Someone asked me recently what influences my writing, and
though this seems a straightforward question, the answer is not so simple.
When I was younger, a child and teen – this would’ve been
much easier to answer. I was influenced by everything I read. I absorbed my
books like a giant, eager sponge and tried so hard to replicate the voice of
Judy Blume and later Christopher Pike. Of course I failed, because it wasn’t
until much later that I realised that you can never be someone else (whether
that be in writing or in life!) However, practicing had started a love for
writing and a strong desire to improve.
Later still, I attempted adult thrillers and much of my
influences came from the gritty dramas and British films. I loved (and still do
love) bleak and dark environments - places where you know something is going on
beneath the surface. I remember visiting seasides out of season and Dungeness
in the depths of winter. These settings helped to shape and improve my writing.
I’ve blogged about it before, but my most recent influence
has been working in a school. Both 7 days and Crush (out next year) were
developed whilst working directly with teens. Hearing their problems and having
their voices circulating within me on a daily basis helped to shape my
characters and plot. It also inspired me to write in a particular way. I knew
that I wanted to write powerful and gritty books that could relate to young
people.
Most recently I have been playing around with new ideas, something
perhaps for younger readers. The idea came purely from listening to my young
daughter chat relentlessly about her obsession – she is likely autistic, and
her obsessions are very much part of her character. Being influenced by your
child is a wonderful thing because you can share the experience with them. Even
if nothing comes of this project, we will still have something we can enjoy
together.
However, in conclusion to this piece, and the answer that I
give when asked, is that in the main teenagers inspired and continue to inspire
me the most of anyone or anything I’ve encountered. I’ve met teens that are
young carers, that battle mental illness, that have experienced bullying or victimisation.
I’ve met teens who struggle under the daily pressures of modern life, yet still
find time to be the most funny and care-free bunch of characters I’ve ever met.
I’m blessed to write for teenagers because they truly are an
inspiration and long may this continue!
1 comment:
Often think that being around children and/or teenagers a lot of the time is seful, despite any (possible?) disadvantages.
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