Saturday, June 12, 2010

The Birth of a Book


~Gran'ma, where do books come from?~

~Well, my child, sit down and I'll tell you. First, the spark of an idea is conceived long, long before the book can be held in your hand. It could take months, years or even decades for the idea to germinate, incubate and grow. The idea might spring from a feeling in the air, a random memory sparked by the fragrance of wisteria or night-blooming jasmine, a child's giggle as he somersaults through a bed of spearmint, a random comment overheard in the grocery check-out line--or an old photograph such as these.~






Dear fellow writers, from whence come your ideas? Have you ever looked into the face of someone in an old photo and been inspired to write about that person, known or unknown? Please leave a comment describing that time.

6 comments:

  1. My current romance, Bunny, was inspired by photos and old stories from my mom. She was an amazing, loving and caring person. It showed on her face in old photos. Hoping to bring her stories alive.

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  2. Linda, how neat! Do you happen to have her photo posted on your blog? Are the old photos of your mom or someone else in your family?

    Write on!

    Because of Christ,
    Sharon

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  3. I love these photos, Sharon. Love them so very much.

    My ideas come from hikes and photos like these.

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  4. Great photos! My ideas come from hiking and people watching. These are my two favorite hobbies. I also am inspired by works of art in all different forms.

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  5. Schmologna,

    Something about the pathos in their eyes captivated me, and I began to imagine their stories.

    Hikes also inspire me!

    :-)

    Write on!
    Because of Christ,
    Sharon

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  6. zzzzzzzzz,

    Yes. I like to sit in Starbuck's, for example, or on a city bench, and watch folks come and go while I imagine their stories. Trouble is, Mama always said, "Sharon Kay, stop staring! People don't like that. Besides, it isn't polite." But, Mama. . .I do try to be discreet. Sorta. I'm thankful for reflective surfaces.

    Write on!
    Because of Christ,
    Sharon

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