The Mighty Six-Ninety by Alexander Hamilton Cherin is a nostalgic love letter to Southern California, capturing the essence of a time when the region was undergoing significant changes. Through the fictionalized story of a radio contest, Cherin explores the struggles and triumphs of the characters as they navigate the shifting landscape of Southern California in the late 70s and early 80s.
Cherin joined me on SoCal Voices Podcast to talk about the book. One of the key themes in hi novel is the search for identity, both on a personal level and on a larger scale. The characters, such as Sally Lang, represent the various challenges and opportunities that Southern California faced during this time. Sally, a single mother and a strong woman, embodies the resilience and adaptability of the region as it grapples with economic shifts and changing demographics. Through Sally's story, Cherin highlights the struggles and triumphs of individuals trying to find their place in a rapidly evolving society.
The process of writing the novel itself reflects the changes and challenges of the time. Cherin began writing the book in late 2019, just before the onset of the pandemic. Over the course of four years, he navigated the uncertainties and disruptions of the pandemic, finding moments of inspiration in the midst of chaos. The pandemic, in a way, provided an opportunity for self-reflection and creative exploration, shaping the narrative of the novel and adding depth to the characters and their stories.
In addition to exploring personal and societal changes, The Mighty Six-Ninety also delves into the evolving media landscape of Southern California. Through the lens of the radio contest, Cherin examines the role of radio in a world increasingly dominated by streaming and digital content. While radio may be playing less of a role in the media landscape, the novel serves as a reminder of the power and influence of traditional media in shaping cultural identities and connecting communities.
Looking ahead, Cherin's perspective on the future of Southern California reflects a sense of uncertainty and possibility. Just as the characters in the novel grapple with the challenges of their time, Southern California continues to evolve and adapt to changing circumstances. Through The Mighty Six-Ninety Cherin offers a glimpse into the past while also raising questions about the future direction of the region.
Be sure to listen to the SoCal Voices Podcast episode "How SoCal's 'The Mighty 690' Inspired A Novel" and hear how Cherin brings to life the magic of The Mighty 690 and the music that defined a generation, creating a compelling and immersive reading experience for fans of radio history and pop culture. Hear the full episode on socalvoices.com or your favorite podcast player.
