Okay, Let’s Give It A Go

I’m Only A Part-time Writer, Compared To Most Of You

1) How many words do you typically write in a day?

No idea. sometimes quite a lot, other days none at all. I’m really a part-time writer, because I have so many other things to do. Also, much of the things I write about require a decent standard of research.

2) What is your favorite time of day to write?

Afternoon or evening.

3) Do you plan your writing in advance, or do you write whatever comes to mind?

Depends what I’m writing. I’d hate to have a niche; it would feel like a trap. So if I’m writing about historical events, situations, or characters, I plan in advance and have a clear idea what I need to research before writing. But I can write observations and squabble about things with less effort.

4) Where do you find your inspiration for writing?

Anywhere. Being a serial migrant helps, because you learn so much by living in different cultures. I like stories that are either not well-known or where I can offer a new perspective.

5) What techniques do you use to overcome writer’s block?

I’m not sure what this is. Does it mean that you really can’t write? I’ve never had that, but sometimes I feel like writing and sometimes I don’t.

6) How do you edit your articles?

By paragraphs, until I’m satisfied with them. Some are easy and others less so. One of the things I like about Medium is that you can go back and edit after publication. If I get a comment that makes me think, I can go back and include my response if it’s important. I did that recently with a story written several years ago.

7) Where is your ideal writing environment?

My house, because I live alone, on a mountainside, and nobody disturbs me. But the downside is having an unreliable internet connection.

8) How often do you read?

Including research, most days. Unless I don’t.

9) Do you have a favorite topic to write about?

I like analysing how and why things can go seriously wrong and also, sometimes, why they nearly do but get put right. I studied International Politics and Propaganda, and some news stories attract me. But I like just playing with ideas too.

10) What are your long-term goals as a writer?

At my age, I don’t have long-term goals about anything. I just enjoy writing and it gives me things to think about.

[Thank you for taking the time to read this quiz . Feel free to copy and paste the questions and publish your own results! — Marcus]

For anyone who wants to try this themselves, here’s the link to the original, (thank you Marcus): https://readmedium.com/a-borrowed-writers-quiz-10-questions-a5a591c33011