Q&A with Persia Walker discussion

In introducing himself, John of Maine asked a very good question: "What do you do when the going gets tough?" Short answer, plain and simple: I struggle.

I don't have a support group. I don't belong to a writing group. Many times I wish I did, but for some reason, it just didn't gel for me.

I'm very happy that I'm a member of the New York chapter of the Mystery Writers of America. Their events and events such as Bouchercon always serve to re-energize me. But in between, it's really a struggle.

I write stories set in the 1920s and imbued with a sense of noir, so I sometimes listen to music that puts me "in the mood." Other times, I watch an old black-and-white movie.

Other times, I just sit and write. I don't always love what goes down on the page. Many times I don't, in fact, but at some point that (almost) doesn't matter. What does matter is that something gets down on the page.

My background as a journalist helps me in this regard. I tend to see writing as much as a job as I see it as a creative endeavor. And a job has to be done, irrespective of how one feels. When things are bad, I also tell myself that as a writer, I'm essentially in business for myself. I am the sole producer of "the product." If I don't work (i.e., write), then I'm out of business.

I've asked this question of other writers, too, and the answer always seems to come down to two words: "butt glue."

Now, it's your turn. What do you do?

I do not define myself as a writing expert, but I do appreciate the power of journaling. This activity provides me with an opportunity to capture my inner most thoughts and feelings, while offering moments to enhance my writing abilities. Each time I journal, I gain clarity in my personal developments and writing skills.

I agree./ Journaling is also a great way to keep away (the dreaded) writer's block. And it keeps the writing real.

I wondered what it would be like to write in this era, and thought about writing Jazz concepts and you did a pretty good job. What sources or books are you using to be in that time zone? When I read your book, I was verify some clothing and elements to support that time zone. I'm a researcher and actually checked another book written in the 80s since I lived in that era and asked the author some questions that I was curious about. Yet, she's one of my favorite authors in her own genre of erotic thrillers; Jean Holloway.

I do love journaling, jot notes, and scribble things that come to mind in my notebook...never know if it will turn up in a book!

I tend to circle the rug and whine a lot . . . :)

Adrienna, thanks for the compliment. When I first wrote HARLEM REDUX, I read a lot of literature written during the 20s. I wanted to know what people back then were thinking about, worrying about. I also read books by contemporary historians, old articles in the New York Times, and websites by modern fans of the Jazz era. In short, I found whatever I could find, wherever I could find it.

John, trust me. You aren't the only one who whines. When the writing is tough, I can look pretty sad myself!