What do I do?
I’m a writer. I write lyrics and I write plays and enjoy mixing the two. I’m also working on a series of novels and short stories.
Why do I write?
I say that I am “Writing on the Wall”. This came from my tendency to write protest songs and songs of social and political injustice, and of course a reference to modern day posting on social media walls. My plays, however, so far tend to be traditional storytelling and I'm yet to see in which direction I will continue. I don't have a plan, I write about whatever inspiration comes to me and flow with that go…
Who do I write for?
As a previous communications manager in international business, I was always told to know your audience, and write for that audience, which was good advice in that setting. Now, however, as a free writer, I tend to write what I would like to read, feeling sure that I cannot be the only like-minded person out there. I believe my vibe attracts my tribe and have reached a stage in my life where I can only be authentic.
How do I align my values with being a writer?
Peace, Justice, and Freedom - I feel that as a lyricist I’ve managed to express what I care about and show those values in my lyrics. I’ve written about political, social and environmental issues. My lyrics reflect my growth from ‘rebel without a clue’ to a more peaceful advocate of justice.
Unity, Respect, and Humanity - I like to write plays about relationships and conversations within families, friendships and communities. I reflect on how our peace can be affected by the antagonist, whether that is the traditional ‘baddie’ or modern technology for instance. I’m interested in the wisdom we can learn from our ancestors and the stories we can tell our children to show how to overcome adversity, whatever the era.
Authenticity and Humour - I still have a mischievous glint in my eye and like to find the funny side of life, so there are plenty of comedic elements in my writing too. I write about people, and people are funny.