Writers sometimes ask me where I find ideas for my stories. I tell them I find them everywhere, from family history to classified ads to daily encounters with people.
My novel, The Madonna of Pisano, is based on a true incident in my paternal great-grandmother’s life. When I learned of this incident years ago, it struck me forcefully and would not leave my mind. As I prayed, I felt strongly that our Lord wanted me to write her story.
But although my story is based on an historical fact, it does not adhere strictly to that fact. I used the incident as a starting point for my story but took liberties along the way in writing it.
Fiction is not a retelling of every fact of an incident or experience. It is taking a fact or experience and using it as the kernel of a story.
What incidents have inspired your stories? We would love to hear from you! 🙂
I often get ideas from pictures. I’ll see something interesting and start playing the “What If?” game.
I also banter ideas back and forth with my illustrator friend. We’re a great idea team!
December 1, 2011 at 11:53 AM
You bring out two great points, Pam:
1) The “what if” game. This game has spawned many a story and is one of my favorite tools for generating ideas.
2) Brainstorming with a friend. I find brainstorming to be especially helpful if I’m stuck about what should happen next.
Thanks so much for mentioning both of these outstanding tools.
December 1, 2011 at 12:37 PM