Interview with Lear Alexandrine
Published 2014-07-04.
When did you first start writing?
Probably not until I was about twelve. My friend took me to a Haiku Poetry contest, and I thought "I could do that."
Eventually, I branched out. Haha.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
I wanted to see how people would respond to my writing.
Of course, eventually, I want to be published. But I've always had a fondness for indie authors. And it gives you more freedom to create! Nowadays successful authors have to follow each other around on whatever story happens to be popular. Here, I can try new things, and stretch beyond my limits comfortably.
Let the professionals deal with trends.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
Painting a portrait of the human soul, and delighting in the complexities of human nature. When I write, I feel that's the closest I will ever be to expressing that. And what joy!
I want to show my loved ones how beautiful they are. My characters can do that. Can you imagine?
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
I have a secret obsession with Final Fantasy XIV. Online games are just too much fun!
And, okay, I have been known to throw an amazing Halloween party. Yes, I plan all year for it!
What is your writing process?
It usually starts with a dream.
Then, I obsessively daydream about my characters doing everyday, ordinary things. Like going to soccer practice, or ruling a kingdom. I recite dialogue in my head, like their conversation over breakfast. Or arguments over the pronunciation of potato.
Then, once I'm thoroughly in love, I think of the actual scenario.
That's the fun part.
What do you read for pleasure?
Fiction! Grand fiction. Like The Count of Monte Cristo, or The Fiddler's Gun.
What are you working on next?
My work-ethic.
Oh, wait. You meant what I'm writing. Hah.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
Cirque Du Freak, by Darren Shan. That series changed my life.
I was a preppy, B-, shallow, cheerleader type before I got bored enough one summer and...wow. I can't even imagine who I would have become without Darren, and Mr. Crepsley.
Maybe even someone normal? One careless passtime...instant depth. Hah.
What's the story behind your latest book?
I wanted to put actual, physical pain into words. I didn't want a book you read, but something you drown in from page one. Not something that was pleasant, but something that draws you in and keeps you prisoner until the last. Against your will, a small knife to break the apathy of this generation.
That's still in the shop.
What do your fans mean to you?
They're the reason that I write. Books have changed my life...I want to change theirs.
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