The Importance of Reading As An Author By S.C. Wynne

 
Morning all,

I tend to spend most of my time writing. Sometimes I'm guilty because I spend so much time in my make believe world, but it is what pays the bills. What I don't like about writing constantly, is that means I neglect reading.

And that's a fatal mistake. Fatal to my creativity.

One problem I had in trying to read was by the end of the day, when I'll actually give myself permission for a little "Me Time" my eyes are tired from staring at a computer screen all day. I find it hard to concentrate on the words in front of me when my brain is tired from creating all day. But I need to read other authors, good AND bad because it does indeed stimulate the creative process. Yes, even reading crappy books inspires me to write. Of course, let's face it, I prefer to read books I actually enjoy.

Recently I've become addicted to audiobooks. I'm like a kid in a candy store as I search through all the mm romance available. If the author picks great narrators, audiobooks are the best thing ever. I get the same exact jolt to my creative juices as if I read the book, but my eyes are spared. Growing up, my sister used to always read books to me and my other sister. We loved it. I find having a story read to me so relaxing and wonderful. Audiobooks are my new most favorite thing.

Even having audiobooks made is wonderful. I love auditioning the narrators. Two of my VERY favorite narrators are Kale Williams, who I used for my Shadow's Edge book, and Gomez Pugh, who I hope to use for one of my books one of these days soon. There is nothing quite like an attractive male voice reading the words of something you wrote. It really brings the characters to life.

Lately I'd been struggling with feeling a smidge burned out. Not so burned out that I didn't still love writing, but I did feel slightly uninspired.  I still had tons of ideas, but I didn't have that burning desire to put them down. Writing is freaking hard work, and don't let anyone ever tell you different. But after listening to several audiobooks, I feel rejuvenated. I feel so inspired.

I'm sure going to GRL in a month will also be hugely inspiring. Watch out world.

S.C.
www.scwynne.com