Sometimes I guess I don’t want to know

One of my favorite Frog and Toad stories is THE DREAM.

I tear up every time I read it because it captures a deep fear that, as I become more myself and allow myself to shine, my relationships will disappear. This is a big reason why I’m afraid of success (whatever success means…but that’s a different post).

Anyway, the story soothes my soul because at the end, Toad wakes up and Frog is right there with him, a reminder that the best and most meaningful relationships will endure.

HOWEVER…

I came across an interview in which Arnold Lobel talked about his inspiration for THE DREAM. Usually I love hearing the story behind the story. Usually a behind-the-scenes peek actually enhances my experience.

Welp. Not this time.

Here is what Arnold Lobel said: “That particular story was based on a very particular relationship I have with a friend who tends to be an expert in one-upmanship…we all have people that we love but who constantly play that one-up game. If you know something, they know more. If you really like the person, you submit to that. You don't fight it; Frog submitted to it. He just got smaller and smaller.”

I know that an author’s initial spark is not always what the book ends up being about. I also know that the author’s experience of the story is very different than the reader’s experience of the story. But even so, the quote left me unsettled as I worry that if I’m being fully myself or taking up room, I’m taking away from other people somehow.

While I continue to work on that in therapy (hee hee), I’m curious what you think about the author inspiration side of it:

When should we share our inspirations for our books? When does sharing actually negatively impact or limit the readers’ experience?

Honestly this is the first time hearing inspiration has “negatively” impacted my experience. (But also is it really negative if it inspires this much thought and soul-searching?)

Your always full of questions friend,

Rachel