Ask the Author: Glen Robinson
Answered Questions (8)
Glen Robinson
A lot of things inspire me to write: an idea that itches in my head, the identity of being a writer, the idea of being called by God to write. But I've learned that you can't wait for "inspiration" to strike before you start writing. If I did so, I would never get anything done. Twice in my lengthy career I've had what I call "epiphany moments" where I wake up with an idea so powerful that it basically writes itself. Most of the rest of the time it's work. But I remember the feeling of satisfaction when I am done and I have created something I am proud of and that makes a statement worthwhile, and that motivates me. I guess you could say, that's what really "inspires" me.
Glen Robinson
That has to be Aragorn and Arwen of The Lord of the Rings fame. Both are strong characters, yet both are strongly dependent on each other. Both have a need for the other, yet both are willing to sacrifice their own needs for the good of the other. It's a classic relationship for a classic tale.
Glen Robinson
I try to determine what the problem is, and fix it. If it's other responsibilities getting in the way, I take care of them. If it is distractions, I move to another location to write. If is not being inspired, I read a book, watch a movie or, better yet, bull ahead even though what I write may not be inspired. Most times I go back and read it and it's no better or worse than the stuff I write when I think I'm inspired.
Glen Robinson
The best thing is when people stop me, especially kids, and tell me that my book had an impact on them. Fame is relative, money comes and goes, but what matters is being able to help people in some way. That's a reward.
Glen Robinson
Commit to the task before you. Even if you think what's coming out is trash, write it anyway. Everything you write, good or bad, is exercise that is making you a better writer. You need a million words before you can call yourself a serious writer. It sounds like a lot, but if you write faithfully it will come sooner than you think.
Glen Robinson
I am currently working on a book I have had on the back burner for several years. It is the story of Jonathan from the Bible, asking the question, if Jonathan was such a righteous man, why did God reject him as the future king and instead choose David? I have gone beyond the bare-bones Biblical story and have added several subplots that I think make the story a lot richer.
Glen Robinson
Right now, that's a problem with me. I am trying to juggle teaching full time with writing. I have committed to making writing an integral part of my life, but when I have inspiration is when I have the least amount of time to do anything about it. When I have time, I don't find inspiration. It comes down to discipline in the end. To write even if you aren't inspired.
Glen Robinson
The last complete novel I came out with was actually a three-part series entitled The Champion. The author in the story has a similar story to mine (although more dramatic). He is caught up in a larger-than-life battle between good and evil. The idea came with my own view that following Christ is only mundane because we're not willing to really do what he asks. If we did, we would truly find it a Grand Adventure.
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