In praise of the men of insight who advance My cause and assist the status of women in this Age.
|
In praise of the men of insight who advance My cause and assist the status of women in this Age. |
|
Dr. Charmaine Saunders about “Tahirih Thealogy” by Starr* Saffa When I was asked to say a few words at Starr’s book launch, I didn’t feel qualified to speak in depth about the content, so I chose to discuss the writing process. Having penned six books myself, I feel like an old veteran in the publishing war. I had a dream beginning to my life as an author in so far as a publisher approached me, rather than the other way round. He was from Singapore and after the book was a physical reality, he left me with 2000 copies in boxes, and returned to his own country. It fell to me to promote the book and I knew zero about marketing. Somehow through persistent door knocking I got myself on the Midday show and into newspapers, and on radio. In the end, over time, we sold 10,000 copies of the first book. It was incredibly hard work so I’m always happy to help out any new writers with tips, leads, contacts, shortcuts, whatever can make the journey easier. Writing is, by its very nature, a solitary pursuit. It requires great self-belief to take an idea your birthed, and make it into something tangible, something you have created out of your soul and now have to hand over to strangers – publishers, editors, distributors and scariest of all readers! People who are going to judge your work objectively and perhaps harshly. It is your baby and you can’t expect anyone else to believe in your child, your dream unless you do; in fact, writing a book is a lot like birthing. When I wrote my first book, I used an electronic typewriter and not being a typist, I found it very difficult. The friend who shared my house at the time was an unemotional scientific type, and would often come home to see me at the typewriter with tears streaming down my face saying, “This is like giving birth – It hurts!”. On top of all this, Starr has chosen to write a revolutionary book. One that would divide opinion, divide people, create discussion and argument, maybe even offend and provoke criticism. This takes a special brand of courage. I’ve come to understand in life that it is not about being right or wrong that matters, not being conventional or rebellious, but being true to your own inner voice, finding the courage to speak that truth, no matter what. Starr has courage to spare and is a walking embodiment of her name – she already is a star! Dr. Charmaine Saunders Perth, Australia August 2005 |
|
|
