Guest Post by Jessica James –
Travel is not only a gateway to new experiences and cultures, it holds an often-overlooked benefit for historical fiction authors. Stepping out of our comfort zones and into the vibrant tapestry of different cultures is a great way to provide a needed break from the monotony of daily life, but it can also serve as a catalyst for the creative process. As someone who now travels as part of a secondary career, I can attest to the transformative power that travel has on writing and the creative process.
The Historical Fiction Genre
Writing historical fiction isn’t just about crafting stories set against the backdrop of bygone eras. It’s about breathing life into the pages of history, making the past tangible and real for our readers.
This demands an authenticity that can be enhanced by firsthand visits to the locales we write about. Of course, that’s not always possible, but there’s a certain magic in walking the same cobblestone streets or following in the footsteps of our characters.
It’s this immersion that allows us to capture the essence of a place and time, lending credibility and depth to our narratives.
Sensory Journeys
For those who write about long-ago eras or empires that no longer exist, don’t count out travel as a way to bring complexity and layers to your manuscript. The benefits of traveling in general go beyond visiting the exact place you’re writing about.
Travel exposes us to different ways of life, philosophies, and customs, enriching our understanding of the human condition across time and space. This exposure is invaluable, because it can add character development, plot intricacies, and any number of other social dynamics within our stories.
I can attest to characters that were born from the inspiration of a chance encounter while traveling, or a plot twist influenced by a local legend. A beautiful setting can set the stage for more vibrant background writing that could never have been created from the confines of a writing nook at home.
Authenticity In Every Detail
Another aspect of travel is that it is not merely an indulgence—it can be an essential component of our research.
As other authors have documented, libraries, archives, and museums in different locales can be treasure troves of information, offering insights not readily available online or in books in our hometown libraries. This hands-on research enriches our narratives, making them more engaging and educational for our readers, who are seeking a connection with the past through our stories.
It’s also worth noting that this kind of travel—research-driven and integral to the crafting of historical fiction novels—can be considered a business expense. This aspect, while perhaps less romantic than the quest for creative inspiration, can help make the pursuit of authenticity more accessible.
From Inspiration To Ink
My advice is to consider the possibilities outside your door by embracing the world’s vastness as both a muse and a classroom.
Writers should think of travel, not as just a means of escape, but as a vital ingredient in the creative process. It enriches our narratives and, by extension, increases the satisfaction of our readers.
Travel is an investment in the depth and authenticity of our stories, and a testament to our commitment to bridging the gap between the past and the present.
Jessica James is the author of 10 multi-award-winning historical fiction novels including Shades of Gray, The Lion of the South and the dual-era novel Lacewood. Her novels are available in hundreds of libraries, including Harvard and the U.S. Naval Academy, and have been used in schools to teach visualization techniques. As a way to share her love of travel and the research she uncovers, Jessica created Past Lane Travels, which was named the top history and travel blog in 2023. Learn more at Jessica James Books.
