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| Cal Shook - York Harbor, Maine |
Imagine writing yourself into the history of one of the greatest countries on earth and you weren’t born there. Alexander Hamilton wrote his way from a tiny Island in the Caribbean to
free passage to America. Once there he would gain admission to education and work his way up to become an influential force in shaping what would become the United States of America.
As an immigrant, Hamilton embraced his new life and opportunities. His ability to communicate his fresh perspective would create a revolution that would change the course of history for generations to come.
Fast forward to the 21st Century and meet writer/artist, Lin-Manuel Miranda, the son of an immigrant. Lin-Manuel becomes enthralled by the life of Alexander Hamilton. Six years in the making, his hip hop Broadway musical, “Hamilton”, is performed to sold-out crowds.
How in the world does a “rapping” musical about American history become a much sought after production? The PBS special “Hamilton’s America” offers keen insights to what it takes to become an accomplished author. Thanks to Lin-Manuel’s openness and candor the following motivational tools are revealed.
Tool #1: Write as though time is running out.
Our time here on earth is limited. Be obsessed – let it all hang out.
Just as Hamilton wrote wherever and whenever he could using his portable desk, Lin-Manuel did the same letting all the rhymes in his head make their way out onto the word processor on his laptop.
Tool #2: Know your subject intimately.
Lin-Manuel was inspired by author Ron Chernow’s book, “Alexander Hamilton”. Its 832 pages provided an extensive look into the life of this great man – warts and all. Not only did Lin-Manuel use this creative work, he also traveled to historic sights to gain further insight into the look and feel of the era in which Hamilton lived.
Tool #3: Take a risk and keep it real.
Test it out by taking a risk, but make sure it’s real – authentic.
“I have thought it my duty to exhibit things as they are, not as they ought to be.” – Alexander Hamilton, Letter of August 13, 1782
The first song Lin-Manuel created was blunt and edgy in its portrayal of Hamilton’s life. How would it be received? An opportunity presented itself when he was invited to sing a song from “The Heights” to close out an evening of artists at the White House. Instead he decided to sing this new song that he’d just written about Hamilton. As his performance ended, the audience rose to their feet in solidarity with applause.
Tool #4: Set deadlines and meet them.
After two plus years and only two songs, Lin-Manuel realized that he needed to get moving if this was going to be more than just a couple songs. To remedy this, he set deadlines and met them.
Tool #5: Tap into the talent around you – Collaborate.
Feedback from others is essential no matter what type of work you’re creating.
Not only did Lin-Manuel have conversations with fellow author Ron Chernow, he held what he called Cabinet Meetings with a core group that would help spur the production forward. Collaboration with authors/artists can help determine whether your words are making sense and assure that they fit the totality of the work.
In Closing:
Alexander Hamilton’s life inspired Lin-Manuel Miranda and
thanks to them and the PBS special “Hamilton’s America”* I am feeling
energized. The tools mentioned above,
along with testimonials accompanied by music and other visuals provided in this
special, are motivating me to write whenever and wherever I can. The next draft of the memoir about my paternal grandfather Joe's family is under way. The time to get it done is “now”.
What's your "now"?
*Note: The video "Hamilton's America" on PBS will expire on November 18, 2016
