Ask the Author: D. Alan Lewis
Answered Questions (6)
D. Alan Lewis
I had written a short story for a Halloween contest, many years ago. I liked the character and the feel of the story and decided to expand on it.
D. Alan Lewis
Being around other writers is a big help.
D. Alan Lewis
I'm working on a short story collection, featuring a detective who deals with the paranormal. It is set in the 1950's in Nashville, TN.
D. Alan Lewis
Advice? I could write a book on that topic...
I'll say this, grow a thick skin. As you write, there will be editors and beta readers who'll give you hell about grammar, word choices, and so much more. Don't take it personally. They are not attacking you, they are helping you. And the meaner they are, the better. Take every thing they say and turn it to your advantage. Remember what they complain about and fix it, then remember it as you write more in the future. Having someone pointing out mistakes should never be taken as a bad thing, because once you know of a mistake, you can fix it.
I'll say this, grow a thick skin. As you write, there will be editors and beta readers who'll give you hell about grammar, word choices, and so much more. Don't take it personally. They are not attacking you, they are helping you. And the meaner they are, the better. Take every thing they say and turn it to your advantage. Remember what they complain about and fix it, then remember it as you write more in the future. Having someone pointing out mistakes should never be taken as a bad thing, because once you know of a mistake, you can fix it.
D. Alan Lewis
In any creative endeavor, you constantly worry about whether or not it is good enough. So it is incredibly rewarding when you have someone approach you, saying something like, 'I read your book. It was great. I'm looking forward to the next one.' It makes you feel like all the hours, days, months, and even years it took to craft the manuscript were worth it.
For me personally, the best thing was finishing and publishing my first novel. Although as the first, it isn't perfect. Still, I'm incredibly proud of it since I had so many folks telling me I couldn't do it, that I'd never be published by a traditional publishing house, and that I was wasting my time.
For me personally, the best thing was finishing and publishing my first novel. Although as the first, it isn't perfect. Still, I'm incredibly proud of it since I had so many folks telling me I couldn't do it, that I'd never be published by a traditional publishing house, and that I was wasting my time.
D. Alan Lewis
Going to conventions and other activities where I can be around other writers and readers usually will get me motivated.
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