Interview with C.W. Black
Published 2013-09-25.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in the state of New Jersey. When I lived there the East coast provided a myriad of cultures and ethnic diversities that were not fully realized in other parts of America. The influences of these varied peoples helped me to understand that even though we look different on the outside, we are all the same inside. Everyone wants is to be loved, cared for, needed (at times), to have, and be a friend to others.
Being raised in a culturally enriched environment gave me an appreciation and love of all peoples great and small. Especially close to my heart are children. My belief is that they are gifts from the Universe. It is the job of the Elders to ensure they are loved and taught the difference between right and wrong. So the cycle of life continues with an eternal positive spin.
When did you first start writing?
I started writing love and romance short stories in my early adult years. However, I never believed they were good enough to publish. I wrote them down mainly to make space in my head for other stories to form. I would on occasion share some of those stories with close friends.
I also loved to tell oral stories. I have the ability to make up a story usually with just a sentence, in some cases, just one word. That skill really came in handy whenever I volunteered to babysit for friends and the children started to get bored. We would tell stories. It worked very well especially when I would insist that they provide input to keep the story going.
What's the story behind your latest book?
I am currently working on two different types of stories. However, the one I will be ready to publish very soon is a second installment to my Anaya Series. I enjoy helping others and as a child I tried to assist whenever I could. Today, I am that same way.
In fantasy (Anaya story) she realizes for me those things I saw and wanted to address when I was a child. I just did not have the resources or information needed to actually do anything about what I would see. My hope is that with the available resources today some little girl or boy has that same spirit within them, and they will have the courage to do something about those things they consider injustices.
What motivated you to become an indie author?
In order for me to write any story I must have the character in mind. That individual must come to me. In my case they begin to inhabit my thoughts quite often. In rare cases if the thoughts are insistent enough I must write them down otherwise I am some what "haunted" until they are given voice.
Many characters have come (because I have addressed them), and gone (because I did not take the time to give them voice) over the years. I wanted to share them with the world so becoming an indie author was my best option when I started to publish in 2012.
I know this is part of my journey and I want to bring as many people with me along this path. I would appreciate the feedback, it will only help me get better in my writing as I enjoy one of my passions.
How has Smashwords contributed to your success?
Smashwords has been an extremely wonderful find. The site not only provides a place for an author like me to publish, but they provide the tools necessary and information to do so. They go the extra mile to provide updated sources to help an author advance their careers if they take advantage of the opportunities given.
This incredible site allows me to share with all of you what I love to do. Long Live Smashwords. :)
What is the greatest joy of writing for you?
You all get to see a part of me I do not always show the world in which I live. I get to share the images and words that swirl around in my head bursting to be freed.
It is simply, MAGICAL.
What do your fans mean to you?
My fans bring the stories to LIFE. Without you (my FANS) my stories would not come alive. As you read and see what your mind perceives, you bring the stories to life, and they become a part of you. My hope is that they bring joy, a sense of love and happiness.
What are you working on next?
I am currently working on completing the second installment of the Anaya Series.
Who are your favorite authors?
I love murder mysteries and thrillers. I also like children's books. A few of my favorite authors are J.D. Robb, James Patterson, Steven King, Dean Koontz. I also like Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss) and E.B. White.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
A new beginning. It is a chance to start over. Whatever happened yesterday is done. Make it a BETTER day always. Seeing the sun rise in the morning gives me hope things will be just fine.
When you're not writing, how do you spend your time?
Working a 12 noon to 10:30 PM job. I need to mention I love what I do. But it is not my PASSION...... ;)
Smashwords Interviews are created by the profiled author or publisher.
Books by This Author
My Daddy, My Hero
by C.W. Black
(5.00 from 1 review)
Anaya misses her Daddy very much. She was just 4 years old when he died in a horrible accident. All she has left of him are those life lessons he taught her, and memories. A ceremony to remember those who perished in the accident is approaching. This is a story about an eight year old, who must decide if she wants to speak publicly at the ceremony. Will she do it? If so, what will she say?
