Finding other writing to love is often the reminder we need to keep pursuing out own work. Ted Chiles discusses just this and more in today's chat about his pages penned in pandemic.
What does the pandemic currently look like in your city?
Quiet. Having several "preconditions," I don't get out much.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
I didn't read at first, but recently finished Hench by Natalie Zina Walschots and have started Just Like You by Nick Hornsby.
If you haven't been reading, what are some books you're most looking forward to reading?
I would like to make a dent in my pile of unread books.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
Pre-pandemic I had some health issues that also kept mostly at home. I've watched a lot of tv, All of “Midsummer Murders,” “Brokenwood,” and Season 2 of “The Boys” to name a few.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
I have written very little, four pieces of flash fiction and the beginning of a play in eleven months. I have done a fair amount of editing.
If you haven't been able to write, are there any projects you're hoping to work on next?
I was revising a novel when COVID arrived. I'm finally ready to start working on it again.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
My wife is also a writer and she has been prolific. Reading and editing her work has kept in touch with writing.
Is there anything that excites you about the changes being incited in the publishing world in light of recent events?
I don't what the changes are in the publishing world.
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
I have always had an idea where the character is physically headed. I try to discover the story as I write. I guess that makes me a "pantser."
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
A coffee shop. I have been in one for almost 9 months.
If you curated a playlist for writing life in the pandemic, what top 5 songs would be on your list?
1.) “Aja” by Steely Dan
2.) “Deacon Blues” by Steely Dan
3.) “Peg” by Steely Dan
4.) “Home at Last” by Steely Dan
5.) “I Got the News” by Steely Dan
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite scene poem you've written since the pandemic began?
She set her cigarette on the brick planter and took a step toward him, and he turned right to take a wide path around her. But she blocked the escape route and moved in on George, who backed up until he was pressed against the window. Taking the cold brew from the tray with her left hand, she reached up with her right, pulled down his mask, and kissed him. The kiss tasted of smoke. He thought, I haven’t been kissed in forever, and then he thought, this might kill me.
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
A vaccine.
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Do better than I have. Write everyday. Read everyday.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
This plague will pass. And we need to to write about how we have failed and how we have succeeded and all the spaces in-between.
ABOUT Ted Chiles
Ted Chiles' short stories and flash fiction have appeared in several literary journals including Canteen, Vestal Review, Smokelong Quarterly and Lunch Ticket. Chiles lives in Santa Barbara, California with a writer and two cats.
Thanks for chatting, Ted!
