THE SHAFT
- Nell Ledbetter
- Feb 27
- 1 min read
One of the more challenging sections of this entire series was the one involving the elevator itself.
Such a simple space, and yet quite complicated. I had to do some serious research.
This was years ago now — at least ten. I started Googling images of elevators. Even harder was finding images of an elevator shaft. My internet quest took me through construction sites, manufacturer manuals, architectural diagrams — corners of the web I would never have otherwise thought to explore.
That’s the power of reading and writing. It’s an expansive practice.
After I’d gathered enough information, I had to strike a balance — blending reality with the story I wanted to tell.
How do they get in?
How do they get out?
What happens if they press this button?
What if something breaks?
What could happen?
Which versions of the truth can I stretch?
I had to decide what I would allow to become fiction and what would remain grounded. Suspension of disbelief is necessary in science fiction — but it's only as strong as the story's foundational realism. It is indeed an intricate and precious balance.
One of the things I love most about The Elevator is that — by design — the people who step onto this forsaken lift are just like any everyday human you might share a quiet ride with.
Add a touch of circumstantial drama, and you have the groundwork for an extraordinary turn of events.
But it all began with understanding elevators better. 😄
I love writing so much. 🤙🏽💜
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