Welcome Jennifer to Meet the Author. I am so delighted to have you on this Q and A session. Let’s begin with a small fun introduction about you in your words.

Jennifer: I am Jennifer Flint author of Wild Egg, story of one woman’s search for a childfree life. Thank you very much for inviting me to your project Meet the Author, bringing authors and their experiences to light. Two fun facts about me

1. My paternal grandmother was a Cancan dancer. In 1930s and 40s she was in a famous troupe called The Tiller Girls, kicking a height for living. Sadly, I didn’t inherit the skills, my sister did.
2. After I finished my university, I thought I wanted to be a teacher. I ended up teaching English in Pakistan which was an incredible experience. While I was there, I almost ended up getting a part of a British journalist in a miniseries, where I was told that I couldn’t act for toffees.

Usha: Ah, Jennifer, that’s fascinating! I must admit, I just picked up the phrase ‘For toffees’ – hadn’t heard that one before. Thank you for sharing those intriguing snippets about yourself. Now, let’s dive into the Q&A session!

Q1: What genre do you prefer reading, and do you have a particular favourite genre?

Jennifer: If I were to pick a favourite genre, I’d probably say I really love magical realism, so books like “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern and works of Isabella Allende. That’s probably my favourite genre. But overall, I read a lot of nonfiction lately, thinking about it. Recently, I’ve been trying to read more fiction because I tend to read a lot about personal development and spirituality. I devour books on these topics. For instance, “Letting Go,” “The Art of Surrender,”  and one by an American coach called “The Mask of Masculinity” about men and vulnerability. I have recently started reading a book called “The Broken Mirror: Understanding and Treating Body Dysmorphic Disorder.” So on non fiction I read personal development, mental health awareness and spirituality. But I do love fiction. “The Night Circus” is one of my favourite books.

Usha: I like the books you mentioned about spirituality, like “Letting Go.” Those are topics I’m currently interested in, so I would definitely look them up.

Jennifer: Yeah, I’ve got all these books around me.(pointing at her bookshelf). There are coaching-type books, and here are more spiritual development books. I’ve got books on Buddhism and various things. I’m quite eclectic, so I don’t tend to follow specific authors. I see what grabs my attention. For instance, I’ve just picked up “The Lighthouse Keeper’s Daughter” from my shelf. It seems to be a fiction story based on a real-life heroine from Victorian times,  Grace Darling, who lived not far from where I am. The author has taken the real-life story and turned it into fiction, which I love because that’s what I did with my book “Wild Egg.” So, I’m really looking forward to reading it.

Q2: What do you prefer: paperback, hardback, e-books, or audiobooks, and why?

Jennifer: Personally, I prefer paperbacks. Anything specific for that? Oh, yeah, maybe I’m getting old. I’ve tried to learn to love Kindle, and I’ve yet to master that. So, I’ll just say I love a paperback—the feel of the book and the paper. I tend to be a bit naughty in the sense that I bend books, underline with pencils, or write in the margins. My books are quite lived in. There’s something about the whole tactile experience, holding the book, the smell, and just having it by your bedside. It feels more intimate to me. I’ve never really tried an audiobook. That might be something new for me this year, but yeah, it’s gotta be a paperback.

Usha: I can relate to you. I think we are both from the same generation, so probably, yes. I love being able to dip my hand in to a book shelf and get a book out. When you say it’s something very tactile, having books on your bedside, how you interact with books, there is something beautiful about it.

Jennifer: I agree. I love libraries. I just love being surrounded by books. I’ve always loved books since I was a kid, but what I’ve noticed with Kindle compared to paperbacks is that my retention isn’t as good. I feel like I haven’t interacted with it, even though you can underline on the screen. It doesn’t seem to have the same effect. If I’m trying to remember something, I tend to be able to see the page in a paperback. I think the physical act of bending the corner or underlining just etches it into my brain. When I’ve read things on Kindle, I don’t have a good recall of them, which surprises me. It’s the connection, the physicality of a paperback that makes the reading experience unique. There’s a charm to it that’s hard to replicate with digital formats.

Q3: How much of Jennifer is in Hollie?

Jennifer: It’s an interesting question, and I’ve been asked this before. This question seems to be quite popular, and I’m coming back to it now, thinking if my answer is still the same as it has been. Probably is, perhaps even more so. I would say there is a lot of me in there, but the beauty of writing a fiction book is that you can amplify things. There are moments where she’s probably a bit more judgmental than I am now. If I look back to what I was like when I was younger, maybe in my 30s up to 40 before I did a lot of work on myself, she’s probably like version 1.0 of me. She’s a bit like that, a bit like how I was before I went on my personal development journey or my spiritual journey. She’s tough, self-critical, and analytical, which is definitely how I was. As I’ve gotten older and done more work on myself and my spiritual life, I’ve softened and let go of a lot of things. If I go back in time, she’s very much like how I was—like version 1.0. Nowadays, I feel more like the character of Ani Zopa. It’s funny because I keep thinking of late, if there was some weird spiritual thing going on, as the character of the nun emerged unexpectedly in the book. As time has gone on, I feel like she was almost a future self, watching Hollie and saying, “Just wait until you’re ready.” It’s a strange and interesting process.

