Creation

In every book I write, I (knowingly or most likely not) plant the seed for another story. Sometimes manifesting in a rumour, or a telling of an event, these things take on a life of their own to which a new book is dedicated. Finishing Dragonsight, preparing the proof, I realized that THIS time that seed has taken the form of a character to whom I gave - for no reason that was known to me at the time - a full physical description without ever mentioning them again, or even giving them a name. It may seem strange, but that is how some of my best ideas are spawned. Accidents? Perhaps, but is not the true essence of creation often found in the mistakes, the anomalies that provide you with the ability to make something out of nothing? Why is penicillin springing to mind right now? :P A seemingly innocuous incident that could have easily been deleted, or wrapped up with just a few more words later in the book, (and believe me, I considered both options!) has somehow grown into something that has become worthy of an entire 500 page adventure. For the writers who may read this and cringe; the “Planners”, AND to the "Pantsers" (who plan for NO MAN) for the writers and readers BOTH who feel that bubble of excitement at the thought of such a serendipitous mistake, all I can say is this: Even the best laid plans can be derailed if the muses are insistent enough.