A Different World - by Meryl McKean

 

    I often wonder how to move forward with my writing, should I work on a book of devotionals, try an audio format or perhaps another avenue altogether? There are many opportunities, but it sometimes seems that they require far more than a gift of writing. The whole area of self-promotion and marketing I find very uncomfortable, leaving me feeling at a disadvantage.

    Recently, I discovered a work of fiction, inspired by fact, that made me see things from another perspective. Jodi Picoult who is known for tackling difficult subjects, has written a number of historical novels as well as those set around more modern dilemmas.  I love reading fiction which opens my eyes to a historical era and teaches me. Picoult’s book ‘By Any Other Name’ did just that. The story is told through the eyes of two women. One a New York playwright named Melina who is struggling for recognition in a male dominated industry.

    The second woman is an ancestor of Melina’s who lived in England during Victorian times. Her name is Emilia Bassano, a real historical figure who is known for being the first woman in England to publish a book of original poetry. Emilia’s life was one where she has little choice. At the age of 13 she becomes mistress to a nobleman in the court of queen Elizabeth 1. Melina takes her discoveries about Emilia and creates a play which blends facts with fictional possibilities. The story paints a stark picture of what many women endured just a few hundred years ago. Emilia’s life involved many changes as she had to reinvent herself to survive, parts are gruelling and uncomfortable. She was a strong and brave woman, who took chances as a writer to have a voice in a world where women were silenced. I found the story fascinating and well researched. It raised many interesting questions around storytelling and challenged perceptions that have been previously accepted as truth.

    Today in many countries, both men and women have huge opportunities to be heard in a wide variety of ways. Our writing can be visible with the click of a few buttons.
With all these possibilities, maybe I need to push further outside my comfort zone and work on some new skills. I’m grateful for ACW where I have the chance to learn from others who are further ahead. I pray for wisdom to see the doors that are opening for me and will try to go through them with thankfulness for the privileged days I live in.

Bio

Meryl McKean loves writing devotionals and poems and has had a few articles published over the years as well as using her writing in her work. She wants her writing to be a tool which helps others draw closer to God. Recently she was encouraged with a third place in an ACW writing competition.  Meryl is married to Andy and lives in Bedford where she loves exploring the countryside with her camera in hand. Her day job as a member of her church staff leadership team is full of challenges and opportunities.