Goodreads
Goodreads asked Joy Monette:

How do you get inspired to write?

Joy Monette 1) Things that have happened to me because writing about them can be fun or nostalgic, or both. It's a great way to learn from one's experiences and very cathartic. 2) People-watching and listening in on conversations (but not in a stalker way). 3) I take notes in a good, old-fashioned wire-bound notebook whenever I read or watch something that inspires me. I also write down great descriptive passages that I come across. For inspiration, I read through my notes every now-and-then. 4) I read voraciously in my free time. I don't mean that I copy other authors' plots or characters or whatever, but I end up with a unique blend of ideas. Remember, all English books are just different combinations of 26 letters. How hard can it be!?

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