Laura Miller talks with author Kelly Link about her collection of fairy tale inspired short stories, discussing how fairy tales have influenced Kelly's work, the allure of the 'searching for a beloved' story, and finding a community of female writers.
Fairy tales have enduring popularity and convey important messages about women.
Author Kelly Link incorporates fairy tales into her work, blending everyday life, pop culture, and myth.
Deep dives
The Power of Fairy Tales
Fairy tales, as the oldest form of human storytelling, have always been closely linked to women. While originally considered stories for children, contemporary folklorists believe they were meant for mixed adult and child audiences. Fairy tales continue to endure because they entertain and teach important lessons. The enduring popularity of adaptations like Cinderella and Beauty and the Beast speaks to their timeless appeal and the messages they convey about women.
Kelly Link's Fairy Tale Inspired Stories
Kelly Link, the author of the story collection White Cat Black Dog, has adeptly incorporated fairy tales into her work. The collection includes seven stories, each based on a specific fairy tale. Link approached the stories by first deciding on the characters and images she wanted to feature, then found fitting fairy tales to incorporate into her narratives. The collection explores the interplay between everyday life, pop culture, and myth, creating a unique blend of storytelling.
The Influence of Community on Writing
Kelly Link, Cassandra Clare, and Holly Black form a supportive writing community where they workshop each other's novels and provide feedback. The collaboration allows for discussions on storytelling techniques, examining how genres operate, and navigating challenging aspects of writing. This community also provides a conversational environment where ideas are exchanged, enhancing the creative process and resulting in enriched storytelling.