This month, in the spirit of gratefulness and thanksgiving, I wanted to get to know Stanley, who stepped up and made the decision to continue Carteret Writers during a time when things were tough. Not only did he serve an additional term to keep the group going, he has since served as an important resource and help for the current board. Happy reading!

What would you like readers to know about you?

I try to put humor in what I write, although it sometimes comes out as satire or just gibberish. I also like to write quirky scenes in my stories. Something odd and different rather than following a template plot structure. Finally, I like satisfying endings that I try to make happy and all the characters satisfied with the conclusion. Hopefully the readers are happy, too.

What does literary success look like to you?

Success is having people read what I write. My writing is not a hobby nor a business. It is a success because what I write is available to entertain and enjoy by others (hopefully).

When did you discover your love of writing?

Before I was ten-years-old I wrote stories and kept a journal (aka diary). Yet, a lack of encouragement from teachers and family held me back. Nowadays, I find encouragement within myself. It’s safer.

What is your process for translating your inspiration into creation?

I have a lot of story ideas hanging around in my head. After weeks, months, or years, one of them (for no apparent reason) talks to me. I say “hello” and off we go. I think inspiration-to-creation is a personal journey and unique to each person. Which makes it all very creative and inspiring.

What is your favorite writing genre?

When I entered the reading age, I read Jules Verne, then Ray Bradbury until I discovered J. R. R. Tolkein. Also, I grew up in the space age. While I read and enjoy all genres and have written stories in many different genres, I lately decided to focus on science fiction. To me, this genre allows for more creative freedom because there are no boundaries to what I can write.

Do you explore any other creative mediums besides writing?

I volunteer to write grants for different nonprofits. I learn about the nonprofit, identify their specific needs, and research grant giving organizations for applications. I write the grants and, if approved, write the follow up reports. It is a chance to meet people and learn about other communities. It is a chance to use my creativity to help others.

What inspired you to join Carteret Writers?

I moved from Northern Virginia where I belonged to a writers’ group for several years. I wanted to continue to learn from other writers and found Carteret Writers. All writers’ groups are different and I think a writer should connect with other writers, at least for motivation.

What words of advice would you like to share on creativity?

Find a way to stay motivated with writing. I’ve known many excellent writers who stopped writing because they lost their motivation. Also, try to write (and read) every day. The words can be just a paragraph, yet over time a writer has finished a short story, essay, or a novel.

What do you imagine your future writing looks like?

More self published novels. I enjoy being creative and I plan to continue. I also plan to write a nonfiction book on grant writing. My goal is to self publish two books a year.

How many unfinished writing pieces do you have in the works?

I have two other books mostly written that are pestering me to finish them, hopefully next year. After them, there is a lot of hollering from my stadium of story ideas pestering me to write them.