I have been very excited to share this interview with you guys! A couple of weeks ago I was able to chat and interview Rachel McAlphine who is a writer and blogger. At 81, she has accomplished so much and continues to keep going which is so inspiring! I hope you guys enjoy the interview and take some time to check out her wonderful blog which will be linked below.
1. Thanks so much for being a part of this interview. Tell us a little bit about yourself and what your blog is about.
Hello from New Zealand! I’m a lifelong writer who now writes mainly poems. Previously I was a pioneer in digital content and so I’m a geek with a poetical streak. My blog is about the facts, perils and joys of growing older. It includes cartoons about aging and news of my cat, who fancies herself as a social influencer. But the main focus is on finding your personal strategies for growing older the way you want.
2. When did you start your blog and what made you decide to start blogging?
This particular blog is not my first. The first one, long ago, was just a kind of a database for my poems. Then I blogged for my business. I started Write Into Life about six years ago when I was almost 75 and suddenly began to wonder how much longer I would live. The shock of finding the answer was probably “99!” set me thinking, researching, taking action…and blogging.
3. What are some advantages and disadvantages of blogging at an older age?
Speaking for myself, I know heaps and have experienced heaps. This means that I can think fast, even if my memory causes me to judder sometimes. Also, I can often see things in proportion and I am less volatile. I really, really appreciate being alive. But my energy is lower and I can be very lazy and easily distracted.
4. How has blogging helped you as a writer?
Production! As a writer I have no outside pressure to write and very few deadlines. So I welcome the self-imposed requirement to blog once or twice a week. Also, writing is essentially a lonely job so it’s marvellous to get instant responses from readers.
5. With writing, blogging and a podcast among other things you have a lot going on which is great. What inspires you to keep going and trying new things?
Um, I’m not sure. I think it’s just my nature. I like having just slightly too much on my plate. I’ve always written for the joy of it and every time I finish one project my busy brain pops up with a new one. (They say “energy begets energy”.) At present I’m focused on sharing my book How To Be Old with as many people as possible, which means a busy year with readings, festivals, house concerts, and a one-day workshop.
6. What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a professional writer?
Just do it. If it’s not fun, something’s wrong. Embrace mistakes and messes. Abandon perfectionism. The time to tidy up is when you’ve written a lot … for fun. Keep reading: reading is feeding your brain.
7. What is your favourite food?
Vegetables.
If you enjoyed this interview don’t forget to stop by Rachel McAlphine’s by clicking here.
If you would like to be interviewed please send me your name (optional), the name of your blog and a link to your blog via email to insomniacwithanaccent@gmail.com
I’m a little busy at the moment and have quite a few interviews ready to post so please don’t worry if I don’t respond immediately. I will definitely respond as soon as possible.
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