Ask the Author: Kathy Cecala
Answered Questions (6)
Kathy Cecala
This idea for The Novice Master has been flitting around in my brain for years, but I kept putting it off, because I didn't want to write another contemporary novel. Strangely, it was an illness I had over the course of a summer, an inner ear infection which disintegrated into vertigo, that finally forced it out of me--I don't know why! Maybe it was the old "Life is Short' idea--that I'm not immortal and if I don't do it now...I get ideas from the craziest things, but with this book, it was just my lifelong fascination with the mentor relationship, and having had several excellent mentors in my own life and career.
Kathy Cecala
I don't use inspiration as a writing tool. I get 'inspired' all the time, but few of those ideas can translate into a long-term project. Instead, I approach the task of writing as a regular, daily job; just sit down and do it. If the inspiration comes, fine, but I don't really need it.
Kathy Cecala
My last project was so intense, I'm in a fallow field now, just kind of recovering. I'm coming to the realization that instead of being a historical-fiction writer, which is what I thought I was fated for, I may be the contemporary writer who draws on historical references. So my next book might be very similar in tone to my latest on, The Novice Master.
Kathy Cecala
Be persistent, learn to ignore unfounded criticism and naysayers, and just keep at it. I like Annie Lamont's advice about sh*tty first drafts: Get it all out there, then deal with it! Editing is key, and you do need to do multiple drafts, even on the computer.
Kathy Cecala
When the writing goes well, it is amazing, complete joy. To see a character emerge from your brain onto the page--that is astounding. But it doesn't always go so well: I have at least one major writer's block each year (see writer's block question!)
Kathy Cecala
With a long walk, a long drive (on a quiet road, not Route I-80), or a long hot bath. If the block persists, that means something's wrong with the project, and it may need to be halted, or shelved indefinitely...
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