My fingers delicately thumbed through the browning pages of the aged book, a prized gift from a new friend. I didn't know what I was looking for. I was browsing, hoping to immerse myself into the lifestyle of the south from the 1860s to the early 1900s.
Reading the Honorable Daniel Pratt: A Biography, Eulogies on His Life and Character by M. S. Tarrant (1904) offered information I would have otherwise never found. Pratt was an amazing man, truly a visionary. Beloved by the community, honored for his philanthropic work, admired for his ingenuity, he used his wealth and prestige to better the lives of his employees. Still, after all these years, he's a model of the American dream and the positive influence of capitalism.This 6" x 9" treasure gave me a glimpse into living conditions, education, and employment opportunities, so, that when I traveled to Prattville, Alabama a few months later, and my host took me on a tour of the town, I could visualize the buildings even though some were now torn down, or abandoned. Two of my greatest moments were: one) walking up a set of stairs that my great, great grandfather climbed every day when he worked at the Pratt Gin Manufactory and two) touring his home which just happened to be for sale when I was visiting.
No matter what your story or genre, consider researching conditions to add to the overall ambiance of the location. Things, such as: weather patterns, building materials, road conditions, housing, jobs, local slang, town celebrities, to name a few.
Remember, you may be fully dressed in just a shirt and slacks or a little black dress but it's the jewelry that adds the sparkle. It's the same thing with writing. Don't forget to add the sparkle.
Enjoy the hunt. I wish you much success.
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| FIRST PLACE - Biography - Published |
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