A friend of mine said to me today that "the trouble with being friends with a creative person is that if you act like an idiot, you should be prepared to see it reflected in their art". Ok, perhaps that isn't a direct quote, but that was the idea.
And, it's true.
All artists draw on their own experience, to some extent, when creating their art. If your friend is a writer, you may see bits of yourself in their next character. If your friend is a musician, your stupidity could be immortalized in song. God help you if your friend writes screenplays! You may just see your most ignorant self paraded across a screen for millions to enjoy and mock. What a scary thought!
But, it does bring to the forefront of my mind the struggle I have with creating characters AND keeping my family and friends. Inevitably, someone is going to recognize themselves in my characters. I draw on my own experience and the experience of those around me when I write. It all blends together to form the characters in my stories.
But, what do I do if my friends and family don't like the reflections they see?
That's a question to ponder. I wonder if I should come with a warning sign: "Caution: All acts of ignorance and stupidity are subject to publication".
I can completely relate. I have become a very observant people watcher lately. Family, friends, acquaintances, even strangers have become wells of emotional information. And while I may only steal bits and pieces from those I come into contact with, I will admit that there are a handful of people I know that I would love to eviscerate in fiction. Where have you been gutsy writer? I miss your insightful posts!
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