Something is better than nothing. And some things need to come first. I'm also confident about that.
Writing historical fiction is definitely my thing, but it is incredibly difficult. I never would have believed the amount of detail that would go into it. But I love my story and my ancestors who inspired the story enough that I am going to give it what it needs to make it awesome. One slow chapter at a time.
While I'm waiting for my schedule (and my mind) to clear up so I can get back to writing, I am working on research and am trying to do it as efficiently as possible.
One of my college professors told me about the oral history collection at the University of Kentucky Library. The library will send you mp3 files just for asking. This is working great for me since I can slam them onto my iPod and do research while I'm taking care of the rest of my life.
The cool thing I've found about the ones I've listened to so far is the everyday life details that come to the surface like the thing where they called a piece of linoleum a rug (my grandma did that too but I had forgotten) and the way their tone changes when they talk about people that died. These recordings are priceless. I'm looking forward to listening to more this week.
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This post is part of the Insecure Writers Support Group formed by Alex J. Cavanaugh.
Mp3 files - what an awesome idea! Cool you discovered that.
ReplyDeleteGreat resource for research. And I love that your family inspired this project.
ReplyDeleteHistorical fiction is SO difficult to do really well. Too much historical detail, and you bog down the story. Too little, and it becomes some other genre with a vaguely historical backdrop. And of course -- anachronisms are the kiss of death. Use one word incorrectly, and you can be sure some reviewer will catch it!
ReplyDeleteBut it is also so rewarding to keep the past alive, to remember where we came from, and how we've changed and grown (or not).
You've got the spot on attitude right now, Tonja. Proud of you! I wish I was as strong as you this month! But YES, time is a hard thing right now isn't it??? *sigh*
ReplyDeleteLife will always get in the way and sometimes family, health, day job, whatever has to take priority. Doing a little at a time on your writing is what will keep you going. Good luck.
ReplyDeleteGlad you are finding your way! I really love to listen oral histories. It's one of my fave things. Happy IWSG day!
ReplyDeleteThe recordings sound fascinating! Good for you for finding a way to keep "writing" through your research. It will all pay off when you do get the time to write.
ReplyDeleteI spend my summer going over characters and scenes in my head while spending time with my kids. This year it did pay off when they went back to school. I've accomplished more in the last 2 weeks than I have all year. The question for me is, How to keep it going?
Good luck!
Wonderful to have such a resource, Tonja, very envious.
ReplyDeleteWonderful research resource. The confidence will continue to grow.
ReplyDeleteHow perfect! I love history. My daughter has done the same, recording older people concerning their young lives. What's most precious is a recording of my deceased father which I will cherish.
ReplyDeleteI definitely think of all the genres, that historic fiction requires the most work. I love reading it but know myself too well to think I could actually write it. I admire those of you who do!
ReplyDeleteI'm always amazed by everything you can get just by asking. I think most people don't realize how accessible stuff is. I may have to contact that library myself.
ReplyDelete-James.
That is a really cool thing with the oral history. Time is such a big issue with so many.
ReplyDeleteThanks for all of your comments. I have a migraine and will catch up with you all tomorrow or Friday.
ReplyDeleteI always use to be so amazed when my 'elders' would tell me about how much things have changed and what they use to have to do or endure from day-to-day. It's amazing! And we totally take everything for granted these days. But, I share your interest in history of things... I didn't always though, but I definitely appreciate it more as I'm getting older. Thanks for the post!
ReplyDeleteThat is such a great resource for you, that even saves on your eyes! Your book sounds like it will be awesome and worth the time it's taking to get it done. Sometimes, taking that time out to take care of other things makes the book that much better, because you're not pressuring yourself to do what's not possible to do and do well at the same time.
ReplyDeleteI can't imagine the work that goes into historical fiction. It's hard enough for me to get the facts of just a normal fiction book all lined up! I will be doing a novella that will entail some research after I complete my current WIP. I'm hoping it'll be fun. :s Writer’s Mark
I can't seem to shake the migraine this week. Will catch up later this weekend.
ReplyDeleteHistorical fiction? Yikes. You probably have to spend as much time on research as writing. Keep on keepin' on.
ReplyDeleteMan, I so hear you on insecurity over carving out time to focus on writing. Like you I've had so many things lately that demand top priority...makes it hard to focus on writing. Sometimes by the time I get the priorities out of the way I've got nothing left. That's work in progress for me these days. Glad to see I'm not the only one!
ReplyDeleteSia McKye Over Coffee
I read a ton of historical fiction. LOVE it!
ReplyDeleteAs far as carving out time...its so hard. I just try to write every day. Even if its 500 words or whatever. Other times life happens and I just have to go with it.
Migraines blow. I wouldn't be able to live without Excedrin.