The Power of Ritual Storytelling with Anita Kopacz
Alongside raising three children, working as an editor, and practicing as a spiritual psychologist, Anita Kopacz spent seven years creating the magnificent work of art that is Shallow Waters, her debut novel.
The protagonist of the book is based on a mythical deity, Yemaya, and you’ll hear Anita’s reasoning for centering her story around this character, and what she thinks is the most valuable lesson that readers can learn from her.
The book is part historical fiction and part parable; it deals with deep trauma through ritual storytelling, and Anita explains why she believes this is the most powerful way to help people listen to and understand important issues.
In today’s episode, Anita also shares the personal healing journey that was made possible for her through the writing of this book, a gift which she hopes it will also give to others.
Show Notes
Anita shares the quirks that make her describe her younger self as strange.
Where Anita’s family is from.
A description of the deity, Yemaya, that is the protagonist of Anita’s book, Shallow Waters, and what the story is about.
The connection that Anita feels to Yemaya.
How the process of writing Shallow Waters was healing for Anita.
Unexpected feedback that Anita has received from readers of her book.
Why Anita chose to write a work of fiction.
A novel that Anita read in high school which had a profound impact on her.
How the Yemaya in Anita’s book differs from the mythical deity that she is based on.
Reasons that Anita decided not to include any sexual trauma in the book.
The target audience that the book was originally intended for, and why that changed.
An important lesson that readers can learn from Yemaya.
Anita’s love for ritual storytelling and her plans for the future in this realm.
Advice from Anita on transitioning from non-fiction to fiction writing.
Fears that Anita has managed to overcome.
The process Anita went through to get Shallow Waters out into the world.
A valuable lesson Anita learned about how to deal with writer’s block.
Anita’s request to buy the book from independent outlets.
References