Trixie Archer's Blog, page 13
September 27, 2014
Fact or Fiction: The Blurry Line
I’ve been writing for a very long time. I began inventing stories as a young girl, as a coping mechanism, to feel empowered during some very difficult circumstances beyond my control. As an adult, writing became a means for me to paint a picture with words as yet another form of artistic expression.
There have been some really odd coincidences during this time. Parallels between what I had written as pretend to events that played out or people that I had met in real life…almost as if I could peek into the future.
One of which had to do with a main character called “Lauren.” I imagined a rather clear picture of her in my mind’s eye. I described her hair color, mannerisms, face shape, eye color, personality and the style of her clothing. I even mentioned a specific outfit; a gaudy shirt with black and white stripes.
Not three weeks after I had completed that particular short story, we gathered at my parent’s cottage for the 4th of July. My niece invited one of her friends along (someone that I had never met or seen before) and who walks in with my niece but a young woman who was Lauren down to the T. She was even sporting a striped shirt very similar to what I had imagined.
Another story included the main character and her daughter being in a car wreck and both ending up with back injuries from the accident. Not long after, my daughter and I were struck from behind by a drunk driver resulting in us having the same exact back injuries that I had written about. The events as they occurred in real life happened just the same as in the story. The crash, an ambulance, being strapped to a backboard, physical therapy…it was uncanny.
I suppose if a person writes, invents and creates it stands to reason that on occasion there will be things that “coincidentally” come true in the real world; but what if? What if we all have the ability to pull tidbits of the future through a “twilight zone” gateway at three in the morning, when the house is quiet and our thoughts are open? What if the world invented on paper is not completely just imagined after all?
All I can say is that after both incidents it made me a bit hesitant to delve into a sinister story. Monsters, zombies, murder, horrible storms…I decided to not and just say I did.
I bet you’re thinking I’m a literary coward. Maybe so, but since I wrote yesterday about the sunny day ahead in my story, I most definitely will be planning a trip to the beach with my family today. While I was at it, I decided to describe a suitcase full of cash that some wealthy eccentric decided to bury in the sand just before he passed away. He left his fortune to fate and circumstance…I figured, why not put it all on paper to double my odds at an easier life?
If only.
~End
*Just a quick mention on my blog feed. I currently have a free bonus chapter to “Falling Whispers, Love & Curses” available at www.trixiearcher.com. Thanks.
September 22, 2014
Welcome to My New Home
“Welcome. Please, step inside. Can I offer you something to drink maybe? Can I take your jacket?”
“Don’t mind my dog Monkeyshine; she believes all guests are here for her exclusively.”
“Did you have any trouble finding me?” “Were the directions clear enough along Internet Highway?”
“I’m so very pleased we can visit like this. I’ve been cooking all morning.”
“The table is ready on the sun porch overlooking the back garden. It’s a beautiful day and having you here for lunch makes it all the better.”
There’s nothing finer than good food, conversation and friendship. I’m looking forward to discussing “Falling Whispers.” Did you read it? I’m rather proud of how it turned out.”
“By the way, Carmen and Dora were here last week before their trip to Madrid.” “Of course in real life they were gathered and collected from several people that I know, (not in a Frankenstein sort of way) but yes, they are real to me…at least in my imagination.”
“No, I’m not crazy…they just turned up as I was listening to some music.” “I would have used the actual song “Skinny Love” in the story itself, but unfortunately I could not afford permission. So instead, I composed “Remember No Poison My Love” especially for Dora and Carmen.”
“Please, choose a seat. You’re welcome to enjoy the chair facing north; it has the best view of the creek winding through the back acre.”
“I hope you brought your appetite.” “I asked around and prepared what I understand to be your favorite meal.”
“Do you have any questions surrounding “Falling Whispers?” I bet you’re wondering if we’ll see Dora and Carmen sometime in the near future? Will there be a sequel?”
“That’s a good question. My main want for them is to have a long and happy life together, unaffected by clutter and circumstance. Who knows what challenges they may face though…things happen.”
“Right now, I've been visiting a bit with Dora’s twin sister Laura. I’m here to tell you she is a bit of a pill. I mean, in many ways her personality is very much in opposite of her sister. Where Dora is kind and thoughtful, Laura is somewhat self absorbed and demanding.”
