Baking A Novel

I run a tearoom in my backyard during the summer months for the same reason I write novels. Creativity is a kick, and even more so when I bring a smile to a friend’s face.

Writing is as diverse as baking, and almost as flavorful. Some flavor combinations work well together, and others, not so much. As a writer, it’s my job to make that particular pairing memorable. I don’t want to serve anything bland or ordinary. Neither do I want to write a boring novel.

A popular dessert at my tearoom is a creampuff. I make everything from scratch. Chocolate mousse is at the top of the list for a filling. Real heavy whipping cream with a spoon of confectioner’s sugar blended with a cup of creamy chocolate pudding, and you have a bowl of heaven ready to stuff the puff. Avoid adding dry powdered cocoa into the whipped cream, which drastically reduces the volume and air. Finish with a dab of raspberry jam on top or a slather of homemade strawberry syrup for an extra special dessert.

Did I unleash your salivary juices? Same here. When I include this dessert into my writing, I add a cup of tea. Specifically, black tea laced with a hint of fruity vanilla, and of course, a splash of cream. Enjoy.

How was the creampuff? The tea? Care for another?

Ordinary tea service won’t do. I want ornate porcelain splashed with flowers from a Victorian garden. The plates compliment the teapot. The cloth napkins are color-coordinated. I start with a white table cloth on the tables, followed by silk roses sprawling carefree across the center. Two lively water fountains bubble and splash in the background. Massive leaf trees shade my guests.

Can you picture my tearoom? It’s an actual establishment open for business, but it’s also featured in several of my novels.

Using words to create hunger, thirst, satisfaction, curiosity, or inspiration all reflect the skill of an author. Or the baker. As a writer, it’s your job to refine and polish your creation. Be brave and try an odd combination on occasion. Put your character in a setting she wouldn’t belong. Give her a mission which makes you/her uncomfortable. Provide her with outlandish resources or companions and watch what happens next.

You might create a sensation.

Not everything we write is suitable for public consumption. This also happens with the items I bake for my guests. Don’t be afraid to try something new, even if it stinks. We learn from this.

Polish your skills. Practice what you know. Make when sure you connect two clauses without a conjunction that the action in the second clause reflects the subject in the first. Keep your writing tight––remove unnecessary words. Avoid passive tense. Use action to describe and identify the speaker. Regularly check for overuse of pet words.

I’ve made a list of synonyms of pet words which have been brought to my attention. I keep this list close to my laptop and switch out those pesky overused words when they insist on popping into my writing.

Unlike my baked goods, writing can go on the shelf for a day or a week or a month to allow the flavors to blend and the inspiration to ferment. Share a helping with your beta readers and other interested fans. Invite reflection.

However, when in doubt, apply an ample serving of chocolate. Before your creation goes out in a final revision, pour yourself a cup of tea and enjoy it yourself.

Blessings!