Dolly Parton died Aug. 25, 2026, from cancer. May her soul rest in peace. She was a businesswoman, a performer, an actor, an author, and a philanthropist. But, of course, her greatest impact on the world was through her songs. This is my modest tribute to a singer/song writer I admire—never past tense—so much. I hope I don’t mess this up.

Dolly Parton was clear that her songs were autobiographical or at least semi-autobiographical. “Coat of Many Colors” came from a childhood experience. “I Will Always Love You” was inspired by a professional relationship. “Jolene” was a bit—or two or three bits—massaged from a personal experience. That song has two fun origin stories.

I think Dolly Parton’s ability and willingness to share so much of herself in her music showed her strength. I also believe it was her secret weapon. Dolly Parton allowed her listeners—her fans—to genuinely connect with her. She didn’t just tell us she experienced poverty. She showed us through her lyrics in songs like “In the Good Old Days (When Times were Bad.)” We felt those memories.

Her lyrics formed a connection between her and her fans by sharing with us her authentic self. That’s something I believe storytellers try to do with our books.

Me: Yes, the reader in the back of the room, waving your hand. What’s your question?

Reader: You write crime fiction. How are you sharing your authentic self through those stories?

Good question. I’ve given this a lot of bandwidth over the decades. Storytellers share their authentic self with readers through themes and emotions that we voice through our characters. We may not have had the same experiences. (Although I have been chased by armed assailants intent on killing me; but that’s a post for another day.) But the emotions we describe—fear, anger, grief, etc.—come from real places. And when we put those real emotions on the page, you feel them too. Our themes—family/found family, good vs. evil, underdogs, etc.—come from our authentic voices. Often they’re themes that resonate with you as well.

When we convey those themes and emotions through our characters, those characters live with you even after you’ve finished our stories—or we hope they stay with you after the story ends. Like a Dolly Parton song.

Who’s up for a rousing rendition of “9 to 5”? Jump in at the chorus.

Question: Is there a fictional character who’s left a strong impression on you because of the way the author developed him or her? Please also feel free to name a favorite Dolly Parton song.

Patricia Sargeant writes romantic suspense as Patricia Sargeant, cozy mysteries as Olivia Matthews, and contemporary romances as Regina Hart. Her work has been featured in national publications such as Publishers Weekly, USA Today, Suspense Magazine, Mystery Scene Magazine, and Library Journal. But only her family knows how much she admires Dolly Parton.  Claim your free subscription to her monthly enewsletter at PatriciaSargeant.com.