As writers, we never know where inspiration may take us, and as such, staying open to innovation is key to continuing to put words on the page. J.D. Eames' discusses just this and more in today's chat about her pages penned in pandemic.
What does the pandemic currently look like in your city?
Ugly. We're in the middle of a COVID-19 surge.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
Rudolfo Anaya's Sonny Baca PI series, We Gather Together by Denise Kiernan, and Familiars by Holly Wren Spaulding.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
David Naimon's podcast "Between the Covers" has saved my sanity.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
It's been difficult to write through the news & anxiety, but the pandemic also pushed me to write shorter stories.
Are there any projects you are excited to keep working on? If so, can you give us any details (no spoilers please!) about your project?
My novel, "Reckless Joy," which I've been working on for over five years. I hope to finally get to the final draft soon.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
Understand that all of what happens influences you in ways you don't always understand in the moment. Be open to changing up the forms of your writing.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
Yes. A group of writers I met taking an online flash fiction workshop have helped me make it through the COVID chaos. We formed a Zoom writing group. They've already made me a better writer. Also two playwright friends have always been there through every draft of whatever I'm working on. Always my beloved wife, Mejie.
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
If my process has changed, I'm not aware of it yet. I'm in-between plotter and pantser. I don't start writing until I have an image of the ending. The fun is always uncovering how to get there and find out what the image might mean.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
The library or a coffee house. I haven't been able to visit once since March.
If you curated a playlist for writing life in the pandemic, what top 5 songs would be on your list?
1.) “Under Pressure” by David Bowie
2.) “Livin' on a Prayer” by Jon Bon Jovi
3.) “Into the Unknown” from Frozen 2
4.) “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson
5.) “Faith” by George Michael (from my wife's COVID-19 playlist)
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite poem you've written since the pandemic began?
A haiku about the blue moon setting at sunrise:
blue moon exploded
ignited morning moonset
eyes open, rise up.
Well, you asked!
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
Pumpkin pie, and getting the final draft of my novel completed.
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Write all the things you're afraid to write about.
