Every writer does research. Whether for non-fiction
articles, books, or essays or for marketing that new story that’s hot off the
keyboard, we delve into some esoteric corners on the off-chance of finding a
gem that can be used as the centerpiece of some new project.
In the past year I’ve managed to dive into
fascinating subjects with so much potential that I’m without direction as to
the best use for the material.
For instance, there the global warming issue from
both the environmental and the political viewpoints. Bits and pieces could be
used for great articles with slants not expected by the average reader, or
articles for children to help them derive an understanding of the issues
involved, or as the basis for sci-fi stories extraordinaire.
Which way should I go? It’s not like the subject is
going away soon. It’s around to stay and getting more complex each day, with
plenty of twists along the way to create plotlines for sci-fi, YA survivalist
faire, a murder mystery surrounding a leading scientist who’s discovered how to
help halt the progression of the marching ice fields. You see what I mean.
How about those hidden gems that can be used for a
character’s profession or hobby? Here’s one that brought me to a point of
practicing an almost lost art: knots and splices.
What are they? Mariners and their land-grubbing
laborer cousins have practiced tying knots and splicing ropes together for
thousands of years. This was and is a practical knowledge that can be used for
many purposes. My “Pocket Guide to Knots & Splices” by Des Pawson sits
beside my copy of “Leather Braiding” by Bruce Grant.
You might ask why I’d have such disparate volumes on
my reference shelf. I’ll tell you. In the first place, I thoroughly enjoy
learning new skills. With each new knot or braiding technique practiced and
mastered, I will have a concrete example of the craft involved.
Secondly, I can use this knowledge for any number of
characters. I can have one of my mystery characters always craft a Turk knot on
a gift package. The knot done in leather, for instance, acts as an additional
gift for the receiver. This act of thoughtfulness becomes a trademark for that
character. Or, I can write a short story about a fencer who’s just begun work
with battle swords instead of epees and has to fashion the grip covering on the
hilt of his newly acquired broadsword. It can be done in leather or in flat
silk cording, as the Samurai once did. The very act of making that decision
could make for a turning point for that particular character.
What if I had a character that made art with
decorative knots that behaved as the anchoring point of her textile art that
sold for thousands of dollars? Everything from Celtic knots to old sailors
knots would work well for the story point.
I could do a character that makes bull whips for
sale. Those use both leather braiding of a specialty type and special knotting.
Just these three subjects could keep a person busy
with ideas for months or more. I often ask myself if there are dull subjects. I
figure there are a few, but only because they don’t catch the imagination of
the person looking at them. All subjects, I think, can be used for some form of
writing, even if it’s only a silly piece of background business in a
manuscript. If the writer is clever, that bit of business can become a telling
clue or piece of a puzzle for later in the story.
Now that you’ve seen some of the stuff I’m likely to
submerge myself into, look at your own preferences. I dare you. Find three of
those esoteric subjects in hidden books and see just how many uses to which you
can put the information. Then tell me about it. I’m always willing to learn
something new.
Until later,
Claudsy
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