ROCKING THE PAGE: Canadian Writers Share Their Work & Secrets - Wayne Arthurson

Summary

Wayne Arthurson, a crime novelist from Edmonton, offers a glimpse into his work and process, blending his storytelling with candid advice on writing. In an excerpt from his novel 'Fall from Grace,' he discusses a scene involving a body found in a farmer's field, revealing his unique perspective on writing and journalism. Throughout, Wayne emphasizes the importance of reading and writing, advising aspiring writers to trust their instincts, engage in different writing careers, and immerse themselves in books. He humorously shares his personal insights and encourages others to embrace the creative process independently.

Takeaways

• 😀 Wayne Arthurson introduces himself and provides an excerpt from his crime novel 'Fall from Grace,' focusing on a body discovery in a field.
• 😀 A journalist is offered an exclusive look at the crime scene, which involves a body under a crime scene tent.
• 😀 The harsh weather and denial of the coming winter are used to describe life in the prairies, setting the tone of the story.
• 😀 A cop offers the journalist a chance to see the body up close, with the promise that it will make his story more unique compared to other journalists.
• 😀 The journalist expresses hesitation but is eventually persuaded to accept the offer to enhance his story by having an exclusive view of the crime scene.
• 😀 Wayne encourages aspiring writers to trust their instincts and write a full piece (story, essay, or poem) without outside help, focusing on self-reliance and independence in the writing process.
• 😀 Wayne stresses the importance of reading as a writer, recommending that aspiring writers read as much as they can from different sources, including books, magazines, and online articles.
• 😀 He advises young writers to explore different writing careers, such as journalism, copywriting, or writing for video games, as viable paths.
• 😀 Wayne emphasizes the simplicity but necessity of sitting down and writing to actually become a writer, highlighting the importance of the physical act of writing.
• 😀 In the end, Wayne reminds viewers that to be a writer, you must write regularly and consistently. Writing is a practical skill that requires ongoing effort and dedication.

Q & A

What is the central event in the novel 'Fall from Grace'?

The central event is the discovery of a dead body, which sets the plot of the crime novel in motion.

Why does the author mention the overcast sky and the prairie environment?

The description of the overcast sky and prairie environment highlights the bleak and isolated setting, contributing to the tone and atmosphere of the novel.

What role does denial play in the cop's behavior towards winter clothing?

Denial is a significant psychological aspect of the cop's behavior, as he hesitates to accept that winter is approaching. This is a common theme in Western Canadian life, reflecting the struggle with seasonal change.

Why does the cop offer the journalist an exclusive look at the body?

The cop offers the journalist an exclusive look at the body to provide a unique angle for the journalist’s story, emphasizing that the opportunity will expire once other journalists arrive.

What is the narrator's initial reaction to the cop’s offer?

The narrator initially responds with disbelief and humor, questioning the cop's decision to show him another dead body after a previous traumatic experience.

How does the narrator eventually decide to accept the cop’s offer?

The narrator, realizing that this opportunity could enhance his story, reluctantly agrees to enter the crime scene tent and see the body.

What advice does Wayne Arthurson give to aspiring writers in the exercise?

Wayne Arthurson advises aspiring writers to create a short story, poem, or essay and finish it independently without seeking outside help, encouraging them to trust their instincts and editing abilities.

What does Wayne Arthurson think about the importance of reading for writers?

Wayne Arthurson emphasizes that reading is crucial for writers, suggesting that one should read a variety of books, magazines, and newspapers, as all reading contributes to shaping one's writing skills.

What unconventional advice does Wayne Arthurson give regarding becoming a writer?

Wayne Arthurson humorously suggests that playing in a rock band could be an unconventional way to become a writer, but ultimately, he stresses that the most important thing is to actually sit down and write.

What practical career advice does Wayne Arthurson give to aspiring writers?

Wayne Arthurson advises aspiring writers to consider careers in writing-related fields such as journalism, copywriting, public relations, or writing for video games, suggesting that these can provide valuable writing experience.