History Repeats Itself--And It's Tough to Write

Well, I have my 5th novel finished and am awaiting the copies to come in. Forsaken was an intense story to write, and being finished with it has me feeling bittersweet, to say the least. Feelings of accomplishment that it is done, and yet depression over what I must do next.

You see, usually by this time I already have several chapters of the next book written. But this time... This time it is hard. Those who have been following know I've been writing about a Confederate veteran turned expatriate in the spirit of many of the 19th century adventurers such as Colonel Ingraham, Jules Brunet, or the modern veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan who take on contracting positions fighting wildlife poachers or Somali pirates. This latest installment was set during the first half of the Franco-Prussian War, which saw many American veterans from the War Between the States participating on both sides. The second half has me really... it is hard to put to words.

I write as an outlet for my creativity and historical research. It also allows me to step away into another world for a while. However, the plan I had outlined for the 6th book has it taking place during the final months of the conflict in France and the subsequent 1871 Paris Commune. Now as I see what is going on around me, the thought of writing about violent mobs of communists taking over a city and destroying things, including famous military monuments, is hitting too close to home.

At the beginning of the Franco-Prussian War in July, 1870, France was an Empire, and when Napoleon III abdicated in September of 1870, the country decided to create a new Republic. The quickly constructed council decided on a rather left leaning centrist for their leader to attempt to placate the outspoken socialists in Paris who were threatening revolution. Later, that proved not to be enough for the "Communards" as they were called. So the president stepped down and an even more liberal candidate was installed. This compromise wasn't enough either--Communists clearly don't compromise, they just want to see if their opponent will keep retreating--and the Communards rioted and took over the city. They burned buildings, stoned military officers to death, shot priests, and tore down monuments.

I thought it was fascinating when I first read about it several years ago. Now... not so much.

If I write this. It's going to be tough.

Text (c) S.H. Ford, 2017