A Character Forged by Change

In our last discussion, we explored the origins of “Under The Flamboyant Tree,” tracing its evolution from a single dark narrative to a trilogy. Central to this transformation is Isabella, a character who emerged from the shadows of her past to tell her own poignant story.

From Bianca to Isabella: A New Identity

Isabella, born Bianca, embarked on more than just a geographical journey when she immigrated to the United States from the Dominican Republic. Her decision to change her name was her “second baptism,” an attempt to redefine her identity and escape the burdens of her past. This transformation, while offering a veneer of renewal, masked deep-seated struggles that would later resurface with profound consequences. This lady is a mixture of the attitudes I noted of family members and friends who tried so hard to bury their roots and assimilate. To be seen as ‘the good immigrant.’

The Journal: Catalyst for Confrontation

The turning point in Isabella’s life, and indeed in our narrative, comes when tragedy strikes and she discovers her daughter’s journal. This moment is not merely about loss; it’s about confrontation. Through her daughter’s words, Isabella is forced to confront her shortcomings and the inadequacies of her maternal bond. This moment serves as a narrative pivot, pushing Isabella to confront what she has long avoided.

Parallel Paths: Therapy and Character Development

Writing Isabella’s journey paralleled my own experiences with therapy. Just as I navigated through past traumas to find clarity and understanding, Isabella’s character was refined and deepened through her emotional confrontations. These sessions of self-reflection did not just help me heal—they helped Isabella’s character become more real, more empathetic, and ultimately, more compelling.

Under the Flamboyant Tree

The Flamboyant tree, under which much of Isabella’s story unfolds, is more than just part of the setting; it is a character in its own right. Its enduring presence and deep roots symbolize the persistence of memory and heritage. Something that stuck with me from reading The Body Keep The Score is how while the mind may lie and say it has forgotten, it has not, and the body will react to things in the present as if it was living the trauma from the past. For Isabella, the tree is not only a silent witness to her family’s history but also a catalyst for her journey toward redemption.

Reflecting on Isabella’s Journey

Writing Isabella’s story has been a journey of discovery, challenge, and ultimately, fulfillment. As her character evolved from an idea to a fully realized person, I found new depths in the narrative I hadn’t anticipated.

As we continue this series in #tuesdaywritingupdate, our next blog post will explore the unique challenge of adapting each book to fit its genre while maintaining a cohesive overarching theme. Stay tuned for an in-depth look at how these genres influence the storytelling and the creative process behind each book.