I began wondering what people might want to know about me or about other writers. This line of thought quickly sent me back to talks I used to give. I don't do so many these days for various reasons - mainly that I can reach more people via the internet. It's not quite the same as having the personal interaction though.
But I digress...
I thought of the time spent planning the talks I give, and how it feels to walk into a room filled with people waiting to hear me entertain them for an hour. Yikes. Once I get started, I'm usually fine. I speak about how I first got into writing, explain a little about my working day, read an excerpt from my latest book - the usual stuff. When I reach the end of my talk, I breathe a sigh of relief and ask if anyone has any questions. Lots of hands shoot up and I can guarantee what the first two questions will be.
Any guesses? Then I'll tell you.
The first is always "Where do you get your ideas from?". Oh my, I wish I knew. The other evening I was watching TV with my husband and suddenly said, "Yes! I've just thought of a great place to hide a body." Fortunately, he's used to these outbursts and didn't look too concerned. But where did it come from? Divine inspiration? I don't know. I do know that ideas are all around though. Watch people, watch the news reports, read newspapers - ideas come from real life and they're everywhere. Sometimes, a good long walk and thinking about something else does the trick for me.
The second question, without fail, is "Do you write in longhand or on the computer?". I always have to choose my words with care at this point. I'm an author, people. Whether I dictate the words to a secretary, use a quill or a top-of-the range computer - I can't see that it matters a jot. Yet, to the readers I meet, it does seem to matter.
So tell me, folks. If you met your favourite author for dinner this evening, what would be your first question to them.
(Oh, and I type straight onto a computer. :o))
8 comments:
At what point do you know your 'book' is going to work?
For me, I like to know what an author's "process" is...always fascinating to look at how creativity works, and that's probably the question I get most from fellow writers.
I think I'd ask what they're thinking of doing next, but the question about their process would be there too. The way other writers do things always fascinates me.
I would most likely be struck dumb. When I was a singer, I met Mabel Mercer who could do fantastic things with lyrics and I had been given her albums for inspiration. I couldn't think of anything to say. Too much in awe.
Mike, that's a great question. I rarely know until I type 'The End'. Until that point, I exist in a state of complete panic. Sometimes, I don't know if it works until my editor assures me it does (or otherwise). :)
Anne Marie - yes! The actual process seems to be totally different from author to author. What a strange bunch we are.
Shelley, I'm with you there. I always want to know what the author is doing next.
Elise, that's too funny. So understandable though. It's impossible to think of anything when in the presence of a hero/heroine. :)
I would ask, "How do you sleep at night...?"
Marcelle, what a great question. Today's answer from me would be "I don't". :) I've been too busy trying to fill plot holes to sleep, lol.
Gorgeous!
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