10 Questions with Kymberli Roberson
Kymberli Roberson lives in Illinois where she is currently hunting down the goblins of writer’s block.
1. How long have you been writing and what got you started?
I’ve been writing ever since grade school, but it wasn’t until a few years ago that my niece and nephew inspired me to work toward getting my stories published. My goal is to continue feeding their imaginations.
2. What is the best piece of advice you have for new writers?
This is a tough one. I think writers should write the type of stories they themselves would like to read, and not worry so much about the current trends in the publishing industry. Originality plays into this as well; I believe it’s one of the keys to getting your stories noticed.
3. Are there any writing resources, such as books or websites, you’d like to recommend?
I recommend Nathan Bransford’s blog, and Writer’s Market books without a doubt.
4. What is your favorite type of fiction and who are your favorite authors?
I’ve always been a fan of the fantasy genre, with horror and science fiction bringing up the rear. I’m a fan of older writers, especially H. P. Lovecraft, and Edgar Allen Poe. If there’s a story with an usual twist in the plot, or something surreal, I’ll devour it in one sitting.
5. What tips do you have for finding time to write?
I actually write a lot when listening to music. If there’s a certain mood I’m trying to convey to readers, I try to find music to match it. When in doubt, Ambient, Classical, and Instrumental music are your best friends.
6. Do you prefer to outline a story in advance or write on the fly? Why?
I try to stay away from outlines; I can never get anything down on paper when I try using them. I have an easier time if I just keep things in my head, that way I’m able to twist things around and really stew over them. You can only write so much down on a piece of paper, but the human imagination is limitless.
7. How do you deal with rejections?
Rejections can be upsetting sometimes, but I don’t let that deter me. In fact, I have a special file on my computer that I devote just to them, and I know that I’ll probably amass many more.
8. What are your writing goals for the next twelve months?
Right now I’m working on a novella, and I’m sending out query letters to agents for another manuscript. I hope to find an agent in the future, and I’m still going to churn out more short stories.
9. For the next five years?
Hopefully to conquer the world, but right now that doesn’t look too realistic, so I plan on sticking to what I do best: writing and surviving college so that I can make a name for myself once I get my degree. Haha.
10. Is there anything you’d like to plug?
If you want to read more of my works, head to 50-Word Stories.
