Wizz’s Wackyweed...Interview with Evecho
by Wizz
 

Introduction by Shadylady:

I have been working with Evecho since she first began posting on the net.  I remember her words when she wondered if she was making the right decision to post her tales on the net.  I can recall her telling me that after reading so many stories on line, she felt she had a few tales inside of her that she wanted to share with the 'verse.  The rest is history as Evecho continues to write on a fairly regular basis.  I can't categorize her writing as just one style because she is constantly experimenting with what she wants to write.  We, the reader, are the lucky ones in that we get to experience her stories when they are posted.  And now on with the interview...

Shadylady.....

*************************************

Hi Wizz and Shadylady 

Thanks for passing along the questionnaire.

The Sandbox is such a cool place. I would like to thank the readers who took the time to read my stories and send feedback - I am humbled by my revolving trophies.

cheers

Evecho

From Wizz and Shadylady:

Hello you two

1.  How long have you been writing fiction?

     Seriously writing for others to read - a few months. 

2.  What is your favorite fan fiction story you have written and why?

     I haven’t written any yet. The closest is an uber, ‘Slow Rise’, which was the first story I ever posted. 

3.  What got you interested in Xena?

     The setting of XWP, the costumes and the subtext, which became maintext, when I discovered fanfiction. And LL is a hottie. 

4.  How has Xena changed your life?

     I have made really good friends from Xena related lists, and the Xenaverse is a wonderful resource. 

5.  What color is your toothbrush?

     Purple and white.

6.  If you could be any super hero, who would you be and why?

     Gosh, I’ve always wanted to be superhero. Rescue the girls, get the girls, hide behind an alterego even as the girls sigh over my identity, drive the men jealous, have a killer bod … The angst factor and constant conflict appeal to me.
Did a personality quiz once, “What Kind of Superhero are you?” Seems I’m the Beast from X-Men  [note to self: revise killer bod image].

7.  Do you wipe with your right hand or left?

     Depends on what I’m wiping and my position . 

8.  Why and when did you start writing?

     When I had to learn in school. But for the purposes of this interview (which consists of more than a hundred questions, by the way) I can tell you that I was a fanfic reader for years, then a beta reader, before I worked up the courage to enter a writing challenge. 

9.  What is your bra size?

     Get in line. 

10.  How do you have time to write so many stories at one time?

     I only write one story at a time. 

11.  How and where do you get your inspiration?

     When I can’t write, I relax, don’t think about it and let all kinds of interesting bits blow through my head. The idea that sticks is the one I will write about. Sometimes I hunt for ideas.

12.  What kind of underoo’s do you wear?

     The comfy kind. 

13.  What story/series are you most proud of?

     All of them, for a short time after they are posted. I do a post-mortem with my beta just before they are released and afterward, to work it out of my system.   

14.  Do you get hate mail and how do you handle those?

     Nope, still waiting. 

15.  What is the best piece of advice you got when you were starting out as a writer?

     I don’t remember the words but I remember the strokes. It was encouraging and constructive response from another writer.

16.  How do you lay out your stories?

     I usually have a theme, storyline or a scene in my head, and the story works to it. I don’t plan too much since the details flow unexpectedly when I write.

17.  Do you have an ending before you start writing or does it reveal itself to you as you write?

     Usually a pivotal scene. That way I have a point to shoot for. 

18.  How do you get beyond just an idea?

     If it’s right, the whole story flows easily to or from it. Other than that, it’s a hard slog. 

19.  How does an idea become a story?

     When you fill it with 2 women, a setting, drama/ angst/ sex and nosy people, but that’s just one story type. I am having fun experimenting with my writing so you never know what I will post.

20.  What suggestions do you have for creating self discipline in writing?

     Get comfortable, have good lighting, stick to a schedule if you can. Stoke that burning urge to get the story out of your head onto paper.

21.  Which story/series has gotten the most response from fans?

     I haven’t written much *laugh*  but they have all garnered good response. 

22.  Do you like to write X&G or uber/original stories better?

     I’d love to write about X&G one day. In the meantime, originals are easier. 

23.  Do you envision stories before you write them or does the story just unfold as you write it?

     Both. 

24.  When you have finished with the story/book do you miss those characters that you’ve written about?

     No. 

25.  If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be and why?

     My girlfriend. Do I need a reason? 

26.  Who is your favorite X-man?

     Wolverine. 

27.  Who is your favorite superhero of all time? 

     Can’t remember, though I read a lot comics when I was a kid. I still watch cartoons.

28.  Years from now, how would you want to be remembered?

     Fairly. 

29.  What is your pet peeve?

     Inconsiderate or rude table manners. 

30.  What advice can you give to future writers?

     Do it ‘coz you want to, and ask for critique from another writer. Don’t limit yourself but stick to your vision. 

