The most important term I learned in sociology was Zeitgeist. It is reflective of the undercurrent of a society that subtly works to reveal itself through the fringe media we consume that eventually becomes the mainstream. It was this way with the zombie fiction that became all too familiar. Likewise most post-apocalyptic and now during apocalypse writings were indicative of an understanding of what was on people’s minds but we couldn’t quite give voice to. So, what is next?
It is the goal/role of a good writer to be the conduit between the zeitgeist and the story-verse. We pull these things together as if we were celestial bodies spinning together the force of gravity and then channeling what is drawn in towards the reader. What we see in the zeitgeist we find parallels for in the story-verse and web together in order to create a message (or perhaps just a reflection) for people to interpret. That interpretation morphs into inspiration and the world—our natural world—is impacted. I know, it sounds like a lot. It sounds like a lowly writer making himself sound mythical, but what are myths if not stories drawn from somewhere to impact those in need?
So then, what comes next? I’m not certain. I’m listening to the zeitgeist and I believe I’ve heard a few things that thread to stories I’ve considered but haven’t fully committed to writing. Perchance it is time in this new year to write? The conditions are right for it. The universe has resolved to put a great deal of time in my hands and there is only so much crafting one can do in mines and so much bad tv to sift into the brain.