Behind the (Writing) Scenes with…

Sandra Kucinich-Horn, Central Ohio Branch

Using Symbolism and Archetypes

After I have written the outline and initial copy of a novel, I reflect on how my characters and settings can be more multidimensional. My manuscript, “The Springridge Incident,” is at this stage.

I have been exploring the archetype settings of my current book, which has four: wasteland, fortress, wilderness, and maze.

The two protagonists are Ben and April. The account begins in Ben’s yard and home. Ben has allowed his lawn, bordered by a fence and tall privets, to become overgrown and hostile because kids have made his property the target of senior high school pranks.

The archetype “wasteland” struck me as being represented here. The wasteland may be characterized as an inhospitable landscape representing decay, loss, and the need for renewal or rebirth.

Ben’s mother and protector passed away. The outside of the house is described as needing repair. At 35, Ben, who is neurodiverse, is stuck in the inertia of the attitudes of the small town where he lives. He is sentenced to incarceration because, in an attempt to defend his home, he shoots a rifle out a second-story window, and a stray bullet hits a teen.

Symbolically, the prison is a “fortress” for Ben. It offers him confinement but also protects him from outside society. It is a place where he can learn to socialize in a microcosm. Ben finds a friendship that he has never had before. His cellmate and counselor try to shield him and teach him to adapt socially.

For April, Ben’s yard is more of a “wilderness.” Without question, she follows her friends to be accepted. She has no goals except to go to college and play field hockey alongside her friends.

The wilderness is defined as an untamed habitat symbolizing danger and the potential for self-discovery. The environment of Ben’s yard is described as unkempt and dark. Because of the injury that occurs, April needs to decide whether to fight for the future she wants or be resigned to being an invalid.

Midland Hospital is a “maze” for April, where she needs to be more introspective and face the challenges that no one else can strive to conquer. She has the support of her physical therapists, occupational therapist, doctors, and parents, but only she can do the work necessary to walk again.

The definitions used above are from KM Weiland’s blog, “Helping Writers Become Authors.” She has several books about writing using archetypes and symbolism.

Sandra Kucinich-Horn, who publishes work under the name Sandra K-Horn, is the author of four books, including one nonfiction. She has worked in politics, education, and broadcast media. Kucinich-Horn taught high school English and communications for 31 years and received Teacher of the Year award from Time Warner in 2006 and 2008.

Learn more about her work at sandrakhorn.net.