So, I was sort of tagged in a video by Kim Chance (watch it and you’ll see how that happens). I figured it would be a good idea for a blog post, so here it is:

1. What do you eat or drink while writing?

I usually end up eating cereal while I write. It keeps me going. I don’t drink anything while I’m writing, usually.

2. What do you listen to while writing?

I love the epic mixes you can find on YouTube from ThePrimeCronus, Panora Journey, and Versus Music Official.

3. What is your biggest writing distraction?

All the other videos on YouTube.

4. What’s the worst thing that’s ever happened to you while writing?

I don’t know that I’ve ever had anything bad happen to me. I once had my computer turn off suddenly while I was writing, but I didn’t lose much.

5. What’s the best thing that ever happened to you while writing?

The high I get while I’m in the flow of writing is amazing. I believe addiction to that feeling is why most people create art, whether it’s from music, writing, sculpting, or whatever.

6. Who you communicate with or not communicate with while writing?

I belong to two writing groups, the Saturday Writers and the Des Moines Writer’s Workshop. I love talking about writing and art, so pretty much anyone who doesn’t mind listen to me ramble about it.

7. What your secret to success and your biggest writing flaw?

In order to be a success, you have to define what that means to you. I define success in writing is publishing books that I can be proud of. I’m proud of the Heir of Chaos. I’m not proud of Illusion of Truth, yet, which is why it isn’t out. When I feel it’s good enough, I will publish it. Even if it only sells a couple copies, I still think I’m successful. It is that persistence and willingness to produce the best product possible that make me a success.

My biggest writing flaw is overwriting and repetition. I write fantasy, which has a big, beautiful world. I can’t put it all on one book, or even series of books. I always need to remember that things are less interesting to the reader than they are to me.

8. What inspires you? Or what makes you productive?

The music I listen to. I also like thinking about characters. Wanting other people to experience their stories inspires me.

9. What is one thing you do or other writers do that’s annoying?

I talk too much. I mean, way too much. Sit down and ask an author to describe their books and ideas and you may get four or five hours of them talking if you offer any encouragement.

10. Are you willing to share something you’ve written?

The first chapter of Heir of Chaos can be found here.