERS***


OMG, this was just beautiful. A heart warming chapter. I love the description of Ennis, getting the fire going in the bunkhouse. Ennis needs to feel the warmth of the fire and Jack's love to be able to talk to Jack about his parents' death. Great writing!

The bunkhouse was dark and chill; he prodded at the ashes with a thin split of pine until he found some embers, and tossed in a crumpled sheet of newsprint. A couple of careful breaths had it glowing, then in flames, and he poked kindling in after it, made a mental note to shovel the ash out tomorrow.
A flaming sliver served to light the wick of the kerosene lamp by their bed, and he shook it out as the flame spread across the canvas, illuminating the long room. He put the remnant into the stove through the slotted door, touched his cigarette to the lamp before putting the chimney back on, sat on the edge of the bed. The curls of smoke held their shape in the cold, rising in strange coils.
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: louisev on November 09, 2007, 07:31:04 pm
It was a very interesting story with a lot of ranching details in it, but there were a few things that just didn't fit for me, the bullwhip, and the fist-fucking, and both of them didnt work for me due to what I thought were believability issues - it was clear that the author didn't do much research into either - bullwhips do a whole lot more damage than the story indicates they do, and fist penetration is a whole lot more difficult.  By the time I got to the second topic was when I called it a day.
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: mariez on November 10, 2007, 05:55:44 pm
.... It's nice to have a discussion going here to help work through some of the more difficult themes that come up in the story.

Yes, well said, Amanda - and why I'm glad you started this thread.  Thanks!


SPOILERS



OMG, this was just beautiful. A heart warming chapter. I love the description of Ennis, getting the fire going in the bunkhouse. Ennis needs to feel the warmth of the fire and Jack's love to be able to talk to Jack about his parents' death. Great writing!

Oh, me too, Fabienne.  That description was gorgeous and so was the way Jack comforted Ennis.   I really hope they've turned a corner here by talking about Ennis's guilt issues and they can bury that damn whip once and for all!

Marie
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Brown Eyes on November 11, 2007, 02:21:06 pm
Yes, well said, Amanda - and why I'm glad you started this thread.  Thanks!


SPOILERS



Oh, me too, Fabienne.  That description was gorgeous and so was the way Jack comforted Ennis.   I really hope they've turned a corner here by talking about Ennis's guilt issues and they can bury that damn whip once and for all!

Marie


**Spoilers**

Thanks Marie!  :-*  And, yes, this revelation in this recent update about some of the roots of Ennis's guilt was very enlightening... It's very interesting to tie it to his parents' death and not just to questions of sexuality.


Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: mariez on November 12, 2007, 02:05:17 pm
Next chapter!

http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1643963.html?#cutid1 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1643963.html?#cutid1)


SPOILERS





In her author's note she called  this "Just a little something."  But I thought it was a whole lot of everything.  Another chapter that really highlights what a talented writer she is.   She is really, reall skillful at packing an emotional punch with just a few perfectly chosen words.  The last paragraph is awesome, but this was my favorite part:

“Shitaree,” he said, lighting another smoke and passing it over. “Wha’d I do to deserve that?”
“Nothin’,” Ennis said, soft. “Bein’.”


It's great to see that Ennis now seems to want to find a way out of the prison he's built for himself, and Jack is finding the right words to push him over the wall.  A really lovely, hopeful chapter.

Marie
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: belbbmfan on November 12, 2007, 02:19:52 pm

It's great to see that Ennis now seems to want to find a way out of the prison he's built for himself, and Jack is finding the right words to push him over the wall.  A really lovely, hopeful chapter.

Marie

Beautifully said Marie! And very true. I enjoyed this new chapter immensely.  :)
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Brown Eyes on November 12, 2007, 11:59:51 pm

OK, so I just finished reading this update.  And, yes, it's quite a relief to see Ennis maybe making some breakthroughs... and mostly all on his own (with some subtle prompting from Jack).

Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: mariez on November 25, 2007, 05:49:50 pm
Update!  :)
 
http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1690052.html?#cutid1 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1690052.html?#cutid1)


SPOILERS






God, I love Jack.  Making sure to tell Eric about Ennis's guilt - always looking out for his man. 

And I feel so sorry for Eric and Joanna.  What a terrible situation.  War really is hell - and it doesn't end once you leave the battlefield. 

Marie
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: SFEnnisSF on November 28, 2007, 01:09:15 am
Ok I'm still reading the story, but not reading any of the comments in this thread yet.

I was reading on the plane home from DFW over the weeknd, and I'm up to the part where Jack's mom jes' got him to come back home from the Twist ranch.  And I left the printed out story on the plane!   :laugh:  I had only brought a few chapters with me, and someone's gonna pick it up and start readin' about Jack and Ennis fisting eachother!  :laugh:  :laugh:  :laugh:

Have to reprint it now...
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on November 28, 2007, 01:16:45 am



         Oh dear,, hahah, hope the FBI doesnt show up at your door.....Just kidding..................... :-X
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: mariez on November 28, 2007, 02:08:48 pm
Ok I'm still reading the story, but not reading any of the comments in this thread yet.

I was reading on the plane home from DFW over the weeknd, and I'm up to the part where Jack's mom jes' got him to come back home from the Twist ranch.  And I left the printed out story on the plane!   :laugh:  I had only brought a few chapters with me, and someone's gonna pick it up and start readin' about Jack and Ennis fisting eachother!  :laugh:  :laugh:  :laugh:

Have to reprint it now...

 :laugh:   :laugh:  Well, that'll wake up some weary traveler.  it's a lot more interesting than the in-flight magazine, that's for sure!  Thanks for the laugh!

Marie
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: mariez on December 03, 2007, 02:26:10 pm
One of those interludes she does so well:   ;D

http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1712939.html?#cutid1 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1712939.html?#cutid1)

Marie
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: SFEnnisSF on March 25, 2008, 10:20:25 pm
Ok, I did finally finish reading this.  :D  Well, up to where it was left off in Chapter 74 that is....

I think this was one of my favorites.  I will always think of Joanna hackin' up the chickens and then puttin' 'em in the oven and just standing there waiting for them to cook, without saying a word.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: MsMercury on May 20, 2008, 12:41:40 am
This is another good fic. It was the first BBM fic I ever read. I hope she writes more to it. It's a really wonderful story.
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: SFEnnisSF on May 20, 2008, 02:23:46 am
Yes, this is definitely one of my all time favorites!
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: NavyVet on October 07, 2008, 03:27:27 pm
Does anyone know if Montana Crows is accepting new friends to her LJ these days?

I had a link saved, but it doesn't work any more, and I think I've missed some chapters.  Would love to catch up on Beans and Crazies.

I love this story - it's one of my favs.

Thanx,
NV
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: mariez on October 07, 2008, 06:15:48 pm
I didn't even know it had been friends locked!  I just went here:

http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/ (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/)

and asked her to friend me.  Hope it works.  This is one of my favorites!

Marie
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Lomoroto on October 26, 2010, 08:44:39 am
Beans and Crazies by Montana Crows has always been one of my favorites, and I have read it several times. It was partially locked some time ago and the author didn't respond to unlocking, but I found that if I went through the dates in the archive I could still find and read the stories. Now a couple of days ago the account was purged. Yikes!  Did anyone have the foresight (not me) to have downloaded these stories, and could email them to me?  I'll PM my email to you.

