My Inspiration Bank

 

Inspiration can strike from many different places ...   

It can come from practically anything at any time for any reason. 

What's fascinating about inspiration is that it's unique to each person. You and I might be inspired by the same kind of sources but for different reasons and in separate ways. 

Here's a list of some of the things that fill my inspiration bank (in no particular order):

Nature

I've always found nature magical. As a child, I would spend as long as I could in fields and forests looking for fairies and trolls. As an adult, being in nature makes me think of both fantasy worlds (such as Middle Earth from Lord of the Rings) and history (those who came before us). This is especially true where I currently live in Wiltshire (UK) which has a large number of historical locations nearby.

Nature will always be present in my stories.

Music

I listen to a range of music and this influences me in different ways. For example, songs with a story in them - such as Nemo by Nightwish - can inspire new story ideas or plotlines and characters to add to my existing novels. Instrumental songs help stir up my imagination and get me into a flow state.

History

History has always been a love of mine. At primary school (ages 5 to 11), it was one of my favourite subjects. In secondary school (ages 11 to 16), my history classes didn't teach any topics that interested me so I did my own research on the eras I do enjoy - the Neanderthal, Egyptian, Anglo Saxon, Medieval, Tudor, and Victorian periods - something I still do today. I've always felt connected to those times in history and they continue to inspire my writing. 

For example, my novel, Sanctuary on Severn, is set in post-plague medieval England (with a twist). I also have a few short stories set in different time periods - you can find these here. 

Random internet finds

 Amongst the swarm of dog photos  and funny memes, I often come across inspiration in the form of historical facts, photos of nature (especially forests), as well as folklore and mythology tidbits.

Other books (fiction)

This might be an obvious one since I am both a reader and writer of fiction 😅It is true though! Writers are influenced and inspired by the books they read and sometimes our writing reflects this. Not through deliberate copying or plagiarism but a subconscious homage. 

Reading books in a range of subgenres helps inspire me and my writing in varying ways making more interesting stories.

Daydreams

I often daydream while doing mundane tasks (housework, getting read to leave the house, showering, etc.). These imaginings can involve a film-like sequence in my head of a journey one of my characters are taking, or part of a conversation they might be having. Sometimes, similar things will appear but for brand new story ideas taking me completely by surprise.

What inspires you? Let me know below - I'd love to hear from you 🙂

Keep your eyes peeled for more news on my writing here and on my Instagram!