I get asked on occasion about the name of my company, Comfort Swamp. Some of my Louisiana family and friends, especially those from my hometown of Denham Springs, are familiar with the name. It’s the name given to an area of the Amite River swamp south of Denham Springs. It came from a family by the name of Comfort who were early settlers in that area.

Over the years that name has been used by musical groups, hunting clubs, and now a company dedicated to writing. I’m pretty sure that’s not something Mr. Comfort could have foreseen all those years ago.

When we were teenagers, we were warned about going into that area of the swamp at night. Tales were told of panthers and other unknown beasts that lurked there, waiting for a meal. But in the quiet darkness of the evening, as we sat safely and securely around fireplaces in our homes, darker tales were told. Tales of evil lurking there. Evil that lay quietly for years without making an appearance. Putting us at ease, believing it had long since passed.

Of course, we knew these were tales told for fun, and to keep teenage boys who were not known for using the best judgment, out of an area where twisted ankles and an occasional water moccasin were the biggest risks.

Or were they…

Comfort Swamp. The novel. Coming soon.