My Writing Approach: Blending History, Philosophy, and Imagination

As a writer, my approach to crafting fiction is a tapestry woven from threads of history, philosophy, and boundless imagination. My novels—whether set in the sun-scorched deserts of early 20th-century America, the far reaches of a dystopian solar system, or the bustling streets of the Roman Empire—reflect a deep commitment to exploring the human condition through vivid, layered narratives. This approach, honed over years of storytelling, is both a discipline and a passion, shaped by my curiosity about the past, present, and future.

Roots in Historical and Philosophical Inquiry

My writing often begins with a spark from history or a philosophical question. For instance, in Nuff Sed: A Novel of Desert Steve, I was inspired by the real-life figure of Steve Ragsdale, a desert visionary whose tenacity and quirks fascinated me. I delved into historical records, photographs, and anecdotes to capture the essence of his era, but I didn’t stop at facts. I asked: What drives a man to carve a life out of an unforgiving landscape? This question led me to explore themes of resilience and purpose, which permeate the novel’s narrative.

Similarly, my historical fiction work about Onesimus, set in the Roman Empire, grew from a desire to reimagine a lesser-known figure connected to the Apostle Paul. I immersed myself in the period’s culture, from the clatter of marketplaces to the weight of societal hierarchies, to ground the story in authenticity. Yet, I also infused philosophical undertones, probing questions of redemption and identity. This blend of historical fidelity and philosophical depth is a cornerstone of my approach, ensuring my stories resonate on multiple levels.

Balancing Research and Creativity

Research is the backbone of my process, but it’s not an end in itself. For Mortals As They Walk, a science fiction epic, I studied advancements in biotechnology and AI to create a plausible future. However, I let imagination take the reins when crafting characters like Pate, Salim, and Eris, whose personal struggles and moral dilemmas drive the story. I aim to strike a balance: research provides the scaffolding, but creativity builds the world. This means diving into archives or scientific journals one day and sketching character arcs or inventing alien technologies the next.

My method involves creating detailed outlines before writing, a habit that keeps my narratives cohesive. For To and Fro Upon the Earth, I mapped out Jay’s journey across desolate landscapes, ensuring each chapter reflected his internal and external struggles. Yet, I leave room for spontaneity. If a character demands a new direction or a scene sparks an unexpected theme, I adapt. This flexibility allows my stories to evolve organically, even within a structured framework.

Crafting Multifaceted Characters

Characters are the heart of my novels, and I approach them as complex, flawed beings. In Nuff Sed, Steve Ragsdale is both a dreamer and a stubborn eccentric, shaped by the desert’s harsh realities. In Mortals As They Walk, Salim’s teenage idealism clashes with the harsh truths of his world, while Jay in To and Fro Upon the Earth wrestles with existential despair. I develop characters by exploring their motivations, fears, and contradictions, often through freewriting exercises where I let them “speak” in unfiltered monologues. This helps me uncover their voices and ensures they feel authentic.

Themes That Transcend Genre

While my novels span genres—historical fiction, science fiction, literary fiction—they share common themes: resilience, meaning, and the search for connection. I don’t set out to preach but to provoke thought. In Mortals As They Walk, I explore whether humanity can retain its essence in a world dominated by technology. In To and Fro Upon the Earth, Jay’s odyssey reflects the universal quest for purpose amid chaos. These themes emerge naturally as I write, often surprising me as they take shape.

The Role of Setting

Setting is more than a backdrop in my work; it’s a character in its own right. The desert in Nuff Sed is as much a force as Steve himself, shaping his decisions and testing his resolve. The Roman Empire in the Onesimus novel pulses with life, its sights and sounds immersing readers in a distant era. In Mortals As They Walk, the stark, futuristic cities and sterile labs reflect the characters’ inner turmoil. I spend considerable time visualizing settings, sometimes sketching maps or collecting sensory details to make them vivid and immersive.

Writing as a Reflective Practice

Writing, for me, is a reflective act. I often draw inspiration from my surroundings or personal experiences, though not directly. A stormy ocean might inspire a scene in To and Fro Upon the Earth, or a philosophical debate might spark a dialogue in Mortals As They Walk. I keep a notebook for stray thoughts, which often find their way into my work. This reflective practice extends to revision, where I revisit drafts to refine themes, tighten prose, and ensure emotional resonance.

Looking Ahead

My writing approach continues to evolve. Each novel teaches me something new—about craft, about myself, about the world. I’m currently exploring ideas for a new project, one that might blend historical and speculative elements in unexpected ways. What remains constant is my commitment to telling stories that challenge, inspire, and linger in the reader’s mind. For me, writing is a journey of discovery, and I’m excited to see where it leads next.