Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Danny Dickerson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Danny thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
How did you learn what you do?
“My passion for storytelling has always driven me to engage with narratives in a meaningful way. Initially, I struggled with the discipline required to be a writer, but I realized that setting aside dedicated time for writing was essential. The hectic nature of everyday life often made it challenging to find the mental space I needed, so I started waking up early to write in solitude.
To keep myself motivated and organized, I established simple daily goals, such as writing three paragraphs in one sitting. This practice not only helped me develop consistency but also allowed the story to unfold in my mind more clearly. By focusing on these manageable goals, I gained a better perspective on my work, which ultimately led to more satisfying outcomes in my storytelling.
Knowing what you know now, how could you have sped up the learning process?
It wasn’t until I worked with a very talented editor that I was able to go through different details of the story such as character development and storyflow to ultimately decide what to keep and what to discard. The editor, Kenneth P Rossal, was was extremely vital to the success of this story. After many rewrites through my own effort it came down to me and him going paragraph by paragraph until the end to create this engaging story that is both original and unique. So much had to be considered and thereby he gave my the ensights necessary to achieve its outcome. As a newbie, and him a retired professional editor, only such things could have accomplished.
My story had potential, and we both knew it. A story which you can do so many things with it based purely on its concept alone. For example, I could create an endless amount of Hell’s Plays far beyond the scope of my original vision. These stories could be experienced as a novel as well as on a larger scale. It could be adapted to a series on Netflix or Prime or any other such platform..
What skills do you think were most essential?
“I believe several skills have been essential to my growth as a writer. First and foremost is creativity; the ability to generate original ideas and think outside the box is crucial in the horror and thriller genres, where fresh perspectives can make a significant impact.
My enjoyment of stories as a kid allowed me to dive into different worlds and escape reality. Growing up, I was especially engaged with movies, captivated by my heroes and villains, and always wondering what it would be like to be in their shoes.
Discipline is another vital skill. I had to put aside everything else in my life and really focus on what I was trying to achieve for many years in my youth. During that time, I didn’t have the mental or writing capabilities to pursue my passion fully.
Establishing a consistent writing routine helped me develop my craft and stay committed to my goals, despite all the distractions and challenges that lay in my way. I had to focus intensely and ensure that my writing goals were prioritized above all else.
Critical thinking also plays a significant role. Through my work with my editor, I learned that readers enjoy the “aha” moments in a book—those surprising twists where they suddenly realize what has just happened. Crafting hooks and unexpected turns has become a key focus for me, as I understand how much readers appreciate that element of surprise in storytelling. Analyzing my work to create these moments has been crucial in enhancing the overall impact of my narratives.
Additionally, empathy is essential for character development. I’ve always been very good at putting myself in other people’s shoes and understanding what they’re going through, which gives me sincere depth in my understanding of their situations, whether they are good or bad. I can perceive myself as either the hero or the villain, and I believe that this perspective provides me with a great advantage as a writer, allowing me to grasp complex emotions and motivations that make my characters more relatable and multidimensional.
Lastly, communication skills are important, especially as I’ve introduced my book to the world and to my friends. I was able to gather valuable feedback regarding their thoughts on the book. As a writer, I often have a particular perspective on my story and can become so immersed in it that I may lose sight of how others perceive it from an outside viewpoint.
Understanding whether or not they enjoy it helps me better appreciate that external perspective, and it continues to resonate with me as I write and create more engaging stories that I hope people will truly enjoy.”
What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
“Several obstacles stood in the way of my learning and growth as a writer. One of the primary challenges was self-doubt. I had tried and failed numerous times over the years, constantly questioning whether or not I was good enough.
There weren’t many external voices telling me I couldn’t succeed; it was mainly my own internal dialogue that led me to wonder if I had the abilities to pursue this passion. This uncertainty made it difficult to fully engage in the writing process and explore my creativity without holding back.
Another significant obstacle was time management. At the time I was writing this book, I had such a busy work life and an extremely active social life that it made it almost seemingly impossible to complete my writing. To make it happen, I sacrificed sleep and the attention of some others, putting this obligation at the forefront of my life—even without anyone else knowing it. I felt as if I was embarking on this journey alone, and by committing to it in silence, I could somehow better accomplish my goal.
Additionally, there was the challenge of access to resources. I had zero access to authors or even readers of books, as I am not a reader myself and had not read a single book besides the one I had written. This lack of exposure made my journey even more difficult. All I really knew was my love for stories and the engagement I sought to convey through my writing.
Lastly, I faced fear of criticism. I had spoken about my book for years, and my off-and-on efforts to write culminated in a moment where I knew I had to accomplish this goal. As the pressure mounted, I realized that if I wanted to become a professional writer, I would have to cross this boundary.
I didn’t want to leave any doubt about my abilities. I embarked on the road as an unknown man trying to become somebody in the world of authors. Later, traveling along this path through many conventions, where I spoke with numerous people regarding my book and learned how much they enjoyed it. I’ve enjoyed the many good reviews it’s gotten.
The road to becoming an author is a lonely one, and ultimately, the only one who can push you through is yourself. I have learned that to succeed, I must be self-motivating and self-inspiring, continuing forward no matter how long the road may be. Each challenge has strengthened my resolve, reminding me that the journey, despite its difficulties, is worth every effort.”
Danny , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
“Hello! I’m Danny Dickerson AKA talldarkandwriting, and I’m an author passionate about crafting engaging stories in the horror and thriller genres. My journey into writing began as a child, where my love for storytelling was ignited by a fascination with movies and the compelling narratives they presented. I was captivated by the heroes and villains on screen, often imagining myself in their shoes, and that imaginative spark fueled my desire to create my own stories.
