The fact is, unlike a lot of writers, I credit the people who help me. A lot of writers out there have a ton of researchers and they don't get credited in the book.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
Too many writers of fiction don't give the reader enough credit.
As an author, I realise, you're on your own. You have to do everything you can to help The Book. If I make sure people know it's out there, they can make up their own minds whether they want to read it.
Authors are influenced by everything they've ever read. If you've read widely enough, it helps you create your own mix.
I think the greatest reward you get as a writer is finding that people who are reasonably receptive and intelligent have liked your book.
I've always looked upon research as an opportunity to satisfy my curiosity. But the other side of the coin is one must not be so caught up in it that one never gets the book written.
There are so many good authors; there's no shortage of them.
The comments I most appreciate come from ordinary readers who've happened on one of my books at some time of stress in their lives, and who actually credit the book with helping them through a bad time. It's happened a few times in forty years.
People often ask writers where they get their inspiration, and for me, the short answer is that I haven't a clue; I'm just grateful that I get them.
Your source material is the people you know, not those you don't know, but every character is an extension of the author's own personality.
I know when I go and see a writer, the first thing I think to myself is, 'Are they the character in the book?' You just can't help it; it's the way people are.