Writing a novel takes research. Doesn’t matter what you write – mysteries, thrillers, sci-fi, and yes, even romance takes research. (And get your mind out of the gutter – I’m not talking about that kind of research!)
Looking things up is one of those catch-22 situations. It can be daunting, but at the same time it can be really fun. For instance, I’ve got this scene in my current WIP where my hero and heroine are out walking at night – sherbert sky on the horizon, humid night air as they walk under a canopy of two hundred year old oak and maple trees…
What’s that they hear in the trees? Why it’s the Northern Cardinal. A songbird to serenade them as love blooms between them.
What more perfect bird for this event – did you know the Northern Cardinal mates for life? Isn’t he beautiful.
And since my novel is a time-travel how much more perfect can the use of the stunning bird be. Not only does the pair of mating cardinals have their own unique song they sing to each other – spotting a cardinal in New York state before the late 1800’s was rare. So, when my hero comments on the rarity of the event – my heroine thinks he’s lost his mind.
I am lucky enough to have a pair of cardinals that have nested somewhere near my house. They frequent the trees outside my window and delight me daily with their whistles and songs. Knowing the male will fiercely defend both his territory and his mate brings a smile to my romantic heart 
Isn’t it wonderful when nature can inspire your creativity. Does nature inspire you?
Today’s Coffee: Green Mountain - Southern Pecan
June 28, 2007 at 4:29 pm |
How cool!
I love that symbolism you’re using!