Although they are from opposite sides of the world, Leo and Tadashi, the main characters in War Sonnets have a lot in common. They are both from families who have farmed the land for generations., a land they love. In those early days, before they are called to war, Tadashi's haikus and Leo's sonnets reflect … Continue reading The Poetry of “War Sonnets”: Before They Were Soldiers
Tag: WWII
The Woman of “War Sonnets”
There is little room for women in a World War II novel. But to Tadashi, there is only one woman who matters anyway: his wife, Sachiko. Most marriages in early twentieth-century Japan were "arranged"; Tadashi's was no exception, and he feels honored by the gods when he realizes how much he loves her. Sachiko is … Continue reading The Woman of “War Sonnets”
Meet the Men of “War Sonnets,” Part Three
When I last wrote about my War Sonnets characters, I had no idea I'd be adding a bunch more. Major changes took place in my most recent draft (Draft Three), the largest of which is the expansion of Tadashi's story to include more depth, more chapters and more characters. Let me introduce Tadashi's latest comrades: … Continue reading Meet the Men of “War Sonnets,” Part Three
Meet the Men of “War Sonnets,” Part Two
The Japanese Imperial Army, 14th Army, Shimbu Group I have just finished sending off a draft of War Sonnets to beta and sensitivity readers. Am I a nervous wreck? You betcha! So to keep myself busy, I hereby introduce you to the Japanese side of the "Men of War Sonnets." Left to right: Corporal/Sergeant Tadashi … Continue reading Meet the Men of “War Sonnets,” Part Two
Meet the Men of “War Sonnets”, Part One
United State Army—112th RCT As a writer, it’s important to know everything you can about each of your characters. Most of what you learn will never make it to your story, but digging deep into their personalities may reveal things you hadn’t thought of. Suddenly, that person is more than a name. They feel real, … Continue reading Meet the Men of “War Sonnets”, Part One
War Sonnets: A Collage
Today's post: a collage of images I use to represent my characters, Leo, Dooley, Woody, Cal, Sergeant Ryan, Lt. Inoue, Kaito, Tadashi, Sachiko, Harry, Russo, and Johnson, and their surroundings. Can you spot the protagonists? Antagonists? There are two of each.
Origins: War Sonnets
What do you think of when you see the word “sonnet?” Love poems, right? So imagine my surprise when I first read my uncle’s sonnets about his war experience. Who writes sonnets about fighting? And yet, he did. And they are awesome—one might say beautiful. When I was trying to come up with a list … Continue reading Origins: War Sonnets