31.  What has the show Xena meant to you?

     Adventure, fun, friendship, fanfiction, lesbian fiction, and connecting with other fans. 

32.  What are your dreams?  Hopes?  Wishes?

     Simple but expensive.  

33.  What is a necessity for every writer in your opinion?

     Read a lot, even outside your preferred zone. And 2 good beta readers for grammar, honest critique and research.  

34.  What is your favorite quote?  Why and how does it affect you?

     I can never remember those except that they sound good at the time. 

35.  What makes your best friend, your best friend?

     She made herself, herself.  

36.  Who is your real life hero and why?

     Volunteers. 

37.  Why do fools fall in love?

     Everyone falls in love, fools are brave enough to act it. 

38.  When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

     When I understood how much I enjoyed reading. 

39.  What significance, if any, is there in the title?

     For me, it hints at or recaps the story. It should fit the thread, even metaphorically. 

40.  Can you see the book as a feature film?

     Some books, yes, not mine.  

From Strongsouljah:

     Hello Strong

41.  What vices or rituals, if any, do you have and how do they affect your writing?

     I prefer writing in a big bright room. At the moment, I am trying longhand rather than using the computer. It seems to aid the flow of the story. Other vices are a subject for another day *g*

42.  Are you easily distracted by big breastessess?????

     Not unless they bop me in the eye. 

43.  Have you ever had a serious case of writer’s block?

     Yes. 

44.  How did you get over writers’ block?

     I write through it or start a short story or play outside. If I can’t progress a stalled piece, I leave it until it feels right to come back. This may require several false restarts.

     Talking it over with a friend, read a good book or getting out to a new environment can kickstart the urge. 

From Tammy:

Hello Tammy 

45.  What writer do you most compare yourself too or whom do you model yourself after?

     I don’t think I’m anywhere near another experienced writer but in terms of style, there are a few who grab my guts. Of course, this could all be in my head. I’ve been told I have my own indefinable style. If anyone thinks I am comparable to another writer, do let me know.

46.  What writer influenced you the most?

     Lately, Mavis and Shadylady for their output and generosity. Others are; Katrina, Pat Califia, Vivian Darkbloom, LJ Maas, Ella Quince, BL Miller, Penumbra, Dark Angel, Julia Goldman, Gabrielle Goldsby, Zee, Sparky, Nene Adams, Kandis Glasgow, Bat Morda, Colleen Thomas, Radclyffe, V Foster, AK Naten, J Cassavant, Emma Tom, to name a few … and a whole of slew of incredible writers I can’t recall at the moment or who only post under weird pennames.  It’s not coincidental that these are mostly internet bards because I read a lot of net fiction.

     Editors are important too - Nicole Foster comes to mind as someone who puts out stuff I enjoy, as does Angela Brown and Tristan Taormino (if you know of them, then you know what I like to read *w* ).

47.  What is essential to you in your surroundings when you are writing? i.e.: music playing, incense, candles lit, food/drink, smoke pot???

     Water, good lighting and silence. Don’t I sound austere? 

48.  Is your aim when writing to keep it strictly as literature or do you have goals for screenplays/motion pictures?

     As entertainment or discussion material, in the form it’s posted on the net. 

49.  If you could interview/talk to any author (dead or alive) who would it be and why?

     Anais Nin and Pat Califia. The former because she was firm and explorative about a woman’s sexuality – she reminds me of an ambassador, diplomatically but resolutely pushing the envelope. Pat Califia because he is incredible honest, insightful and kinky. I would also like to follow a published author around, to learn how to produce a novel.

50.  What are your other artistic interests?

     I enjoy music, and I'm a creative cook. 

51.  Are you easily distracted when writing?

     Yes. 

52.  Do you prefer to be alone when writing?

     Yes, or at least in companionable silence. 

53.  Do you have a set time that you write (a.m. or p.m.) or when time permits?

     When I’m awake. 

From Tina Stratton:

Hello Tina  

54.  At what age did you start?

     Start what? *g*  I started writing in school because I had to. 

55.  What is inspiration for you?

     For my writing, an idea that sticks in my gut and feels like an opening, not an end. Privately, my girlfriend, and people who fight against inequity.

56.  Where do you get your ideas?  Do they just pop up or do you hear something or see something and think.... hey that would work?

     Yep, that’s pretty much it *g*. I’m a tangential thinker and anything can spark an idea. For example, ‘Traveller’s Tales’ was born from a discussion about lesbian sub-cultures, ‘Slow Rise’ was inspired by a scene in Sex & The City, and ‘Ready For This’ was drawn from my weekly grocery shopping trips!

From Anne:

Hello Anne 

56.  What would you never ever ever write about, to keep the link with the whole bard thing.

     Children’s stories. I have absolutely no clue about their perceptions. 

