We writers are often advised to write about what we know, but that’s always felt too easy. For me, part of the joy of writing lies in the discovery.
When I started writing Empty Arms, I didn’t know what it was like to be a pregnant teenager in 1973, to live in a maternity, or to be forced to surrender a child for adoption. I had no idea what a traumatic situation this was for millions of women and the impact it had on their lives. But for the sake of the story’s authenticity and credibility, I had to journey way beyond what I knew. Extensive research went into writing Empty Arms, but what I learned was deeper than facts and figures; I discovered a whole world that I never knew existed.
Today, I am over at Karen S. Elliott’s Blog talking about the heartbreaking and eye-opening journey of writing Empty Arms. I hope you’ll check it out!
What have you discovered through your writing?
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You can “like” Empty Arms on Facebook for details on the upcoming release or to share how adoption has touched your life.
It’s interesting you should post this. I wrote what I know for my first novel, but my second novel is a departure from that in every way, from the era it takes place in to what happens to the characters. It’s a good learning experience and something every writer should do at least once.