John W. Mefford, Author
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Just Only John

9/6/2011

17 Comments

 
Like so many ground-breaking moments, the initial spark was ignited in Silicon Valley. With my feet dangling off the side of my bed in San Mateo, California, I could hardly hold back my excitement. I snatched the hardcover from my Mom and began to read my first book, Just Only John, by Jack Kent. The book cover, the title, the story, the colorful pictures all captured my attention…over and over again. The author took an ordinary kid and brought his imagination to life, centering on his desire to be someone, anyone other than himself, John. It included witchcraft and highlighted his sense of anxiety when he morphed into a lamb, a lion, and a long-bearded old man. In the end, John came to accept himself for being just only John. I must have read the book two hundred times.

The book resonated with me in many ways, including developing a strange fascination with my name, as simple as it is. I was drawn to people whose name was John, especially athletes. I strived to learn more about them, what made them tick. My favorite golfer, Johnny Miller. One of my favorite basketball players, John Kuester (a guard on the North Carolina basketball team that included four other players from the 1976 Olympic Team). One of my favorite folk heroes, Johnny Appleseed.

Growing up, I often emulated my favorite athletes: Roger Staubach or Drew Pearson of the Dallas Cowboys, Walt Frazier or Bill Bradley of the New York Knicks, and Don Mattingly of the New York Yankees. When Bruce Jenner won the Decathlon gold medal at the Olympic Games in Montreal in the summer of 1976, my brother and I used picnic benches for hurdles, sticks for javelins, and set up a long jump pit in our yard.

Fast forward about fifteen years. I picked up a book by a new author, John Grisham. (Yes, his name actually made me curious.) It was paperback – never enjoyed holding open a paperback. I’m strange, I know. The book was titled The Firm. With my feet actually touching the floor, I read every chance I got and finished it in four days, a record time for me. I then found A Time to Kill and I read it. Both books made me think and feel differently, but both took me on an emotional roller coaster.

 I then took a step back and asked myself why did the books draw me in? How did Grisham do it? How did he appeal to me and so many other readers? Deep down, I believed I’d never uncover the magic ingredient without trying it myself. At different milestones in my life I’d flirt with the crazy thought: Did I have it in me to write a compelling story long enough to take up an entire book? To create a fictional plot and characters that would resonate with readers?

Two weeks after I quit my job, I set a goal to write a book, purposely ignoring all of the negative data that strongly suggested I’d have better odds at striking gold at the concrete washout down the street than publishing a novel. Out of sight, out of mind.

About three months later, I typed the last word of my first manuscript. Of course, that was only the last word of the first draft, a process that I’ve repeated several times, like peeling an onion, and nearly as emotional when carving off pieces and parts of my original recipe. As I’ve learned, that’s the writing business.

Since then, I’ve written a second manuscript, a sequel to the first, learning more about writing and myself in the process. It’s been humbling, but exhilarating.

I no longer imagine I’m Roger Staubach dodging a defender to toss a TD pass, or imitating Don Mattingly’s batting stance. I couldn’t hit a curve ball, I’m sure. And, I don’t pretend to be John Grisham. I am someone who gets a kick out of writing cool mystery and thriller novels, painting the blank canvas in my own unique fashion. My interest with my name faded long ago, but thanks to some good DNA, I have a propensity to study people from all walks of life, a healthy attribute when searching for plot and character ideas. 

I invite you to tag along for the ride. I’ll try to make it as cool and interesting and fascinating as I can.

As John Kleese once said: “If you want creative workers, give them enough time to play.” I just cracked my knuckles. Back to playing.

Or something like that.
17 Comments
Dorothy Whitfield
9/7/2011 12:34:52 pm

John
Thanks for sharing some of your intimate thoughts about my 'Just Only John', you! I am still smiling -- one because I remember your enthusiasm & love for that book & two, because I can still see you with your dangling feet & yes you must have read it 200 times.
But I am also smiling because my son, John has a gift for writing and I am so proud that I now have tears of pride & Joy! Your blog reads so smooth, so easy. As I have said, I am so excited to read your book, Love. Mom

Reply
Dad and Lyn
9/12/2011 05:24:56 am

I loved that book and watching you read it! Lyn remembers when you read The Firm as well.
We're so glad you are pursuing your dream and can't wait to read Committed.

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Liz Ehrsam
9/12/2011 07:15:49 am

John, I can't believe you have already finished two manuscripts. Can't wait to read them.

Liz

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Susan
9/20/2011 02:25:37 pm

Hey John --

I love personal narratives like this where the reader is treated to an author's string of what seem at first glance like small events but taken in sum signify something much more substantial, as with your aspiration to write. Kudos to you for following through!

Keep the stories (fiction and non) coming ...

Susan

Reply
John W. Mefford link
9/23/2011 07:15:45 am

Thanks for the positive feedback. Many more stories are swirling around...some for books, some for blog posts. Cracking knuckles again...

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S.E. Gordon link
9/26/2011 09:36:49 am

Former journalist? You have all the skills to succeed!

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John W. Mefford link
9/26/2011 10:22:52 am

Former journalist, yes. But not a former Aggie. Thanks for the feedback.

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Philip Taylor link
9/28/2011 06:51:48 am

I'm glad to read an author's blog, such as yours. Good to have access to your thoughts as you develop a novel. And thanks for directly requesting a follow on Twitter (where I'm ptaylor98). Good way to build a following. I'm following you on Twitter and I'll read your blog. Keep on writing and tweeting!

Reply
Kathy Lynn Hall link
9/29/2011 09:44:17 am

How terrific that your story started with a book. I think that's probably true of the majority of writers, but we just don't remember which one.

This is inspiring. Keep it up, John!

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John W. Mefford link
9/29/2011 10:45:17 am

While I recall my first memorable book, I held a ball long before a book. I badgered my parents relentlessly to play some type of ball with me all of the time. Certain books left a mark on my life, without a doubt. But the process of creating something that generates an emotional reaction is what provides depth and meaning to my life. I can't let it go again.

Reply
James Ross link
12/6/2011 08:45:51 pm

Congrats on your writing achievements. It is amazing what can be done with a blank piece of paper and the first keystroke. If a story needs to be told there is only one way to do it. That's the old-fashioned way of one word at a time.

Reply
John W. Mefford link
12/6/2011 10:22:30 pm

Amen, James. You speak for every author out there...and everyone who seeks the path to becoming one.

Write on, my friend!

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Constance Wallace link
12/8/2011 02:27:21 am

I understand that connection to reading, then the connection to writing. Have a great Holiday. :)

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John W. Mefford link
12/8/2011 02:41:21 am

Thanks for your comment, Constance. Recognizing my connections and purpose has come later in life, but that makes it all the more appreciated. Thanks again!

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Robbi Sommers Bryant link
12/18/2011 01:20:19 am

Congrats on the release of Committed. Bravo!

Reply
John W. Mefford link
12/18/2011 01:35:35 am

Thank you Robbi. It's been an incredible experience. I've been lucky to stumble upon some very supportive people...now, my friends. It's all about paying it forward. Good luck and thanks again for the well wishes.

Reply
Vincent G link
1/1/2021 06:07:40 pm

Good reading youur post

Reply



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