57.  If you had to bring Xena back from the dead AGAIN, how would you do it?

     To me, Xena never died. 

58.  What's the most original way in which you ever killed a red shirt? 

     I haven’t coz I don’t know if I could handle the trauma. 

59.  If you could be any kind of vegetable, what would you be?

     Pea(s), cause I like to eat them. Come to think of it, I like to eat lots of things

From Tap the Wizard:

Hello Tap  

60.  Would you have dinner with me?

     Sure. When? 

From A. Hawk:

Hello A. Hawk 

61.  One question would be where do they get the inspiration (for your stories) for all of that when writing a sex scene?

     It’s all from two organs, my brain and *cough* the other one. 

From JL Nicky:

Hello JL  

62.  Do you wear silk stockings?

     No. Nylon is cheaper. 

63.  Are you hooked up right now?  Tied up?  Twisted up?  (All of which are becoming I might add)

     Yes, to a fine gentlewoman for 11 years now. 

64.  Do you own a Jag or a Honda?

     Neither. 

65.  In your opinion is Popeye equivalent to Hercules?  Does the myth/legend over lap...Is that where Hercules came from....the Popeye Sailor?

     Hercules was written at least two millennia before Popeye. 

66.  Is Hercules better than Sampson? You know...Delilah's Sampson?

     They are both imperfect demi-god type men with women troubles. Ask Atlas, he knows. 

67.  What’s your favorite color?

     At the moment, dark lush green or olive (not pea green). 

68.  Ever used any of those lil ole accents in ya'lls lil ole stories?

     Not yit but ah wills, nix thaime. 

69.  What is your favorite Ice Cream Flavor?  (There are more than 31, you know).

     Roasted Almond, Black Sesame, and Maui Brownie Madness  

70.  Have you ever had Wild Turkey AND Bourbon in the same night?  If so, who held your head over the porcelain goddess?

     I might’ve but I don’t get drunk easily. 

71.  Did you ever think there were people out in the world just as twisted as you?

     YES. 

72.  Who is YOUR favorite author?

     Anyone that makes me laugh and/or leaves an indelible (favourable) impression. 

73.  What is the genre that you write most in, such as mystery, romance…?

     I have an eclectic collection, but probably romance and erotica. 

74.  What is the genre that you read most in?

     Usually whatever is on the net these days.

     But my favourite sub-genres are lesbian vampire tales and lesbian erotica. 

75.  Have you ever written outside your comfort zone?  Were you happy with the result?

     Yes, and yes. 

From DJ Belt:

Hello DJ  

76.  Do they write spontaneously or plot the story out in intricate detail before writing?

    I have a general plot/idea in my head, then the writing goes off on it’s own. I am using an outline for my next story, though. 

77.  How much of the bard's own personal life experiences and worldview enter their characters and story?

     In my case, a bit here and there, some more than others. It’s unusual if a bard doesn’t, even a wee bit.  

78.  When they write, are they moved by what they create, or do they view it dispassionately?

     Dispassionately. 

79.  Is (are) there a particular work of fiction which had a profound impact upon them as a youngster?

     The Children’s Encyclopaedia, Every Woman [OK, those aren’t fiction], English poetry, Rudyard Kipling, Roald Dahl, Khalil Gibran, Douglas Adams, Pat Califia, Susie Bright, thrashy romances, religious texts, smut, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Jeannette Winterson, Marion Zimmer Bradley, Robert Jordan and genre anthologies.

80.  How crazy or unrestrained do they allow themselves to get when writing?  Do they discipline themselves, or just 'let go'?

     Well, I sit down and am always dressed … lol
I’m a little retrained in my writing style *g* but content depends on the story. 

81.  Is there a particular piece of work that they cringe at having posted, or had totally bomb (often, much to their surprise)?

     No, not yet. I hope never to. 

82.  Have they written a story that got an unexpected response from readers either for good or, er, bad?

     Some perspectives were unexpected but overall, no. Feedback is usually kind and respectful.

From Ri the Bard:

Hello Ri  

83.  This one is for Wizzy’s imagination, what do you wear when you’re working on your writing (VBG)

     I would love to wear my jammies but it’s usually regular clothes. Sorry to disappoint.

From Phair (M. Mullaney)

Hello Phair  

84.  Writing rituals? I have to have a clean computer desk, and quiet. Oh and course snacks…(G)

     A read through of what I’ve written so far if I’m in the middle of a story (Shadylady is rolling her eyes because she knows I edit my work too much). A quiet time would be ideal when I want to start writing.

85.  Favorite writing instrument (i.e. pen, pencil, typewriter, computer)

     Pen 

86.  Worst book you ever read?

     Anything that makes me think, “What a waste of time/money,” or “Gawd, that was painful.”  

