Writing will always be a learning experience, and we must take the time we have to continue to grow our understanding of this often mystical process. Caroline Johnson 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?
Horrific. Chicago has suffered, and there is a current lock down in Illinois.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
Falling Angel, The Egyptian, and The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek.
If you haven't been reading, what are some books you're most looking forward to reading?
Barack Obama's recent memoir, A Train in Winter, and A Peirogon.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
Recently discovered Blair Hurley's podcasts about writing fiction.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
I have switched to fiction; I have more time to write now.
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?
I am currently working on a novel; I also have an unpublished poetry manuscript about breast cancer.
If you haven't been able to write, are there any projects you're hoping to work on next?
Another poetry book dedicated to mystical and unseen things.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
Take advantage of all the time you have.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
Wilda Morris, Georgiann Foley, Pamela Smith-Irowa, a small group that meets weekly for a writing class I'm taking.
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
Somewhere in between. It hasn't changed. I'm learning how to write fiction.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
In our 3-season room, but in winter it is in the living room. I write by hand, then type up what I wrote and edit.
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite scene / poem you've written since the pandemic began?
A scene in Budapest for my novel.
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
In 2021, I hope to have a draft of my first novel completed.
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Butt in chair; get into your interior world.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Carpe diem.
ABOUT Caroline Johnson
Caroline Johnson has two poetry chapbooks, more than 100 poems in print, and was nominated for a Pushcart Prize and Best of the Net. She lived in Budapest 1992 – 1994 and is the author of The Caregiver (Holy Cow! Press, 2018). She is president of Poets & Patrons of Chicago.
To learn more, follow Caroline and her writing journey at her website on Twitter and Facebook.
Thanks for chatting, Caroline!
