The Interview - Mary Lane

I've always had a passion for storytelling and a deep love for literature. Growing up, I found solace and inspiration in books, and I knew from a young age that I wanted to create stories that could touch people's lives in the same way.

My writing process typically begins with an idea or a concept that sparks my imagination. I like to start with extensive outlining to flesh out the plot and characters before diving into the actual writing. Once I begin writing, I aim for consistency, setting aside dedicated time each day to work on my manuscript.

Like many writers, I often struggle with self-doubt and writer's block. However, I've learned to embrace these challenges as part of the creative process. I combat self-doubt by surrounding myself with a supportive community of fellow writers and reminding myself why I love storytelling. When faced with writer's block, I find that taking a break, engaging in other creative activities, or simply going for a walk can help reignite my inspiration.

Developing characters is one of my favorite aspects of writing. I start by creating detailed character profiles, delving into their backgrounds, motivations, and personality traits. I often draw inspiration from real people I've encountered or aspects of myself. As I write, I let the characters evolve organically, allowing them to surprise me with their actions and decisions.

My advice to aspiring writers is to write as much as possible and to read widely across different genres. Don't be afraid to experiment with your writing style and to embrace constructive criticism as an opportunity for growth. Most importantly, never give up on your dreams, and remember that rejection is a natural part of the writing journey.

Feedback and criticism are invaluable tools for improvement. While it can be difficult to receive negative feedback, I try to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to learn. I remind myself that not everyone will resonate with my work, and that's okay. Constructive criticism helps me identify areas for improvement and ultimately strengthens my writing.

I strive to explore universal themes such as love, resilience, and the human experience in my writing. Ultimately, I hope that my books resonate with readers on a deep emotional level and inspire them to reflect on their own lives and relationships.

Balancing writing with other commitments can be challenging, but I prioritize consistency and discipline. I carve out dedicated time for writing each day, whether it's early in the morning or late at night. I also communicate my writing goals and schedule with my loved ones to ensure they understand and support my creative endeavors.

The thing I enjoy most about being a writer is the ability to transport readers to different worlds and evoke emotions through words. There's a profound sense of fulfillment that comes from creating something from nothing and knowing that it has the power to impact someone else's life.

Currently, I'm working on [describe your current project]. It's a [genre] novel that explores themes of [themes]. I'm excited to share this story with readers and hope it resonates with them as much as it has with me during the writing process.