Writers often discover certain ideas that feel more special than others, making it more troublesome than ever to let them slip by. Dónal Fogarty's short story, "Tomorrow, James, and the Blue Cat," explores ideas in all their forms, and is now available to read in the print collective! Until then, I'm excited to chat about Dónal's pages penned in pandemic.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
Finishing my Masters, teaching online, and marking student papers means that if I want to still have my eyesight when all this is over, I've had to curtail my reading for pleasure.
If you haven't been reading, what are some books you're most looking forward to reading?
Nikki Marmery's debut On Wilder Seas—a ridiculously well researched novel based on an unbelievably true, true story. And for some much need laughter, I'm looking forward to re-reading The Peculiar Memories of Thomas Penman by Bruce Robinson.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
I don't really want to hear the news much now. But at the start of the pandemic, BBC Radio 4, in typical stoic British stiff upper style, played out their 'PM' news program with uplifting tunes chosen by the listeners. When they ended the show with Ry Cooder's “I think it's going to work fine,” it became an anthem in our house.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
As working from home blurs into home life and with my five-year-old son at home all the time, it's been almost impossible to find the time to think about my writing.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
I should follow my own advice (see my advice to young writers below).
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
I've been overwhelmed by the generosity of established writers from all genres who have put on 'pay what can' webinars on the craft of writing.
Is there anything that excites you about the changes being incited in the publishing world in light of recent events?
My Masters dissertation, grounded in and inspired by current events, received a distinction - so maybe those in positions of power are listening to artists and other people imagining a better post-COVID world.
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
I'm a recidivist pantser—I even wrote about this condition on my blog.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
My kingdom for a quiet place to write!
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite poem you've written since the pandemic began?
“Gross Encounter of the Third Kind,” a short story hiding within a poem. However, the grossness of the incident it recounts will ensure that this particular piece of tomfoolery will never find a home.
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
It doesn't matter what 'time' it is; keep writing, keep reading, repeat. Others will give up. If you hang in there, someone will find you and your work.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
I was delighted to volunteer as a reader for the Wilbur Niso Smith Foundation this summer. The entries from the young writers to their Author of Tomorrow Competition were so original and pleasure to read.
ABOUT Dónal Fogarty
Dónal’s fictional and factual works span a variety of genres. He teaches academic communication at colleges on both sides of the Atlantic. His irreverent spoken word poetry on a theme of education has been performed at the University of Nottingham and Exeter College, Oxford. He has also written and edited scripts for the UK stage and radio. He is currently seeking representation.
To learn more, follow Dónal and his writing journey at his website and on Twitter.
Thanks for chatting, Dónal!
