By Adriana Girolami
Individual writing style
is the hallmark of most authors. There are so many different ways to approach a story line. Some develop an idea a little at a time. Others make detailed
research and write copious notes. I usually have a story in my mind, and then I
simply embellish it as I write it on my computer. I research the historical
facts. Yet, I only write minimal notes.
Recently, a fellow
author confided in me with some frustration, her desire to finish a novel she
started writing a couple of years before. She never completed it because of a
sudden lack of interest. It was distressing to the lady that her exciting idea
was now wasted. Instead, it languished on her desk collecting dust.
I was unable to give her
any useful advice, since I never had the experience myself. I suggested the
usual line: "Read again what is already written, then try to rekindle the
original excitement of the story bringing it to completion".
At that time, I had just
completed my Knights Templar Trilogy, and was busy writing a new novel. As
usual, I had the storyline pretty much developed in my mind. With that, I was
writing it down with some enthusiasm.
However, during that
period I attended a party. This was where I was introduced by a friend to an
interesting subject. It was about the Zamindars of India. They were feudal
lords who governed for a couple of hundred years until their fall from power.
The premise intrigued me, and I decided to make it my next project. That is,
right after the completion of the novel I was presently writing.
However, soon after
something strange happened. My pace of writing was slowing down, and my
excitement in the story was waning. It was difficult to understand the reason
why. My mind wondered in different directions. I become concerned since
it never happened to me before.
As my writing stalled, I
began researching online for more information about the Zamindars. Finding
great pleasure in reading about them, different story lines quickly flashed
through my mind. Fortunately, the original excitement as a writer was back.
However, it was not connected to the story presently being written by me.
It should have been a
simple choice at that point. Abandon for the time being, the novel in progress
and start writing the story that suddenly resonated with me.
At first, it was
disruptive to my writing style and proved uncomfortable. Soon it became
abundantly clear that creativity is the only guiding light worth following. It
should take precedence even at the expense of structure and writing habits. If
the enthusiasm dies down, let go of the project at hand. I suggest all aspiring
authors to do that for the time being. You will eventually get back to it. I
know I will! Follow your creativity to guide you until a happy completion of
your newest, exciting novel.
Adriana Girolami is an historical romance author. She was born in Rome, Italy and
credits the ancient beauty of her native country for her love of history. She
immigrated to the United States and attended The Art Students League in New
York City. She is a professional portrait artist who loves to write and express
her creativity not only with a brush, but also with the power of the written
words. Her debut novel, Mysterious
Templar, is now a part of "The
Knights Templar Trilogy" followed by The Crimson Amulet and Templar's
Redemption, the third book just published. Being also an artist she
particularly enjoys painting the covers for all her books. She is a world
traveler, and has been privileged accompanied by her husband to visit many
beautiful places in the world. Since her work is sedentary, she exercises faithfully,
loves to jog, plays racquetball and has a black belt in Kenpo Karate. She
always looks forward to a special tomorrow and writing her next exciting novel.
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