Ask the Author: Clive Johnson
Answered Questions (6)
Clive Johnson
I have a longstanding interest in fairy stories and myth. I strongly believe that such tales are still relevant in the modern world, having much to teach adults as well as children. I therefore thought that it would be interesting to explore the meaning in several traditional children's tales, and recast them in a way that might speak to adults. Following my research, the actual writing flowed more fluently than anything I've done before – it was a wonderful experience.
Clive Johnson
I've enjoyed writing from a young age, and was blessed with good teachers, who helped encourage my enthusiasm for the written word. Inspiration for a title comes when the time is right – this isn't something that I can just switch on. However, once I've set about a new project, I immerse myself in it. Allowing time for research and, ideally, a special place where you commit to writing without interruption, are important for me.
Clive Johnson
I have just finished a new title, and so not started on another project just yet. I'm beginning to research subject matter for a sequel to my 'Fairy Stories & Fairy Stories' title, and will be spending a little time on a storytelling retreat in the Sahara desert early in the New Year to help find inspiration for a series of further tales!
Clive Johnson
Have a go! Your first work may not be a masterpiece, but it will be a wonderful learning experience – and, of course, you can always change and improve upon what you've written.
In the modern age, self-publishing is very straight-forward. Provided you approach a title professionally (e.g. engaging a proof-reader is essential), there's no reason why you shouldn't find this to be a satisfactory route for getting into print.
I have published with mainstream publishers and submitted proposals to others. Pitching titles takes a lot of effort and time, not to mention that you may face rejections (even if you've passed the first hurdle, to interest a commissioning editor). I therefore recommend getting on with writing and self-publishing if you can.
In the modern age, self-publishing is very straight-forward. Provided you approach a title professionally (e.g. engaging a proof-reader is essential), there's no reason why you shouldn't find this to be a satisfactory route for getting into print.
I have published with mainstream publishers and submitted proposals to others. Pitching titles takes a lot of effort and time, not to mention that you may face rejections (even if you've passed the first hurdle, to interest a commissioning editor). I therefore recommend getting on with writing and self-publishing if you can.
Clive Johnson
Writing is creative. When I'm writing a story, it's not always clear whether my intended plot lines will all work out the way I'd conceived them; the characters often take on a life of their own and "find" their own direction in the story. This is a very animating and exciting process.
I also enjoy researching the contexts for what I'm writing, often exploring topics that I'm relatively ignorant about.
I also enjoy researching the contexts for what I'm writing, often exploring topics that I'm relatively ignorant about.
Clive Johnson
I have two approaches for dealing with writer's block – the first being relevant when I just can't find words to convey an idea; the second when I can't find inspiration to write at all.
In the first case, I simply leave question marks in my manuscript, and carry on writing where I can next pick up the flow. Invariably, when I return to review what I've drafted, I find that I'm inspired to fill the gap.
In the second case, I leave the writing altogether to focus on something else. Usually after meditating or doing something else, I find that I can come back to writing with fresh ideas and motivation. There's no point flogging a dead horse.
In the first case, I simply leave question marks in my manuscript, and carry on writing where I can next pick up the flow. Invariably, when I return to review what I've drafted, I find that I'm inspired to fill the gap.
In the second case, I leave the writing altogether to focus on something else. Usually after meditating or doing something else, I find that I can come back to writing with fresh ideas and motivation. There's no point flogging a dead horse.
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