By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
Menzies Creek resident Marian Matta is proving with her inspiring story of writing that it’s never too late to follow your passion.
Ms Matta started her serious writing journey at the age of 58, initially started with short stories before delving into historical novels.
“I started writing seriously about 15 years ago, I had a background in women’s reproductive health and childbirth, as well as local history – so those two things came together in this novel I wrote that set locally,” Ms Matta said.
“One day while driving, I envisioned a woman on a hill surrounded by graves, and I felt compelled to uncover the story behind that image – my knowledge of local history and my background in women’s health came together, and the story evolved from there.”
At 74 years old, she has published two novels – with each book taking just over two years to finish and she continues to explore her love of writing.
Like many, Ms Matta is fascinated by history, and she loves seeing how things have evolved and changed over time.
The writer’s skill in blending history with engaging stories has caught people’s attention, leading to a recent award from the Historical Novel Society in the UK for her first book.
“The Historical Novel Society holds annual conferences, and this year they organised a competition with various categories, and I entered my work in the 16th to 19th century category, and I was thrilled to be chosen as the winner, now, I’m excited to see what happens next,” the writer said.
With her second novel set in 1950s in New Zealand, Ms Matta is not only demonstrating her versatility but also highlighting that creativity can thrive at any age.
“I believe the older you get, the more life experience you have, which gives you plenty to write about,” she said.
Ms Matta’s greatest achievement in her writing over the past 15 years has been completing her stories.
“It’s always very encouraging for someone to read something you’ve written and then say, that was worth their time,” she said.
Currently, the writer is working on a companion novel set in the Emerald and Menzies Creek areas during the late Victorian era, exploring the development of the region and its medical practices.
“I just love this area and delighted in bringing its history to other readers,” she said.
The 74-year-old said that sometimes, all it takes to become a writer is the confidence to believe your story is worth telling.
“Sometimes it’s about having the confidence to keep pushing forward despite those voices in your head,” she said.
“When you see authors still writing in their 80s and 90s, it’s clear that it’s always a good time to start writing, all you need is a little confidence and perhaps to join a writers’ group for feedback.”
In addition to writing, she joined a circus school around the same time she started writing seriously, and she’s still the oldest student there.
“It’s an odd combination, but why not?” she laughed.
The writer encourages anyone interested in starting to seek out a local writers’ group for support and motivation to help them get started.
