Writer Of The Week: Katherine Wagner

Our Writer Of The Week is debut author Katherine Wagner. Katherine’s story, “Built To Last”, appears in Special 273, on sale this week.

“Built To Last” makes for a reflective read. Can you relate to the narrator’s quandary in the story?

Though I haven’t been in that exact situation, I could relate to the uneasy feeling that life changes bring on.

Are the stories you like to read the types of stories you write?

There certainly are stories that strongly influence what I want to write. I felt that way recently when I read the 1960 novel “Trustee From The Toolroom” by Nevil Shute. It’s a sweet story about a shy British engineer who goes on an unexpected adventure.

As a writer, do you set yourself goals?

I don’t set strict daily word goals, but sometimes I need to use them to push myself to get started on a story.

Is there a story world or location, real or imaginary, that you would like to visit?

I’d love to travel the universe with Douglas Adams. Imagine the far-flung places we could go, and I wouldn’t have to worry about waiting in line, booking a hotel or losing my passport.

Notebook and pencil or laptop? Kitchen table or study? Blank wall or inspiring view?

I mostly use a computer but still write longhand. Some of my most important writing gets scribbled on scraps of paper or backs of envelopes when an idea occurs away from my desk.

Not too fussy about my writing setup, but I sometimes like to play music that helps set the mood of what I’m writing.

What’s your one top tip for aspiring writers?

Figure out what your strengths and weaknesses are as a writer and play to your strengths. For example, if you love to find just the right word you might be better suited to write a children’s picture book than a long novel. A side benefit is that if you play to your strengths your writing will be more authentic.