Writing a book is a strenuous process, especially if you don’t know where to start. But why should one embark on writing a novel?

Writing is an art form that allows people to express themselves and the views on which they perceive society. And a book is a way to store and pass on all of that knowledge, so that future generations may take a peek back into the underlying constructs that the world once followed.

Now let’s hear an interview from a publishing author, Ashley Griguoli, who’s a freshman currently writing her very own novel, Written from the Heart. Additionally, a quick thank you to Ashley Griguoli for agreeing to make this interview possible!

What inspired you to write your book/become a writer?

“The idea for the story itself came at 3 am the summer before (as genius ideas do). I was intrigued by how TV shows reflected real life and I wondered if a romance show could do the same thing. It seemed like a fun thing to explore through writing, and I wanted to get it out fast, so I chose it as my National Novel Writing Month project!”

What’s your favorite genre or author?

“My favorite genre would probably be romance, considering my taste in TV shows and novel projects. I enjoy the author Rainbow Rowell and her cozy, realistic interpretations of romance. Besides that, I’m also a fan of Fantasy and Science Fiction on occasion.”

What’s your favorite part about being a writer?

“Honestly, the fact that you can disregard every rule that you find inconvenient in the real world. Giving someone wings? Sure. Pushing someone off a cliff? Why not? A writer can play God in a world tailored exactly to their liking, one of their very own (even if it’s all in their head). I can’t think of a single person who wouldn’t want to do just that.”

What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about writing a book?

“Deadlines may seem annoying and a heavy weight to bear, but I’ve found that in this stage of my writing process, deadlines are the best. It might be a mad dash to get to the finish line, but the feeling you get when you’ve reached a tiny goal in a series of many, many goals…. It’s something to look forward to.”

What’s the most difficult part about writing a book?

“Writing a book is about painting a picture for a reader, and you most likely want that picture to be exactly how YOU as the writer see it. Trying to put that down in English (or whatever language) and to do it well enough for your reader to “get the picture” is essentially what writing is from a foundational perspective. So, suffice it to say, the hardest part about writing is writing itself.”

How do you handle writer’s block?

“From my experience, the key to handling evil writer’s block is not to handle it at all. I usually try to do anything BUT writing – going on a walk, crocheting, reading another book besides your own. And as soon as I feel the tug to get back to business (I’ve been away from my baby too long) by all means, I go forth and write! Consider my writer’s block banished. For now.”

On average, how long would you say it takes to write a book?

“I can’t say for certain, since, regrettably, I’ve never actually finished a book before. Usually, I start one, get bored, start another, and go back and forth. This fuels procrastination, a writer’s textbook nemesis – so I don’t recommend this method. I’m going to finish this one, which I’ve been working on for roughly a year, but that just goes to show how long of a process it is. Just getting it down is the primary objective!”

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start writing a book?

“Here are some profound words of wisdom for you – write it! As I mentioned in the last question, the simple act of getting it down is the first (and possibly the hardest) stepping stone toward writing a book. It could very well be the most hideous, ungodly, illiterate bunch of words ever seen, but it’s like your practice round – revision comes later, I promise! Once you dive in, character development is always encouraged in the beginning stages. An outline is also a handy tool for coming up with a plot, and even some genius ideas in general (plot twists, anyone?). Flat-out winging it is also how many great writers put their best ideas out into the world! Suffice it to say, if you have a story to tell, don’t shy away from telling it. And please, PLEASE don’t listen to the voices that tell you you’re the worst writer on the planet. You might find through this journey that you’re the best. Now, enough reading about writing. Onward, my fellow creator-of-worlds!”