Between the Lines

Rapunzel2013

Interview with @Rapunzel2013

What is your favorite book you have written?

It's called 'Hiding in Plain Sight'

What was the very first story you ever wrote? (not just on wattpad)

Well, to begin with I really just wrote poems- my first actual book was 'hiding in plain sight' because i wrote that for a competition.

Why do you write?

I write to release my emotions. Some people do this negatively, through acts of violence and such, but I find that I am able to do this through writing, which is much safer for not only me but the people around me as well. I also find that I write better when I'm feeling a strong emotion; as I'm able to connect to the reader better. Writing, more simply, is my escape.

Where do your stories come from/what is your inspiration(s)?

Usually my stories come from my dreams; both the ones I have while I’m asleep and my hopes for the future. My ideas also come from things like movies, books, even real life. I see something and think 'what if...?' that’s how the story develops. Most of the characters have a piece of me in them; whether that be big or small. I think this happens with a lot of authors though. Even if it's subconscious you end up writing with your opinions and sharing your experiences

When you write who controls the story, you or the characters?

I suppose it’s both actually. Of course when I begin my story I am in control but from there I think the characters evolve for themselves. They take on a life of their own and I think that's one of my favourite parts about writing. As the story develops I begin to think of my characters less as figments of my imagination and more as real people.

Which idea comes to you first, the characters or the plot?

Usually I think of the basic outline for the plot first. After that the characters develop and shape the story and that's when I become 100% aware of what is going to happen. With some of my stories (especially Hiding in Plain Sight) the main character mirrors me and so it is the character that I think of first. I suppose that it varies but it is, in most cases, the plot.

Is writing just a hobby, or would you like to become a full time author?

I’d love to have a career in writing. It is a big part of my life and becoming an author would definitely provide me with a rewarding job. And the best part is it wouldn’t feel like a job; it’s simply something I love to do and I’d be so happy doing that every day.

How much do you read and what type of books?

I read all the time. I always have a book on the go; usually more than one. I enjoy dystopian books such as ‘The Hunger Games’ and ‘Divergent.’ Especially when they are laced with romance. However I also enjoy stories with ‘supernatural’ beings such as ‘Shiver’ (werewolves) and ‘Hush hush’ (fallen angels).

Do you plan out your stories or just get an idea and start writing?

Usually I get an idea; and right that down. Before I start writing my actual story I develop a loose ‘plan’ on that idea. From there I start writing and add more to the plan as I continue the story.

How did you learn to write stories?

Most of it comes down to my experience with reading, and I do as much of that as I can. But I developed my main ‘skills’ through English lessons at school (which happen to be my favourite.)  I also try and read a broad range of genres to extend my writing capability.