I now know exactly how my character will feel as the sun rises and sets each day in Boston's Public Garden. I also know what it'll be like for him to watch the pedal-driven swan boats fill and empty time and time again throughout each day, and how hard it will be for him not to smile at the steady stream of kids that run through the Beacon & Charles Street entrance to climb all over the infamous 'Make Way for Ducklings' statues.
I've talked to maintenance staff, tourists, sketch artists, even a professional mime who often frequents one entrance. I've spent hours taking all kinds of pictures and scribbling notes, but until yesterday (in the midst of a flurry of inspired writing back in my hotel room) I don't think I fully realized what a difference coming here would make to my story.
If you're in Boston, wander through the Public Garden. You won't regret it.
20 comments:
It sure looks like a peaceful and inspiring place to be.
Write like crazy okay?!! I need another good book to read.
How sublime!
Seems like it'd be
a good place for a writer
to put his/her feet up and
find loads of inspiration.
Good on yah!
Aren't yah gonna share
a few tidbits about your new
novel with us? Does your character get mugged, win a lottery, find Jesus or WHAT?
It sure looks beautiful. Hope you enjoyed your trip. It must have been a great place to be. Can't wait until your book is finished.
I think this is really what makes novels authentic and evokes a sense of place. Love the photos!
and Kyla-dale
It's interesting - I find that I talk less about my novel the better it's going. Sometimes describing a novel while you are writing it drains those creative juices...
Sorry, Kyla-dale, I agree with Pat. The less I talk about a book the better the story flows from me and the stronger the writing.
My lips are sealed for that reason alone, although if I could I'd share more.
Fab snapshots Ms. Kennedy!
Write on.
I've been to the Boston Common and the Public Garden. Both are great, but I think the garden is a lot more peaceful and less frenetic in pace.
I'm assuming that's what you must be aiming for in the setting for your next novel. Good stuff!
nothing like being there, for sure
btw - i have both the penny tree and the silver compass, finally... another title is yet to come, i forget which....
Laughingwolf -- that means you
are missing The Tin Box then. Thanks for your support!
I greatly appreciate it.
I'm not 100% sure how much a hulking guy like you will like my stories, although they all have mass appeal on many levels. I especially receive a lot of email from male and female readers re: The Tin Box.
Happy reading!
Adam -- I sent you a note re: your query letter yesterday. I hope you got it, and good luck with your next round!
Hello Ms. Kennedy:
I'm the man you met in the Public Garden two days in a row. Thanks for signing your book for me. I've wrapped it up and my sister's gift for her bday is now good to go.
Travel safe back to Canada.
Dan Springer
Guess what!?
I found out Friday aft that my company is flying me to Boston for a conference in Sept so I've added the Public Garden to my "must see and do" list!
i think that's the one still on the list for delivery, holly... thank you
don't worry, i have eclectic tastes, so read almost anything :)
OK, so now I'm curious. What made you decide to set this book in Boston anyway?
Perfection, Holly! You're so blessed to be able to go where your characters will be. Wish I could time-travel and do the same thing! :-)
The photos are lovely, and certainly will help you recall the wonderful time you had there. Spending some time in nature helps the creativity.
Janet -- to answer your question, international appeal. Setting it in the Public Garden made perfect sense vs. some garden/pond in a hickville town in the boonies.
The Public Garden is recognized worldwide. Of course, having been there a few times, I have to admit it also serves the story best overall.
Melissa -- I wish you could too! Wouldn't that be wonderful?
Barbara -- thanks for popping by. It's not only nature that stirs this writer's creativity, it's the QUIET (sans kids) LOL
Post a Comment