Bingham's Notebook: The Art and Fun of Blending History

As I flip through the draft pages of the Call of The Minotaur, which I'm crafting (and yes, I will finish one day), I often find myself creating characters whose traits oddly echo those of well-known political figures. It sparks my curiosity and helps me forge a deeper connection with the story. Weaving real-life politicians into my fiction isn’t just about adding intrigue; it’s a delicate dance between imagination and reality. 

I choose to blend real-world political personas with my narratives to capture the essence of reality while enjoying the creative freedom that fiction provides. Political figures embody traits, ideologies, and events that shape history, making them compelling templates for storytelling. By incorporating these elements, I can create narratives that resonate on a deeper, more relatable level.

Using real political figures also allows me to explore "what if" scenarios. What if a historical decision had been made differently? How might a well-known figure react in an alternate universe? These explorations lead to captivating narratives that challenge readers to see history and politics from new perspectives.

As a fiction writer, I understand that there's a fine line between creative liberty and historical accuracy. It's thrilling to imagine how a political figure might act beyond the constraints of reality, but I always tread carefully to avoid misrepresentation or bias. This balance is crucial for keeping the story grounded, even as I stretch the boundaries of imagination.

One approach I've found effective in incorporating real political figures into my work is through hybrid characters. By blending traits from multiple historical personas, I create unique characters that feel both authentic and original. In my book, "The Midas Files," I introduced a U.S. President named James E. Hawthorne, inspired by both George W. Bush and Theodore Roosevelt. This combination allowed me to explore complex themes without being confined to a single historical narrative.

I love how hybrid characters can embody the strengths and weaknesses of their inspirations, offering nuanced portrayals that engage readers. By drawing on multiple sources, I curate characters that feel familiar yet new, which encourages readers to connect with the narrative on a deeper level.

Creating a hybrid character also offers me greater flexibility in storytelling. I weave in elements of humor, drama, and even fantasy without veering too far from reality. This approach opens up possibilities for exploring themes and scenarios that might not be achievable with a strictly historical character.

One of my favorite lines from "The Midas Protocol: Midas Files Book One" occurs when President Hawthorne expresses his irritation over Dr. Malcolm Kane and Bernie Heller's tardiness to a meeting. "Why are they late?" he inquires. They were busy working on something called, ah, the Internet. At that time, it was referred to as the ARPANET, but you understand the essence of the situation.

While some writers might use a real political figure as-is, I prefer to fictionalize aspects of my characters. This technique gives me creative freedom to delve into themes and narratives without being constrained by historical accuracy. Fictionalization can involve altering names, backgrounds, or even key events in a character's life. This not only protects my creative vision but also adds intrigue for readers. By leaving certain details ambiguous, I invite them to draw their own conclusions, fostering engagement and discussion.

However, I’m always mindful of the ethical and legal implications of fictionalization. I strive to balance creativity with respect for the real individuals and events I depict. This balance ensures that my story remains compelling and respectful, helping me avoid potential pitfalls of misrepresentation or bias.

I believe that novels featuring real political figures can profoundly impact readers, offering fresh insights into familiar narratives. By blending fact with fiction, I invite readers to explore history and politics from new angles, challenging preconceived notions and encouraging critical thinking.

These narratives also foster empathy and understanding, giving readers a glimpse into the motivations and challenges faced by political figures. By humanizing these characters, I can bridge the gap between history and fiction, crafting a more relatable and engaging narrative.

Still, I remain cautious about the influence my work may have on readers’ perceptions of real-world events and figures. By offering a balanced and nuanced portrayal, I ensure that my narrative remains both compelling and respectful.

One of the most exciting aspects of using real political figures in my writing is the opportunity to create alternate realities. By reimagining historical events and characters, I can explore "what if" scenarios that encourage readers to consider different outcomes and possibilities.

To achieve this balance, I conduct thorough research to ensure historical accuracy while allowing room for my creative interpretation. By acknowledging the limitations of my narrative and providing context for my choices, I aim to create a compelling and respectful portrayal of real political figures.

Incorporating real political figures into my fictional narratives offers me a unique opportunity to explore complex themes and dynamics, engaging readers with fresh perspectives on history and politics. While this approach presents challenges, including ethical considerations and balancing fact with fiction, the rewards are significant.

By crafting hybrid characters, employing satire and humor, and creating alternate realities, I can create narratives that resonate with readers and spark meaningful discussions. For anyone interested in exploring this fascinating intersection of reality and imagination, I encourage you to approach these stories with an open mind and a critical eye. After all, the lines between fact and fiction are often blurred, making the narratives all the more intriguing.