And second, as a new mother myself, I wondered how mothers of previous generations handled the everyday stresses of caretaking. At the same time, I could not ignore the headlines about mothers who kill. What would make a mother take the life of her own child? This question wouldn’t let go of me. I wrote this book, in part, because it seems to me that this grim story is a recurring issue in American society today. Thus, Janeology is a cautionary tale about one man achieving an understanding about his wife, despite it being too late to reverse her deeds.
How would you describe your creative process while writing this book? Was it stream-of-consciousness writing, or did you first write an outline?
I first wrote a short story about Jane at the age of nine. I wanted to be a “fly on the wall” to a pivotal day in her childhood that altered the course of her life. After writing that story, I decided to write about her as an adult. Then, I began wondering about Jane’s mother and father and so on. Before long, I had a string of stories about her ancestors that really formed the first draft of the book.
From the moment you conceived the idea for the story, to the published book, how long did it take?
The process took several years, mainly because I had two other productions working (read: I had two children) during the time I was writing Janeology.
Describe your working environment.
I’m very fortunate in many ways, not the least of which includes the fact that my study overlooks our pool. I have a huge window facing the water and a replica of the Bird Girl statue (the memorable figure from the movie Midnight In The Garden of Good and Evil) looking back at me. It’s a wonderful view. I come into this room every morning, open the windows and listen to the fountains run while I’m working. And inside my office, I have pictures of all the places I’ve traveled or would like to travel to. Travel is my motivator.
Article comments
1 - Janet Riehl
Karen,
I love how you describe your process. It's a case of building, somewhat intuitively, yet with direction. With your background of hit the desk writing from your speech writing days, I can see how this combination worked for you: directed, disciplined intuition. I'm glad you shared this approach, because I believe it's one writers need affirmed...to combine both sides of our talents.
Janet Riehl
2 - JM
Excellent interview. It's interesting to hear from an author who doesn't believe in writer's block. :)
3 - karen harrington
JM,
Thanks for your comments. I really don't believe in writer's block. But I suppose I should qualify that statement by adding, I personally have never experienced it. I've certainly experienced writer's frustration. Then I realize it's my desire to make a first draft perfect. Ha! Has that ever happened? Legend has it Jack Kerouac did that with On The Road, but who really knows.
Best,
Karen Harrington
4 - Andrew Jalbert
Nice interview Karen. I recently ordered the book and can't wait to jump in!
Andy Jalbert
5 - Margay
Karen, great interview, as always. What a great tour you're having!