When I was growing up, I envisioned writers to be much like artists, sitting alone in some attic, crouched over a battered typewriter, scribing words from some unimaginable muse.
The words of Loreena McKennitt come to mind:    
 

I joined the brotherhood,
My books were all to me,
I scribed the words of God,
And much of history,
Many a year was I,
Perched out upon the sea,
The waves would wash my tears;
The wind my memory.

I'd hear the ocean breathe;
Exhale upon the shore,
I knew the tempest's blood,
Its wrath I would endure,
And so the years went by,
Within my rocky cell,
With only a mouse or bird,
My friend; I loved them well.

... Skellig

 		 
 
Now, I've learned different. Muses aren't unimaginable; they are writers and poets who've gone before. I've loved the words of Euripides and Moliere, Shakespeare and Dante. H. G. Wells, Jules Verne, and hundreds of other authors. All have had an impact; not only on my writing, but also on who I am.
Perhaps it seems odd or brash for a writer of erotica to give credit to such esteemed predecessors: but the fact remains that they were authors who wanted to communicate with their audience. Those men and women mastered the craft, setting the standards and blazing the paths the rest of us have followed.
My own path has led me to many a dark and lonely shore; there have been lights besides those mentioned above who've proved to be guides. This time I'm aimed at those who've influenced my erotica, and the type of story I'm working on now. Nick Scipio, first and foremost for his Summer Camp stories. This introduced me to longer tales, with more characters, above all, finely drawn and interesting characters. Then along came the Rt. Rev. Cotton Mather and Playing the Game. Again a much longer story, great characters... but what also played well with me, characters that had larger problems than fulfilling their sex drives. And a final belated mention for good behavior and because he's as much a part of the genre I want to emulate: Frank Downey and Dance of a Lifetime. Again, wonderful characters and a story that is about a lot more than getting laid.
And in Nick and Frank's case, lovely forums where interesting people gather to discuss all sorts of topics, not least of which is writing. Oh, and let's not forget editing; for you see, punctuation is my own personal dark nemesis.
I don't wish to belabor my own shortcomings, but now I have found help from Terry Steyaert, who has labored like Hercules, editing my work. Thanks, Terry, you are wonderfully appreciated. And particular thanks to Mike Powell who is reworking my web pages.
So, once again, I contemplate those writers alone in their attics. I wish you all luck! As for me? I've chosen a different path now.
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