I am Dorothy Gladys Smith—most know me as Dodie.

I sit in my writing room, perched between eras, reflecting on the early decades of the 20th century and the marvelous moments that shaped my career.

My surroundings vary, sometimes the streets of bustling London, other times a quiet English countryside that seeps into my stories.

Each setting brings inspiration, from the theater lights of the West End to the cobbled paths that stretch beyond my window.

This world I inhabit is, on the surface, recovering from war, clinging to remnants of tradition while eagerly embracing progress.

I’ve seen the world before the Great War and watched it break apart, only to mend itself in ways we hadn’t quite expected.

I’ve lived through the Roaring Twenties, survived the austerity of the 1930s, and witnessed the tremendous resilience of the 1940s.

My time is one of contradictions, where the old and new mix in ways both fascinating and perplexing.

For a writer, the people around me are endless sources of inspiration.

Humans in my time are deeply connected, whether they realize it or not.

They share the scars of war and hold fast to the delicate threads of hope.

In tea rooms and theaters, in conversations filled with both wit and wistfulness, I see their stories waiting to be told.

My Career and Life

Writing has always been my solace. “I Capture the Castle” is a piece of my heart; it’s a story that emerges from my love for England, for young love, for the beauty and loneliness of growing up.

And then, of course, there’s “The Hundred and One Dalmatians”—a story born from my love for animals and my own dear dalmatians, who brought such joy and inspiration to my days.

Being a playwright and novelist means my life is punctuated by characters, settings, and dialogue.

I confess that my career is sometimes filled with self-doubt.

Will my stories resonate with readers? Do they care about the castles or puppies I so cherish?

But at my core, I write for the sheer love of it, for the joy of creating worlds and lives out of ink and imagination.

My Thoughts for Startups: A 500-Word Reflection

As someone who’s spent a lifetime creating stories, I’d like to share a few thoughts with anyone looking to build something new—be it a novel, a business, or a movement.

There’s much to learn from storytelling when it comes to creating a brand or enterprise.

• Create a Story That Matters
  Every startup needs its own “I Capture the Castle”—a narrative that captures the heart and tells a compelling story. Audiences, like readers, are drawn to stories. Find the core of what you do and express it in a way that resonates. Think about your brand’s origin, challenges, and goals. A strong narrative can elevate you beyond mere products or services, fostering loyalty and giving people a reason to care.
• Know Your Characters
  Just as a novel needs well-developed characters, a startup thrives on the personalities within it. Know your team’s strengths and quirks, and let them shine. Bring people together who believe in your mission, each adding their unique perspective. It’s the “cast of characters” who bring richness and resilience to your venture.
• Balance Dreams and Practicality
  When writing, I often find myself wandering in the clouds, conjuring magic, but I have to stay grounded enough to make those visions real. The same holds true for any startup. Dream, yes, but stay mindful of logistics. Your venture needs a solid foundation as much as it needs imagination. Balancing inspiration with pragmatism will keep your business moving forward, even when challenges arise.
• Embrace Change
  The world I write in is forever evolving. Genres, reader preferences, even the way books are published—they’ve all changed over my lifetime. Adaptation is key. Similarly, a startup must remain agile, responding to new trends and challenges. Innovation isn’t just about creating something new; it’s about refining, reinventing, and sometimes letting go of what no longer serves.
• Celebrate Small Successes
  In storytelling, a single scene can bring joy, even before the book is finished. In a startup, don’t forget to celebrate the small milestones. Whether it’s a product launch, a happy client, or simply a day where everything works—pause to savor it. These small victories build momentum, keeping spirits high for the journey ahead.
• Keep the Spark Alive
  My love for storytelling is what sustains me through writer’s block and self-doubt. For any startup, passion is vital. Remember why you started. Whether you’re crafting a story, designing a product, or building a community, it’s your love for the work that will see you through challenges.

To build something lasting, let imagination and authenticity guide you.

Create something that matters, know your characters well, and tell a story that speaks to the heart.