Writer's Relay - A Writing Collab

Meet the Authors: Geoff Blackwell

Meet Geoff!

Writer's Relay:
Dear Geoff, we are super excited to have you participating in this unique collaboration with your fellow writers. Let's take this opportunity to know more about you, your writing journey, and your thoughts on Wattpad and the Writer's Relay event.

So, let's start with some warm up...

What prompted you to start writing on Wattpad, and what do you like most about the platform?

Geoff:
At first it was mostly about the convenience — having access to what I was writing, no matter where I was. I more or less saw Wattpad as orange Google Docs. Now, of course, I'm here for the community. I've lost count of how many friends and connections and opportunities I've found.

WR:
Tell us one thing about your writing process that has helped you the most.

Geoff:
Learning to keep things simple. To not let the words get in the way of what you're trying to say. It's harder than it sounds and something I'm still working on.

WR:
Which author has influenced your writing the most?

Geoff:
Douglas Adams. Because he's just simply breathtakingly awesome. The imagination, the humour, the characters—the guy was a genius and gone far too soon.

WR:
Where, would you say, do you stand in your writing journey?

Geoff:
At the foothills, I would say. I've learned enough to know that I'll never stop learning, that there's always room to get better. I've had a book published, seen it in a bookshop and in my local library, and pitched it for screen adaptation. But it hardly set the world on fire. I'd like to do better.

WR:
Which of your own stories is closest to your heart?

Geoff:
Probably Section F. It's the closest I've come to writing the kind of story I'd like to tell (and have enjoyed).

WR:
Share two Wattpad story recommendations. Include the usernames of the authors and why you enjoyed the stories.

Geoff:
Immortal Mistakes by elleseescience is a weird and wonderful ride, which will leave you wondering what the hell is going on but wanting very much to figure it out. Even if you don't, it's still worth it. And GG by EvelynHail is a zany, outrageous, head-scratching romp of a novel, which also packs a real emotional punch.

WR:
There is one question that many authors may have asked themselves, you included... But could there be one simple single answer? Let's hear from your thoughts...
What would be the perfect recipe for the next greatest novel of all time? One you would write or read...

Geoff:
If I knew that, do you think I would tell anyone?

WR:
Now that we know more about you, we are curious about your involvement in the Writer's Relay adventure.

What was your first thought when seeing the Writer's Relay call for participants? Did you apply straight away or did you take time to ponder on your possible involvement?

Geoff:
I pondered for a bit, mainly because I don't have a whole lot of spare time. I also suspected wrangling a bunch of authors would be a bit like herding cats, but kudos to you guys because you've managed it beautifully. So, no regrets. It's been great.

WR:
What do you hope to gain from collaborating with other writers on this Writers Relay initiative?

Geoff:
Insight into other authors' writing processes and hopefully some new friends.

WR:
Now that you are well into this relay race, what do you think of your role in the collaboration?

Writing as a group is a bit like musicians performing in an orchestra. What is your instrument in this philharmonic? And what kind of symphony will come out?

Geoff:
The kazoo. Noisy.