I have often harangued family and friends that writing the Elen Chronicles book(s) has been a different experience. It’s intriguing and enlightening. Usually, my books write themselves chronologically. The magic happens when I sit down to write and (most of the time) flows from my fingers. I do have notes and a tentative outline, but the stories flow from beginning to end. Sometimes (likely, many times…) they come out in a rush.
Elen has been different. I think the vast research it entails is part of the reason, but the book has been coming to me like wisps of a remembered dream. It’s not chronological. Bits and pieces from all through the book appear out of nowhere and at unforeseen times. I can tell you, I’m very grateful for stoplights so that I can write some of the pieces down. Elen is teaching me to slow down with my writing and to add richness to the story.
One of my greatest hopes and dreams with my books is that they will be beloved and cherished. I have fond memories of reading a particular book, where I was, and how I felt when I didn’t want it to end. I hope that one or more of my books will give this to readers.
Writing has always been magical for me. I don’t question where the stories come from, but I am extremely grateful they chose me to be their vessel and to write them down. One of my favorite authors, Alice Hoffman, states, “Books may well be the only true magic.” Ray Bradbury states, “The magic is only in what books say, how they stitched the patches of the universe together into one garment for us.” And lastly, Stephen King writes, “Books are a uniquely portable magic.” I agree. Aren’t we lucky?
Thanks to: Photo by Yana Gorbunova on Unsplash
