While plants may wilt and relationships may falter, there is always hope for regrowth, for love with no end. Tina Anton's short story, "Lovesick," explores this notion, and is now available to read the print collective! Until then, I'm excited to chat about Tina's pages penned in pandemic.
What does the pandemic currently look like in your city?
People act like it isn't happening. They openly call it a hoax and no-maskers are rampant. Our county is purple (worst rating you can get for COVID) and we added four new COVID units to my roommates hospital this month alone (she works with COVID patients). Most stores and restaurants are closed with signs saying their employees tested positive.
What are some favorite books you've read during quarantine?
The City and the City by China Miéville And loads of online work.
If you haven't been reading, what are some books you're most looking forward to reading?
Obama's new book and Finishing the Nightside series by Simon R. Green.
Have there been any movies, tv shows, podcasts, etc. that have helped keep you at ease the past few months?
“The Mandalorian,” “New Girl,” and the John Wick movies have pretty much saved my brain.
How has the pandemic affected your writing?
I've been reading more poetry. Inspired me to try new writing styles including poetry. It's going relatively well.
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 NaNoWriMo story this year has me very excited.
If you haven't been able to write, are there any projects you're hoping to work on next?
I want to get more illustrations submitted.
If asked ten years from now what the past few months have taught you about being a writer, what would come to mind?
Read more. You write better when you do.
Have there been any fellow writers or people in your life who have helped you stay connected during the pandemic?
My girlfriend. She is a writer as well.
Is there anything that excites you about the changes being incited in the publishing world in light of recent events?
Yes!! The online community of writers has been so supportive of one another and it has been gorgeous to see.
Is there anything that worries you about the changes being incited in the publishing world in light of recent events?
Publishing house monopolies. I don't like it (looking at you, Penguine).
Are you a plotter, pantser, or somewhere in between? Has this changed during the pandemic?
I don't know what this question means so I'm not sure.
Where is your favorite place to write? Has this changed during the pandemic?
I never used to write so much on my phone. It's convenient. I've ended up writing a lot more because of it. I have physical disabilities that leave me in 24/7 high level pain. So nice to be able to write from my bed instead of sitting at my desk.
If you curated a playlist for writing life in the pandemic, what top 5 songs would be on your list?
Everything by Zack Hemsey (start with Nomad and The Runner).
Without too many spoilers, what is your favorite scene / poem you've written since the pandemic began?
I wrote a scene where a prisoner is stuck in virtual reality serving out his prison sentence under a fake indigo sky in a non-existent desert that stretches to infinity. I had fun breaking the poor guy's brain.
While the future is just as unknowable as ever, what is something you are most looking forward to this year?
Seeing my girlfriend more. Her mom had cancer all during 2020. My roommate works with COVID patients. We've had to stay virtual.
Is there any advice you would give to young writers during this time?
Take advantage of the extra hours and read while you can. Soak it all up.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
I've thorough enjoyed the Twitter writing community and think that everyone would benefit (especially new writers) from being a part of it.
ABOUT Tina Anton
Tina Anton has an associate degree in creative writing. Her works have been featured in Aphelion, Weirdyear, The Rusty Nail, Electric Pulp, and other publications.
To learn more, follow Tina and her writing journey at her website and on Twitter.
Thanks for chatting, Tina!
