What struggles do you look back on now and realise they made you who you are?
Here are a few from my
writing career:
The Impossible Task of Finding Representation:
Early in my career, when I imagined I couldn't move
forward without an agent to represent my work, finding one was a formidable challenge. Their reservations stemmed from a belief that my narratives, which candidly explored themes of race and identity, were "too political" for mainstream audiences. This struggle weighed heavily on my aspirations as I grappled with the notion that my stories might be too provocative or niche to find a place on bookshelves.
The Cultural Tightrope:
Crafting dialogue for Jamaican characters was a nuanced endeavour. Publishers often did not understand the intricate Jamaican patois and cultural references woven into my stories. This
led to concerns about readability and accessibility for a broader readership, leaving me to grapple with preserving the authenticity of my characters' voices while making them accessible to all.
Navigating the Industry's Lack of Diversity:
Another challenge I faced was the industry's lack of diversity regarding authors and the characters depicted in speculative fiction. This absence created a struggle within me, as I yearned to see more narratives that reflected the diversity of our world but faced roadblocks from a publishing landscape that had yet to fully embrace this vision.
Battling the Stereotypes:
The world of speculative fiction is often seen through a narrow lens. As a Black author, I initially faced the challenge of
breaking free from stereotypes and carving out my unique narrative space. This struggle, while daunting, became the catalyst for a deeper exploration of my cultural identity and a celebration of the rich tapestry of African and African diasporic heritage.
The
Battle for Recognition:
The publishing industry can be unforgiving, particularly for minority authors. Rejections piled up, but with each rejection letter, my determination grew stronger. I learned perseverance was the key to success, and these rejections were merely stepping stones towards my goals.
Navigating Cultural Authenticity:
Balancing cultural authenticity with speculative storytelling was a challenge. However, it was within this delicate dance that I discovered the
beauty of blending the rich narratives of my heritage with the limitless horizons of the speculative genre.
During times of adversity, it's only human to experience feelings of overwhelm, frustration, and even despair. In those moments, self-doubt can creep in,
making you question your abilities and the value of your efforts. However, a fresh perspective emerges with the passage of time and distance from those trying periods. While those years of struggle may have been marked by pain, frustration, and uncertainty, they also conceal a profound transformative potential.
In those moments of hardship, I learned:
- It may be uncomfortable for some, but my authenticity was my superpower. Embracing my cultural identity enriched my stories, creating narratives that resonated with readers on a deeply emotional level.
- Rejections, though disheartening, instilled in me a resilience that would prove invaluable. I learned that perseverance and belief in one's craft are the foundations of a successful author's journey.
- I developed a greater appreciation for life's simple joys and victories, knowing I needed no one's permission to create the stories I wanted to tell.
In retrospect, I realised that these struggles, once seen as burdens, had become the most beautiful chapters in my writing career. They were the crucible where my identity was honed, my resilience tested, and my purpose illuminated.
When we overcome obstacles and achieve our goals despite adversity, the sense of accomplishment and satisfaction is far more profound than if we had succeeded effortlessly. Through the lens of retrospection, I've come to cherish the struggles that once weighed heavily on me. They are the brushstrokes that have painted the most beautiful chapters of my life and continue to inspire me to create stories I believe in.
I've now come to appreciate the power of resilience and the remarkable transformation that awaits those who embrace its unique path.
Be Your Own Hero.
