Why the third rail?

If you read the blog directly from the site or if you’re following on Facebook, you may have noticed I’m working on shifting my theme. Why?

Basically, I’ve been writing in more genres and trying more things. Experimenting. While I still write fantasy – I’m working on a fairytale retelling this month – I’ve been focusing more on literary. I wanted my theme to allow a little more room for variety.

Why the third rail?

The third rail, in case you’re not familiar, is how many trains get power, especially in mass-transit systems. On the subway in New York, the third rail runs alongside the other two. It’s dangerous because it’s always live – so if you fall on the tracks, avoid the third rail or risk electrocution! (Um, maybe avoid falling on the tracks first)

Compelling fiction, or non-fiction for that matter, has to be charged. There has to be emotion, tension, something compelling people to continue turning pages. The third rail represents constant energy and keeps the city moving. It can be dangerous, but it’s worth the risk. That’s what I’m going for in my stories, and I’m constantly looking for ways to get better at it.