Ask the Author: Sarah Marshank
Answered Questions (6)
Sarah Marshank
My most recent book is a memoir and came from my life experience. Memoir is different than autobiography in that it tells a story from a life, not of a life. So, the "idea" for the thread that runs through my memoir came as a result of the process of beginning to write. After the initial pouring out of the first draft, as I began to sort and edit, the "idea" emerged.
Sarah Marshank
I think the better question here, is what does NOT inspire me to write? The challenge for me right now is to carve out the time to let all the words backing up inside of me finally find their way out.
Sarah Marshank
I am currently working on a book proposal for my next book.
Sarah Marshank
What really works for me is to have a healthy combination of solo writing time, coached writing support, and group writing experiences. Engaging others in the writing process can be very supportive and enlightening. But without enough personal time with yourself and your muse, other voices will skew the clarity of yours.
Sarah Marshank
What I love about being a writer is having the opportunity to share my story, my views, and my creativity, and through them to engage in a conversation with my reader. I don't always have the opportunity to do so in real life, as many of my readers are the silent type. But when a reader reaches out, or we find ourselves in the same room somewhere, it's the engagement of ideas and experiences that truly moves me.
Sarah Marshank
I like to view "block" as an invitation to walk away from the writing in order to listen more deeply. I often go for a walk in nature. Because I'm devoted to my work and my muse, I trust the block will release without me needing to force anything. This happens almost every time. And when it doesn't, or when I am on a deadline, I'll often turn to a different form of writing to help open the channels. For example, if I am working on a chapter for my book and it's not flowing, I'll write in my journal, create a poetic post for my FB page, or write a letter to a friend.
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