Are Muses for Writers?

The most common question I get asked is where my inspiration comes from. In fact, that is the question I will tackle tomorrow. I can see where the Greeks came up with the idea of Muses. I, being more of a Christian, will often settle on God being the source of my ideas. This is a better answer than saying "I don't know." Even as I write, I can't explain where the scene develops. Why did I go this direction instead of that one? Typically the answer is my characters took me there and I'm just following along.

Time seems to stop when I write. Everything falls away and I am left transferred to this world I have created. I am simply an observer in that world. True, I manipulate things for the purpose of plot--my mother still has not forgiven me for killing off certain characters in the Atlantis series. But, a lot of connections just "happen" as the story unfolds. Maybe it is my love of Greek mythology, but I like to think I have a muse sitting with me. Modernizing this idea, maybe it's a Guardian Angel who whispers in my ear as the words flow from my brain to my fingers. Whatever it is, I certainly enjoy the experience.

Here's a nice blog I stumbled upon this morning. It discusses Greek muses, but also ties them into writer's inspirations. Does it answer the question of where inspiration comes from? Not really. But it does give great insight into the world of the writer and the muses who inspire them.

Monday's Quote: Diane Duane

“There is a rule for fantasy writers: The more truth you mix in with a lie, the stronger it gets.”~ Diane Duane

Today's quote is from a fantasy writer I actually have never read. I found her quote searching through goodreads. What I like about this is quote is that a lot of times people view fantasy as unlike the real world. In fact, I once heard this explanation for the difference between fantasy and sci-fi: sci-fi explains things in such a way that the reader believes it possible (i.e. the submarine before there was one or the flying car) and fantasy just has things happen (i.e. by magic).

While I agree with that to a certain extent, I believe the best fantasy touches on elements of reality. In fact, the more truth the author brings, the more the reader starts to buy into the story. Fiction is about readers accepting the story can happen and therefore caring about the characters. Fantasy is no different. "out of this world" with a touch of reality. That's the makings of a great book.

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Are Protagonists Wimpy this Summer?

I have heard and read a lot about how to write a good protagonist. Everyone has their philosophies. The top is that the protagonist must be sympathetic. Nobody wants to read about a character they don’t like. As readers, we have to buy into their story. We have to find ourselves caring. Therefore, introduction of said characters is imperative. For me, the start of a novel is the toughest. I often have editors tell me to cut the first scene down, or add in different elements to make it stronger. “Why should I care about so-in-so?” I don’t feel bad admitting this struggle. Many books begin with a fight scene, car chase, etc. Why? Because it is an easy way to grab attention, and—if done right—captures immediate sympathy for the main character…at least for a time.

Besides sympathy, the secondary trait I hear a lot is that they have to be relatable. As a reader, I have to be able to put myself in their shoes and experience their journey. At the very least, they have to feel like someone I could call a friend. Otherwise, why devote my time?

I’m curious if this second insistence is why I see so many struggling characters this summer. It seems like every book I pick up throws the main character into foreign situations—not unique considering this is the typical hero’s journey—and there are really only two avenues worth exploring. They typical “hero” story will have the character adapt and thrive in the new environment. They find hidden talents and train easy. They have street smarts they never knew and can outmaneuver their counterparts. This summer, authors seem to focus on weaknesses. They flounder, mess up and struggle to adapt while those around them (typically already of this new environment) protect and compensate for them—enter the love interest. 

The first scenario is a little more fun to read, but the second is by far the more realistic. The question remains…do I want to read about reality? Typically, when I pick up a book, it is because I want to escape myself and the events surrounding my life—not that those events are horrific, but hopefully you get the point. If I were suddenly asked to fight demonic beings, I would probably not be very successful. I would scream and cry. I would try to fight, fail and probably get my butt kicked. But, do I want to read that…for the entire book?

On some levels, I like the struggle. The suspension of disbelief is stronger when the protagonist used to be a nerdy loner and suddenly turns into a confident warrior. I’ve discussed before how struggling—maybe even failing—actually creates suspense. But I think this can go the other way. If the protagonist has to be saved at every turn…that’s kind of boring. As always in literature, there has to be a happy medium. I just hope the trend in publishing agrees.

