‘She writes her own story’
In my research for When Ivy Met Adam, I stumbled upon Bruce Feiler’s fascinating book, The First Love Story: Adam, Eve, and Us. If you’re a writer or reader of romance, this is a must-read that will give you a fresh perspective on love, relationships, and the power of storytelling.
Feiler delves into the timeless story of Adam and Eve, reinterpreting it as the first love story in human history. What struck me most was how he reclaims Eve’s narrative, transforming her from the archetypal villain into a figure of empowerment and self-determination.
One quote that resonated with me deeply is:
“Eve is the first teacher, the first to trust her eyes, the first who wants to know. In so doing, she becomes the first to commit the ultimate modern act of not accepting the meaning of others but insisting on making meaning yourself. She writes her own story.”
This portrayal of Eve as a trailblazer who chooses to make meaning for herself rather than accepting the narratives imposed upon her is powerful. It’s a reminder that the stories we tell about love and relationships have the ability to shape not only our understanding of the past but also our approach to the present and future.
In When Ivy Met Adam, I wanted to capture that spirit of self-determination and the courage to rewrite one’s own story. Ivy, like Eve, is a character who refuses to be confined by the expectations of others. She insists on making her own way in the world, even when it leads her into uncharted territory. And into Florida!
Feiler’s book provided inspiration and insight into the complexities of love, making it clear that the story of Adam and Eve is not just a tale of loss and exile but also one of resilience, partnership, and the enduring human desire to create our own destinies.
If you’re passionate about stories that challenge conventional narratives and celebrate the power of love, I highly recommend giving The First Love Story a read. It’s a compelling reminder that the act of writing our own stories—whether in life or on the page—is both a revolutionary and a profoundly romantic act.
