Frequently Asked Questions.

Where do you find your ideas?

I spend a lot of time outside, or reading and watching movies with the thought of finding something of interest. When I do, I write it down. I keep lots of notebooks: one in my bag, one in my car and many on my desk. I used to use tabs in each journal so I wouldn’t forget what they referenced. But that was chaotic. Now I keep notebooks named for one thing like ‘ideas’ and a separate notebook for specific stories, poems or articles that I want to finish. Eventually you figure out what works for you.

One of the most difficult things to do as a writer is to find time to write. People all have lives that cut into their writing life and if you let it, it can be overwhelming. I used to think I had to be inspired before I could sit down and write but now I write anytime or anyplace even for a few minutes and that helps me become inspired. Everything I write doesn’t make it to publication. I just keep forming thoughts, sentences and paragraphs until it comes together. Then it’s ready for my readers.

Someone asked me if they could be a writer if they were often angry and out of sorts. They felt strongly about things they wanted to share but were afraid of the reaction from readers. I believe writing is personal and sometimes passion leaves its profound mark. However, we are all human beings and it is my hope that any writer can express their strength of feeling in a way that respects us all.