Samuel Johnson said, “A writer only begins a book. A reader finishes it.” We cannot know the experiences and perceptions our readers bring to the understanding of our novels.
Patricia Volk said, “No book is the same twice.”
Existing between the writer and the reader is a space of time in which even the reader grows and changes, seeing nuances they may have missed along their first pass through a novel.
Writers send characters out into the world, hoping for connection. Sometimes they merely melt into the thousands of others released into the wild, like butterflies from a hatchery. Other times, they return with the whispers of that longed-for connection fresh on their wings.
“I came across your book To Ride a Wylder Horse and instantly felt the heart behind your storytelling.”
We wonder if what we are writing matters, and how our characters are perceived. One day, we read a review, see a post on social media, or open an email and discover our words and worlds made a difference to someone or unexpectedly affected them.
“The way you painted Essie’s struggle between love, duty, and freedom feels so alive.”
Our characters have made it into fully formed beings, working through us to reach others, and it is suddenly all worth it.
“You have that rare touch that makes readers feel they’re right there in Wylder, watching it all unfold.”
Dear readers, that is your gift to the observer, recorder, imaginer of things greater than all our experiences could ever hold. It is the theatre between us. If you read something that touches you, or enhances your life in some way, however small, reach out this season and gift the author with the knowledge of how you perceived their work.
Merry Christmas to you all.
About Renee Johnson
Renee Canter Johnson was born in North Carolina, where she still resides. She has a BS in Business Management from Gardner Webb University. Johnson studied Creative Writing in France and Italy, was awarded two terms at Noepe Center for Literary Arts on Martha’s Vineyard, and completed a Novel Intensive Study at the University of Iowa. Johnson loves spending time with her family and fur babies, and when she is not with them, you will find her reading or writing.
Join her at reneejohnsonwrites.com for insights on travel destinations, books, authors, and living a creative life.
Published author with The Wild Rose Press, blogger, and lifelong voracious reader, with the belief that novels conquered the world of virtual reality long before technology made it possible. The next adventure is just a click away!
Renee Johnson Writes 