The Emotional Journey of Writing “Solo Agers: Kakistocracy”

There are moments when life presents us with a mirror, reflecting truths we’ve long avoided. Writing “Solo Agers: Kakistocracy” was one such moment for me—a journey that compelled me to confront not only societal issues but also the deepest corners of my own vulnerability.

The Seed of Inspiration

The inspiration for “Solo Agers” sprouted from a confluence of personal and professional experiences. Witnessing my father’s battle with Parkinson’s disease was a profound catalyst. Watching a once-vibrant man grapple with the limitations of his own body was both heartbreaking and eye-opening. It wasn’t just his journey; it was a glimpse into a potential future I might share. As an unmarried individual without children, I found myself pondering the realities of aging alone—a “solo ager” in every sense.

My professional background as a financial advisor further fueled this contemplation. I’ve seen firsthand the looming retirement crisis, the demographic shifts as birth rates decline, and the strain of a $100 trillion unfunded healthcare obligation weighing on our society. These aren’t just numbers; they’re harbingers of a future that demands our attention.

Emotionally, the idea took root in a place of vulnerability. It was about seeking clarity on what my future might look like and recognizing that in an era where traditional capital may wane in importance, social and community capital could become our most valuable assets. We’re inherently social beings, defined by our relationships and connections. This realization became a cornerstone of the narrative.

Confronting Personal Vulnerabilities

As I delved deeper into the writing process, I was confronted with personal vulnerabilities I’d long kept at bay. A pivotal moment came when I acknowledged my own need for help—a difficult admission for someone accustomed to self-reliance. The prospect of facing the future alone, possibly contending with the same ailment as my father, forced me to reflect on personal decisions that led me here. It wasn’t about regret but about honest introspection.

This journey also unearthed uncomfortable truths about my past attitudes toward the elderly. Patience had not always been my strong suit, and I recognized a certain intolerance I held—a reflection of a broader societal tendency to sideline our seniors. Confronting this in myself was humbling, but it also became a driving force to instill empathy in my writing. I wanted readers to step into the shoes of the elderly, to feel their experiences, and perhaps, expand their moral horizons.

Characters Born from Reflection

Stephanie, the resilient protagonist of “Solo Agers,” is a tapestry woven from threads of personal influence. She embodies the strength and determination of my mother, a woman who overcame tremendous adversity during the 1980s—a time when her struggles were demonized rather than understood. My mother’s resilience in the face of addiction, without the support structures we recognize today, became a blueprint for Stephanie’s character.

On the other hand, Ben, Stephanie’s husband battling Parkinson’s, mirrors aspects of my own journey. Throughout my life, strong women have been pillars of support, buoying me through challenges and believing in my potential even when I faltered. Ben’s reliance on Stephanie echoes this dynamic, highlighting a redefined masculinity rooted in vulnerability and trust.

Facing Emotional Challenges

Turning 44 was a milestone that brought unexpected challenges. After losing my job, I spent a year grappling with unemployment—a first for me. Experiencing ageism firsthand was jarring. I found myself in a precarious financial situation while also caring for my ailing father. It was a stark reminder of how quickly one can become marginalized when they no longer fit society’s definition of “productive.”

This period tested my resilience. Many relationships in our lives are transactional, and when your perceived value diminishes, so too can your connections. I navigated this emotional landscape by embracing mourning over melancholy. Mourning allowed me to acknowledge and grieve the loss of who I once was, paving the way for rebirth and renewal. It became a pivotal theme in the novel, illustrating the choice between succumbing to despair or forging a new path forward.

Embracing Authenticity in Storytelling

Allowing myself to fully experience and express these emotions enriched the depth of the narrative. Authenticity became my guiding principle. I realized that true storytelling requires a willingness to be vulnerable, to peel back layers and expose the raw truths beneath. It’s akin to standing naked before the world, unguarded and honest.

An old saying goes, “If you want to understand a writer, read their work.” Writing this novel demanded that level of openness. By confronting my own fears and biases, I was able to craft characters and scenarios that resonate on a profound level, inviting readers to reflect on their own perceptions and attitudes.

Personal Experiences Infused into the Narrative

My father’s struggle with Parkinson’s undeniably shaped key themes in the book. Observing his journey informed the portrayal of Ben’s character and the challenges he and Stephanie face. Additionally, my earlier rigidity—stemming from my time in the Marine Corps—lent authenticity to characters like Agent Cooper, who embodies a black-and-white worldview. It was important to explore how such perspectives can both aid and hinder us, especially in complex moral landscapes.

A Shift in Perspective

This emotional journey has fundamentally altered my perspective on aging and societal values. Engaging with medical professionals, psychologists, and gerontologists provided invaluable insights into what it means to age in a fast-paced world that glorifies youth. I gained a deeper appreciation for the struggles of the elderly and the systemic changes needed to support them.

On a personal level, it fostered greater empathy in my interactions with my father and others facing similar challenges. Simple acts, like offering patience to an elderly person at the grocery store, became meaningful gestures of connection.

Hopes for the Reader

My aspiration is that readers will find a sense of community and connection within the pages of “Solo Agers.” I hope the story encourages you to view aging through a different lens—to see the elderly not as burdens but as treasures holding a wealth of experience and wisdom.

I want to spark conversations about how we value individuals at every stage of life, challenging societal norms that often sideline the aging population. By destigmatizing aging and fostering empathy, we can begin to build a more inclusive and compassionate society.

The Power of Facing Truths

Confronting my truths has been both challenging and liberating. It has imbued the narrative with a level of authenticity that can only come from lived experience. I’ve traversed the full spectrum of emotions—heartbreak, confusion, despair, hope—and emerged with a story that I believe genuinely reflects the complexities of our human journey.

A Message to Fellow Writers

To other writers, I offer this advice: embrace vulnerability. Do not shy away from the uncomfortable truths within you. It’s in these places that the most compelling stories are born. Remember, mourning who you once were is a natural part of growth. Avoid the trap of melancholy, which can stifle creativity and progress. Instead, allow yourself the grace of rebirth, understanding that our identities are ever-evolving.

Great art does not flourish under censorship—especially self-censorship. Let your authentic voice be heard, unfiltered and unapologetic.

An Invitation to Reflect and Connect

I invite you to join me in this exploration of vulnerability, resilience, and societal change.

• Have you considered how your own perceptions of aging influence your interactions with the elderly?

• What steps can we take individually and collectively to foster a society that values people at all stages of life?

• How can embracing our vulnerabilities lead to personal growth and stronger communities?

Please share your thoughts and experiences. Your insights enrich this ongoing dialogue and help us move toward a more empathetic and understanding world.

Let’s Continue the Conversation

I encourage you to reach out through the contact section—I read every message. Together, we can build a community that not only raises awareness but also inspires meaningful action.

📖 Pre-Order Now — Be among the first to embark on the journey of “Solo Agers: Kakistocracy.” Reserve your copy here.

Thank you for taking the time to read and reflect on this emotional journey. Your support and engagement mean more to me than words can convey.

Warm regards,

Myron Ward