The Write Side of Life
March 20, 2007 | Interviews
ST: Hi Mary Alice and welcome back.
MAP: My pleasure. What’s on the docket for today?
ST: What made you decide to be a writer?
MAP: I don’t think I actually decided to be a writer. I’ve written poems and short stories for as long as I can remember. I decided to submit my first manuscript after attending a Romantic Times Book Lover’s Convention in St Louis, MO. It was inspiring and I figured what the heck? I’d try it.
ST: I for one am glad you did. How long have you been writing?
MAP: Well, like I said, as long as I can remember. I started out just creating stories in my head for company and then I’d write them down. When I couldn’t find enough to read at the local library, I’d write my own adventures. I could be anyone or anything I wanted to when I wrote the ending.
ST: Do you find writing to be fulfilling? And in what way?
MAP: Yes, it keeps me sane. I use it to get out my frustrations and put my fears on paper so I can conquer them. The promise that I might be able to capture someone’s attention long enough they forget their own problems is my greatest dream right now. If I can do that, I’ll know I’m on the right track.
ST: What’s a normal day like for you?
MAP: Oh, you had to ask. I force myself out of bed and go to my day job at 8 each morning and then come home between 5 and 6 each afternoon and write until I have to go to bed. That’s about it. Boring, but I’d rather write than most anything I can think of other than reading or playing with the muses. I have to do the normal routine stuff like SOME housework and tend to the zoo here. (I have five cats and two dogs) But writing is a passion and a joy for me so I make it my priority.
ST: With your busy life how do you find time to write?
MAP: I write after work from about 6:30 until 10 or 11 at night. Sometimes I get distracted and look up and it’s nearly 2 in the morning so I have a really bad day the next day. 😉 Then, on weekends, I write off and on all day between chores, errands and spending time with my muses and my folks. I go to my local RWA Chapter meetings in Jackson, Mississippi once a month and that’s my longest dry spell not to write since it’s a 3.5 hour drive one way to go. But, the drive down the Trace has other advantages that help clear out the cobwebs and fill my head with new thoughts.
ST: I don’t think we can keep you chained to that chair any longer this morning, but I hope you come back tomorrow and tell us more about yourself.
MAP: I’ll be here!
ST: Thanks to all of you for coming by today. If you have any questions for Mary Alice, please feel free to post them. She’ll check back throughout the day and answer. Be sure to check out her website.
Happy Writing!
Sloane