“I must admit, by the end of a day with Laura, my nerves are shot. She is one of those people who if you say something off, she’ll attack for no apparent reason. Being in such company is draining.”
“The trick in telling Laura’s story will be to keep a fine balance so that the reader is invested in the story-line.” “Remember while we learn more about Laura, we will also better understand Dora.”
“I am really into the complexities of relationships…all relationships interest me…but what I find intriguing is simply how the people we grow up with often shapes us into being who we are throughout our lives. Either we shift and change according to new influences or we remain fixed in old patterns only seeking out those we know as familiar. Does a person grow or do they remain stagnant?”
“As you can see there is a lot to consider.”
“While I serve lunch, maybe you could tell me a bit about yourself.”
“I’m very glad that we decided to do this and I hope you’ll enjoy your time here, enough to make stopping by a regular plan each week.”
“Don’t mind my dog Monkeyshine; she believes all guests are here for her exclusively.”
“Did you have any trouble finding me?” “Were the directions clear enough along Internet Highway?”
“I’m so very pleased we can visit like this. I’ve been cooking all morning.”
“The table is ready on the sun porch overlooking the back garden. It’s a beautiful day and having you here for lunch makes it all the better.”
There’s nothing finer than good food, conversation and friendship. I’m looking forward to discussing “Falling Whispers.” Did you read it? I’m rather proud of how it turned out.”
“By the way, Carmen and Dora were here last week before their trip to Madrid.” “Of course in real life they were gathered and collected from several people that I know, (not in a Frankenstein sort of way) but yes, they are real to me…at least in my imagination.”
“No, I’m not crazy…they just turned up as I was listening to some music.” “I would have used the actual song “Skinny Love” in the story itself, but unfortunately I could not afford permission. So instead, I composed “Remember No Poison My Love” especially for Dora and Carmen.”
“Please, choose a seat. You’re welcome to enjoy the chair facing north; it has the best view of the creek winding through the back acre.”
“I hope you brought your appetite.” “I asked around and prepared what I understand to be your favorite meal.”
“Do you have any questions surrounding “Falling Whispers?” I bet you’re wondering if we’ll see Dora and Carmen sometime in the near future? Will there be a sequel?”
“That’s a good question. My main want for them is to have a long and happy life together, unaffected by clutter and circumstance. Who knows what challenges they may face though…things happen.”
“Right now, I've been visiting a bit with Dora’s twin sister Laura. I’m here to tell you she is a bit of a pill. I mean, in many ways her personality is very much in opposite of her sister. Where Dora is kind and thoughtful, Laura is somewhat self absorbed and demanding.”
“I must admit, by the end of a day with Laura, my nerves are shot. She is one of those people who if you say something off, she’ll attack for no apparent reason. Being in such company is draining.”
“The trick in telling Laura’s story will be to keep a fine balance so that the reader is invested in the story-line.” “Remember while we learn more about Laura, we will also better understand Dora.”
“I am really into the complexities of relationships…all relationships interest me…but what I find intriguing is simply how the people we grow up with often shapes us into being who we are throughout our lives. Either we shift and change according to new influences or we remain fixed in old patterns only seeking out those we know as familiar. Does a person grow or do they remain stagnant?”
“As you can see there is a lot to consider.”
“While I serve lunch, maybe you could tell me a bit about yourself.”
“I’m very glad that we decided to do this and I hope you’ll enjoy your time here, enough to make stopping by a regular plan each week.”
September 20, 2014
Good Sportsmanship In Writing
I was reading the Kindle author forums this week and an interesting topic was addressed. Apparently, authors will intentionally review their competition in an unfavorable manner so as to influence readers away from particular books...so as to sell their own instead. Wow, I mean, really? All I can say is that attitude is everything in life.
I grew up at the tail end in a large family. I have three older sisters who have accomplished so very much and I have never been anything but supportive. Granted while in school the comparisons by their former teachers were not easy to stomach at times, I still maintained great pride in them…always understanding that I could learn a lot by what they did so that I could apply their strategies to succeed. It all helped me to realize that if they could do it, so could I.
