Ask the Author: Mike Arnold
Answered Questions (2)
Mike Arnold
Finishing Machine is my most recent book, published December 9, 2016. Finishing Machine is the true story of my work as I defended a client, Gerald Strebendt, who had been charged with murder. I lived the story with him for more than a year, and I have stayed in regular contact with him since. I've always thought that his case was compelling, and important, because what happened to Gerald could happen to just about anyone.
Mike Arnold
I first try and see it for what it is, an unsolved problem. When the story is right, it just flows out. When something doesn't make sense, or I've lost enthusiasm for the storyline or the character, that's a sign to me that something is wrong. I co-wrote Finishing Machine with my colleague Emilia Gardner. When I got stuck, I often found that the best way to get typing again was to talk about where the story was at, and where it was going. Together we could identify the hurdle blocking the way, and then identify ways to fix it. Often as I found that as soon as I could make my mouth move and say the words, that the words would flow to the paper after.
In cases where I am not co-writing, I still find it most helpful for me to talk through writer's block with someone, anyone who will listen.
In cases where I am not co-writing, I still find it most helpful for me to talk through writer's block with someone, anyone who will listen.
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