A Conversation with Kathy M. Walters,
Author of "From Pain to Praise"
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| Featured Author Kathy M. Walters From Pain to Praise |
Why did you feel you had to tell this story?
I feel I had to tell this story for two reasons. For starters, I had to tell this story because for me, writing helps release the tensions, challenges and pains in life that we may not otherwise release. Writing is an outlet, and when I write, I have the opportunity to express exactly how I feel. For me, writing is cathartic. Sometimes, when I don’t wish to articulate verbally, I can become more transparent and understood after writing my thoughts on paper. Yes, paper.
Of course, I transfer the final product electronically, but my first draft is always on paper. The reason I begin the “old school way” is because I can see my thought process and how it evolves. I have something to build upon. I will quickly jot things down and eventually, remove them or place them elsewhere in the story. I love to visualize my inner ideas. Ultimately, I enjoy the freedom of expression and the flexibility to add or strike through what I need to, when I need to.
The second reason I had to tell this story was because I wanted to share some of my personal experiences and pains in life. I’ve re-lived some of the pains that so many of us encounter, but may be reticent to speak about. I had a story that I had to tell. I cover the thorns of anxiety, depression and loss. From Pain to Praise is a collection of short stories, poetry and words of inspiration. I give you a taste of it all. It’s about life, love and everything in between. It will make you smile. It will soothe your soul. And then… you will be filled with praise!
Where do you get your ideas?
I get my ideas straight from the heart. I write from personal experiences and from the experiences of others. I write from observation and from things which inspire me; whether it’s through music, movies, and conversations or sometimes from ideas that just seem to come from somewhere deep within. This happens often as I write poetry. Sometimes the words and ideas just seem to flow. I feel that my writing, concept and ideas are a gift. And the more I give, the more the gift allows me to give back. Though cliché, it’s better to give than to receive. And if giving makes someone’s day a bit brighter, my goal is to give my all.
Do you ever experience writer’s block and how do you overcome it?
Of course, I experience writer’s block. Sometimes those ‘blocks’ seem to last forever. If I am at a loss of inspiration or words, I become agitated because I know the words are there, I just can’t seem to grasp them. One of my favorite quotes comes from Ayn Rand: Words are a lens to focus one’s mind. So, when I write, my mind and its contents seem to veer into focus.
Once I have placed my thoughts on paper, my mind is cleared. When I have a block, I have to walk away from what I am trying to create and do something else. I will listen to music or read, call someone close to me or read a book by one of my favorite authors. And just when I begin to release the tension from writer’s block, the block seems to vanish. Thus, I can write again!
What advice would you give to aspiring writers on the writing and publishing process?
My first piece of advice is to write, write, and write. If you aspire to be a writer, don’t allow anything or anyone to stand in your way or minimize your dream. Write with passion. Be enthusiastic about your contribution to everyone and also encourage other aspiring writers. I always try to support other writers/authors. A few days ago, I entered a book store, preparing for my book signing. Another author was preparing to leave, as her signing was over. We chatted a few moments, wished each other well and exchanged information about each of our books. We were ecstatic that our books were being sold for the same price, so we supported each other by exchanging books! I’ve experienced a great deal of camaraderie with so many authors. For me, competing is not an issue because there is room for everyone. Write a great book and eventually the masses will leap at the opportunity to read and enjoy your work.
As far as the publishing process is concerned, there is a lot to learn. My advice on that is to do your homework. Research and learn as much as you can. Use search engines, attend workshops for writers/authors, reach out to others and find out what worked best for them and how they made it as far as they did. Check out the blogs and seek advice from anyone you can in the publishing process. Gather information from as many resources you can. Find your niche ask questions, seek answers and strive for what works best for you… and begin your strategy!
How do you market your work? Have you found some avenues to be more successful than others?
I am an emerging author, so there is so much I have yet to learn. I am excited for what’s to come and my goal is to be the best that I can be.
My favorite author is Kimberla Lawson Roby. She is an awesome story teller and is readily accessible on Twitter. Through her website and social media, she appears kind, humble, gracious and approachable. I believe those qualities alone are some powerful marketing tools. She also keeps her readers informed about upcoming speaking events, sneak previews of upcoming titles and future speaking engagements. These are great marketing tools that I admire her for embracing. I am planning my path as an author along the same lines. And as long as your path is positive, this is how I can define “success.”
If your book was made into a movie, who do you picture playing each part?
LOL. Allow me to revisit this question after my second book…then, I can tell you EXACTLY who I picture playing each part! :-)
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Synopsis:
From Pain to Praise is an Inspirational Collection of poetry, words of inspiration and short stories. It highlights various snapshots of situations and circumstances. It is about life, love and everything in between. It will make you smile, it will soothe your soul, and then... you will be filled with praise!
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About the Author:
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FOR MORE INFO:
Website: www.kathymwalters.com
Blog: www.linesnlyrics.com
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/kathymwalters
Google+: https://plus.google.com/100629639338095737865/posts (Kathy M. Walters)
BUY THE BOOK
Amazon: http://amzn.to/11bdQBB