They say characters spring out of an author’s imagination, but a few years ago, the character showed up one day and demanded I tell his story. Archie occupied my mind powerfully while I whipped off the first draft. But it’s taken me awhile to finish his story because…
TRIGGER WARNING FOR NOVEL
Archie’s story was difficult to write, and it’s difficult to read with all the trauma coursing through him. Having someone on standby, or a dog or cat to hold, while you immerse yourself in his day of remembering, may help.
His story will stay with me for my lifetime. I’m glad he showed up and told me to tell it.
THANK YOUS
Because of the context of this novel, I want to thank anonymously the generous people who helped me.
The gun store owner who viewed me suspiciously and interrogated me until satisfied I was genuinely there to learn about guns. I may not be a fan—bit of an understatement there—but as a writer, you have to learn about what your character feels comfortable with, likes to use, and wants in their life. Research is research is research. It’s not up to me to judge and say, “No, I’m not seeing it from his point of view.” Or “I don’t wanna learn!” Also, I think gotcha journalism or writing is inherently dishonest. Good research begins with honesty with the people you’re interviewing or learning from. And I think the gun store owner appreciated that.
I want to thank the US Army veteran who overcame his own pain to answer my multitude of questions, and his mother who introduced us. I want to thank my long-standing friend for sending me many links to help my understanding along. I thank the psychiatrist who evaluated my depiction of PTSD and warned me it was so on point, it would trigger people. Hence, the trigger warning!
I want to thank NaNoWriMo for creating a space to let one’s imagination fly and Prolifiko for providing the structure and impetus to finish this story. And EG for their feedback, from detailed to overarching points, and their reactions to Archie and his story. They all made this novel possible!