Beautifully Said: Quotes that Fit my Novel, Vivos
As I’ve been working on my novel for about 2 years now, I find that certain quotes or songs resonate with me because they remind me of my story. In Vivos, my protagonist deals with her fears in the dystopian society she lives in. This is a quote I found on fear that reminded me of Shea Donovan’s fears, although not every part of it fits my book. I think it is beautifully written.
From The Shining Girls by Lauren Beukes: “Fear festers in the imagination. It’s not fear’s fault. That’s just the way it’s made. Nightmares breed. Allies become enemies. Subversives are everywhere. Paranoia justifies any persecution, and privacy is a luxury when the Reds have the bomb.”
Vivos is about life. Not only about being alive, but about living your life as you choose, and to the fullest. This beautiful quote by poet Mary Oliver, one of my favorite poets, sums it up perfectly:
“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”
Part of the lyrics to Sheryl Crow’s “Home” fit Shea Donovan’s discovery of a life she loves with a man she loves.
“Home” by Sheryl Crow
“I woke up this morning
Now I understand
What it means to give your life
To just one man
Afraid of feeling nothing
No bees or butterflies
My head is full of voices
And my house is full of lies
This is home…”
In spite of the tension in Vivos, Shea Donovan has a snarky and irreverent sense of humor. Please see my post “Meet Vivos‘s protagonist, Shea Donovan” for some Sheaisms. I don’t know if they’re “beautifully said,” but they’re fun!
Thanks for reading - Colleen Eccles Penor