How do details help shape a story? Doing research for fiction.
Hello Reader,
I am checking in to see if you had a chance to read the first chapters of Clean Sweep. Did you pair your reading with that mug of hot tea I suggested? Or are you more of a coffee drinker? Oh, I see; it was early evening and you paired your reading with one of those decaffeinated “bevies” instead. Got it.
In case you have not gotten the first two chapters of Clean Sweep for free yet, please click this button, give an email address where the chapters can be sent, and make yourself comfy.
Something I wanted to share with you is this:
Years ago, I did a nighttime “Church Run,” somewhat akin to what Carli Morris does in the opening chapter of Clean Sweep.
I walked the streets through the night and checked in with individuals sleeping in cardboard boxes, offered food, and, yes, encouraged those I found to pick up needed clothing in our travel vans. It hit hard, and was one impetus for my writing this novel. I had helped with soup kitchens, but had never seen the reality of life on the sidewalks. Fiction writers often do significant research before writing. After this overnight mission, I spoke with many people in numerous organizations dedicated to helping the homeless. I observed and interacted with individuals facing difficult times, and pulled from my own experience with individuals I have known, and who have faced either internal struggles, struggles resulting from outside forces, or both.
Even though fiction is not real per se, you surely must know that observing, interacting, and reflecting can be as important as imagining and idly creating when it comes to developing a story. In fact, a well of observations and experiences seems an essential base from which imagination can get down to the serious work of creating a story.
Understanding a subject is essential. Details, too, are a critical element of writing.
They make stories more interesting, authentic, and memorable. Some details often pop out during research and out of pure observation. Others details pop out of my imagination, but, perhaps, they are grounded in some of my personal experiences from years of life. I love the details. I love what they add. I love that they can be incredibly simple, but extremely impactful.
The next time you are out and about, look around and take notice of details.
They could be physical details – the color of someone’s shirt, and how it blends with their hair color or reflects their personality. They could be human details – the sound of someone’s voice, or a quirky mannerism. Maybe you notice a personality detail – a child’s shy look, or strong cling to an adult’s leg or clothes. Maybe all you are drawn to are the trees and flowers around you, or lines of yellow cabs adeptly swerving from lane to lane. Here’s to hoping you love the details of life! They truly enrich our own stories, as well as the stories we read.
Enjoy your reading! Enjoy your stories. Embrace life!
Clean Sweep, the complete novel, is scheduled for publication July 20, 2021. Right now, it is going through various production details. I will describe these to you in a future mailing.
Best to all,
E.
E. B. Lee is an author of fiction. Her first novel, Clean Sweep, has a July 20, 2021 release date.