The Need for Redemption and Fantasy Stories

Many debates are raging across the media over the last week about Michael Jackson. Beyond his outstanding musical talents, was he a good person deserving of world-wide recognition? What about allegations of wrong-doing? I asked myself why I even cared about the hype! Sure, I liked Michael in the 80s, but why should I care about his death now.

It took a short conversation with a friend about my book to put it into perspective ... and it hit me like a hammer!

I don't know anyone that has not made a mistake in their life. I know I have made my share (to the point that you would think my quota was already met)! Do we tend to regard people in a kinder fashion once they have died and left this world? Mass murderers, dictators, and fanatics excluded? Jackson's death is surrounded by contraversy because of his actions - both good and questionable.

When I look at the good a person did in life I also wonder if part of that is done out of an internal desire to erase some of the bad things they did. There are likely some "red lines" that cannot be crossed and a thoughtful person may wonder if they will or have already crossed that line ... AND what they can do to make up for it to their loved ones, their friends, community and, possibly, the world.

I believe "Stories of Fantasy are nothing more than the retelling of our own triumphs and sad, sad tragedies." That is a quote at the beginning of my book and I strongly believe in it. My writing focuses on the issues we have faced in our life time. The fantasy setting provides an outstanding background for action and adventure, but the book is really about redemption.

Prince Kristian's Honor, Book One: The Erinia Saga, available at the end of this summer (2009) will be filled with characters who face the same dilemmas we face - can they also find redemption for their mistakes?