March 28, 2022
Where were you at 21? How does that reflect in your writing today?
At the age of 21? Really? That was several lifetimes ago! You expect me to remember that? Certainly, my life wasn’t typical for the age. Especially as I spent much of that year pregnant. I wasn’t a newlywed, (We got married young…I was only 19!) but I think we were still in our long-lasting honeymoon stage. Luckily, I had an easy pregnancy and had the time and energy to write poetry and and do lots of reading.
But none of my main characters have had children. The stories and the characters haven’t called for it. Plus, they’ve all been older than 21, so they are more mature and settled into their personalities than most 21-year olds.
But that doesn’t mean that year isn’t reflected in my writing. I learned a lot about love that year. Romantic love, love for a child, love of myself. Although my stories are mostly action, adventure, suspense and mystery, (and now crime!) they all have a romantic element.
For example, here’s a short snippet from my about-to-be-released book, The Fall of Jake Hennessey:
Sarah rushed out of the kitchen, phone in hand. Jake followed her but went upstairs to check out the rest of the three-story house. The rooms were small, and he wondered if he’d be able to tear out walls to make them bigger. As he started up the narrow stairs to the third floor, Sarah’s voice floated up to him.
“What are you doing with him, Harmony?”
“He asked me to come along.”
“That’s not what I mean, and you know it.”
“He’s good looking, smart, and treats me like I’m special. Every guy I’ve ever dated in Oak Grove acts as if they’re doing me a favor by taking me out. They’re looking for a 1950s housewife. Jake talks to me and actually listens to what I have to say.”
Jake didn’t want to move and make a noise that would stop the conversation. It was confirmation that his plan was working. Pride warred with a heavy dose of guilt.
“What does he want from you?”
“You mean besides the normal? Sex? Which will happen when I decide I’m ready.”
The book releases this Saturday, April 2nd.
While my life at age 21 isn’t directly reflected in my books, it surely has influenced my writing. I suspect it’s the truth for others on this loop as well. All you have to do is follow the links below to find out!
Anyway, until next time, please stay safe!
March 28, 2022
Where were you at 21? How does that reflect in your writing today?
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Yes, it’s true for me as well. I was too busy living to sit at home and write!
Which is only right for a 21-year old!
If I hadn’t experienced the emotions that I did in my younger years, I don’t think I could have written with any legitimacy (or realism) about them later
I agree