Ask the Author: Matthew Daley
Answered Questions (8)
Matthew Daley
It's a real toss-up, but it would be between Castle Rock and Derry, ME, two of the towns in the Stephen King universe. Maybe I'm off my rocker for even suggesting this, when I could choose much more peaceful locations, but I've been reading King's work since I was in 2nd grade and I think it would be worth going just to see if I make it out alive. This wouldn't be a family vacation, mind you. There's no way my wife or three kids would agree to it, but I'd probably try to rent a room from someone and work on my latest writing project. Nothing could go wrong with that. Right?
Matthew Daley
I'm working through a few. The Power Broker by Robert Caro, which is an excellent history. It's the only non-fiction work that I plan on tackling, though the pile is getting bigger. In fiction, The Southern Reach Trilogy by Jeff VanderMeer and The Force by Don Winslow and Swing Time by Zadie Smith. But more will pop up soon, I'm sure!
Matthew Daley
I deal with writer's block in two ways: fresh air or write something else. Going outside, regardless of weather, is always good for the body and mind; taking a walk can do wonders.
If I'm working on a big project and get stuck, I like spending time writing something completely unrelated, like a poem or scene of dialogue between two people. It's still writing, but I'm not forcing myself to push through when I'm not quite in the right frame of mind. After a bit of time working on something else, I can slide right back in to the task at hand.
If I'm working on a big project and get stuck, I like spending time writing something completely unrelated, like a poem or scene of dialogue between two people. It's still writing, but I'm not forcing myself to push through when I'm not quite in the right frame of mind. After a bit of time working on something else, I can slide right back in to the task at hand.
Matthew Daley
One of the best things about being a writer is that you are continuing the storytelling tradition that is as old as spoken language. Stories connect us to our past, present, and future. They serve so many purposes, but most importantly, they make us human. Everyone loves stories and they are our second greatest teachers (after experiences). It's an honor to be able to contribute to our tradition.
Matthew Daley
Write every single day. Set realistic bench marks ("I'll write 500 words per day") and reach them.
Read every single day, but don't stick to the genre(s) in which you write. Read fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. You'll learn from all of them.
Learn to edit your own work honestly and don't be offended by feedback that you've requested.
Read every single day, but don't stick to the genre(s) in which you write. Read fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. You'll learn from all of them.
Learn to edit your own work honestly and don't be offended by feedback that you've requested.
Matthew Daley
I am currently working on the first draft of a graphic novel for young readers, which will be published Summer 2017. It is very fun in tone, inspired by some of my favorite books and movies.
Matthew Daley
I love process and for me, writing is the ultimate process. I love pre-writing activities (brainstorming, outlining, researching), writing (regardless of form), and editing. It never fails to excite me. I'm very fortunate because I always generate ideas (not all good, but they are consistent) and I have thick skin. Both are essential for writers.
Matthew Daley
The Lantern City series blends so many of my interests, from epic science fiction world building to political upheaval to family drama to stories in which characters must take on different identities, that it has never been difficult to find inspiration. That is has roots in history (albeit alternate world history, but closely mirroring our own) and is fiction is a combination of my two undergraduate majors: English and History. And who says you don't use what you learn in school?
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