The Heartland Interviews

Interview with A.N. Horton (Wattpad Star)

How/When did you get the inspiration to write your first ever book?

 I've been writing for as long as I can remember, winning writing competitions in elementary school through high school. So I truly cannot remember my first ever book. But I know what inspired me to get back into writing in college and to start writing the genres I write now and that's the work of other authors. I was inspired by their art and in love with the worlds they created and wanted to make some of that magic myself.

What is your experience in being a successful Wattpad writer and winning the Wattys 2020?

 Winning the Wattys in 2020 felt like a validation that I was, in fact, a good writer. Since I'd been writing for so long, I was starting to wonder if I was wasting my own time, if I didn't have the talent I felt I did. But winning the Wattys and becoming a Wattpad Star assured me that I, at least, had some skill for this past time I was so passionate about. It felt like coming home, finding a community that loved to do what I loved to do, and sharing my work with others who were interested in reading it.

What is something that you wish to tell new aspiring Wattpad authors?

 Don't give up and listen to your criticism. Sometimes critics can be harsh and their words can hurt but know that, as a writer, you are never going to stop improving and, although it may be hard to hear that your pacing needs work or your characters are not relatable, it's valuable information that you can use to make yourself a better writer. I think one of the worst traps people fall into on Wattpad is responding to a negative comment in one of two ways. Either (A) falling into a deep dark hole where they are so depressed about the feedback they don't want to write anymore or (B) completely brushing off the criticism as "they just don't get it" and continuing with the same mistakes. Maybe they DON'T get it but, as an author trying to reach an audience, you at least need to ask yourself WHY that is. Always be improving, we all can.

What are your writing tips and strategies you wish to share?

I sort of shared a tip above. Take criticism seriously, even when it hurts, but not so seriously it keeps you from writing. Second, know your audience and know your intentions. 

Are you writing this for Wattpad or are you writing this for publication? Because that changes HOW you're going to tell your story and WHO you're telling your story to. Above all, stay true to yourself and your characters. Bring authenticity to your work that only you can and believe in your voice. 

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Interview done by 

NerdyReviews