It is often true that writers write from where they're at. As writing is an intensely personal activity this is almost inevitable. Even when producing fantasy or science fiction the nature of the characters and interactions will probably find their roots in the author's past.
Of course, you could take the bull by the horns and make a conscious decision to use someone from your past in your writing. In my case it was a man called Bill.
I needed a sort of grandfather figure at one point in my stories and this guy who I worked with in the 1980's had been a great support to me during a difficult time in my life. In fact, it was his ability to 'read' me that made him an obvious shoe into my stories.
Bill came to work as a technician at my place of work. He'd retired from a career in engineering and wanted something to keep him busy in his retirement. The position of lab technician in a middle school suited so he came to us.
Bill was a Yorkshireman through and through. He could appear short and brusque but in fact was the epitome of kindness and he was talented. Whatever we needed Bill could create, and whatever broke he could fix it. He turned his hand to set building when we were putting on shows, and producing equipment for science experiments. A real asset in every aspect of work and also dependable.
Sadly, he had some breathing problems and died in an accident while working on his car engine in his garage. A great loss to all who new him.
When we write it is almost like we are standing on the shores of a deep lake filled with the characters, occurrences and interactions of our past. Why not delve into that lake?
God Bless
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