From what do you draw when you write?
Regarding my fictional stories, I think my inspiration originates from a desire similar to the one I feel when I'm singing. I want to please, entertain, be appreciated and admired, but most of all to express myself while honoring all I love and respect. When it comes to the poems and tributes, they almost always originate from the dark side of love––grief, hurt, anger, and sorrow. Then too, some of my writing comes about when a light bulb goes off––as I become aware of a truth, not previously recognized. All the writing ultimately comes from my love of romance, travel, genealogy, business, history, art, music, antiques, and old houses.
When did you first start writing?
My first attempt was in orange crayon at age three or four. I endorsed R. L. Stevenson’s, “ The world is full of a number of things, I’m sure we should all be as happy as kings.” My serious work began in eighth grade. I plagiarized a published poem to qualify for membership in a writing group. In defense of myself, I didn’t fully understand all the word implied. Looking back, I think the teacher caught on quickly, but was wise enough not to embarrass her tender young student who had shown an interest in serious composition. Thankfully, she let me join her club of students who ranged from the seventh to the twelfth grade. After that everything I created was original.
Before I left her influence, I had poems published in local publications and national anthologies. That was exciting, but the biggest thrill happened not with a poem, but because of a reply to a letter I wrote. It came special delivery in the middle of a high school current history class. To the teachers delight and my amazement, there was a personal response to a thank you letter I sent to the Commander and Chief at the White House––the President of the United States of America.
Among other letters I particularly treasure, is correspondence from First Lady Barbara Bush, who commented on “your favorite and mine,” the 1937 children's books––My Book House––the twelve-volume set containing hundreds of stories by well-known authors and complimented by beautiful full color illustrations. I credit the volumes––a gift from a relative––as inspiration for the illustrated books I am creating today and the children's historical fiction I hope to do in the future.
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