<p>In this episode of <a href="https://www.oncreativewriting.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">On Creative Writing</a>, author Emma Woodhouse sits down with Canadian author <a href="https://lucyemblack.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">Lucy E. M. Black</a> to discuss her latest novel, <a href="https://nonpublishing.com/a-quilting-of-scars" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">A Quilting of Scars</a>. Lucy discusses her fulfilling career in education and how her background as an educator has influenced her storytelling, particularly her sensitivity to the complexities of human experience and her deep appreciation for history.</p><p>Lucy and Emma explore the origins of <em>A Quilting of Scars</em>, a work of historical fiction set in Ontario, Canada in the late 19th and early 20th-century. Lucy reveals the extensive research that went into crafting the novel, from poring over archival documents to conducting interviews with historians and community members. She discusses how real-life stories and historical events found a place in <em>A Quilting of Scars, </em>and how one upsetting and distrubing memory from her early school years gave the book its title.</p><p>The discussion delves into the novel’s central themes, including secrecy, trauma, and sexuality. Lucy explains how these themes are interwoven in the story, much like the symbolic motif of quilting that appears in the book. She describes quilting as both a literal and metaphorical act—representing the piecing together of memories, the preservation of stories, and resilience in the face of adversity. Emma and Lucy talk about the importance of giving voice to marginalized characters and exploring the hidden histories that often go untold.</p><p>Lucy offers a behind-the-scenes look at her writing process, from the initial of inspiration which came from a poster she and her husband saw in an antique store. She was so taken with it she hung it in her writing studio and slowly, over time, the story of Larkin and <em>A Quilting of Scars</em> began to evolve.</p><p>Lucy touches on the challenges of revision and editing. She shares how she develops her characters, giving them depth and authenticity by drawing on her own experiences and observations. Lucy emphasizes the importance of empathy in writing, and how she strives to create characters who are flawed, complex, and ultimately relatable.</p><p>The conversation also touches on the role of community in the writing life. Lucy speaks passionately about the support she has received from fellow writers, readers, and literary organizations. She highlights the value of participating in writing groups, attending workshops, and seeking feedback from trusted peers. For emerging writers, Lucy offers practical advice: read widely and voraciously, embrace constructive criticism, and never underestimate the power of perseverance.</p><p>Throughout the episode, Emma and Lucy reflect on the transformative power of storytelling and the ways in which literature can foster understanding and connection. Lucy’s insights into the craft of writing, her dedication to historical research, and her commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices make this a must-listen episode for anyone interested in creative writing, historical fiction, or the art of storytelling.</p><p>Find Lucy E.M. Black at her website linked above and on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lucyemblack/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">Instagram</a>.</p><p><em>A Quilting of Scars </em>is published by Now or Never Publishing.</p>