Mercedes Lackey, born on June 24, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, is a celebrated figure in the realm of fantasy literature. Her journey, beginning in a normal childhood and progressing through Purdue University where she graduated in 1972, took intriguing turns before she solidified her place as a prominent author. Lackey’s diverse experiences, from working as an artist’s model in the late 70s to delving into computer programming and eventually landing at American Airlines in Tulsa, Oklahoma, have enriched her unique storytelling perspective.
Beyond her acclaimed fantasy novels, Mercedes Lackey’s creative talents extend to music. She has penned lyrics and recorded nearly fifty songs for Firebird Arts & Music, a niche recording company specializing in science fiction folk music. This musical dimension adds another layer to her artistic expression, showcasing her as a multifaceted creator.
Mercedes Lackey views herself primarily as a storyteller, emphasizing that her narratives are character-driven. This approach resonates with a wide audience, as evidenced by her readership spanning from teenagers to senior citizens. Her exploration of songwriting stems from her belief in songs as “story pills,” capable of distilling narratives to their core essence or capturing pivotal moments. Lackey often uses lyric writing to clarify crucial scenes in her novels, enhancing her writing process and the depth of her storytelling. Furthermore, music plays a vital role in her fantasy worlds, often set in semi-medieval settings where bards are key figures. By crafting the “folk music” of these societies, Mercedes Lackey enriches the immersive quality of her fictional universes.
Lackey’s foray into writing began out of boredom, evolving into a compelling “addiction.” Despite claiming it hinders her social life, this passion has fueled a prolific career. She gravitates towards fantasy due to her love for the genre, yet she meticulously constructs her worlds with a rigor akin to science fiction. Applying the principle of “TANSTAAFL” (There Ain’t No Such Thing As A Free Lunch), Mercedes Lackey ensures magic in her universes comes at a cost, often substantial for the magician. This grounded approach extends to her world-building, where characters grapple with everyday issues alongside fantastical challenges.
A cornerstone of Mercedes Lackey’s writing is her commitment to creating nuanced characters, even the villains. As she states, “Even evil magicians get up in the night and look for cookies, sometimes.” This philosophy underscores her belief in portraying complex individuals beyond simplistic stereotypes. Her creed, articulated through her character Diana Tregarde in Burning Water, encapsulates her core message: “There’s no such thing as ‘one, true way’; the only answers worth having are the ones you find for yourself; leave the world better than you found it. Love, freedom, and the chance to do some good — they’re the things worth living and dying for, and if you aren’t willing to die for the things worth living for, you might as well turn in your membership in the human race.”
Mercedes Lackey also writes under the name Misty Lackey and invites readers to explore more about her work on her author’s website. Her dedication to crafting intricate worlds and relatable characters has solidified Mercedes Lackey’s position as a beloved and influential fantasy author.
