A writer’s first time | Mark R Hunter
There are certain first times that I suspect surprise all writers, no matter how often they may have fantasized about them.
Emily and I went camping last weekend at Chain O’ Lakes State Park, where several scenes in Storm Chaser were set. At the gatehouse the lady who checked us in asked all the normal questions, including, of course, my name.
“Hunter,” I replied. “First name Mark.” (Which for me was the logical answer to that question.)
She gave me a startled look. “The writer?”
I’d like to say I responded with something witty, but the best I could do was stammer, “Yes …” In addition to having never been recognized by a stranger, there was a lingering fear that park employees might not like the way I portrayed their workplace.
“I have your book on my Kindle!”
Turns out she claimed to like it very much, and took my business card with the promise of telling her coworkers about Storm Chaser. She even got my autograph. By that I mean she got my signature on the check-in paperwork.
That was the first time someone who didn’t already know me recognized me as a novelist … and yes, it did make my day.
That is a great story! And I know it felt good and odd. I had something similar recently; a teacher/parent at the school saw another teacher reading my book at school and recognized the name, and then she realized it was me...I was the author, and then she told me about it. I've actually had a few people ask me for my autograph. Mark, fame is coming. Soon, you will have to worry about the paparazzis. Take care!
ReplyDeleteI'm sure you had a similar feeling, Lena! I suspect being asked for my autograph will never seem normal, even if we're doing this for fifty years.
DeleteNow that's the sort of moment to make you feel really good!
ReplyDeleteYeah, and just when we needed a moment like that!
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