Lary Haynes - Author Spotlight Feature Image

Author Spotlight – Lary Haynes

The Silver Veil, New Novel by Lary Haynes. Click for full details.

 

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Where Did Your Writing Journey Begin?

I began writing detailed accounts of the trips my wife and I took throughout Europe, Indonesia, USA. I also wrote stories of things that occurred at our camp at Redditt, ON. I’d say I started to look at writing in the mid-1980’s.

What Do You Like To Do When You’re Not Writing?

I write, revise, re-read and write from 9:00 am to 12:30pm, have lunch, take the dogs out for an hour and a half. I’ll see what else needs doing: groceries, haircut–you name it. Most days, after the walk, I write from 3:30pm to about 6:00pm. I read every evening. Limited TV. Sleep. Fun guy, eh?

Are There Any Rituals You Must Perform Before You Can Start Writing?

The only ritual that counts to me is DOING IT. I treat writing as a job I love, regardless of any success. I can only speak for myself when I say it requires me to show up on time and adhere to a disciplined routine, seven days per week. This is my ritual.

What Has Influenced You Most As A Writer?

The fact that I can. Learning to accept myself–we are absolutely our own worst enemies. We can only create what we create–no more, no less. But we can improve–it’s up to the individual. Earlier, I found it difficult, seeing the incredible writing talents all around me. Canada has some terrific writers. I’ve learned not to compare. Now, I concentrate on seeing a project through to completion, which, to me, implies knowing the difference between a “pencil sketch” and a revised product/story. (I call a first draft a “pencil sketch. It was fun creating it–now the real work begins). I’d have to say my biggest influence was, and is, other writers.

Do You Have Any Advice For Other Writers?

What does “writing” mean to you? What are your goals? What do you wish to accomplish? The person you see in the mirror every morning is the only person who stands in your way. Being a coal miner is the only thing I can think of that’s tougher than being a writer. And for God’s sake, don’t allow yourself to “dis” anyone’s work. If you need a dose of “humility”, or a “reality check”, read, or re-read, “A Tale of Two Cities”. To me, the most important thing about “art”–what will stay with you the longest–is how it made you feel when you read it; when you viewed it, or when you heard it. Have fun!

Where Can People Find You Online?

     

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