Interview With Gaslight Writers - July 2007

Describe your writing goals.

I have so many goals when it comes to writing. My dream is to one day see my name on the cover of a book that I’ve written. I want to walk into a bookstore and see my books on the shelf in between the authors that have inspired me to write. I hope with all my heart to be able to write until I’m old and grey.

What effect does writing have on your life?

Writing is a very important part of my life. I’m at my happiest when I’m writing. I get to bring to life all of the stories that are floating around in my head. When I’m not writing I’m still creating stories and getting inspired by all the little things in life. Creativity seems to hit at the weirdest times and once it does there’s no stopping it.

How did you begin writing?

I started writing when I was still in grade school. I remember writing stories that were about haunted houses and ghosts- all the things that go bump in the night. I developed a love for music at a young age and started writing lyrics. I did that for the longest time. My love of music led me on a path to write stories again. The only difference is that this time the stories are a lot more grown up and sexier.

What helped you decide your genre?

Deciding my chosen genre was an easy thing to do. I’ve always loved reading romance books and as time went by I started reading books with a little more spice. I’m a hopeless romantic and I knew from the very first story I wrote that this is the right genre for me. This was where I belong.

Considering the advice given to you, what is the most helpful?

I must say that I have received a lot of advice from different writers, authors and book lovers in general. Every person has something good to say. I think that the most helpful one has to be the obvious, never give up on your love of writing.

How do you overcome writing obstacles?

Writing obstacles come up whether you like it or not. Most of the time they’re in the form of writers block and that is something I hate. When that happens I shift my attention elsewhere and work on something different. I don’t force myself to write just for the fact of writing. I focus on the other aspects of my life and let my muse pull me back when it’s ready.

Do you have a writing routine? If yes, explain how it helps you be a better writer.

I don’t really have a writing routine. I try to write at least 1000 words a day. There are days where I might not reach that goal and there are a lot of days where I surpass it. Again, this is up to my muse.

What defines you?

I think the biggest thing that defines me is family. They have supported me all my life, with all of the things that I’ve done, especially when it came to my writing. They instilled values in me and helped me become the person that I am today.

How do you handle grammar issues, uneven plots and character development weaknesses?

With writing you never stop learning. I still make grammar mistakes and all the little no no’s that everyone tells you are bad. With time you learn to pick up on all those things. I have found it useful to take the time to learn about the stuff you might not know about in writing. I read different books on writing and I find it helpful.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Don’t ever give up on your dreams. Strive to be who you want to be and do what you want to do. Dreams are there for a reason. Do whatever you can to achieve them.

If you would like to contact me you can email me at savannah@savannahchase.com

For more information you can check out www.savannahchase.com and www.myspace.com/savannah_chase