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Finding Inspiration in Stressful Times

May 31, 2020

Imagination and creativity have no limitations.

For writers and would-be writers of fiction, this is a uniquely inspiring time.

Within the global community of crime fiction writers, against the backdrop of terrible and ongoing tragedies caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, one of the many good things to emerge could be a graduating class of exciting new authors.

Stories of memorable characters doing fascinating things.

I’ve often been struck by the number of people who say (usually in the context of a book signing or book club evening): “I’ve got a book in me.” They have; we all have.

Each of us has imagination and creativity. The spark of a story can be inspired by real life events. Next comes skilled craftsmanship. Add brilliant writing, to which we all aspire, and there you have a potential best seller.

When they are able to get back to full-time work, our beleaguered publishers’ and literary agents’ slush piles are likely to be mountain-high with hopeful manuscripts. A few covid-era scripts are already off the presses.

As readers, we should anticipate the next crop of published crime fiction with enthusiasm and a sense of enquiry. What’s new? By whom? What new heights of creativity have emerged from the stark realities of our new normal? Intriguing plots, familiar characters now re-energized—and completely new, absolutely fascinating fresh new faces.

As writers, inspiration for our characters is all around us. The pandemic has brought out the worst in people—and the best. A quick scan of the news provides an abundance of duplicitous rogues; entitled scoundrels and a plethora of bad guys. There seem to be so many, it’s almost overwhelming.

Fortunately, all around us, there also are amazing heroes who make equally memorable characters—and they are doing truly extraordinary and wonderful things. Often, they do not occupy high office—just ordinary people who see an opportunity to help someone in need. A simple act of kindness. For many, selflessly staying at their frontline jobs—giving of themselves, quietly and modestly.

Who comes to mind for you?

The world of Covid-19 has jolted our everyday lives. Its lasting impacts are unknown. One thing is certain: the global pandemic will influence what we, as authors, write and what our readers read. To what extent, and in which of the traditional genres and formats, we have yet to find out.

If you haven’t started your story yet, give full rein to your imagination. Follow your inspiration.

Today, for you, and millions of readers worldwide, it could be the beginning of a wonderful friendship.