Bringing a town to life is no easy task. It is a complex and intricate process. You need to have a clear image in your mind. That was a challenge with bringing to life the town in my novel. Kreefkop Baai, which translated literally means Crayfish Head Cove. Given that this was my largest writing project to date, it was daunting. Building a whole world with only words is not a small feat.

Where?

I started by deciding where in which general region I would set Kreefkop Baai. One evening, while musing over my story, there happened to be a show on TV called Shoreline. For those unfamiliar, it is a South African travel show that focuses on the people, animals, and environments that can be found along the coast of the country.

There were some spectacular vistas that stuck with me. In particular, the geography of the Wild Coast was ideally suited to my story. The specific rock formations are a key part in my novel’s plotline. With the Wild Coast in mind, I could start thinking of a name for the town.

In my mind’s eye, I envisioned a town set atop towering cliffs, with limited access to the ocean. A winding road down to a dangerous beach seemed to fit in well. Furthermore, to add a unique touch to this fictional part of coastline, I envisioned a small cove or break in the rocky shoreline, shaped like a crayfish’s head. From there the name, Kreefkop Baai, stuck. Since I was originally writing the story in Afrikaans, I didn’t, at the time, think of an English name.

What?

What is Kreefkop Baai? It is a cute, but slightly run down, town. More details will of course come in the novel. But I will venture some information to help you envision it. I drew inspiration from the cute, white-washed little houses and cottages one often finds in the Cape provinces. The vegetation is mostly fynbos and similar greenery.

And, of course, the roads aren’t great, and the municipality doesn’t quite instill confidence. The town is relatively small, following the curve of the land, with stunning views of the ocean’s power. In my mind, the fishermen in this town are courageous and skilled. To eke out a living they need to brave the treacherous entrance to the ocean, and that is after making the perilous descent to sea-level.

I couldn’t leave this seemingly peaceful town as is. There is more than meets the eye. Like a deadly riptide, barely perceptible, there is danger lurking here, threatening to sweep even the most honorable of men and women into dangerous waters figuratively.

And Kreefkop Baai isn’t alone. No no. It has a neighboring town that plays a key part in my storyline. Be sure to look out for that when the book debuts!

History

I am still doing some research into the historical background of this region. So far, I have found several fascinating historical accounts that will greatly help bring this account to life. Legends, folklore, and reality melt together and forge a fascinating tale of the people and land.

Excitement

I can guarantee that you will enjoy the experience of exploring Kreefkop Baai tremendously. A lot happens here, as well as in the neighboring town. The roads in and around this town whereupon our characters walk, and ride will tell their tale.

Stick around and follow my progress as I finish this passion project and get it ready to share with the world.

Thanks for being here.

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Until next time, write stuff down!

Mozzie