by Mairi Norris
Authors love to write.
One might think this goes without saying, and one would be correct. We write because we love it, because we need to write. From the romantic viewpoint, our souls starve without indulging in the creativity of transcribing the stories in our hearts onto the printed or digital page. On the practical side, it’s also drummed into us that the more books we write (and the faster), the better.
Why then would an author take a five month break from the craft they love so much? There are many reasons, but I took mine simply because I needed it and because my next book is a low-fantasy medieval romance requiring months of world-building. During that time, while my ‘creative juices’ quietly worked their way through everything from names and personalities for the characters to the new world’s science, technology, foods, morals, social structure, etc., my husband and I took some ‘time off’ and I worked to finish a major personal project.
While we could not at this time take a true ‘vacation’, we did visit some nearby places we’d not been to before. These included Bacon’s Castle, a 17th c. plantation house associated with the rebellion of the patriot Nathanial Bacon, and the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond. These gardens are a place of utter magic. The Victorian style, domed glass conservatory enchanted me, especially the ‘butterfly house’ section. We bought lifetime membership and plan to make seasonal visits whenever possible.
The major project I worked on was part of my hobby, dollhouse miniatures, and encompassed the creation of a large antique mall in 1/12 scale [1”=1’] I’ve named Bygone Elegance. I’ve now completed most of the construction and interior decorating of the store. Filling it with miniature ‘antiques’ comes next – but not until after I finish my next book.
Yes, the hiatus from writing was needful and refreshed mind, soul, and spirit. Now I am excited and ‘champing at the bit’ to return to writing and the enjoyment of creating a new medieval fantasy world – but for those of you who love ‘real world’ medieval, don’t worry. The world I’m building won’t be all that different from our real world in the 16th century. If all goes well, the book will be ready for a Christmas release.
So, if your favorite writer drops off the scene for a while, consider he or she might be indulging in a rest from creating. Eventually, the need comes to all of us, but it usually results in even better stories for our readers.
Love Bygone Elegance, love what I’ve heard about the world you’re building, can hardly wait to see either or both completed! Endlessly fascinated by what goes on in writers’ heads, from where the stories that grip me come from to why sometimes the stories stop–the one-book wonders who apparently have said what they want to say. So glad you’re not one of those!
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Thanks, Beppie – the world-building goes on. At the Virginia Beach Aquarium yesterday I learned how rivers that start as trickling streams high in the mountains can become mighty concourses by the time they reach the plain… and so shall my great rivers be formed! – Màiri
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Sometimes a break is needed, even from what you love. I can’t wait to read your new story! And I love your miniatures. What patience you must have!!!
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Thanks for stopping by, Lane. It’s good to be back go writing, again. Hopefully the new book will be ready around Christmas or New Year.
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What a perfect name for your mall! Can’t wait to see the progress from here. I totally understand about taking a break. Recharging is an absolute must!
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I’ll do a another post, Cathy, when the dollhouse – and the book – are finished. – Màiri
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I totally understand the need to take a little break! The mall is wonderful and I can’t wait to see the finished product 🙂
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Thanks for stopping by, Alanna. I’ll definitely post more photos when the dollhouse is complete – but that won’t be for a while!
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What a beautiful photo of the garden! I love your dollhouse and look forward to more photos in upcoming posts. I, too, have taken breaks from writing. Whenever I do, I always come back renewed and ready to do more creating!
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We loved the Botanical Garden so much, Donna, we purchased a membership (we’ve not done that before). We can’t wait to see it in all seasons.
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Wow! What a wonderful way to rejuvenate, Lady Mairi! I cannot imagine how much detail work goes into miniature dollhouses and a fantasy novel. The two seem to go hand in hand. Wish I lived near the Botanical Garden and Bacon Castle. It sounds extraordinary!!!
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