Usha: When I was reading the book, there were so many “aha” moments and deja vu experiences for me. I don’t think I’ve read any book where someone is  talking about being child-free and having a spiritual journey. Once I decided motherhood isn’t for me, I went on a Spiritual journey, exploring meditation , visiting Temples , Buddhist centers and various other things. If I were to describe it in words, it felt like I went on a Spiritual Shopping spree. The book provided a validation to me, and something that resonated with my experiences. The part where Hollie is navigating conversations at work where her colleagues are sharing stories about their children struck a chord with me. I can relate to that so much, having to listen patiently without having anything particular to contribute to the conversation and feeling a bit of ennui. I have often listened patiently and not expressed my desire of not wanting children. The fear  of being persecuted for expressing my choice and being misconstrued was very strong. It’s enlightening to read about these experiences in the book.

Jennifer: I’m glad you found resonance in those moments. The concept of “spiritual shopping” is fantastic. It encapsulates the idea of trying various spiritual practices, and I love that term. It’s interesting how discussing these topics in the book can make people aware of different perspectives and help dispel fears of expressing one’s choices. It’s like confronting pro-natalism, a term I’ve come to understand more recently.

Q4: You chose fiction as a medium to tell this story; what led it to be fiction and not non-fiction?

Jennifer: To be quite honest, I started out writing a memoir and had completed about one-third of it. However, following advice from someone in the publishing industry, I decided to make a pitch to an agent. During this process, I received professional feedback that suggested turning the story into fiction. The advice was to effectively fictionalize myself, as it would have more resonance and reach, providing additional scope to convey the messages. The reasoning was that as an unknown person, writing a memoir might have limited reach, whereas fiction allows for broader exploration. Initially, I doubted my creative abilities for fiction, but after surrendering to the process and letting the story guide me, it evolved organically. The character and the narrative started to take shape, and I embraced the freedom and latitude that fiction offered. It turned from feeling intimidated about writing a novel to realizing it could be a fun and dynamic process. The transition from memoir to fiction felt like an interesting dance, where I followed where the book was leading me.

Q5: What is the first book you read that you remember?

Jennifer: As a child, I was an avid reader, often staying up late with a little Eveready Torch to read for hours after bedtime. One book that left an impression on me was “Joseph’s Yard,” although I can’t recall its plot, the atmosphere lingered in my memory. However, the one that truly stands out is J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit.” My dad, a Tolkien enthusiast, encouraged me to read it, and the magic surrounding the book captivated me. The idea of an ordinary, humble character embarking on an extraordinary adventure fascinated me. The concept that stepping out of your front door could lead to unexpected adventures stayed with me throughout my life. The immersive and enchanting world Tolkien created in “The Hobbit” left a lasting impression, and the sense of adventure and childlike wonder from that book still resonates with me today. Although I’ve watched the films, I plan to revisit “The Lord of the Rings” series and read the books, as “The Hobbit” holds a special place in my heart.

Q6: How long have you been writing or when did you start?

Jennifer: I’ve been connected to writing since childhood. Growing up, my dad had a garden shed in the basement, his creative haven filled with the scent of paraffin lamps and chalky walls. It was like a Hobbit hole, captivating my imagination. Although my dad, a lighthouse keeper turned writer, never saw his work published, his passion for writing was a constant in my life. As a child, I would write letters as a form of mental health practice. My serious writing journey began around the age of 33, driven by a pivotal emotional experience.

I embarked on crafting a book based on my dad’s life, attempting to share his ideas through fiction. This idea persisted for 20 years, marked by periods of intense creation, abandonment, and self-doubt. Concurrently, I delved into personal development, addressing internal obstacles, such as the inner critic and imposter syndrome.

Around 2005, I realized that my personal development journey was intertwined with my writing aspirations. Despite my dedication to learning and development in my career, the underlying motivation was a breakthrough in writing. The battle with my inner critic persisted, occasionally flaring up and leading to periods of rejection and return.

Before lockdown, approaching my 50th birthday, I made significant life changes, leaving a senior job to dedicate time to writing. I hired a coach to navigate the emotional vulnerability I anticipated. Just before lockdown, I prepared to recommence writing the book based on the lighthouse keeper but serendipitous events led me to write “Wild Egg” during the lockdown, marking an unexpected twist in my writing journey.

Q7: If you could pick one literary figure from past or present to meet and chat with, who would you choose?

Jennifer: My immediate choice would be Carl Jung, the renowned psychiatrist and psychotherapist, though not traditionally considered a literary figure. From a professional standpoint, he’s one of the pioneers of modern psychotherapy. His contributions are fascinating, and the more I delve into his writings, the more intrigued I become. Recently, I’ve been reading about his experiences with spiritual emergencies and his role in introducing the concept of the collective unconscious.

