Writers as Readers

What genres (types of writing) interest you? What specifically about this genre interest you? Why are you draw to science fiction books, for example?

I have always been drawn to fantasy fiction. I can read anything, absorb anything, enjoy anything (speaking of genres, of course) but the epitome of literature has always been—for me—fantasy fiction. The fantastic, colorful worlds and cultures; the surreal, larger-than-life characters; the epic, engaging plots. The subtle twists in the stories and monumental impacts to life. The use of philosophy and virtues to drive a point across. Fantasy fiction is marvelous, because it doesn’t have to be grounded in our reality. It can be anything it wants to be, and I believe that that is a fantastic thing.

Which author do you think your writing style is most like? Do you purposely imitate certain writers and/or try to avoid writing like certain writers?

My writing style isn’t from one particular artist, but a culmination of dozens that I’ve read. I take most inspiration for epic fantasy fiction writers like Terry Brooks, Terry Goodkind, and Robert Jordan. I try to avoid imitating more mainstream authors like J.K. Rowling or Cassandra Claire as the simpler, straightforward and less detailed form of writing doesn’t appeal to me. I want mesmerizing detail and depth in a series or book.

What is your favorite book or series? Why is this your favorite?

What a horrid question! How could anyone force another avid reader to choose a favorite? It is like choosing a favorite child (easier than you think). I would say Terry Brooks because he inspired me as a reader and a writer and continues to do so today. The first major fantasy fiction novel I ever read and the one I’ve read more than any other. But how can I forget David Rothfuss, who tells his stories in a marvelous, unique way and threads hidden meanings all throughout his books? Or Terry Goodkind, whose amazing philosophies and simple humanity can take your breath away, and send you reeling into a stupor for days, just thinking about what he said? Or Robert Jordan, whose world is more in depth and colorful than our own, complete with characters that you feel you know personally and dearly? Or Orson Scott Card, who takes time traveling and science fiction to a whole new level? What about the classics? Jane Eyre, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Giver? I couldn’t possibly choose.

When you write, do you continually envision the “reader” of your piece? Who do you think would be interested in reading your work? Does having a reader in mind affect how you choose your words, themes, ideas? What’s different if you just write for yourself knowing no one else will ever read what you come up with?

Of course I envision the reader. If you want someone to read your work, you must envision how they will perceive it. How will they imagine the setting you’re creating? How will they feel about your characters? Will they understand? When you’re writing for yourself, you omit what you already know, because reiterating what’s common knowledge to you is a waste of space. Writing for others comes with an explanation. Writing for yourself doesn’t.

Do you think that someone who reads a lot might become a stronger writer? Do you think we pick up vocabulary, sentence structures, themes, etc. from the books we read that come out directly or indirectly in our own writing?

I think the best writers—just like the best musicians—are always influenced by their favorite authors. We learn from other writers. We see what we do wrong, and what they do wrong so we won’t repeat those mistakes. We learn vocabulary, interesting structures, even get ideas from books that we read. Our writing styles evolve with the books we read.