Mr. Raven Q & A VI
Q: We learn something about Gemma in the first paragraph as she challenges the reader with lines such as “A simple up-front warning should be included at the start of this tale.” Did you do this to show us her empowerment?
A: Yes, but there’s more to it than that. I wanted to set the tone early for what the reader should expect down the road. The clear implication is that before sharing her story, Gemma has experienced a transformative journey. She has now arrived at a stage in life where she is a direct, efficient, and no-nonsense woman. The reader is just starting down the path, and I want them to feel total immersion in the realistic scenarios that will follow this strong and resilient but still sensually feminine character. Gemma speaking directly to the audience at the start launches this relationship.
Q: So there is an immediate breaking of the so-called “fourth wall” between Gemma and the audience?
A: Yes, and that just so happens to be a play on the mirrors theme. In most stories, we are witnessing the action via a one-way mirror. We can see through to observe the characters who are on the opposite side of the mirror while the players are not allowed to be aware of the outside universe. With few exceptions, most characters remain locked into their side of the glass wall. Gemma breaks that construct immediately, shattering yet another “Virtual Mirror”. She openly engages the reader directly at certain key points in the story, before transitioning back into her first-person narrative style. She knows who her audience is, and feels that speaking directly to them at strategic moments is a comforting reminder. Gemma wouldn’t start out with a challenge only to let that tone lapse later on. When it comes to breaking the fourth wall, it either has to be a rare thing or one has to go willing to go “all in.” As an empowered female, Gemma would never choose the passive route, so she tells her story in a very frank style.
As an author of erotic science fiction, Crystal Raven is an archetypical seeker of sovereignty in all forms and facets whose desire is to ignite and spread the flames of passion and freedom amongst humanity. Walking the self-determined path of the hero's journey, Crystal is committed to personal and planetary evolution.