Ask the Author: Cara Mentzel
Answered Questions (6)
Cara Mentzel
I'm inspired to write when something interesting happens in my own life. Maybe I hear a priceless piece of dialogue between my teenage son and one of his friends, or I'm part of a crazy coincidence that has metaphor written all over it. But the truth is, I'm not always inspired to write and while that sucks sometimes, inspiration isn't essential. When there's a project I'm committed to, I show up every morning with or without inspiration. I can't guarantee the muse will join me or that I'll be especially talented, but I can guarantee I'll be there.
Cara Mentzel
I got the idea for Voice Lessons from my sister.
Cara Mentzel
I've been toying with a bunch of ideas and I'm excited about carving out time this summer to test drive some of 'em.
Cara Mentzel
When it comes to writing, don't chase it, just show up.
Cara Mentzel
The feeling of satisfaction when I figure out where a patient puzzle piece fits and tap it gently into place--click.
That's also when I tend to pour myself a glass of wine.
That's also when I tend to pour myself a glass of wine.
Cara Mentzel
In my first year as a classroom teacher, one of my third graders approached me in tears during Writer's Workshop, "I'll never be a writer," she said. "I can't think of anything to write." To which I replied, "On the contrary. You're already a writer. Only writers get writer's block." (I confess, that may not be an exact quote. Chances are I didn't say "on the contrary.")
I think that writer's block isn't often enough acknowledged as part of the writing process, or at least, it's an underemphasized part of the process. We brainstorm, we plan, we draft, revise, edit, AND we get writer's block.
When I get writer's block I know I'm still on track because it's part of the gig and that is comforting. The more I work through writer's block, the more faith I have that I will again because I always do.
At the same time, for me, writer's block is sometimes a symptom of something else. Maybe I've been too isolated and need some input, like I need to read, watch a movie, hang out with family or friends, or engage in critical discussion about my piece. Reading, in particular, is helpful. When I allow myself to be a consumer of language rather than a producer, it takes the pressure off. It's inspiring and freeing and often gives me the running start I need when I've been stuck.
When all else fails, I take walks and search the fridge. But I still consider that part of my writing time because, like I said, it's all part of the process.
I think that writer's block isn't often enough acknowledged as part of the writing process, or at least, it's an underemphasized part of the process. We brainstorm, we plan, we draft, revise, edit, AND we get writer's block.
When I get writer's block I know I'm still on track because it's part of the gig and that is comforting. The more I work through writer's block, the more faith I have that I will again because I always do.
At the same time, for me, writer's block is sometimes a symptom of something else. Maybe I've been too isolated and need some input, like I need to read, watch a movie, hang out with family or friends, or engage in critical discussion about my piece. Reading, in particular, is helpful. When I allow myself to be a consumer of language rather than a producer, it takes the pressure off. It's inspiring and freeing and often gives me the running start I need when I've been stuck.
When all else fails, I take walks and search the fridge. But I still consider that part of my writing time because, like I said, it's all part of the process.
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