Novel - Creative Writing Project
Literary fiction novel exploring themes of identity, technology, and human connection in the modern age
Problem
Modern literary fiction often treats technology as dystopian backdrop rather than integral to character development and human relationships. The nuanced ways technology shapes identity, connection, and meaning-making remain underexplored in contemporary literature.
Key creative challenges:
- Authentic Integration: Weaving technology into narrative organically without becoming sci-fi or dystopian
- Character Depth: Exploring how digital identity shapes self-perception and interpersonal connections
- Temporal Complexity: Navigating multiple timelines while maintaining narrative coherence
- Universal Themes: Balancing technological specificity with timeless human experiences
Solution
Novel weaving technology into character arcs organically, exploring how digital identity shapes self-perception and interpersonal connections across three generations.
Narrative Structure
Three Perspectives: Interwoven narratives across grandmother, mother, and daughter, each representing different relationships with technology and identity.
Temporal Layers: Past, present, and future timelines showing technology’s evolution from tool to environment to extension of self.
Thematic Integration: Technology as metaphor for connection and disconnection, presence and absence, memory and forgetting.
Key Themes
- Digital Identity: How online personas shape and reflect authentic selves
- Generational Perspectives: Different relationships with technology across ages
- Memory and Archives: What we preserve, what we lose, what we curate
- Connection and Isolation: Technology’s paradox of bringing together and pulling apart
- Authenticity: The search for genuine self in mediated environments
Writing Process
Research Phase: Interviews with individuals across generations about their technology relationships. Analysis of sociological literature on digital identity.
Structural Development: Outlining three interconnected narratives with shared motifs and mirrored scenes.
Revision Approach: Multiple drafts focusing on voice authenticity, thematic coherence, and emotional resonance.
Impact
Current Status
- Manuscript in final editing phase
- Beta reader feedback incorporated
- Literary agent representation in progress
Early Feedback
Readers highlight:
- Authentic portrayal of technology’s intimate role in modern life
- Emotionally resonant character arcs
- Fresh perspective on familiar themes
- Prose style balancing literary craft with accessibility
Lessons Learned
Slow Burn Research: Deep research into how technology affects psychology and relationships made fictional portrayals more authentic.
Voice Discipline: Each generation required distinct narrative voice while maintaining stylistic coherence.
Theme Through Character: Themes emerge from character experience rather than authorial commentary.
Revision is Writing: The novel transformed significantly through multiple revision passes, each revealing new possibilities.