Writing fiction is basically enrolling yourself in the University of Life, majoring in researching every topic under the sun. One moment, you’re looking at architecture to describe a house in your story, the next, you’re deep-diving into fast-acting poisons, maritime law, and what happens when someone mysteriously dies on a cruise ship. Maybe you’re learning how to read tarot cards for the fortune teller character you added to the mix or your figuring out which bull god the ancient Gauls worshipped while Caesar came knocking (hint: it’s the not-so-friendly Cernunnos — part god, part nightmare fuel).
Whether you’re writing a middle-aged psychic detective, a scrappy witch, or a down-to-earth cougar shifter who just wants a quiet life but keeps stumbling over dead bodies, research is the secret sauce that makes your world feel real.
The thing is…research is addictive. I’ll start my day pumped to write 5,000 words. 5k or bust! But then I think, Wait… what monsters, minerals, and herbs are tied to fire magic? Or, How many types of djinn are there, and where do they live? Fast forward eight hours, and I haven’t written a single word all day, but I could now give a lecture on ancient desert spirits and flame-resistant flora.
Honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love writing, but my love of learning runs even deeper. After nearly ninety stories and twenty years of research, my brain’s packed with random knowledge, most of which I’ll probably never use again. But every so often, I’ll find myself at a party or chatting with someone who mentions a topic I researched last week, last month, or even ten years ago. And suddenly, I’m having the most fun you can have with your clothes on, swapping facts and theories for hours.
So, fellow lovers of knowledge…What kind of wild research rabbit holes have you fallen down? Share your stories in the comments, and let’s nerd out together!