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August 2025
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What's the hardest, and easiest thing about writing?
Turning off my internal editor. When I give in, I begin. "If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough," shared Albert Einstein. Taking on that lesson means my brain (my internal editor) switches off, I am open, I have given in, and I can write what I intend. Writing simply is a decision, but I need permission to begin. Can you relate? My suggestion: start writing as if no one will ever see it.
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When do you begin editing?
Upon completion, when I'm ready to switch my brain back on. Editing can be an arduous task that becomes gratifying. Having written is a great feeling. But I must make the point that it's essential to know when to stop editing, otherwise you risk rewriting good writing. Imagine your story is a musical instrument. It will need fine-tuning, but you'll know when it sounds right. Choose your gems wisely, then be confident and satisfied with your decision. Lastly, no matter how sound your work, it's uncanny what the keen eye will overlook, so for ultimate refinement of your manuscript, give it to a fresh pair of eyes - a professional editor.
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I liken the process of writing to riding a wave; when one rolls up, I like to catch it before it passes over me. Thus, I'm a prolific note-taker, whenever, wherever. I find writing to be a creative outlet or an emotional release. Either way, it is a source of fulfilment. Where inner riches is concerned, catharsis was the reason. My short story dramedy, IF THIS HILLMAN COULD TALK, imagination and amusement were the drivers. Much can be gained from writing, then sharing. Entertaining people is a rewarding feeling; better still, helping is even more so.
Why, where & when do you write?
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I enjoy reading in bed, which, I recently discovered, makes me a Librocubicularist. What a fun word. Count the syllables!
Why, where & when do you read?
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That depends on how taken I am with a book. Sometimes I'll re-read to re-experience.
Do you
ever read
the same book twice?
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Suppose I had to choose a story based on how it moved me: 'Emma & I,' by Sheila Hocken, with Emma & Co. For funny ha-ha, Rue McClanahan's 'My First Five Husbands… And The Ones Who Got Away.'
Can you
commit to a favourite book?
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A favourite movie?
"Normal," starring Jessica Lange and Tom Wilkinson, a story showing us that love has no boundaries. And, Cape Fear, a crime/psychological thriller directed by Martin Scorsese. It was one of the first films to explore the boundary between what is morally right and what is legally right.
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What was the last book you read?
The Sordid Lives Saga by Del Shores.
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How does your perfect day look?
I have a special interest in words, photography, and gardening. I'm happiest engrossed in a project, which means I'm at home a lot, yet no day is the same.
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What does photography & gardening mean to you?
Photography is a beautiful way to capture and appreciate nature's simple miracles. And, gardening, well, it's the gift that keeps on giving.
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Will you reveal three family facts?
​In 1956, my late mother, Ellen Waugh, competed against and came third to swimming Olympian Dawn Fraser. My aunt, Irene Waugh, was an outstanding mezzo-soprano who sang and acted in numerous stage operas. And, my late paternal Grandfather, Hendrikus Riksman, a Dutch pilot, flew with Sir Charles Kingsford Smith. I could go on. I have a fascinating family.
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When was your cancer diagnosis?
In 2001, a quarter of my iris was excised due to melanoma. The repercussion: my eye does not function normally. The left iris no longer dilates and contracts with the incoming light. My enlarged pupil remains exposed, making GLARE a constant battle. As my glare issues are permanent, wrap-around sunglasses (and hats) enable me to open my left eye outdoors. My view: While appearing rude or camouflaged in social situations is not my choice, the problem is small compared to the gift of life.
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Given that gratitude is my baseline feeling, I'll pick something. Good health aside, my relationship. Even though Sonia and I have been together for nearly thirty years, we talk over coffee every morning like we've just met each other.
What are you most grateful for right now?
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In a word: respect.
What's the secret to your relationship's longevity?
Respect is the foundation of all relationships, whether romantic, neurodivergent, or otherwise.
Goodness
In a word,
what do you think
motivates most people?
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What motivates you?
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