Virtual Craft Chat With Novelist Paz Pardo

Unleashing Emotions with Psychopigments

Imagine a world where colors hold the power to evoke emotions. A world where Argentina emerged victorious in the Falklands War, all thanks to psychopigments. Intriguing, isn't it? Well, that's exactly the premise of Pardo's book, "The Shamshine Blind." In this captivating tale, the protagonist, Kurtita, works for the psychopigment enforcement agency, relentlessly chasing down criminals involved in the illicit trade of fake psychopigments. Set in a post-apocalyptic San Francisco, devastated by magenta pigment disasters, the story takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of intense emotions and memories triggered by these remarkable pigments.

The Evolution of a Unique Concept

"The Shamshine Blind" was not born overnight. It sprouted from the seeds of a poem back in 2012 and blossomed into a full-fledged story in 2014. Centered around the enigmatic character of Cretita, the book delves into the exploration of emotions through the lens of pigments. Drawing inspiration from the detective genre, the novel weaves together a tapestry of emotions and thrilling plotlines. Like many noir narratives, the main character, Cretita, suppresses her emotions to cope with the overwhelming effects of the pigments. This repression serves as a gateway to delve deeper into her psyche, unlocking hidden layers of her character.

Unmasking Emotions with Pigments

Conveying a character's hidden emotions is no easy feat, but Pardo masterfully uses the concept of pigments to unveil the true depths of their feelings. The character of Cretita often finds herself overwhelmed by emotions, resorting to pigments as a means of denial. It's a fascinating exploration of the human psyche, as the protagonist grapples with her emotions while skillfully denying their existence. Pardo also sheds light on how the world within the book unexpectedly developed, with Argentina playing a significant role influenced by its cultural and historical context. In this world, Argentine musicians hold more sway than even iconic figures like Madonna, adding a unique twist to the narrative.

The Joy and Challenges of Writing

Writing "The Shamshine Blind" was no small feat for Pardo. It took a staggering eight years, spanning seven or eight drafts, to bring this masterpiece to life. Along the way, the author discovered that the world within the book needed to be darker than originally envisioned. This realization prompted a reevaluation of the characters, exploring the implications of a conservative and reactionary Empire. Pardo fearlessly delved into various societal issues, including the AIDS crisis faced by a gay character. By introducing these darker elements, the story gained depth and complexity, captivating readers on a whole new level.

Throughout the writing process, Pardo emphasizes the importance of finding joy and maintaining a sense of playfulness. Writing should never feel like a chore but rather a delightful adventure filled with small moments of joy. It's this energy that breathes life into the story and keeps the author engaged during the revision process. Pardo also highlights the responsibility of respecting the characters and the consequences of the world-building choices made. Writing is a delicate dance of creativity and accountability, and Pardo embraces this dance with enthusiasm.

Crafting an Organic Narrative

Exposition plays a crucial role in storytelling, and Pardo excels at seamlessly incorporating it into the narrative. The author employs various techniques, such as having characters engage in activities to divert their thoughts, ensuring that exposition never feels forced or unnatural. Pardo strikes a delicate balance between providing full explanations and leaving room for readers to infer details, creating an engaging reading experience. The journey of becoming a writer for Pardo was influenced by their mother and their transition from acting to writing. This transition granted them greater control over the stories they wanted to tell, empowering their creative vision.

The Allure of Novels and the Struggle with Short Stories

When it comes to writing, Pardo finds themselves drawn to the vastness of novels. They believe that novels offer a greater scope for in-depth character portrayals, allowing readers to truly understand and connect with the characters. Short stories, on the other hand, often feel like snapshots, capturing a moment in time rather than delving into the complexities of a character's journey. Pardo's comfort with the theater medium shines through as they discuss the chapter titled "shamshine" in their work. They appreciate the collaborative nature of theater, where other artists can fill in the details, adding depth and richness to the overall experience.

Inspirations and Influences

Pardo draws inspiration from a myriad of literary influences, each leaving an indelible mark on their writing. They admire the noir novels of Dashiell Hammett, finding solace in the dark and gritty atmospheres he creates. Pardo also ventures into the realm of science fiction, referencing William Gibson's "Neuromancer" as a prime example of the fusion between noir elements and futuristic settings. They are captivated by Gibson's noir-like writing style, which adds an extra layer of intrigue to his stories. Philip K. Dick is another potential influence, although Pardo hesitates to draw direct comparisons.

In the realm of fantasy novels, Pardo finds solace in the works of Ursula Le Guin. Le Guin's exploration of Jungian Psychology and her ability to tackle complex themes like grief and race relations within fantastical settings resonate deeply with Pardo. They believe that speculative fiction offers a unique lens through which to reflect on larger realities, allowing readers to explore profound concepts in an accessible and captivating way.

A Satirical Twist on America

In Pardo's novel, the United States is depicted as a defeated nation. However, rather than painting a dystopian picture, Pardo finds amusement in this portrayal. They draw parallels with countries like Argentina and Colombia, showcasing the resilience of people and the world's resources even in the face of adversity. Pardo's depiction of America serves as a satirical twist, revealing underlying truths about the country and its societal dynamics.

The Journey of a Writer

For Pardo, writing is a journey of self-discovery and growth. They don't fit neatly into the categories of plotters, pantsers, or planters. Instead, they embrace the fluidity of their creative process, allowing the story to unfold organically while maintaining a sense of the plot's rhythm. Each draft brings new insights and challenges, requiring deliberate plotting and restructuring to refine the story. It's a journey that demands dedication, creativity, and a deep understanding of the characters and their world.

In conclusion, "The Shamshine Blind" is a testament to Pardo's exceptional storytelling prowess. Through the power of psychopigments, they invite readers into a world brimming with emotions, intrigue, and unexpected twists. Their writing style, infused with creativity, humor, and a touch of satire, keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Pardo's journey as a writer is a testament to the joy and challenges that come with crafting a truly remarkable story. So, dive into the colorful world of "The Shamshine Blind" and prepare to be captivated like never before.