Ask the Author: Mark J. Oliver
Answered Questions (6)
Mark J. Oliver
I try and read as much as I can. In Stephen King's "On Writing" the master says writers should spend at least 2 hours a day reading. I usually manage an hour.
Also, living abroad, especially in the developing world, you see a lot of crazy stuff on a daily basis.
Also, living abroad, especially in the developing world, you see a lot of crazy stuff on a daily basis.
Mark J. Oliver
I've been a surfer for 12 years, ever since I bought my first long board in Japan. I love reading about surfing and found almost zero novels based around a surfer. So I thought it would be fun to have the protagonist of my science fiction novel be a surfer.
Also, I've spent the last 13 years living overseas, in sometimes very foreign cultures. I wanted to use my experiences in my writing so I thought a fish out of sea style story would be apt for my first novel.
Also, I've spent the last 13 years living overseas, in sometimes very foreign cultures. I wanted to use my experiences in my writing so I thought a fish out of sea style story would be apt for my first novel.
Mark J. Oliver
I've written a Science Fiction novel. Now I'm working on a fantasy, set where I grew up, in the Westcountry. So expect plenty of cider.
Mark J. Oliver
Start writing and don't stop. The first draft is always about the story so avoid getting to hung up on editing, revising and iffy sentences. Just get it down and done.
Mark J. Oliver
Being able to create your own world and live in it as you write.
Mark J. Oliver
Jogging. Before I run, I think of the part of the story I'm having trouble with. Then I push it to the back of my mind, turn on my i-pod, and start running. Usually, ideas will pop into my head naturally. It helps running outside, as living in Sri Lanka, there's always some inspiration; giant bats, crazed bus drivers, cruising pelicans, tuk tuks and other randomness.
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