I Thought this Was a Book Blog

“This is a book blog, so what’s with the space and geography posts, Jay Dee?” you may ask.  Well, it’s all part of my master plan to make the world knowledgeable about everything around us.

Actually, if you look at the title of this blog, it states that I enjoy reading encyclopedias.  Those are books.  You can get science and geography from books.  But I’d say that this blog is about books and knowledge.  And what better way to gain knowledge than through books?

“But why the focus on space and geography?” you’re still asking.

Easy.  Look at the kinds of books I read and write.  They’re all about science fiction and fantasy.

You look at me confused.  “Huh?  I don’t get it.”

The space part is easy, right?  Science fiction often deals with space and planets.  And since my university degree is physics and astronomy, I do tend to write about what I know.  With my knowledge of astronomy, space, and planetary sciences, I have been able to develop a realistic world for my science fiction writing.  Research is a major aspect of writing, as well.  If you want to write about something, you need to research it, so you don’t sound like you have no idea what you’re talking about.  Consider my university days research for my books.

As for geography, this should also be obvious.  Look at fantasy novels.  You see inside on the first few pages?  Usually, there’s a map.  Same goes for some science fiction.  I love geography, and my knowledge of it has also helped me develop Ariadne.  I’ve gone into some detail in my worldbuilding posts, and will continue to do so in future posts.  I plan to write about each country on Earth, but it’s not just for my own interest.  It’s also going to help me understand the countries more deeply, and I can apply this to develop more realistic countries for Ariadne.

So, you see, it all works together.  It’s all relevant to my writing.  Make sense?

The 2K International Writers’ Blog Tour – Fia Essen

Week two is now on for the blog tour.  As always, you can read the original interview on the two Kates’ blogs here and here.

Fia Essen

Fia Essen – that’s me. I grew up on the move, and then I kept going. I still haven’t really settled down anywhere. I’m not ready to say I’ve settled. You could say I got lost in transition. But I’ve found some great people and places on my journey to… well, destination unknown. And my journey through life is what gives me ideas for the stories I write.

What is the first piece you remember writing (from childhood or young adulthood)?

I wrote a short story when I was nine years old. I had just started a new school in Dubai and I was still learning English. Predictably, the story was about the adventures of a girl from Sweden who had just moved to “The Desert of Arabia”.

What is your favorite aspect of being a writer? Your least favorite?

The best thing about being a writer is being my own boss. It’s also the worst thing about being a writer. It’s not a “regular” 9-5 job, and I don’t get a regular paycheck. Nonetheless, I’m serious about my writing. Writing is my job and I give it my all.

Do you believe in writer’s block? If so, what is your best tip for beating it? If not, why not?

I can’t say I believe in writer’s block. Having said this, I can only speak from my own experience. As I mentioned above, writing is my job. I sit down and I do the work. Every day! I don’t expect inspiration to hit me out of the blue. I’m not that kind of writer. I don’t get struck by sudden flashes of brilliance. I work hard to create a story that I hope someone will ultimately enjoy reading.

What is your current writing project? What is the most challenging aspect of your current writing project?

At the moment, I’m working on a novel called Ariel, which is about a woman who has lost control of her life and finds herself stuck in a rut. Currently, Ariel is being looked over by an editor. Personally, I think the editing process is one of the most challenging aspects of writing. It requires patience and an open mind. The thing to remember is that both you and your editor want the same thing – for your story to be the best it can be.

What supports you in your writing?

It’s not a what. It’s a who. Her name is Sanna, and she’s my mum.

What are you currently reading?

Blogs. I’ve recently started blogging myself and I’m having a wonderful time reading what other bloggers are writing. If you’re a writer or interested in writing, there are plenty of both established and aspiring writers that share tips and useful information on their blogs. Much appreciated!

Where can our readers find you and your books online?

You can find my 100 Word Blog at https://essenfia.wordpress.com/ . As soon as Ariel is released, I’ll write an overjoyed post about it. Meanwhile, I’d love it if you drop by and take a gander at my daily posts.