Happy 4th of July

On this day in 1996, the movie Independence Day came out starring Will Smith and Bill Pullman. It was genius marketing because America was battling Aliens on the anniversary date of establishing independence. Can't you feel the patriotism?? Why bring up this movie, because, while it is about  an Alien invasion, it has one of the best speeches for American patriotism:

"Good morning. In less than an hour, aircraft from here will join others from around the world. And you will be launching the largest aerial battle in the history of mankind. 'Mankind.' That word should have new meaning for all of us today. We can’t be consumed by our petty differences anymore. We will be united in our common interests. Perhaps it’s fate that today is the Fourth of July, and you will once again be fighting for our freedom… Not from tyranny, oppression, or persecution… but from annihilation. We are fighting for our right to live. To exist. And should we win the day, the Fourth of July will no longer be known as an American holiday, but as the day the world declared in one voice: We will not go quietly into the night! We’re going to live on! We’re going to survive! Today we celebrate our Independence Day."

There are wonderful speeches in real history. Ones that rest on moments that changed the country, or even the world. Yet, sometimes literature and entertainment can grant the most compelling, thought-provoking speeches. People talk about them and remember them well after the "publication date." That is part of why I love to write. Literature has the opportunity to capture the attention of many, posing questions and inspiring nations.

I will be enjoying family time today as we watch the fireworks and celebrate this country. It is not perfect, but it is where I call home. May you find your own inspiration in literature today...wherever you are.

Why do You Write?

This week’s question comes from Taylor. Keep them coming!

“Why do you write?"

I typically answer this question in the simple “because I can’t not write.” I think this is similar to Stephen King’s answer. Another NY Times Bestselling author, I can’t remember who, said something along the lines of not knowing what else to do. In fact, David Morrell says if you can imagine yourself doing anything else, then you should because writing is a tough business. I think my answer would be the same if not for a blog I read a month ago.

In it, the man discussed feeling shame when he asked this question of fellow authors and they gave the “because I have to” response. His point was that he could stop tomorrow and live life just fine. Most writers will then stand on their platform and proclaim that therefore he doesn’t love the profession enough, but it got me to thinking. Aside from the dramatic response of death without writing, I think I could walk away. Just like, if necessary, someone had to give up their smart phone, television…hell, electricity in general. Can we do it? Sure. Would we enjoy doing it? No. Would life be as pleasant? Probably not. But, if we had to we could quit. 

So, in answer to this question of why I write, I have to say I do it because it is what brings joy to my life. When I go long periods without writing, I begin to feel like a part of me is shut off. In fact, in middle school I hid my talent instead of throwing it away when I felt backlash that writing novels for fun was just “not cool.” I have to write because it is who I am. Could I live without it? Yes. Could my life have some meaning without it? Probably. But would I wake up every day and know I am being my most authentic self? Absolutely not. I am a writer. I am happy to be a writer. And I will always be a writer.

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Is Mount Olympus an Elite Club?

When I think of Mount Olympus, I can’t help but think of it as an elite club for the Greek gods. Think about it. The Greeks have countless gods for every little thing in life. I’ve been looking at a few on this blog for a few months now and still haven’t made a dent on the list. Out of all of them, only fifteen reside in a throne room on Mount Olympus. They rule over the others, making sure everyone stays in line while exerting their authority. In some ways, they are much like a republic government for the deity world.

But, straying from the political makeup, they also remind me of those elite clubs that have members pay for admission. The price of this club, though is not monetary, but rather a birthright. Most gods in the throne room either originated from the first god, Cronus, or were born from Cronus’ son, Zeus. In fact, those children of Zeus not in the throne room were the result of mortal/god relations, illegitimate children so-to-speak—which is also very reflective of society.

If we accept Joseph Campbell’s premise that mythology serves to teach society, then I wonder about the purpose of Mount Olympus. Does it simply exist to illustrate government structure? The few who lead the whole. Republics have certainly existed alongside monarchies for quite a while. Or, is it speaking more to society? That there are the elite, the people placed on pedestals—I think we all could agree the gods, like some celebrities in our society, did not always deserve such a rank. And, probably more importantly, should they be there based on lineage alone? Some things to ponder on this Tuesday morning. 

Monday's Quote: Jim Butcher

“When everything goes to hell, the people who stand by you without flinching -- they are your family. ” ~Jim Butcher

I am actually surprised it took me so long to highlight a Jim Butcher quote. He is one of my favorite fantasy authors. I like this one because it speaks to me in my life. I would not be where I am without the support system of my family and friends. They are my cheerleading squad pumping me up when I get depressed and frustrated. They keep me going, believing in me every step of the way. I would have given up and denied myself the pleasure of writing a long time ago if it weren't for them. They all are truly a part of my family circle. My hope is everyone can have the same support system.

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