Aspiring writers face quite a bunch of hurdles in today’s world. With all the social networking fuss, young writers find it hard to persuade their audience surrounded by all the glamour. To discuss these issues, we’d like to welcome Mr. Ben Bander Abudawood.
Ben who is an author and an HR lecturer and consultant himself, is kind enough to spare some of his precious time and share some insights with us.
Welcome Ben, it’s quite an honor having you here. So, without any further delays let’s start our interview. Starting from the most important one, what was your inspiration for writing?
Thanks for having me here. Well, I have always been a fan of thinking outside the box. Always wanted to create something new and amazing. Basically, I always thought of new ideas regarding every and anything in life and wrote it down. It’s the same with writing a novel or coming up with a new theory. When I write down an idea, I start thinking of it as a story. I think of the character names, the plot-twist, the ending and so on.
Interesting approach, how long have you been writing for?
I started in 2014 penning down my experiences as an HR consultant. It was all academics and research back then. Later on, moved towards novels and here I am today.
Was it a childhood dream to become a writer? Is that what you always wanted to be?
Actually yes. Since my early teens, I tried writing down short stories but due to a tight schedule of studies and work, I couldn’t continue writing at that time.
When was the first time you considered yourself as a writer?
It was the time when I published my first book in Jeddah Saudi Arabia, at the Jeddah book-fair. It was a great event for me as I had my book signing there as well. Seeing a number of people buying your book, sending you emails and following you on social media is truly a magical sight for an author. I saw students quoting references from my books for their research work and was glad that I was giving back to the community.
Do you have a specific routine for writing, like a specific time of the day?
Not a specific routine, any quite time I get is good for me to write. Although, my favorite times to write are during a long flight or a train trip.
What advice would you give a new writer, someone who’s just starting out?
The most important thing is the idea behind your story and the ending as it keeps your audience engaged. Most importantly, remember to take your time to finish the story with finesse and not rush into publishing. Make sure that you are satisfied with the story yourself. And always, always write about the things you love.
Your book titles are very interesting, how do you come up with those?
When I finish the novel, I write down a couple of options on a paper. Sometimes, I try to find a unique name that does not giveaway the plot of the novel.
What is the most difficult part about writing for you?
The ending of course. It’s the ending that make or mar your whole story. That’s the main reason I take a lot of time penning down the ending. I usually write down many alternative endings and go with the best one.
What would you like to share with the new writers?
Write from your heart. Be real. Keep it simple. Always remember that your audience will read and feel every word you pen down. So, write with all your heart.
Thank you for all the insights and your time, Ben. Hope that the aspiring new writers find this interview helpful.