Ask the Author: Adrienne Brodeur
Answered Questions (5)
Adrienne Brodeur
I'm working on a new book, a novel, that is still unformed. Mostly, it's an idea that is obsessing me.
Adrienne Brodeur
"The unconscious wants truth" (Adrienne Rich), and writing is a way to figure out the truth. And finding the right words for what I'm thinking or feeling might be the most satisfying part of any day.
Adrienne Brodeur
I think I deal with writer's block by allowing myself a very loose definition of what it means to write. I try to show up every day. If I'm stuck, I don't beat myself. Instead, I'll edit or do research or read. Anything that serves the work, I count as writing. (Plus, invariably, one of those activities will jog something and I'll be writing again soon).
Adrienne Brodeur
The best advice I can offer any aspiring writers is to read. I know we're all eager to tell our stories -- and, of course, writing is essential and you'll need to practice your craft -- but reading is critical. As aspiring writers, you should read with new eyes. Examine an acclaimed book's structure. Ask yourself how the author did this or that? Study character and voice and dialogue. There is so much to learn from reading.
Adrienne Brodeur
Hamlett by Maggie O'Farrell, Hollywood Park, by Mikel Jollett, Deacon King Kong by James McBride, The Beauty in Breaking by Michele Harper, Memorial Drive by Natasha Tretheway, and many others!
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