Ask the Author: Michael C. Bland
Answered Questions (5)
Michael C. Bland
Riding the "L" in Chicago. Virtually everyone was on their phones--but there were cameras overhead. So while no one was watching, someone could always be watching. That's what started the idea that led to The Price of Safety.
Michael C. Bland
Writing is an enjoyment to me. I type that fully aware of the fact that there are times it is frustrating, time-consuming, and one of the hardest things I've ever done. Yet it's in my bones. I get an idea, and if it's a good one and starts to build inside of me, there will come a point where I will have to write it. I can't escape my own mind (well, not without a lot of bourbon), so I have to write.
As far as what inspires me, the most random things will give me ideas; a chance conversation, the way a shadow dances along the face of a mountain, a tech article, all can inspire me. I've also found that my brain takes various snippets both past and present, including facts I learned when I was in school, and comes up with crazy ideas. The takeaway is to be open at all times. Don't dismiss your imagination, because there could be gold.
As far as what inspires me, the most random things will give me ideas; a chance conversation, the way a shadow dances along the face of a mountain, a tech article, all can inspire me. I've also found that my brain takes various snippets both past and present, including facts I learned when I was in school, and comes up with crazy ideas. The takeaway is to be open at all times. Don't dismiss your imagination, because there could be gold.
Michael C. Bland
Learn your craft. We've read dozens of books. Maybe hundreds. But until you understand the mechanics, you are putting yourself at a disadvantage.
Choose a genre and topic you love. If you don't, your work will reflect that. You are going to spend so much time on your novel or short story you will grow tired of it. If you don't love it, you will abandon it.
Have trusted readers and editors. Otherwise, you will never improve to the level you need. And don't give up!
Choose a genre and topic you love. If you don't, your work will reflect that. You are going to spend so much time on your novel or short story you will grow tired of it. If you don't love it, you will abandon it.
Have trusted readers and editors. Otherwise, you will never improve to the level you need. And don't give up!
Michael C. Bland
I try to remove all distractions to focus on whatever is blocking me. Taking a walk helps a lot. It's amazing what I can accomplish on a walk. And if that doesn't work, I do something completely different. I will work on something else. Read a book. Watch a good movie. And wait--because it will come to me. It just might take longer than I want.
Michael C. Bland
The sequel to The Price of Safety!
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