Jung’s openness to exploring the intersection of mental health, creativity, and spiritual emergencies makes him an ideal conversation partner. I would love to discuss how his visions and ideas emerged from his imagination, their impact on his understanding of mental health, and the creative process involved. The depth of our conversation could span mental health, creativity, and the profound insights he gained from his experiences. The prospect of engaging in such a dialogue with him is incredibly enticing.

Q8: Do you consider writing to be a spiritual practice?

Jennifer: Without a doubt, writing, for me, is a spiritual practice. There are several reasons behind this perspective. Firstly, the energy journey involved in the writing process demands a profound level of surrender. It requires facing deep-seated fears and delving into the innermost corners of one’s psyche. As the writer, you confront the clash between your ego and the creative force seeking expression through you.

My perception of writing as a spiritual practice underwent a transformative shift after reading Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear.” This book was a game-changer, reshaping my understanding of the creative process. Gilbert highlights the essence of “Big Magic” as the relationship between an individual and the mystery of inspiration. It made me realize why my previous approach to writing failed and I felt I was trapped in an incorrect paradigm.

Writing, as a spiritual practice, involves tapping into something beyond oneself. It’s a connection to a mysterious, ineffable force. Gilbert describes it as something coming through you rather than from you—a divine, collective consciousness, or whatever resonates individually. The profound experience of feeling like a vessel for something greater has left an enduring impact on various aspects of my life.

In essence, writing, for me, is not just a creative exercise; it’s a spiritual journey where I connect with a force that transcends the boundaries of individuality.

Q9: What part of the book did you find most challenging to write?

Jennifer: There were two parts of the book that presented significant challenges. Firstly, recounting the scene involving the miscarriage was particularly delicate. Given the sensitivity of the topic and the widespread experiences of heartbreak, I felt a responsibility to authentically represent my emotions at the time. Looking back with hindsight, I was concerned about accurately conveying the turmoil and the authentic struggle I faced. Reconnecting with the uncertainty I felt about the decision not to have children was a process, as my current perspective on the right choice made it difficult to remember the inner conflict.

Secondly, scenes depicting the relationship between Holly and her husband were anxiety-inducing. Drawing elements from my own life, where my marriage was unravelling, added emotional weight. Navigating the representation of a marriage undergoing challenges while still living through a parallel experience in real life was a complex balancing act. I sought guidance from a coach, grappling with concerns about how my husband might perceive the portrayal.

During this tumultuous time, I had moments of doubt and nearly considered giving up on the writing process. However, the guidance and support from my coach played a crucial role in helping me overcome these obstacles and persevere through the challenging aspects of the narrative.

Q10: How did you decide on the book’s title?

Jennifer: Deciding on the book’s title was an interesting journey. I had long been fixed on the subject and title related to the lighthouse keeper theme, thinking it was the obvious choice of subject and title.

One day, while cycling down a track after having coffee with a friend, I had a moment of inspiration. It felt as though a gentle hand turned my face, and I distinctly heard the words “wild Egg.” Initially resistant on title and subject of questioning the unconventional choice based on my own experiences, I realized there was a deeper resonance with the title. It wasn’t a decision I consciously made; rather, it felt like a revelation, almost as if the title had chosen itself. This experience highlighted the significance of seeking guidance and the role my coach played in navigating these moments of uncertainty.

Q11: Are you currently working on any other projects, and will we see Hollie again?

Jennifer: This question is quite alive for me at the moment. Initially, after completing “Wild Egg,” I felt a sense of accomplishment, as if I had submitted my lifetime dissertation. I considered taking a break, savouring the achievement, and enjoying a peaceful period. However, I then contemplated delving into another project, a book I’ve been eager to write about the lighthouse.

Recently, I experienced a surge of inspiration, feeling like I was on the verge of starting this new book. However, life took an unexpected turn, and I underwent a profound spiritual crisis in September. The repercussions of this experience are still unfolding, prompting me to question whether it’s time for a more significant change.

The central theme from “Wild Egg” is about being child-free based on my own experience but now  I have a question  ” are you truly free” that has been echoing in my mind. It led me to reflect on my choices, consider bold moves, and question the paths I’ve taken. Currently, I’m contemplating entering a space that intersects creativity, mental health, and spiritual awakening or crisis. This might lead to another book, possibly in a similar vein to “Wild Egg,” drawing on personal experiences but presented as fiction.

As for Hollie, I thought I was finished with her story, but considering recent events and shifts in my own life, I’m contemplating whether there’s another chapter to explore. This uncertainty is both exciting and daunting, as I navigate this uncharted territory in my creative journey.

Usha: And with that, we’ve reached the end of our delightful Q&A session. Jennifer, thank you so much for sharing your insights, stories, and the delightful glimpses into your life. It’s been a pleasure getting to know more about you and your journey.

To the readers, make sure to check out Jennifer’s book for a captivating exploration into the a childfree life.

You can connect with her on her Instagram page

https://www.instagram.com/wildegg21/?hl=en

Until next time, happy reading!