The epistolary novel is calling me. I’ve made a huge dent in Woman On The Wall this week. I finally hit my flow in the balance between the modern-day timeline and the historic epistolary component.
Incorporating the fictitious journals and letters of Francesco Melzi is fun. Determining their role in the storytelling process has, to be honest, posed the biggest dilemma for me. How I approached them will determine the entire tone of the novel.
Would it be a thriller?
Would it be a historical drama?
I went with a thrilling love story full of magical realism. Besides, modern society’s adoration of the Mona Lisa is nothing short of a torrid romance.
To drive this level of intoxication, mystery, and obsession, I turned to Griffin & Sabine this afternoon. Nick Bantock may qualify as the grand master of epistolary storytelling with his series, leading us through the mysterious connection between two unlikely lovers.
I’ve made myself swoon. 😉
Two Lovers To The Death
Digging through those beautiful pieces of literature, I am reminded that I am writing a part-tragedy. Aesmeh and Melzi obviously have an interesting resolution to their story. The importance of really keying in on classic love tragedy makes sense.
I have to admit, I’m no fan of Romeo and Juliet. I mean, come on. Teen suicide? Even for love, I’m not down with it. So, I wanted to take the hyperbolic charm of being crazy in love and the fierceness of mature people. You’ll have to wait and see how it all turns out.
I’m off to write some epic love letters.
2023 update: The letters didn’t really make it into the final draft of the novel. However, I see a book of letters being available at some point. What a love affair those two had in my head!
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