Ask the Author: Rea Nolan Martin
Answered Questions (8)
Rea Nolan Martin
I'm a little behind in my reading since I'm trying to finish up a new novel. But right now my summer list includes AMERICAN NATIONS; WHEN BREATH BECOMES AIR, and a re-read of Ursula LeGuin's THE WAVE IN THE MIND.
Rea Nolan Martin
By far my favorite fictional couple is Scarlett O'Hara and Rhett Butler from Gone with the Wind. I loved the complexity of their relationship, and how things didn't just automatically work out for them. Also on my list are Katherine and Healthcliff from Wuthering Heights; Gatsby and Daisy from The Great Gatsby; and Claire and Jamie from Outlander. These are all couples with great literary magnetism and chemistry whose challenging circumstances made their lives and their relationships very human and real.
Rea Nolan Martin
The Anesthesia Game was a game that my son invented when he was undergoing regular treatments at a clinic many years ago. I changed the rules somewhat to simplify, and the story is certainly not about him. But because I spent a lot of time with him in a clinic setting, I was able to create an authentic environment. When he was undergoing treatment, I would think...what if he's not unconscious? What if he's superconscious? What if a person undergoing anesthesia has potential for experiences that alter the course of their healing? And my imagination took off from there.
Rea Nolan Martin
I'm fortunate in that I have a backlog of stories in my head. Over time some of them tend to merge with others, giving me a rich stew of story lines and characters. Most of my inspirations come from spiritual/mystical experiences I either have myself or hear about.
Rea Nolan Martin
I am currently working on another work in the genre of visionary fiction about mystic mentor who doesn't take any of her own advice.
Rea Nolan Martin
My advice to aspiring writers is to learn your craft. Many people today skip this fundamental step and self-publish what are really first or second drafts. As a former teacher of writing in a master's program, I know how much nuance and skill goes into a good story. If you want to write literature, you have to read a tremendous amount of good writing--and seek classes that can teach you why this is good writing. The elements of good storytelling are not as straightforward as you might think. Next you should seek workshops and master classes to hone your skills. You have to be willing to put yourself out there for critiques from accomplished authors and storytellers in your genre. After that, patience, patience, patience. If you are a true writer with a true gift, you should never give up.
Rea Nolan Martin
The best thing about being a writer is the opportunity to use the gifts I was given to communicate the ideas in my head. Many people don't even know what their gifts are. Others know, but are unable to make a living at it. For me, there are too many blessings to count.
Rea Nolan Martin
I don't often have writer's block, but when I do I generate inspiration through prayer and meditation. I've also been known to open the box of 96 crayola crayons (I keep at my desk) and inhale deeply. It never fails to inspire!
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May 22, 2017 07:47AM · flag
May 22, 2017 09:34AM · flag