What kind of writing do you do?
I write science fiction, fantasy, and horror. Lately I’ve been focusing more on fantasy, but all three genres are near and dear to my heart. I also recently finished the rough draft of a fantasy role-playing game (like Dungeons and Dragons) that I had been working on for over 20 years. I’m looking forward to testing it with a few of my friends and maybe pitching it to some game publishers next year.
Who are your favorite authors/writers?
Stephen King, Michael Moorcock, R.A. Salvatore, Patrick Rothfuss, and Michael Crichton.
What writing projects are you currently working on?
I’m fleshing out the fantasy world that I created, so future players of my game will have more reference information to help them generate ideas. I’m also working on a sequel to a novella I wrote a couple of years ago, called Freedom.
What challenges do you overcome on a regular basis so that you can write?
I’m very fortunate in that I have plenty of time to write, and ample opportunities to do so. Almost all of my challenges are internal, or self-imposed. I have to overcome my innate laziness, my self-doubt and criticism, and my…I don’t know what you call it, but it’s the inability to finish a project. I start strong, but then get bored or distracted, and move to something else. Whatever that thing is…whatever it is called…it’s a true career killer. For writers, and anyone else too. I’d say that’s my number one obstacle, and it probably is for a lot of other writers too.
What would you say to someone who wants to write, but is hesitant?
Start small. Find a picture you like on the internet, and write some flavor text for it. Just tell the story of what’s happening in the picture. Who is it, and what are they doing? Why? Just write 2-3 paragraphs about the picture. That’s a good way to dip your toes in the writing waters. If you like that, flesh it out into a short story. Personally, I find short stories much easier to write than novels, but a lot of people feel like novels are easier. Do whatever feels comfortable for you.
Read a lot, and write stories based on what you read. Many authors got their start by writing fan fiction, and you can, too. Working with previously established characters and settings can be easier than coming up with everything on your own, which might seem daunting. Write those stories until you feel comfortable coming up with your own.
What impact do you hope your writing makes on the world?
Reading books and playing Dungeons and Dragons kept me out of a lot of trouble as I was growing up. They also taught me creative problem solving skills, efficient time management, communication skills,
and leadership qualities. If I can inspire even one scrawny, nerdy, awkward kid (like I was) to defeat their bullies by outsmarting them, or to choose the right thing to do even though it’s difficult and unpopular, then I’ll consider my life work to be a success. If that kid is also entertained, that’s just icing on the cake.
Where can readers find your work?
All of my work is published on my website below. Website: http://exterminis.com
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