There is a certain truth to the notion that being a writer is a solitary endeavor, however, having the support of other writers can be necessary. Tilia Klebenov Jacobs 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?
My city has been a red zone for months now. The loss of life is frightening. However, on the plus side, I see close to 100% mask wearing in stores and outdoors in crowded places, and people seem very eager to help each other.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
The Right Sort of Man by Allison Montclair, Money in the Bank by P.B. Wodehouse, and To Me, He Was Just Dad edited by Joshua David Stern.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” “Dancing with the Stars,” “The Saint” (1960s TV show), and innumerable films such as “The Breakfast Club,” “The Sting,” and the “Terminator” movies.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
It is much harder to write when I can't get out of the house to a coffee shop or library (my usual offices). Fortunately, I recently re-connected with Norman Birnbach, an acquaintance from college, and we decided to become writing partners. It is marvelous having someone to bounce ideas off of, get energized by, and be accountable to--kind of like having a literary gym buddy.
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 partner and I are working on a YA crime novel that we're very excited about.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
Be willing to write despite circumstances that are less than ideal.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
Yes, definitely. My colleagues at Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime have made a real effort to stay in touch with everyone, and it's made a world of difference.
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
I am a plotter, and as a result, so is my new writing partner. The only real difference is that I used to outline in longhand, but since Norman and I meet by Zoom, we share the screen and outline at the keyboard.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
I usually write in coffee shops and public libraries. Since they're all closed now, I would have to say that yes, that has changed.
If you curated a playlist for writing life in the pandemic, what top 5 songs would be on your list?
I like having instrumental music for writing, so I would probably select a mix of Gershwin, Goodman, Scott Joplin, Thelonious Monk, and Bach to start with.
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite scene you've written since the pandemic began?
Probably some banter between a twelve-year-old girl and a ghost as they're being chased by a demon cockroach. Like ya do.
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
Being able to get back to coffee shops and libraries!
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Kid, hang in there. In about twenty years someone will do a big study showing that teenagers who lived through this era are more creative and resilient than other generations, but I already know that by looking at you. Just keep doing what you're doing: be strong, be kind, and work hard. This too shall pass.
ABOUT Tilia Klebenov Jacobs
Instructor Tilia Klebenov Jacobs is the bestselling author of two crime novels, one middle-grade fantasy book, and numerous short stories. She is a judge in San Francisco’s Soul-Making Keats Literary Competition, and a board member of Mystery Writers of America-New England. HarperCollins describes her as one of “crime fiction’s top authors.” Tilia has taught middle school, high school, and college; she also teaches writing classes for prison inmates.
To learn more, follow Tilia and her writing journey at her website and on Facebook.
Thanks for chatting, Tilia!
