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Questions about being an author

Posted on by Kitty Clairmont Author

Just answered some questions on Goodreads about being an author:
  • How do you deal with writer’s block?
  • What’s the best thing about being a writer?
  • What’s your advice for aspiring writers?
  • What are you currently working on?
  • How do you get inspired to write?
  • Where did you get the idea for your most recent book?
How do you deal with writer’s block?
There’s no such thing as writer’s block – it is simply a period where you need to seek inspiration from anywhere other than your paper or computer. Inspiration is a funny thing – I think when your mind is going down the wrong path your brain just – stops – inspiration can hit from the most unlikeliest places – the park, television or a conversation. All of a sudden it will come to you.
You have to be patient – just like cooking – certain elements need to be harmony. I have spent a week even more waiting for ‘it all to fit into place’ – then a movie starts playing in my head and I TALK to the computer through typing. I don’t care about spelling or grammar I just let it spill out. Often I produce more during that intense period of writing than at any other time when I have tried to ‘force’ it.Go with the flow – do anything but think about what you’re stuck on – it will come.
What’s the best thing about being a writer?
The freedom to put all my thoughts onto paper/computer and sharing it with others.
I am often moved to tears and certainly have a lump in my throat when someone tells me how much my writing means to them – how it has changed their outlook on life – how they feel that they are no longer ‘alone’.
It never changes, I am always humbled to have touched another’s soul in that way.
What’s your advice for aspiring writers?
 Do it!!! don’t let anyone put you off. If you are tired of getting nowhere – self publish – it’s not as taboo as it once was. If you believe in it, then others will too. Get as much feedback as you can – especially to gauge whether your message has gotten across. Be prepared to rewrite, rewrite and rewrite again.
Write about what gets you excited, personal experiences are always a good starting point. Tap into your passion and forget about what it’s supposed to look like. Get it down – there’s plenty of time later to edit.If you don’t enjoy writing then there’s no point. If you love it – then don’t let anything stand in your way!
What are you currently working on?
I am busy trying to finish book two in my children’s series: Bonny Bonnie. It follows my first called ‘Arty Tardy’ which is told through the eyes of a child with Asperges.
‘Bonny Bonnie’ is about a child with Downs Syndrome.I am also currently writing a teaching resource to accompany ‘Arty Tardy’ which will include workshops featuring art and drama.
How do you get inspired to write?
From unusual sources! watching TV, whilst swimming, walking in the park seems to spark ideas, current news items and generally the most mundane activities such as shopping or just chatting to a friend will trigger an idea which I scribble down on whatever is at hand!I always keep a notebook with me – just in case!
Where did you get the idea for your most recent book?
From a collection of memories and experiences working with SEN children – some sad, some hilarious but all touched my heart deeply.‘Reality, Bits, Bytes and Chips’ was an opportunity to address adult issues through poetry, short stories, pod casts and a play: East End Spices – which is a journey through a typical East London high street – all the different characters you will meet as they go about their daily lives: reggae tunes mixed with Hindi and every example of colour,creed and culture you could find – all in one area.