The motivation for writing a story can come from just about anywhere. For me, San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park is a major source of inspiration. The park is an ever-changing place, sometimes bathed in sunlight, sometimes drenched in fog drizzle. I am fortunate to take almost daily walks through the park. And each one of those visits has opened my eyes to a hidden world that I felt compelled to write about.
Walking through the park is a wonderful series of adventures that can take you from broad open meadows to hidden ponds and then on to majestic vistas with fabulous views of San Francisco Bay. It’s a haven for birds of all kinds–especially ravens that perch on the edge of buildings and trees. They scold us as we walk past.
On some days Golden Gate Park is so encased in fog that it is impossible to detect another human being until they are almost upon you. In those moments it can be difficult to tell friend from foe. When the fog blows in so hard, the wind whips the trees around, sending drops of water falling down upon the ground like rain.
On other days, the sun filters through the ancient cypress trees like a da Vinci painting, an otherworldly light show that tempts one to believe in heavenly intervention.
As you can see, the park is a special place for me. And of course, it’s a major setting in “Woman King.”
Have you been to Golden Gate Park? Are you planning a trip? I’d love to hear more about your favorite places or experiences. Please send me a note! — Evette