What kind of writing do you do?
I’m primarily a screenwriter, but I’ve written opinion columns, essays, and short stories. I typically stick to drama, exploring serious, deeply moving situations or issues. I’d really like to explore fantasy, dive right in and create a whole new world. I’m looking forward to branching into that genre in the near future.
Who are your favorite authors/writers?
James Salter (top of my list), JRR Tolkien, Gillian Flynn, Hemmingway, Felix J Palma, and Julian Barnes.
What writing projects are you currently working on?
I am juggling rewriting a feature script and developing a television pilot while giving back to the writing community through an amazing gig I picked up in September with EEI Creative Arts/MBC Academy. My former MFA screenwriting professor, Michael Tabb, took me on board with Hollywood’s first-ever international screenwriting for television course in Saudi Arabia. It’s been a rewarding experience to teach people from a different culture, a different part of the world, how to develop and create a television show bible and pilot episode script. To see these students write and open up in ways we take for granted has been a humbling experience. Their stories, what they have to say/share with the world are so powerful. It’s also incredible to see another culture’s take on the craft.
Two of Lorenzo’s Scripts
What challenges do you overcome on a regular basis so that you can write?
Time! When is there ever enough time? The world moves by so fast these days. It’s difficult sometimes to find the time to give to your family, your health, your career, and your craft. Then, of course, there is the inner struggle. If you are a writer, you know what I am talking about. Sometimes picking up the pen is the hardest thing to do. Procrastination.
What would you say to someone who wants to write, but is hesitant?
Stop hesitating and do it! Do NOT let anything or anyone hold you back. Be true to yourself and see the world through an objective lens. Read, read, and read some more. Write, then go read some more and repeat. Start small. You can’t climb Everest in one run. Writing is the same. Slowly build yourself up. Find a mentor or writing group. Don’t be afraid to hand your pages out to get feedback. Learn how to handle criticism. Remember that growth can be painful.
What impact do you hope your writing makes on the world?
That my writing leads people to acknowledge humanity’s ills instead of turning a blind eye and that love is truly the cure-all. And, as my good friend, Sabino Gomez, would say, that we stop and acknowledge the log in our eye before we criticize the splinter in someone else’s eye. It’s easy to look the other way and forget about it when the issues don’t affect you. It’s easier to hate or hold resentment and avoid than it is to seek and love. I hope people stop looking the other way, stop giving in to hate, and holding resentment.
Where can readers find your work?
Send me a DM on Twitter! @Lench_III
Thank you, Keith! Thank you for all the inspiration.
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