Wattpad Filipino Block Party 2021

marugatari's Author Interview

The Wattpad Filipino Block Party 2021

QUESTIONS / MGA TANONG

1. How did you adjust your writing in your stories, may naapektuhan ba because of work/acads and life?

A: I had to put writing on hold for a while because of school and work. Kahit ngayon, hirap parin ako mag build ng routine around writing stories. My free time and motivation to write stories have been erratic since I started working. Ang hirap mag-balanse ng work energy at creative energy...well, ng energy in general. Aside from that, my writing voice also evolves constantly. I used to focus on what would appeal to the readers but now I want to build characters that are strongly anchored on real experiences (which I find much harder).

2. What do you prefer to write: Series or Standalone stories? Why?

A: I guess I prefer writing series. Even if I intend to write a standalone, I always end up with a series in mind because I build story backgrounds for my secondary characters and then they eventually become potential main characters. Writing series also gives me a chance to explore characters in different point-of-views.

3. How do you motivate yourself to keep writing?

A: I write every day. Well, I keep a journal so I write every day, but they are not stories so I'm not sure if that counts. When it comes to stories, I do not need the motivation because the ideas and dialogues just come, and I am pushed by the urge to write them or else that idea will stay in my head for a long time. Writing every day– from mundane daily activities to reflections on life to characters just wanting to pop out—helps me train my writing voice and to clear my mind for more ideas.

4. Among your stories, what particular scene is difficult for you to write?

A: Conflicts. In particular, it was hard for me to write an argument-turned-violent scene in Mr. Unexpected. I hated that conflict. Pero wala na akong magagawa d'un since it's done. Hehe. Sorry. I will work towards making better and cohesive conflicts.

5. Saan kayo mas nacha-challenge sa pagbuo ng first chapter o sa epilogue?

A: Actually, I love writing both. The first chapter, synopses, and the epilogues are my favorites. Mas nahihirapan ako sa in-betweens or scenes that fill in the plot. I always fear it might get dragging if my narratives are too long.

6. If you can bring one of your characters to life, who will it be and why?

A: I would say Ethan because I'm 100% sure it would be so fun to tease him.

7. Among your characters, who's the closest to you? Why?

A: Again, Ethan. He's the character I spent the longest writing. He is also very flawed so I always build scenes in my head that would help him overcome his thoughts (and himself hehe).

8. If you could collaborate with any author (local man or international), who would it be and why?

A: I'm not sure if I can keep up with authors in a collaboration (both in speed and skill) but I would be honored to collaborate with one of my favorites, Sonia Francesca. Hers is one of the strongest writing styles that have influenced me to write. Walang sayang na paragraph kay Ate Che. Witty, funny, entertaining and stories that pack a lot of heart. She knows how to write books that appeals to a wide range of readers.

9. Anong famous story (be it classic or contemporary Literature) ang hinihiling mong ikaw ang nakapagsulat? Bakit?

A: Wala. I believe that stories are highly influenced by the experiences and thought process of their writers. If they were written by someone else, the impact and heart might be different.

10. What are your future plans in your writing career?

A: Meron ba akong writing career? Hehehe. I don't have big dreams as a writer. I used to dream of becoming a published author but that already came true 12 years ago. But I want to keep writing and focus on finishing stories. As long as someone is interested in reading my works, I'll try my best to keep writing.

BONUS: Please leave a message for your readers.

You have been the most patient with me. Thank you for still supporting me even with my lack of writing activity. It has been 12 years since my first story and some of you are still here. While I am a very slow writer, I will try my best to reciprocate your support by bringing you more stories to read. Thank you for your patience!