photo by kate, graphic by me |
I have
a series of posts about my two favorite things: creativity and
inspiration. As a "creative" person, I am constantly searching
for inspiration to fuel my creativity, and I thought it would be interesting to
ask others about what they are passionate about. This is the forth interview in the series.
See the previous ones here.
I've known Erin since
elementary school, and we have been best friends since seventh grade. We've been
in multiple English classes together, and let me tell you--she is a queen
amongst peasants when it comes to writing. My favorite thing about her is that she one of the most talented and humble people I know.
Ever
since I've known you, you've written beautifully and thoughtfully. How did you
get into writing?
Well,
thanks for the praise! I started writing as soon as I learned how words and
meanings worked. First grade was really when I began to fill my school journals
with stories – my notebook-packed closet can attest to that. My crowning glory
of the late 1990’s/early 2000’s was a laminated and bound story entitled “The
Leopard.” And I quote: “Father was looking for brekfest. He didn’t come back
for a long time. Mother and Father knew they would have to make some
sacrifices. The leopards got hung and thirsty.” That genius launched my
literary career.
But
truthfully, I started writing because I realized I could, while my parents and
my teachers praised me. I continued to write because I found language was a
remarkable tool with which I could learn about the world and my place in it.
What
authors and/or books do you admire most and why? (PS I admire you.)
My
favorite literary era is the first half of the 20th century, mainly
mid-century. Some of my favorite works include George Orwell’s 1984, Ray
Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451, Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar, and F. Scott Fitzgerald’s
The Great Gatsby. I think that each of these books is a beautiful combination
of macro-social studies, personal history, and poetic expression.
My
favorite contemporary author is Dave Eggers. I truly admire not only his
writing, but also his success in creating the publishing company/everything
brilliant McSweeney’s.
Where
do you usually find inspiration for your work?
Absolutely
everywhere. One time, I started writing a fragment of a story about a chipped
baseboard. I love creating lives and stories for things that, to some, are
meaningless or dull. Lately, I’ve been inspired by the city bus. It is a
historically good place for people watching, and, as I have to ride it for 40
minutes a day, I find it to be quite conducive to story-making.
What do
you do to combat writer's block?
Try not to
fight it. Writer’s block is painful and irritating, but I think it is a crucial
part of the writing process, the same way editing or cutting is. Sometimes, I
just push through it and write absolute crap until I break through to something
decent. And then I DELETE. Other times, when I want to pry the keys off the
keyboard, I go eat a snack and watch My So-Called Life. It’s o.k. to leave your
writing and your thoughts for a little bit, because, often, they have silently
worked themselves out by the time you come back to them.
What
goals do you have for your writing?
Not too
many, actually. I write for myself as a way to understand the world I witness
and what I feel about that world. Mostly, I never want to lose the passion I
now possess for writing. I would rather write nonsense occasionally in my free
time and relish it, than become a novelist or columnist who is only concerned
about deadlines and word counts.
You are
always making the most adorable things. What are your favorite ways to get
crafty?
I love to
knit and wrap presents. Christmas is great for me, because I can get cozy with
a homemade blanket, knit tiny gifts for my friends/family, and tie up the
packages with leftover yarn.
How
would you describe your personal style or aesthetic?
I would
say it’s pretty eclectic. I think I’m aiming for a classic, vintage look with
lots of color and patterns thrown in. Currently, my favorite pieces are a green
and aqua plaid coat with a 60’s silhouette and Domenico’s old loafers. I also
wear a gold Kate Spade pen necklace nearly everyday. I feel like it epitomizes
my style goals and love of writing.
You are
the coolest. I love you.
I love you too! Thanks for sharing your
coolness everyday. We all admire you.
2 comments:
She's awesome! I am definitely inspired...and wanting to watch My So-Called Life again. That show.
I love interviews! Keep 'em coming!
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