Thanks,
Lomoroto
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: NavyVet on October 26, 2010, 10:54:53 am
 :(
Oh, that's a shame.  I had always hoped it would be finished someday.  I often wonder how it might have ended.  I lost track of the later chapters, but I have some of it in a word doc, almost 2,000 KB worth, up until the part where Jack and Eric have the conversation about how Eric got hurt and Joanna losing the baby.  I don't know if that helps you; if you want it, let me know.
Gosh, I haven't read any BbM fic in ages and ages.
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: NavyVet on October 26, 2010, 10:57:34 am
Does anyone know anything about Montana Crows' status?  I just hope she is okay.
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: louisev on October 26, 2010, 12:18:18 pm
I did a google search and found an entry for an Iron Man fanfic dated May 2010 by montana_crows, so she's still writing, but apparently not in this fandom.
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Lomoroto on October 26, 2010, 08:01:00 pm
NavyVet I sent you a PM; thanks! 
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: SkinheadB on November 03, 2010, 09:27:57 am
i don't wanna be redundant, but is Beans and Crazies still online anywhere?!   or does anyone have it saved?
i've wanted to read it again for a long, long time.

makes me sad to think i'll never get the chance...
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: RouxB on November 03, 2010, 01:13:53 pm
i don't wanna be redundant, but is Beans and Crazies still online anywhere?!   or does anyone have it saved?
i've wanted to read it again for a long, long time.

makes me sad to think i'll never get the chance...

I will check to see if I have it saved somewhere when I get home.
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: SkinheadB on November 03, 2010, 02:31:33 pm
I will check to see if I have it saved somewhere when I get home.


thank you, very much!
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Lomoroto on November 03, 2010, 09:36:14 pm
SPOILER: if you haven't read the story!!





NavyVet was very kind and sent me a word file of B&C. The last part of this file is when Eric is back from VietNam at the ranch, Joanna has already lost the baby. Does anyone know if there was any of the story after this point, and if so, do you have it saved that you could send it to me? PM me if so. 

Thanks.
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: SkinheadB on November 04, 2010, 12:21:13 pm
SPOILER: if you haven't read the story!!





NavyVet was very kind and sent me a word file of B&C. The last part of this file is when Eric is back from VietNam at the ranch, Joanna has already lost the baby. Does anyone know if there was any of the story after this point, and if so, do you have it saved that you could send it to me? PM me if so. 

Thanks.


this is the chapter listing over @ the dave cullen site:

Author: montana_crows                        Journal: montana_crows (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/)

Ask the author to be friended in order to read Beans And Crazies

Beans And Crazies  (AU)  Jack and Ennis head north to south central Montana after leaving Brokeback.  Read Review here ... (http://www.davecullen.com/forum/index.php?topic=26298.msg1003126#msg1003126)

Part 1 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/2594.html) , Part 2 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/3327.html) , Part 3 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/2853.html) , Part 4 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/3464.html) , Part 5 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/3736.html) , Part 6 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/3847.html) , Part 7 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/4144.html) , Part 8 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/4487.html) , Part 9 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/4629.html) , Interlude Part 10 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/5004.html)
Part 11 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/5191.html) , Part 12 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/5563.html) , Part 13 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/5829.html) , Part 14 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/240233.html) , Part 15 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/241995.html) , Part 16 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/244593.html) , Part 17 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/245909.html) , Part 18 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/247225.html) , Part 19 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/247394.html) , Part 20 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/251614.html) , Part 21 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/253040.html)
Part 22 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/256217.html) , Part 23 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/264448.html) , Part 24 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/267863.html) , Part 25 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/275103.html) , Part 26 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/9497.html) , Part 27 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/9765.html) , Part 28 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/10095.html) , Part 29a (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/287553.html) , Part 29b (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/292020.html)  , Part 30 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/293151.html)
no part 31 , Part 32 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/297979.html) , Part 33 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/301202.html) , no part 34 , Part 35 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/11834.html) , Part 36 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/12525.html) , Interlude II (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/309697.html) , Part 37a (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/314918.html) , Part 37b (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/320323.html) , Part 38 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/321848.html)
Interlude 3/2 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/332456.html) , Part 39 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/334067.html) , Part 40 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/15100.html) , Part 41 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/15247.html) , Part 42 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/365317.html) , Part 43 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/372748.html) , Part 44 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/376133.html) , Part 45 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/16565.html) , Part 46 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/16795.html) , Part 47 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/16985.html)
Part 48 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/17339.html) , Part 49 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/17614.html) , Part 50 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/17751.html) , Part 51 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/18164.html) , Part 52 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/18252.html) , Part 53 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/465086.html) , Part 54 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/465714.html) , Part 55 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/19180.html) , Part 56 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/19692.html) , Interlude (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/20036.html) , Part 57 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/21115.html)
Part 58 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/21446.html) , Part 59 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/21768.html) , Part 60 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/650518.html) , Broken, Part 61 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/22086.html) , Broken, Part 62 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/22405.html) , Broken, Part 63 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/22535.html) , Part 64 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/23660.html) , Interlude (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/24229.html)
Part 65 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/24601.html) , Part 66 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/25069.html) no part 67, Part 68 (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/25767.html) ,  Part 69 - Quizas, quizas, quizas (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/960193.html) ,  Interlude - I Just Died In Your Arms Tonight (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/26282.html) 
Interlude Part II (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/968884.html) , Interlude (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1524588.html) , Part 70 (http://community.livejournal.com/brokebackslash/1529184.html) , Part 71 - Off He Goes (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/27274.html) , Part 72 - Thumbing My Way Back to Heaven (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/27498.html) , Part 73 - Don't Cry (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/27686.html)
Part 74 - A run mo chleibh (Love of my Heart) (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/28086.html) , Interlewd - Fields of Gold (http://montana-crows.livejournal.com/28197.html) 


