Author Interviews

Interview with @raybanned

1. What first inspired you to start writing and at what age did you start?
I was 6 or 7 years old and thought I was weird because unlike the other Kindergarteners, I liked writing better than drawing. My love for reading inspired me to write. I was fascinated by how 400 pages of words could get you to places unimaginable.

2. What challenges do you face as a writer?
The top challenge is my grammar. Since I'm not a native English speaker, I always complain that I'm absolute shit at it in my author notes and my readers are probably annoyed about that, but it's true. I'm incredibly insecure about it; I always fear that my English would not be good enough for my readers. I struggle with what's right, what's wrong, what makes sense, what doesn't, etc. Also, another challenge that I have is managing to keep a story going. A huge problem that I have with myself is that once I get a new story idea, I always feel the urge to post it, without even planning it out.

3. What do you think makes a good story? Do you have any tips for aspiring writers?
I think (in my opinion), not having an overused story idea and plot line makes a good story. I mean, who'd want to read your book if it's basically a remake of Twilight? Be original.

If you are a writer just starting out and you don't get a lot of reads or maybe you just think you're bad at writing, please, please don't give up. I've been in your shoes, and at first, my writing was a mess, my plots were cliche, and no one read my books; I wanted to quit. A few months later, after hours and hours of practicing, I noticed my writing had gotten better. Your writing will definitely improve over time; Read more books (literature, fanfics, even dictionaries or thesauruses) and don't be afraid to ask more questions. Keep going and you will get there someday

4. How has writing affected your life?
Writing on Wattpad has gained me some amazing friends. Unfortunately some friends have drifted away, but I'm so glad I got to spend time getting to know them. I've gotten much more support on this website than in real life. Every time someone follows me, comments on my stories, or even messages me just to talk and not for a cover, a huge smile appears on my face because I'm so glad that all these lovely people actually acknowledge my existence and like my stories.

5. How did you discover wattpad?
I got my first tablet a few years ago, and I was looking for apps related to reading and books, and I stumbled upon Wattpad. I made an account and read books at first, but then I had a story idea in mind and posted it.

6. What activities other than writing do you enjoy taking part in during your free time?
Drawing, Photoshop, dancing, singing, going out to the mall, eating food, traveling, skating, and others I can't seem to remember.

7. How important do you think cover art is for a story here on wattpad?
Honestly, as long as your idea reels me in, and I am fond of your writing skills, I don't really care if your cover is a picture of a toilet.

8. How emotionally invested are you in your work? Do you take parts of yourself and include them into characters or scenes?
I was interested in and add them to my characters, but now I don't because even though it's not a bad thing to do at all, when I'm creating a character, I like to use my imagination and don't really base it on someone in real life. When it comes to scenes though, whenever I experience something in real life that somewhat relates to one of my stories, I jot it down, possibly adding it to a chapter later on.

9. Do you read and answer comments? In what ways do they affect you if at all?
I always read comments. Even if I don't reply to someone, it doesn't mean I didn't read it. Comments (that aren't "UPDATE!!") on my stories make my day. I find it so sweet that someone would take a minute or so of their life to comment on my story; It boosts my confidence because I realize that they're enjoying it. Comments are even better if I get feedback or constructive criticism. It helps me correct my mistakes and makes sure I do better in the future.

10. Who is the character you've most enjoyed creating and why?
Even though I don't really update "Fancy", the character that I've most enjoyed creating would be Amelia Abernathy. She's an uptight, bitchy schoolgirl and she may be so at some times, but at other times, she can be very polite--when she wants to, that is. She's very moody and the sass that comes along with it amuses me. I love that she's very stubborn and never takes risks, not really succumbing to peer pressure, but in my drafts, she takes a big step and does something she would never do in a million billion years.

11. Do you have a favorite quote or saying regarding writing/reading? If not, describe your feelings towards it in one word.
"Never judge a book by its cover."

I'm sure every reader/writer has heard of this quote and the reason why it's my favourite is because the simplest book cover could lead to the greatest book ever made once you turn its pages. For instance, the book cover of The Great Gatsby may be confusing and unattractive to someone who has just seen the front, but if they read the story, they would get a book full of love, heartbreak, tears, drama, quotes (lots of them), and more.

12. Are there any implicit messages in your work that you would like your readers to get?
A glare of hatred can turn into a gaze of love within time and communication.

13. How do you cope with your up and coming popularity?
I'm not popular but I'm definitely thankful for all the support and love I get.

Finally, is there anything else you would like to say to your supporters?
You probably don't know how happy you make me. Every comment, message, follow, vote, read, and compliment makes me squeal in happiness. If you've ever done any of the things listed up there, keep in mind that you made a person probably a thousand miles away from you, grateful and blessed.

Without your support, I would've never gotten to the point where I am now. I love you so much, don't ever forget that.

Literally thank you so much raybanned for doing this