"I am not throwing away my shot" - Lin-Manuel Miranda, Inspiration, and Persevering in writing

I had heard the rave reviews of the smash-hit/blockbuster/phenomenon known as Hamilton for a few years ... I finally saw Hamilton on July 4th, locked in my air-conditioned room trying to block out the sounds of fireworks and firecrackers and tuning in to the sublime music and acting that makes Hamilton so unique.

I loved it! Since then I have listened to the music over and over (I'm listening now) and I plan to see it again soon, trying to rope in some of my family members to watch it with me.

Forgive me for presuming, but I have sensed a few parallels between Lin-Manuel Miranda and me.

1. He read a book that inspired him - Ron Chernow's biography of Hamilton.
    I read a book that inspired me - The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano.

2. He spent years working on the music for Hamilton the musical.

    I spent years researching Equiano's life and that of his daughter, Joanna Vassa.

3. He built a world for theater-goers and movie-watchers to inhabit for a few hours.

    I built a world--Nigeria and South Carolina in the mid 18th century; England in the early

   19th century, for readers to inhabit for a few days.

4. He fashioned a compelling story about a complex man--Alexander Hamilton.

    I attempted to fashion a compelling story about a complex man--Olaudah Equiano.

5. He taught some American history while entertaining audiences.

    I teach some American and British history in my historical novel.

5. He wrote an award-winning musical, as both composer and lyricist, attracting millions to the stage and screen.

    I wrote....

Well, that may be where the parallels end. I did write a historical novel about the daughter and sister of Olaudah Equiano--Remnant. I am passionate about Equiano's life and telling his story. I researched for years and wrote for years. And yet, my novel is not yet published.

Lin-Manuel Miranda has inspired me to not "throw away my shot." I am returning to the novel into which I put my heart and soul, and will keep revising. Then I'll send it out into the world of publishing again. But if all else fails, I'll self-publish. I have resisted self-publishing, but it may be the best route for Remnant in the current publishing climate. Stay tuned...

Have you written a novel or short story or poem? Have you tried to get it published? Don't give up! Keep sending it out there into the world. Don't throw away your shot!