Comments on: Location, Location, Location

By: Vicki

Vicki — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 09:39:38 +0000

Thank you so much for this; it is particularly relevant to me as it was mentioned in the critique I have just received back from the New Writer’s Scheme in the Romantic Novelist’s Association. You’ve given me some great ideas here!

By: Janet Gover

Janet Gover — Sun, 22 Feb 2015 09:46:01 +0000

In reply to Randy. So true Randy. As writers, I think we draw on those places that mean the most to us for our inspiration. I've recently re-read Wuthering Heights. The use of the Yorkshire moors to highlight the themes and characters is wonderful. It ass that layer of realism because it makes the characters seem part of their world. All the best. Janet.

By: Randy

Randy — Sat, 21 Feb 2015 19:00:08 +0000

So true. Landscape as character adds so much to a story. Think Philip Roth without Newark. Or Barbara Kingsolver without nature. And yes, as in all things literary, authenticity is crucial. Cheers.

By: Janet Gover

Janet Gover — Sat, 31 Jan 2015 08:59:52 +0000

In reply to Jan Merry. Hi Jan. I am so glad you found the piece useful. I love being able to take something we use because we have to and develop it so it really contributes to the story, rather than simply framing it. Have fun with your locations. Best Janet

By: Jan Merry

Jan Merry — Sat, 31 Jan 2015 02:25:52 +0000

Thank you for this thought provoking article, Janet. I particularly liked the location as plot device. That is something that many writers do without realising it, but by drawing it to my attention, you have provided a new avenue for developing my stories.

By: Janet Gover

Janet Gover — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 10:43:29 +0000

In reply to Emmelie.

I write small town stories too Emmelie – set in Australia, where I grew up. I love small town series because each new book is like coming home to see old friends.
But you can still stretch your wings – there are so many ways to research places. I always look for blogs by people who have been there – that tends to give a far more personal approach than ‘official’ websites.
That’s the joy of books – they can take you anywhere!

By: Emmelie

Emmelie — Fri, 15 Aug 2014 08:18:29 +0000

I would love to set my stories in places such as Paris and New York – I imagine they’d be lots of fun to write about. My current stories are all set in small towns because I live near a small town, and it’s easy to write about them. I agree, location is everything!

By: Janet Gover

Janet Gover — Sun, 22 Jun 2014 17:06:44 +0000

In reply to Jo Carroll.

Agreed Jo. There are some books which set the location so firmly in your mind – and heart – that you almost feel that you have been there.

By: Jo Carroll

Jo Carroll — Sun, 22 Jun 2014 16:50:21 +0000

The location can become a character in itself – think of The Shipping News! I love novels in which the setting comes truly alive – a tale that couldn’t be set anywhere else.

By: Vivienne Nichols

Vivienne Nichols — Sun, 18 May 2014 19:42:24 +0000

In reply to Janet Gover.

Thank YOU, Janet. After my exceptional experience and your inspiring words, I am off to purchase a lottery ticket, a machete and a hazmat suit (for overgrowth &
protection!) Joking, BUT… I really NEED to get that house back! I’d pack your motivational posting and blank sheets in my pocket, then situate myself in that place of my heart. I long to wake the sleeping, invite some new characters inside and then write with wild abandon. Fingers crossed I will! I’ve wind beneath my wings!