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Tradition, Family, and Identity
In The Price of Passion, a married restaurant owner faces difficult truths as he struggles to decide between his duty to his family and his feelings for a young waitress. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
My father, Artemios John Korkidis’ idea for The Price of Passion came from a deep interest in exploring the intricate and often tumultuous nature of human relationships, particularly within the context of a vibrant cultural community. He was inspired by the emotional and moral complexities that arise when personal desires conflict with familial responsibilities. Observing the dynamics of close-knit communities, especially within the Greek-American diaspora, provided a rich tapestry of experiences and interactions that he wanted to capture in a narrative.
The setting of Astoria, with its blend of old-world traditions and modern challenges, offered a compelling backdrop to examine these themes. The community’s strong cultural ties and familial bonds mirrored the internal struggles of the characters, making it an ideal environment to delve into issues of love, loyalty, and infidelity.
In particular, he wanted to create a story that does not shy away from the raw honesty of emotional turmoil and the consequences of one’s actions. The character of Peter, a restaurant owner torn between his love for a young waitress and his duties to his family, emerged as a central figure to explore these conflicts. His journey of self-discovery, regret, and the impact of his choices on those around him form the heart of the story.
Ultimately, The Price of Passion is a reflection of my father’s fascination with the human condition, the cultural richness of the Greek-American community, and the enduring questions of love and morality.
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
When developing the characters in The Price of Passion, my father, Artemios John Korkidis, adhered to several emotional and moral guidelines to ensure they felt authentic and relatable. The primary guideline was to portray the characters’ inner conflicts with honesty and depth. Peter’s struggle between his love for Alkmini and his duty to his family was crafted to reflect the raw, often painful reality of such situations. My father aimed to show Peter’s vulnerability, flaws, and the emotional toll of his decisions on both himself and his loved ones.
Another key guideline was to highlight the moral complexity of infidelity. Rather than painting characters in black and white, my father sought to explore the gray areas where human emotions and ethical dilemmas intersect. This approach allowed him to create multifaceted characters who evoke empathy and understanding, even when their actions might not be morally justifiable. The emotional journeys of Helen and Alkmini were also given significant attention, illustrating the far-reaching impact of Peter’s choices on their lives and mental well-being.
Was there a reason why you chose this location as the backdrop for your story?
Astoria, with its vibrant Greek-American community, was chosen by my father as the backdrop for the story because of its rich cultural heritage and the unique dynamics it offers. The close-knit community in Astoria provided a compelling setting to explore themes of tradition, family, and identity. The cultural elements woven into the narrative, such as the restaurant scenes, familial gatherings, and community interactions, added depth and authenticity to the characters’ experiences.
Astoria’s blend of old-world values and modern challenges mirrored the internal conflicts faced by the characters, making it an ideal location for the story. Additionally, the familiarity and warmth of the community contrasted sharply with the personal turmoil of the characters, enhancing the emotional impact of their journeys.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
My father’s last book before his passing was titled Captain Nicholas Remembers. This deeply personal and poignant novel captures the reflections of an aging Greek sea captain looking back on his life, filled with adventures, loves, and losses. Captain Nicholas Remembers is a testament to my father’s enduring talent for storytelling and his ability to touch readers’ hearts with his richly drawn characters and evocative prose. The book stands as a beautiful legacy, reflecting his passion for exploring the human spirit and the complexities of life.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Katherine Korkidis | Website | Amazon
The Price of Passion is the story of two people in what should be a trusting and meaningful relationship. However, this is a tragedy in every sense of the word. A dysfunctional marriage leads to the destruction of a family. Jealousy and an excessive need for control lead to both madness and murder. The story is told from the perspectives of both spouses to help the reader understand human weaknesses and behaviors. Both protagonists suffer greatly but are ultimately unable to change their tragic character flaws.
About the Author
Artemios John Korkidis grew up on the island of Crete, Greece. As a young man, he migrated to New York City where he wrote for the National Herald and raised his family. Surrounded by his cherished family members, Artemios lived his life doing what he loved: painting, writing, and inspiring others. The Price of Passion is his third book. It has been translated from the original Greek version with additional content by his daughter, Dr. Katherine E.A. Korkidis. Dr. Korkidis has a Ph.D. in Biophysical Chemistry and is also a writer like her father. Through her love and respect for her father, she has helped preserve his life’s writings for generations to come.
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