Reflections
With Jimbo’s Assumption now beyond lift-off and accelerating towards escape velocity, and a sequel and threequel almost ready to roll-out, now is a timely moment to pause for breath and take stock of the journey.
The initial creative phase consumed about 1,200 hours, spread over six months. Typically, I write in the afternoon, sometimes extending into the early evening, usually seven days of the week, assuming no intrusions.
I know writers who plan in detail before composing anything. Various software tools support this approach. For me, the opposite. When I began, no clear view of where the narrative was heading existed, or much clue about the characters and their personalities. This can be hair-raising if deadlines must be met but means my projects become adventures. Joyous adventures. My hope is for the reader to find similar pleasure.
The principal players in the narrative have developed, possessing personalities that will continue to evolve in the subsequent two works. While on my morning walks, I ruminate on these characters, conscious that at least for me, they are becoming real people. This surely adds authenticity to the storytelling.
These future tales conform to the formula laid down in Jimbo’s Assumption: built around Jimbo, now beginning his career as a tidal-energy researcher, seemingly leading a humdrum life but complicated by 221, the nebulous computer sharing his brain, linking him to a galactic presence, the Intelligence. Criminality emerges, prompting the introduction of the enigmatic Mr North. Along the way, we meet more of the wizards who built our modern world.
We will also meet Wenny, a golfer, violinist, and geophysicist, and love of Jimbo’s life.
I hope you enjoy these stories. - RNP
