MarketingNewAuthors.com (MANA) celebrates the debut of Touchings of the Heart: Legacy of a Lady by Linda Diana Franshun Callahan. Linda's collection of poetry was self-published posthumously by her cousin, Carolyn Printup.The book contains seven sections: Pain, Legacy, Spirituality, Black Experience, World View, Love, and Musings. Linda's artwork precedes each section. Health challenges and her death in 2021 prevented Linda's desire to publish her work. However, Carolyn's love for her has made Linda's dream come true.
MANA: Can you share some personal memories or anecdotes about your cousin, Linda, that might show her passion for writing poetry?
Carolyn Printup (CP): In response to this question, I do not have any specific personal memories. I can only state that after Linda moved to Michigan as an adult, she shared many of her previous experiences and how she found writing as a way to express how she felt. Her ability to draw was another gift she possessed as a means of expression.
MANA: Do you know if there were any specific events or people who inspired Linda to pursue writing?
CP: Specific events were the painful ones she experienced growing up. As a way to handle these events, she moved from her parents' home to live with her grandmother. Her grandmother, along with a dear aunt, inspired her to read and instilled in her the desire to succeed. In addition to these two, spiritual leaders had an influence.
MANA: Were there any challenges or obstacles Linda faced while writing her collection of poetry?
CP: To my knowledge, there were no obstacles or challenges Linda faced while writing her poetry.
MANA: What messages or themes are included in Linda’s collection of poetry?
CP: I would say that the way Linda categorized each section expressed the emotions or thoughts she had on that subject. Whatever message a reader gets would be based on their individual experience.
MANA: Linda has artwork that she created in her new book. Besides being a writer, was Linda also an artist?
CP: Linda was not an “artist.” She had the ability to draw or sketch pictures. She enjoyed drawing facial pictures and birds.MANA: When did Linda’s interest in art begin? Has she had any of her artwork published?
CP: I cannot answer the question as to when she began drawing. I would say at an early age. She did not have artwork published.