Creative Research- How to Make Your Story Come Alive

It's our job as writers to make the worlds of our novels, articles, and nearly anything else we write come alive. If the world doesn't feel right we risk alienating our readers- and that's only if we make it to print. But what if you're writing about the Old West? Shakespeare's London? Downtown Detroit (and you live in Sunnyvale, California)? We don't have time machines yet, and many aspiring authors don't have the available time and money to go haring off across the country to find out how many steps it takes to get to your hero's house from the local Pizza Hut.

For most things we can check a few books, browse a few websites, and maybe even interview an expert. But how do you bring the feel of really being there? What the rustle of a can-can dancer's dress actually sounds like? Exactly how was that word pronounced in the 13^th century England, and how did its meaning differ?

No matter what time period you're writing about, if it was before trains and cars became a common mode of transportation someone in your novel is going to have to hop on a wagon, cart, or horse. You could write around it if necessary, or address it in passing, but jounced, bounced, and flounced are only going to get you so far.

It may be difficult to get an experience exactly like what your characters have with packed dirt roads and perhaps a cart that's on the verge of collapse, but you can still get a pretty good idea with your imagination and a ride in the closest things we have now. New York City, among other places, offer carriage rides. Tourist areas around Amish communities offer buggy rides. Almost everyone has hay rides in the autumn- especially around Halloween. Ranches and other attractions featuring the Wild West often offer carriage and wagon rides, and may even have original or replicas of the wagons used. When making your reservation explain that you're a writer and what you want to get from the experience; they may be able to accommodate you.

Also, take advantage of stables and horse farms around you. Many offer riding lessons and this is a great opportunity to get a "feel" for riding as well as ask any questions that you might have. This is especially important if you write fantasy or historical fiction (or fact) since it's a step many authors skip. If you learn even a little about the care of horses it will set you apart. Even if you're unable to take lessons it may be worth your time to set up an interview with someone who works in the stables, and ask for a tour.

Don't overlook historical societies and historical recreation groups in your research. Both collect a good deal of information, and usually love helping someone learn about the era they care most about. You can even get involved in the recreation groups to truly get a feel for the clothing, weapons, and activities of an older age, but many times they can also help you get in contact with someone who's an expert in whatever field your interest lies.

With a little creativity you can find a substitute or the real thing for whatever you want to research. You may never actually describe the balance of that sword or the sound of a horse's whinny- but you'll know what it's like and so will your characters, and they'll act accordingly. Remember, the life is in the details.