Hi everyone, Erich Anderson here! You might know me from my work on the show “Felicity” or maybe you caught my turn as Rob in “Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter.” But these days, my passions lie beyond the screen. I’m a writer now, and I wanted to take a moment to share my journey with you, from the world of acting to the thrill of crafting stories myself.

Finding My Voice

Acting was a blast. It allowed me to explore different characters, step into their shoes, and bring them to life. But there was always this itch, a desire to create something from the ground up. I wanted to build worlds, develop characters with depth, and tell stories that resonated with people on a deeper level.

It wasn’t an overnight switch. In between acting gigs, I started writing. Short stories at first, just for myself, to explore ideas and see where they took me. Slowly, I began to find my voice as a writer. My stories weren’t about portraying someone else’s vision; they were about expressing my own unique perspective.

A Love Affair with History

One area that particularly fascinated me was history. From the rise and fall of empires to the lives of ordinary people in bygone eras, the past held a wealth of stories waiting to be told. I devoured books on ancient warfare, delved into the lives of legendary figures, and explored the cultural tapestry of different civilizations.

This fascination culminated in my first book, “Cataphracts: Knights of the Ancient Eastern Empires.” These heavily armored cavalrymen, a force to be reckoned with in their time, became the focus of my exploration. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, I aimed to bring these warriors back to life, showcasing their impact on history.

Beyond the Battlefield

But history isn’t all about battles and bloodshed. It’s about the everyday lives of people, their struggles, triumphs, and the societies they built. This led me to explore other facets of the past. I wrote articles on fascinating historical events, delved into the mysteries of ancient civilizations, and even dabbled in historical fiction with my novella, “Pan’s Pizza.”

The Magic of Storytelling

Whether it’s the clash of steel on the battlefield or the quiet moments of human connection, storytelling has the power to transport us. It allows us to experience different cultures, walk in the shoes of others, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around us.

As a writer, that’s what I strive for. I want to create stories that entertain, educate, and spark curiosity. Stories that stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page or closed the curtain.

The Writer’s Journey: It’s Never Too Late

My journey from actor to writer might seem unconventional, but it’s a testament to the power of following your passions. It’s never too late to explore new creative avenues, to discover the writer within you.

Here are some tips for aspiring writers who might be feeling lost:

• Read voraciously: Immerse yourself in different genres, styles, and voices. See how other writers craft stories, develop characters, and build suspense.
• Write regularly: Even if it’s just for a few minutes a day, get into the habit of putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard!). The more you write, the more comfortable and confident you’ll become.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment: Find your unique voice. Don’t be afraid to try different things and see what works for you.
• Seek feedback: Share your work with trusted friends, family, or writing groups. Their constructive criticism can help you improve your craft.
• Never give up: Writing can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Persistence is key, so keep writing, keep learning, and keep pushing yourself.

The Future Unfolds

This is just the beginning of my writing journey. I have many more stories to tell, characters to develop, and historical mysteries to unravel. I’m excited to see where the path takes me and to share my adventures with all of you.

Thanks for joining me on this ride! If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, feel free to leave them below. I always love to hear from readers.