St. Francis de Sales, Patron Saint of Writers

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Yes, I’m a little late for Finding Something Friday. But Sunday’s a good day, too, don’t you think?

A friend gave me a holy card of St. Francis de Sales because he’s known as the patron saint of writers and journalists. I didn’t know St. Francis de Sales was my occupation’s patron saint, but I’m glad to have one. Most of the time, I call upon St. Anthony of Padua, who’s the patron saint of lost articles. He is a very handy saint to have around, no matter how old you are, but he’s been working overtime for me in the last couple years.

What I really loved about the holy card from my friend was the prayer on the back. It’s commonly referred to as “Be at Peace.” I think it’s the perfect prayer for writers who often get anxious about so much that is beyond their control, and perhaps because we have the kind of imagination that easily gets out of control. But I also think it’s the kind of prayer that comforts us all, at any time in our lives.

Do not look forward in fear to the changes of life;

Rather look to them with full hope that as they arise,
God, whose very own you are, will lead you safely
through all things;

And when you cannot stand it, God will carry you
in His arms.

Do not fear what may happen tomorrow;

The same everlasting Father who cares for you today
will take care of you today and every day.

He will either shield you from suffering or will give you
unfailing strength to bear it.

Be at peace and put aside all anxious thoughts and
imaginations.

Now that I think about it, Sunday’s the perfect day for a prayer–and peace to my writer friends!

Finding Tips on Writing Historical Fiction

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I’m so glad that Vicky Alvear Shecter (author of CLEOPATRA’S MOON) guest posted over at Cynsations! Because when she spoke recently about writing historical fiction at our local schmooze, I was so busy doing the schmoozing that I forgot to do the note-taking.

Vicky’ book, as you can guess, is based on ancient Egyptian times, during the reign of Cleopatra and beyond as we follow the Queen’s daughter (Yes, Cleopatra had a daughter. Her name was Selene.) So as you can also probably guess, Vicky had a handful of researching to do.

Of course, she loves ancient history. She’s really kind of geeky about the whole subject, in an infectious way. And though she doesn’t mention this as one of her tips, I think you should keep “loving your subject matter” in mind. Because you’re going to be cozying up with your subject for quite a long time. Not to mention that your readers will sense your passion in your writing.

I’m always impressed with authors who take on historical fiction. Not only do they have to come up with a great story, and a story that’s believable for the time period, but they also have to be on the lookout for people who’ll read their book and say things like, “Pardon me. But you referred to this man’s cape as magenta. Magenta was not even invented for another 37 years. Ha!”

Attention to detail is very important with historical fiction. But don’t take my word for it. Go read Vicky’s post–and the comments, too. (Um, you may want to take a few notes.)