In Conversation with Dimity Powell

 

Today we welcome the delightful, generous and witty, Dimity Powell. She is going to share some her tips to writing and explain why she does what she does.

 

Tell us a little about your writing journey.

It began when I could read. It followed me around the world, the recollections of which are still housed in my many diaries. It stalled a little when life got serious, then about eight years ago, got more serious than life. Now my writing paths (because there is more than one) are no less adventurous or uncertain but I travel them with much more confidence. I choose to write for children because it reminds me of being one. I want to instil my love of books within the minds and hearts of young people. I attempt to do that by reviewing children’s literature and creating tales of rapture and delight.

What do you enjoy most about being a writer?

The satisfaction of creating something from scratch, rather like gardening or cooking; starting small and often piecemeal then nurturing it into something magnificent and meaningful. Or at least read-worthy.

 

What is the hardest aspect of being a writer?

Maintaining discipline, focus, and belief. And not overeating at the writing desk.

Writers are sometimes influenced by things that happen in their own lives. Are you?

Undoubtedly, yes! I try not to let personal emotion cloud creativity but real life feelings and occurrences naturally offer authenticity to ones words and usually creep into my stories. It could be a name, a memory of a place, a scent or a dramatic life event. I think it’s important for readers to feel and believe in the heart of any tale. Truly gifted writers are able to do this even when writing about what they ‘don’t know’.

Tell us about your publications?

My writing was first aired publicly in the NSW The School Magazine back in 2009. I followed that up with a few online short story publications. Then in 2012, the unthinkable happened, my first junior novel, PS Who Stole Santa’s Mail? was released just in time for Christmas. It still makes regular seasonal appearances every year and garners nice feedback from the happy primary schoolers who read it. My aim with this book was simply to entertain and preserve the magic and spirit of Christmas. Since then I’ve had quite a few short stories make it into anthologies such as Short and Twisted and through Prints Charming Books. I love writing short stories but am currently working hard to get one of my picture books into print.  

What is the most surprising thing about writing/publishing you have learnt?That nothing truly surprises me anymore. However, every day is different. Things are constantly evolving both on at industry level, professionally, and at the grass roots (my writing). What you end up with on the page at the end of a writing day can come as an unexpected pleasant surprise. That is until you re-read it the next day and the rude shock of reality slaps you in the face.

Other than writing what else do you love?

Peace. I crave it more and more these days. That and the time to practise it. With this, I feel able to pursue joys such as cooking, gardening and mucking around with my animals with much more abandon. I’m also partial to a good bush walk and would love to get out sailing more.

What would your dream location for writing be?

That’s tricky because my dream locations are actually prime spots for distraction. My environment can influence the flow and direction of ideas and words so strongly at times that sometimes I find I stay truer to the story by writing in a very neutral and unassuming place. So curled up on the couch or at the end of my bed with a cuppa usually suffices. Of course, I wouldn’t say no to a bush mountain or seaside retreat, you know, just to test my theory out.

Five words that sum you up.

Tenacious, generous, committed, evolving, genuine. If I were allowed a sixth, I’d add weird. It’s how I have been described all my life. I think you have to be to take on this career.

 

How can we learn more?
Through all the usual social media channels. Visit any time. I’m always up for a chat!
Dim’s Write Stuff

Facebook

LinkedIn

Goodreads

Google +

Boomerang Books Blog

 PS Who Stole Santa’s Mail? October 2012

The Stories

Best of luck with all your writing adventures Dimity! You do a fabulous job promoting what you love.