When I see a book doing better in the ratings than my own, I always think, “good for that author!” “Awesome!” I wonder about how aggressively they have marketed and how many doors they have knocked on before their efforts payed off…but above all, I feel much happiness for them. I study their choice of a book cover, I read their book and I learn by example.
This want to be a successful writer takes moxie, a thick skin, a flood of words, creative energy and an appreciation for those who have done it all before. I carry a great sense of comradery for those who are on the same road presently as well.
There is nothing better in life than a good story and “good” has the amazing power of bringing sunshine to an overcast day for the masses. I feel there is room for us all and no need for such underhanded tactics.
That is all I have to say about the "write" attitude. :)
I grew up at the tail end in a large family. I have three older sisters who have accomplished so very much and I have never been anything but supportive. Granted while in school the comparisons by their former teachers were not easy to stomach at times, I still maintained great pride in them…always understanding that I could learn a lot by what they did so that I could apply their strategies to succeed. It all helped me to realize that if they could do it, so could I.
When I see a book doing better in the ratings than my own, I always think, “good for that author!” “Awesome!” I wonder about how aggressively they have marketed and how many doors they have knocked on before their efforts payed off…but above all, I feel much happiness for them. I study their choice of a book cover, I read their book and I learn by example.
This want to be a successful writer takes moxie, a thick skin, a flood of words, creative energy and an appreciation for those who have done it all before. I carry a great sense of comradery for those who are on the same road presently as well.
There is nothing better in life than a good story and “good” has the amazing power of bringing sunshine to an overcast day for the masses. I feel there is room for us all and no need for such underhanded tactics.
That is all I have to say about the "write" attitude. :)
September 12, 2014
The Slanted Letter
In case you haven't guessed, Trixie Archer is my pen name. Aside from trying to find a name that no other author had previously claimed, Trixie reminded me of the word "tricks" as in "tricks up the sleeve."
For those who do not know me, I take great pride at being a mischief at heart...so Trixie was a perfect fit.
Archer of course arrived from one of the few Avenues in Chicago that is not positioned on a square grid. It is different from the rest and it is my hope that my stories will all stand out as "different" too.
So, I constructed a logo, "Trixie Archer" with a slant on the letter "A," for Archer Avenue. (The logo can be found on my personal page on Facebook)
As far as writing is concerned, over the past week, I penned half a chapter on book 2. Unfortunately, I'm working against old man winter and my house needs some tlc. The driveway is now sealed and the trim around the windows, painted...now where did I store that tube of caulk?
That will have to do for now. Oh, by the way...if I could ask...if you enjoyed "Falling Whispers, Love and Curses" and haven't all ready...well, a rating (and or) a review would help my standing on Amazon. (hint, hint)
Thanks!~
Trixie
For those who do not know me, I take great pride at being a mischief at heart...so Trixie was a perfect fit.
Archer of course arrived from one of the few Avenues in Chicago that is not positioned on a square grid. It is different from the rest and it is my hope that my stories will all stand out as "different" too.
So, I constructed a logo, "Trixie Archer" with a slant on the letter "A," for Archer Avenue. (The logo can be found on my personal page on Facebook)
As far as writing is concerned, over the past week, I penned half a chapter on book 2. Unfortunately, I'm working against old man winter and my house needs some tlc. The driveway is now sealed and the trim around the windows, painted...now where did I store that tube of caulk?
That will have to do for now. Oh, by the way...if I could ask...if you enjoyed "Falling Whispers, Love and Curses" and haven't all ready...well, a rating (and or) a review would help my standing on Amazon. (hint, hint)
Thanks!~
Trixie
September 6, 2014
Winter-time, Writing-time
A blanket of snow covering the ground, a bitter Lake Michigan chill in the air...there's nothing better for writing a novel than the need to escape such a dismal reality. Most of "Falling Whisper's" was composed during the winter months. Sunshine, sand, beach, swimming, the idea of pampering...intimacy, my way of changing channels to a better station.
Would I write as much if I flew to a warmer climate over the winter months? Would I be as motivated to write? Goodness, it sure would be nice to find out.