Beans & Crazies Audio Book  (montana crows as read by planetgal471)
Chapter 1-3 (http://www.megaupload.com/?d=2M746IZF)


Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Lomoroto on November 05, 2010, 08:20:06 pm
The links take you to an "access denied" notice even after you've logged in at LJ but Montana Crow's journal was purged some days ago, so the links don't work. The word copy I have does not have chapter numbers so don't know where it ends, really.
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: moyaima on April 08, 2011, 02:21:37 am
I will check to see if I have it saved somewhere when I get home.


Hello Giacomo, was wondering if you still have a word copy of this story as I've been trying to find it online, but all have been deleted ...
Thank you ever so much for your reply,
moyaima ☺x
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: Monika on April 08, 2011, 05:22:48 am
Hello Giacomo, was wondering if you still have a word copy of this story as I've been trying to find it online, but all have been deleted ...
Thank you ever so much for your reply,
moyaima ☺x
I have some time over at the moment so I can send it to you. An address?
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: moyaima on April 27, 2011, 02:43:46 am
I have some time over at the moment so I can send it to you. An address?
Hey Buffymon, sorry didn't reply earlier, been away for a while, will send ya email address through PM, thanks a lot, if you can send it.
☺x
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: coffeecat33 on May 25, 2011, 12:34:34 pm
Maybe this has already been answered, and I may be wrong, but I believe that after Heath's death, montana_crows quit writing Beans & Crazies which I LOVED! She did write in a different fanfiction for a while, but I can't remember which one.
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: kitty on August 25, 2011, 06:30:14 pm
Would anybody mind sending me a word document of this? My email's in my profile :)
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: kitty on June 16, 2012, 04:44:59 pm
I've got a problem...I have a word doc of Beans and Crazies, but I think I'm missing something from a later chapter. There was a line break after the love scene with the mirror and then this:

Jack feigned being stunned by the comment, looked at him as though he’d been mortally wounded, then charged, bowling Ennis into the dust and new blades of young grass.
He was on top, laughing, pinning Ennis with his weight, but the man under him began punching him in the ribs. Ennis’ range of motion was cut short by his position, flat on his back, and his stifled laughter didn’t help, but the punches were enough to be painful.


Judging from the first sentence, I'm sure there's something missing. Can anybody help please?
Title: Re: Beans and Crazies by montana crows
Post by: leafy365 on May 28, 2013, 07:11:38 pm
Hey, if any one still has a copy of this story, could they send it to me? My email is [email protected].  Thanks!