"I Am Justice" by Don Watkins - TDO 382 | Nikos & Don Watkins
Nov 26, 2021
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Delve into the philosophical themes of a crime thriller novel, explore the evolution of the heroine's character, and the distinction between living for a cause and living by a code. Discover the challenges of navigating a tribalistic culture and the protagonist's journey through moral dilemmas in a gritty narrative. Explore the creation of a complex female protagonist challenging traditional gender roles and the complexities of justice in fiction with a focus on the vigilante hero Jack Reacher.
Exploring themes of justice through a female protagonist
Deep dives
Motivation for Writing I Am Justice
The author, Don Watkins, shares that his motivation for writing his novel, I Am Justice, stemmed from his love for writing and his desire to provide readers with an emotional experience akin to what he felt listening to the Broadway show Hamilton. He aimed to create a gripping crime thriller with depth that would engage readers and offer both enjoyment and substantial content.
Dark Undertones and Surprising Opening
The novel's dark undertones and unexpected opening captivate readers, setting a tone that is both dark and intriguing without veering into traditional thriller territory. Despite the darkness, the book is not designed to be excessively scary, providing a balance that intrigues readers while maintaining a sense of safety. The unexpected nature of the opening serves to surprise readers and challenge their preconceptions.
Writing a Female Heroine and Exploring Justice
Don Watkins delves into the process of writing a female protagonist in his novel, I Am Justice, despite being a male author. He emphasizes that the character, Justice, represents qualities he admires in women and offers a fresh perspective for readers. The book explores themes of justice through the protagonist's journey, questioning the concept of justice in both the fictional world and reality.
Writing Process and Editing Approach
Watkins discusses his writing process, highlighting a method that involves outlining, subconscious writing of the draft, and detailed editing to refine the story. He emphasizes the importance of getting the initial draft on paper, allowing for subsequent revisions to enhance logic, surprise, and emotional impact. Watkins finds editing to be a strength and an enjoyable aspect of crafting his novels, focusing on transitioning from initial drafts to polished, engaging final versions.