Music and Faith: Carlton Holden's Secret Ingredients in Writing
I incorporate music and religion for those reasons that I just mentioned. And again, I like music and I consider myself to be a spiritual person to an extent.
Imagine blending music and religion into your writing to create richer, more relatable characters. That's exactly what Carlton Holden does, and in this episode of 'Podcastlife', he opens up about how these elements shape his stories. Carlton dives into how his personal beliefs and experiences seep into his books, giving them a unique depth. He shares that music and religion are not just themes but integral parts of his identity as a writer and an individual.
Take his novel 'Nigel Baby', for instance. Here, the character Nebio Lisa Iwuchukwu embodies spirituality, with a name meaning 'God's covenant is unwavering'. This symbolic touch adds layers to the character's journey. In another book, 'Soot', the inclusion of Aretha Franklin's 'Jump to It' injects a playful vibe, showing how music can influence the mood of a story. Carlton doesn't shy away from tough topics either.
He discusses how religion provides clarity for his characters during crises, making their spiritual journeys relatable and human. He also touches on the darker side of religious extremism through the theme of honour killings, adding complexity and depth to his narratives. This episode isn't just about writing tips; it's about understanding how personal connections and experiences can breathe life into characters.
Whether you're a writer looking for inspiration or someone interested in the interplay of music and faith, this episode offers valuable insights into the creative process. Tune in and see how Carlton Holden uses these powerful elements to craft stories that resonate on multiple levels.