The Journey to “Cold Fire”
Choosing the right title for a novel can be as challenging as writing the book itself.
When I first started writing, the title that resonated with me was “FOX, Finding Her Protector.” It captured the essence of my protagonist’s journey and her quest for safety and strength. However, when my editor reviewed it, she suggested reconsidering the title, as she thought the title might mislead readers into expecting an animal story, rather than the transformative tale it truly is.
This feedback sparked a three-week deep dive into research and introspection. I wanted a title that encapsulated the essence of the story, while hinting at its deeper themes. And that’s how “Cold Fire” was born.
So, why “Cold Fire”?
“Cold Fire” symbolises the profound transformation that is central to the novel. It represents the fire that must be extinguished for new love to blossom, echoing the themes of rebirth and renewal. This concept is rooted in the ancient practice of Alchemy, which originated in Egypt. Alchemy is not just about the mystical transformation of matter; it’s about spiritual and emotional metamorphosis.
In Alchemy, the process of transformation was closely linked to the Nile’s cycles of flooding and receding, which brought forth new life from the fertile lands. This cycle mirrors the protagonist’s journey in the novel, where past pains must be confronted and resolved, to allow new beginnings and love to emerge.
Alchemy also connects to the belief in life after death, the transformation of the soul, much like the process of mummification in ancient Egyptian culture. The alchemical symbols for fire, water, air and earth, all play a part in the narrative, symbolising different aspects of the characters’ journeys and their emotional landscapes.
Why This Matters.
“Cold Fire” is not just a title, it’s a reflection of the story’s core. It’s about understanding that true transformation often involves a period of ‘coldness’, a time of introspection and ending, before the warmth of new beginnings can be felt.
By choosing this title, I hope to give readers a glimpse into the novel’s deeper layers, encouraging them to look beyond the surface and engage with the transformative journey of the characters.
In essence, “Cold Fire” serves as a metaphor for the alchemical process within the story, where endings pave the way for new beginnings, and transformation is the key to unlocking true love and personal growth.
GET TO KNOW US BETTER - FOLLOW US