I penned a chapter this week regarding Dora and Carmen. They have such wonderful chemistry together, almost as if they are on the other end of the screen telling me their story...and a hint of where this week's chapter takes place: "the sky's the limit." ;)
Would I write as much if I flew to a warmer climate over the winter months? Would I be as motivated to write? Goodness, it sure would be nice to find out.
I penned a chapter this week regarding Dora and Carmen. They have such wonderful chemistry together, almost as if they are on the other end of the screen telling me their story...and a hint of where this week's chapter takes place: "the sky's the limit." ;)
August 29, 2014
The End of the Week
It was a slow writing week with many interruptions. I was targeted by the obnoxious "Hello, I'm calling from Window's" scam-man. Oh, the frustration...three days in a row at two calls per day. It all boiled down to me pleading with him, "please leave me alone so that I can write." I don't believe swindlers have much compassion.
Added to the many distractions; the rain finally let up so then yard work took priority.
I did manage to pull together one finished chapter regarding Laura Alavaro and jotted down some additional notes with plans to tie story elements together.
Low gear is better than "park" or "reverse"...so I'm on the right path forward...no worries about speeding tickets for fast writing this week.
That is all for now. Have a great weekend!~
Added to the many distractions; the rain finally let up so then yard work took priority.
I did manage to pull together one finished chapter regarding Laura Alavaro and jotted down some additional notes with plans to tie story elements together.
Low gear is better than "park" or "reverse"...so I'm on the right path forward...no worries about speeding tickets for fast writing this week.
That is all for now. Have a great weekend!~
August 22, 2014
Laura Alavaro, Her Story
Laura Alavaro, "the evil twin" as Marv Brummel described her in the first book, "Falling Whispers" is sparking to life right before my eyes.
After an entire week of writing, I wouldn't describe her exactly as evil like he did, but then again, I didn't have to wait on her hand and foot at the Grand Resort.
Have you ever met someone who is very difficult to please? All I can say is I feel very sorry for Dora in growing up with such a difficult twin. I think in many ways they are very much opposites. Of course we learn more about Dora and who she was in the time frame before Carmen.
I'm still at the beginning stages of writing the second book and it is my hope that the finished novel will not only compliment the first, but help to make is shine even brighter.
If I can manage to acquire a decent following, I believe no one will be disappointed by this series. All I can say is that I will do my absolute best to offer an entertaining story giving it 100%.
I'm envisioning the books as links on a chain. Each story is a separate link, but they all fit together perfectly.
That's all for now.
~Trixie
After an entire week of writing, I wouldn't describe her exactly as evil like he did, but then again, I didn't have to wait on her hand and foot at the Grand Resort.
Have you ever met someone who is very difficult to please? All I can say is I feel very sorry for Dora in growing up with such a difficult twin. I think in many ways they are very much opposites. Of course we learn more about Dora and who she was in the time frame before Carmen.
I'm still at the beginning stages of writing the second book and it is my hope that the finished novel will not only compliment the first, but help to make is shine even brighter.
If I can manage to acquire a decent following, I believe no one will be disappointed by this series. All I can say is that I will do my absolute best to offer an entertaining story giving it 100%.
I'm envisioning the books as links on a chain. Each story is a separate link, but they all fit together perfectly.
That's all for now.
~Trixie
August 4, 2014
Laura's Story
Hi. I've begun to pen the next story in the series of "Falling Whispers, Love and Curses" which tells the story of Dora Alavaro's twin sister Laura. In the style that it is written, we not only learn about Laura's life, but we also obtain a better understanding about Dora and who she was before Carmen. I have about eight chapters written, in addition to a finished prologue.
Right now however I'm working to get the word out surrounding "Falling Whispers." I looked into hiring a pilot and an airplane to stream signs over the many cities in America but decided against the idea.
Seriously though, I'm really excited about this project! I've been writing stories for a very long time and had always dreamed about publishing "someday." Well, Someday is marked as the day Tuesday June 10, 2014!
Right now however I'm working to get the word out surrounding "Falling Whispers." I looked into hiring a pilot and an airplane to stream signs over the many cities in America but decided against the idea.
Seriously though, I'm really excited about this project! I've been writing stories for a very long time and had always dreamed about publishing "someday." Well, Someday is marked as the day Tuesday June 10, 2014!