87.  Pen or keyboard?

     Both, one leads to the other. 

88.  Preferred reading format:  hardcover, paperback, book on tape, or online?

     Onscreen and hardcopy. 

89.  When you're not writing what do you do with yourself?

     I spend time with my girlfriend, read, chat, eat/cook, shop. 

90.  Favorite comfort food?

     A cup of hot, freshly brewed tea.

From Debbie Dee:

Hello Debbie  

91.  What does being published mean to you?  What do you expect to receive from the process?

     I’m only published on the net but I feel a little bit of pride and a lot of satisfaction. I expect a record of creativity from the experience. 

92.  What state/country do you live in?

     Geographically, in New South Wales, Australia.  

93.  What do you like to read?

     Lesbian fiction/erotica and fantasy/supernatural tales, science and cooking magazines. I skip newspapers unless I’m traveling.

94.  Do you have any pets & family?

     Family, yes 

95.  What story that you have written do you like the best?

     The ones written in the first person. 

96.  Do you have a story that was hard for you to write?

     Yes. 

97.  What shows do you like?

     I like (B-grade) sci-fi/fantasy movies with a lot of CGI/special effects, and absurd comedies. I only watch TV for cooking shows, docos and to cuddle with my girlfriend. 

98.  What are you writing on now?

     Sometimes I collaborate on ideas with Shadylady – I tell her and she writes *g*, other times, like now, after posting a story I need to recharge and get that new story percolating. Never know what will result, some stories are unplanned and dashed off quickly, some are agonised over for weeks.

99.  Do you have any stories published or hope to get any published?

     No, but don’t hold me to that. 

100.  If you had to tell anyone about yourself on what type a person you are, what would you say.

     Serious, dry bawdy sense of humour, witty and critical. [Shadylady: opinionated and cheeky]. Bit of a foodie.

     I hope Tap has a good meal planned. 

101.  If someone asked you a question on how they could get started writing what would you tell them?

     Learn from others, read lots, ask for feedback, and keep an open mind.
Just do it, don’t worry about how good or bad it might be in draft - editing works wonders. But be honest with yourself as to why you are doing it.

     Writing is like playing a musical instrument; the more you practice and perform, the better you will become (hopefully).

From Jude...Beta reader for the SB101

Hello Jude   

102.  How often do the authors write?  Daily or?

I would love to be able to write daily but I don’t have the discipline nor imagination to do it as often as I’d like. 

103.  Where or what were some of the funniest things to happen that gave them inspiration for their stores and what was it?

Inspiration nearly always strikes me unexpectedly, I can’t recall if they were funny, hmm.

From Dot….reader

Hello Dot 

104.  Authors want feedback but 5 out of 10 never bother to write back. Why?

     I don’t know. You should harass them! lol kidding. I’m a slut for feedback.

     I always reply (if I miss anyone then I blame my email service).

     We love to hear from readers, we really do.

     Tell us about what you liked or didn’t like about our stories. Tell us what you want to read, let us know if you are confused or found errors or think we could do better. Don’t be shy about starting a dialogue with a writer; that’s how I was encouraged to continue writing beyond my first story. I even wrote a sequel (something I had said I wouldn’t do)  because of feedback.

105.  Why don't writers finish their stories?

     Feed the bard! Sometimes we’re stumped and nothing will progress it, but real life is probably the main culprit.  

106.  Say someone has an idea for a story but they can't write worth a damn, would one of you writers consider writing it, where you get the credit for the writing but give credit to the person who sent you the idea?

     I don’t see why not, but that should be made clear early and the idea’s person should stay to discuss the story if the writer would like them to. Be very certain about the extent of the credit, who has veto and who ultimately owns the story.

From Koda Graystone:

Hello Koda  

107.  What does feedback mean to you as a writer and how does it influence how you write?

     It makes my day when I get feedback. It keeps me motivated and validates my efforts. 

108.  How do you choose your characters?

     Well, there’s always a lead character or two and the others appear as the story progresses. Quite often, third parties just write themselves in! 

109.  How do you handle it when a reader asks why you used a certain plot device?

     I’d reread what I wrote (I forget the details once a story is released) and explain what the plot device meant in the context of the story at the time I wrote it.

110.  What is the primary reason you post stories to the internet?

     It’s free and easy and reaches an unrestricted audience. By the by, I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank the webmistresses who host my stories.

From Robin Alexander:

Hello Robin

111.  When do you finally feel comfortable turning your stories loose on the public?  LOL it still makes me nervous when I post.

  Me too! I do many many self edits, run it by 2 different beta approaches, wait a few days, check the private web version three times at least. But once it is posted, I’m on to the next possible story idea.

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