Justice: Origins of a Story

Behind Walktall Part 3 - Letting Justice Lead

Walktall is out and after a brief snafu in which I gave a rough draft to reviewers, I couldn’t be prouder. For those who have already read the book, you’ve probably noticed how rich it is with metaphor. From the miracle of the butterfly at the end in its representation of the hero's internal transformation, to the more obvious ones like that of the fabled Tallmen and their fairies. Of all the different things happening in the book, I think learning to walk tall in the worst of circumstances is what I cherish most.

Walktall is a novella set in the Saga of Valor world, which deals with the underpinning of Fortitude. Naturally then, one might think Walktall would likely have some commentary on that virtue.

Wrong.

Walktall was written looking at the underpinnings of Justice. When it comes to the art on bravery, endurance, and valor the result is too often focused on the good guy running into danger. While that can be a result of virtous fortitude it doesn’t necessarily reflect that. Instead with Walktall, I set out in part to show some of the pieces that must be in place to act in fortitude. Which brings me to justice.

Justice in modernity is often viewed shallowly, making it a mere shade of what it is. When most people hear of this wisdom virtue the idea of getting what’s owed or deserved is what comes to mind. Yes, there is an aspect of that in the meaning of Justice. But that poses a deeper question and much more fulfilling understanding of the word—one that if taken seriously would see a lot less violence and insane acts from socially charged youth and activist types.

On a deep level, justice requires a person to first look inward and see the flaws within themselves—we might call this inner justice. Not to make peace with that which is painful or wrong, but to put one's house in order, so to speak. Properly applied, inner justice leads to bravery that can be in coordination with wisdom. Properly applied, inner justice is the basis of rightfully laid loyalty. Properly applied, inner justice acts as a pedestal on which other Virtues can more easily take root. It is the root (when it comes to virtue) which can allow a person to walk tall.

Just like the protagonist of Walktall, it isn’t about being perfect but making small choices that align the virtues, day in and day out.

That's it for blog #3 in this 3 Part Series of Walktall Origins. I hope you enjoyed these behind-the-scenes read Have questions or want to chat? You can reach out to me at izaic@izaicyorks.com Live long, and May the Force be with you! Izaic Y P.S. That saying is purposefully wrong ;) WALKTALL NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER