Ask the Author: Beth Alvarado
Answered Questions (6)
Beth Alvarado
I was teaching a short story class and decided to try to imitate Flannery O'Connor, Raymond Carver, Grace Paley, and George Saunders all in one story. The result was an early draft of the first story, "The Dead Child Bride." I liked the characters I came up with and their voices kept speaking to me -- or spoke to me every now and then -- and so I kept writing stories.
Beth Alvarado
I am inspired by paying attention to the world around me, essentially. Even the news can inspire me. I do research to write my books and so I guess curiosity is at the core of inspiration for me.
Beth Alvarado
A series of essays about places where I've gone in the past. Most incorporate thoughts about the art and literature of the place. This comes out of not being able to travel right now due to Covid and so I'm traveling in my memory and imagination and through doing research and reading.
Beth Alvarado
I don't really like to give advice because different things work for different people at different times. But, basically, read, experience as much as you can, open your mind and your heart. Listen and watch and learn. Be curious. Allow yourself to fail.
Beth Alvarado
You discover things and you, sometimes, create something beautiful. You write by yourself, but it connects you with other people -- because writing helps you become more observant and empathetic.
Beth Alvarado
It depends on what's causing it -- but mostly, lower my expectations. Go on a walk. Read something. Eat chocolate. Talk to a friend about writing -- or not writing.
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