Ask the Author: Matt Gemmell

“Ask me a question.” Matt Gemmell

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Matt Gemmell That no matter how difficult the writing process is, or how many revisions you have to go through, or how disillusioned and disheartened you may feel along the way, some day, eventually, you know that you're finally going to… die and not have to write anymore. :D

(The real best thing is knowing your words will take people out of their daily worries, stresses, or tedium — even just for a little while. There's no greater magic than pulling people into a different world.)
Matt Gemmell Writing is something that feels necessary for me; I'm compelled to do it. There's always something to write about. Read a lot, and you'll gradually get into the habit of noticing when you have thoughts that are worth writing about. Then, make a note of everything; carry your notepad (or notes app, or whatever you use) absolutely everywhere. Keep it beside the bed, too.
Matt Gemmell Run while you can!

… and if you're still here, then: outline fully before you start! Spend enough time on your outline; the right amount is when you feel you've spent far, far too much time on it already. Like, several weeks of actual, productive work.
Matt Gemmell If you mean most recently finished, i.e. CHANGER, then… well, I won't spoil the book itself, but it involves a certain abnormal ability. The seed of the story was planted many years ago. It happened to me. I can't prove it, of course.
Matt Gemmell The second book in the KESTREL series, following CHANGER.
Matt Gemmell I get out of my chair, and ideally leave the room. Answers appear when you get at least two rooms away, I find. Failing that, I go for a walk outside. Failing _that_, I talk aloud (sometimes to my wife), and ask what needs to happen next, or what the problem is. Just the act of vocalising seems to get things unstuck.

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