For me, ideas often start as feelings. Something sets off a spark deep within my imagination. That spark ignites a rush of dream-like thoughts that coalesce, grow, and take on life. I pause as images flood my mind, as entire worlds evolve, and a story emerges. The event is intensely emotional.
When I encountered the image at this link, that spark flared and tears came to my eyes.
A book was crying out to be written.