Ask the Author: Robert Downes
Answered Questions (6)
Robert Downes
"Bicycle Hobo" was inspired by my 2016 bike ride across the top of America. I covered 2,700 miles in 33 days, camping all the way. Nearly getting struck by a motor home in North Dakota got me to thinking of a revenge fantasy on a bike, in this case, a new take on "Moby Dick."
Robert Downes
Again, as mentioned above, passion. That, and I've been a professional writer for more than 30 years as a newspaper reporter, editor and publisher.
Robert Downes
Two books, possibly three:
-- "He Who Outruns the Wolves," a prequel to "Windigo Moon," set in the 1520s.
-- "The Wild Country," a history of upper Michigan in the 1840s-'50s.
-- "Sandy Bottom," a mystery/satire set in my hometown of Traverse City, MI
-- "He Who Outruns the Wolves," a prequel to "Windigo Moon," set in the 1520s.
-- "The Wild Country," a history of upper Michigan in the 1840s-'50s.
-- "Sandy Bottom," a mystery/satire set in my hometown of Traverse City, MI
Robert Downes
First of all, you must read a great deal as a child and on into adulthood. Write poetry and short stories as a teen, then begin a journal in college. Once you get around to writing a book, beware of approaching any subject unless you're in the grip of an overpowering passion to get the blood, spirit and muscle of your being on the page.
Robert Downes
Tapping into one's subconscious and being surprised at what turns up on the written page. Worst thing: the marketing and distribution process. I typically rewrite my books six times or so, but that only accounts for about 20 percent of the time spent on a new book; the rest is all marketing, speaking engagements and distribution issues.
Robert Downes
In a word, passion. A writer should be totally on fire with the characters, plot and direction of his or her book. There have been times when I've leapt out of bed at 5 a.m. to write a passage that simply couldn't wait. Writers: if you're not engaged to the point of obsession with your material, chances are no one else will be either.
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more