Ask the Author: Wm. Dudley
Answered Questions (6)
Wm. Dudley
Honestly, I have no idea where most of my ideas come from. They tend to just pop into my head, from something I see or hear, and it starts the ball rolling. But the current one came to me after reading “Shadow of the Wind” and the rest of the series by Carlos Ruiz Zafon. I loved them, and it made me wonder what it would be like to do something like that.
Wm. Dudley
I try to think of the stories I write as something I want to read. But, I can’t read the story, because it doesn’t exist, and that inspires me to get out there and write it, so I can read it.
Wm. Dudley
The next book is a bit of a departure in two ways. For the most part, I consider myself to be a short story writer. But the next one is essentially a novel, in three parts.
And... it’s more of a horror, or psychological thriller. I played around with this a little in my last collection, but this one is much darker. I’ll admit, it was a lot of fun write, it has seriously stretched my comfort zone, and, I think, my skills.
And... it’s more of a horror, or psychological thriller. I played around with this a little in my last collection, but this one is much darker. I’ll admit, it was a lot of fun write, it has seriously stretched my comfort zone, and, I think, my skills.
Wm. Dudley
Really, just write. The story lines, characters, dialogues and descriptions are already in your head. Take time every day, even if it’s only five minutes, and get them out. It doesn’t need to be a complete chapter, just put the words down. Writing is a skill, and like any other, it requires practice.
And, remember, this is fun, it’s enjoyable, let the process entertain, rather than frustrate.
And, remember, this is fun, it’s enjoyable, let the process entertain, rather than frustrate.
Wm. Dudley
For me, it’s the creativity. My work tends to be very technical, and it’s refreshing to use the creative side of my mind for a while.
Wm. Dudley
My usual approach is to set the story aside, and focus on another project. I always have three or four stories in process, so I’ll work on one of them, and go back to the one I’m blocked on later. Usually, by the time I get back to it, I have an answer to the block. If I’m totally blocked, I see it as my mind telling me to take a break. So far, a few days, or maybe a week, is all I need to find my voice again.
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