Ask the Author: M.E. Smith
Answered Questions (6)
M.E. Smith
Unlimited self-doubt is absolutely free while you are working on a project!
When review your work after finishing, the sense of "I wrote that?" is one of the best feelings in the world.
When review your work after finishing, the sense of "I wrote that?" is one of the best feelings in the world.
M.E. Smith
The standard Roger Zelazny answer would be, "Schenectady, New York."
Sorry, I couldn't resist.
Seriously, I always liked hard-boiled fiction, The Twilight Zone and stories that took a serious hard left when it came to plot twists. Someone very dear to me suggested I write a story about a man digging himself out of a hole. I threw all of these concepts into "Mike's mental blender," and the end result was Remanded to The Night Cafe.
Sorry, I couldn't resist.
Seriously, I always liked hard-boiled fiction, The Twilight Zone and stories that took a serious hard left when it came to plot twists. Someone very dear to me suggested I write a story about a man digging himself out of a hole. I threw all of these concepts into "Mike's mental blender," and the end result was Remanded to The Night Cafe.
M.E. Smith
I've started another novel. This one deals with mad scientists, the news media, conspiracy theories and pulp fiction heroes.
It's definitely a lot lighter than Remanded to The Night Cafe (and a lot less complicated).
It's definitely a lot lighter than Remanded to The Night Cafe (and a lot less complicated).
M.E. Smith
I've always enjoyed reading. I never picked up the habit of writing in high school. I went to college after some time in the military. One of my first assignments in English was to write a critical analysis of one of Steinbeck's short stories or write a continuation. Well, between the two options, I always felt like I was a better bullshit artist... After finishing, I realized I had enjoyed writing the continuation and thus, I picked up a bad habit that lasted thirty years.
M.E. Smith
I'd recommend seeking out the advice of more accomplished writers first. I have found Ray Bradbury's and Kurt Vonnegut's insights most helpful.
I can only think of one thing that any writer ought to keep in mind-Put words to paper (or computer file). A story in your head is worth the paper it's printed on.
I can only think of one thing that any writer ought to keep in mind-Put words to paper (or computer file). A story in your head is worth the paper it's printed on.
M.E. Smith
You have to write through it. I think a lot of writer's block comes from trying to make your first run-through perfect. Don't do it! This is the information age; anything you put down now can be revised later. Raymond Chandler recommended throwing up in your typewriter first thing in the morning and cleaning it up by noon.
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