We were lucky to catch up with Charles L Chatmon recently and have shared our conversation below.
Charles L, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
I started out in my early teens, around middle school age. I picked up a pen and wrote down anything that came to mind; plays, poems and short stories. I wrote a lot almost every day. What I would have done better was to join a writing group or join a community of writers, even though I enrolled in a creating writers class in college. Learning the basics of symbols, metaphors and other tools of writing helps a lot when you’re starting out. It was always the fear no one would like my written works or had a negative comment of all the creativity I shared is what held me back.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
By the time I entered middle school (called junior high back in those days), I was a loner. Writing was the only thing that kept me feeling better about myself and it was something I could be proud of. I wrote plays, poems and short stories to pass the time. I feel what sets me apart is that I study my craft, looking up words in the dictionary, reading when I can and create whatever idea is in my head. I am proud of my published work whether as a freelance writer or an author. It’s always nice to see your words in print and the positive reactions from the people who read them. Research is very important as it has helped me with interviews with celebrities, politicians, and other important people.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
Receiving positive feedback on a book, poem or article I wrote is very satisfying to me. It shows me readers enjoy what I produce and I’m glad to hear the support from others who have read my works. That always puts a smile on my face.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
When I started writing at an early age, I heard about the Pulizer Prize, which is an award for authors. The thought of winning that award (and others) appealed to me. I’m at the stage of my life where positive or encouraging comments on my works is good enough. I feel the goal to produce good written content is something that also drives me. I want the reader to feel entertained but also understand the morals of a story or poem I wrote. If it’s a news article, I want the readers to enjoy the subject of the article whether it’s an interview, event or anything that catches their eye.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://charleslchatmon.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charleslchatmon
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/charleslchatmon
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@charleschatmon
- Other: https://www.lovewhatmatters.com/stroke-survivor-positive-outlook-on-life https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/530454.Charles_L_Chatmon