ILLUMINATING READS

I’ve had a number of children’s books published, but last year, I decided I wanted to switch focus and write for adults. However, when it came to identifying a new idea, I’ve found myself wallowing in mud. I’ve done various courses, which have all helped with process, but as for subject matter, I’ve been lost in a fog. I’ve had several thoughts, but found fault with all of them – that one would require too much research, this one isn’t a powerful enough story, that one has too many battles. (I write mainly historical fiction.) And as a result, I’ve been quite miserable. I hate not having something I’m working on, and I want to scream when well-meaning friends ask me what I’m writing.

But as I began to glance through the April edition of Writing Magazine, I read the article by Leo Vardiashvili, about how he researched place for his novel, Hard by a Great Forest (such a good title), and the interview with Daisy Goodwin, about how she got under the skin of Maria Callas, the subject of her new novel, Diva. Both were fascinating.

And suddenly, it felt as if someone had switched a light on. I knew which of my vague ideas was the right one. I began to see how I would set about it. I saw that it could be – would be – important and interesting – because the subject is/was both of those things. And yes, it will require a lot of research, but I know where to start, and I intend to enjoy it. Also – no battles.

So thank you, Leo and Daisy and Writing Magazine. I’ve already got started.

SUE PURKISS Cheddar, Somerset