Although I didn’t start writing seriously until later in life, the desire to share my voice and experiences through literature has always been a part of me. My first book, Hell’s Play, reflects my commitment to exploring complex characters and unexpected plots that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
In my writing, I aim to deliver not just stories, but immersive experiences that evoke emotions and provoke thought. My works focus on intertwining relatable human experiences with thrilling narratives, allowing readers to connect deeply with the characters and their journeys.
As I continue to develop my craft, I hope to expand my repertoire of stories and engage with a wider audience, sharing my passion for storytelling and the unique perspectives I bring to the literary world. I believe that every story has the power to resonate, and I am excited to create more works that people will enjoy and relate to.
As an author, I strive to solve the problem of boredom and disengagement that many readers face in today’s fast-paced world. My goal is to provide immersive and captivating narratives that not only entertain but also stimulate thought and evoke emotions. I aim to create stories that resonate with readers, allowing them to escape into different worlds and experience new perspectives.
What sets me apart from others in the industry is my unique blend of relatable characters and unexpected plot twists. I focus on crafting narratives that explore the complexities of human nature, drawing on my own experiences and observations to create authentic and compelling stories. Additionally, I’m trying to create an environment for my audience that engages them on a level of horror that excites and thrills. My writing combines old-school horror elements with modern storytelling concepts, designed to grip readers and keep them on the edge of their seats.
I am most proud of the impact my writing has had on readers. Hearing how my stories have resonated with others and sparked their imagination is incredibly fulfilling. It motivates me to continue honing my craft and sharing my voice in the literary world.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my work is driven by a genuine passion for storytelling. I am dedicated to creating narratives that engage and inspire, and I encourage readers to join me on this journey. I value the connections I build with my audience and look forward to sharing more stories that evoke emotion and provoke thought. Your support means the world to me, and I am excited to grow together in this literary adventure!
I am most proud of the authentic connections I’ve built with my readers through my storytelling. Knowing that my work has resonated with others, sparked their imagination, and provided them with an engaging escape is incredibly fulfilling. Each piece I write is infused with my passion for horror and storytelling, and the feedback I receive from readers inspires me to keep pushing my creative boundaries.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my brand is built on a foundation of creativity, authenticity, and a deep love for the craft of writing. My work aims to create immersive experiences that blend old-school horror with contemporary storytelling techniques, offering readers a thrilling journey that captivates and excites.
Some of my inspirations include filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino, known for his gritty and raw graphic storytelling, and Eli Roth, who brings a unique edge to the horror genre. Additionally, my true inspiration growing up was Alfred Hitchcock. My parents appreciated his movies and television shows, and I grew up watching him. Once I studied his work, I realized how exceptional he was at creating suspense, which has greatly influenced my writing style. I also draw influence from classic slasher movies of the past, such as Halloween and Friday the 13th, which continue to shape my understanding of suspense and horror.
I believe that every story has the power to evoke emotions and provoke thought, and I am dedicated to crafting narratives that do just that. I invite you to join me on this adventure, as I continue to explore the depths of human experience through my writing. Your support and engagement mean everything to me, and I am excited to share more stories that will entertain and inspire you.
I would love to connect with you and share our passion for storytelling! You can discover more about my work, upcoming projects, and the latest news by visiting my website at http://www.danny-dickerson.com. There, you’ll find insights into my writing process, exclusive content, and opportunities to engage with my stories.
Additionally, I invite you to follow me on Instagram at @talldarkandwriting, where I share behind-the-scenes glimpses of my writing journey, sneak peeks of my projects, and thoughts on the horror genre. Join the conversation, share your thoughts, and let’s build a community of fellow horror enthusiasts together. I can’t wait to connect with you and hear your insights!”
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
“My creative journey is driven by a mission to become a full-time writer, where I can fully immerse myself in the craft that I love. My ultimate goal is to develop ongoing projects that not only captivate readers but also transition into full-featured movies or television series. I believe that the stories I create have the potential to reach wider audiences through the visual medium, allowing the gripping narratives and rich characters to come to life in new and exciting ways.
I am particularly impressed by the fact that some horror movies, despite having very low budgets, have achieved remarkable success. This inspires me and reinforces my belief that compelling storytelling can shine through, regardless of financial constraints. I hope to be among those who create impactful and memorable stories that resonate with audiences, proving that creativity and passion can lead to success.
This vision fuels my passion for writing and motivates me to continuously hone my skills, push creative boundaries, and explore innovative storytelling techniques. I aspire to craft narratives that resonate deeply with audiences, evoking emotions and sparking conversations long after the last page is turned or the credits roll. Through my work, I hope to contribute to the horror genre in meaningful ways, inspiring others and creating a lasting impact in the world of storytelling.”
We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.
“Maintaining a strong connection with my clients and fostering brand loyalty is essential to me as a writer. I prioritize open communication and actively engage with my audience through various channels, including social media and my website. By sharing updates about my writing journey, upcoming projects, and insights into my creative process, I keep my audience informed and excited about what’s to come.
One of the unique ways I connect with my audience is through creative projects like the mask I had made for the cover of my book. This process was not only interesting but also allowed me to create a tangible piece of art that represents my work. Now I have a prop to display for future audiences, which adds a personal touch to my brand and serves as a conversation starter.
I also encourage feedback and interaction, inviting readers to share their thoughts and experiences related to my work. This not only helps me understand their preferences but also builds a sense of community around my brand. I appreciate and value my readers’ opinions, and their input often inspires my writing.
Additionally, I plan to implement exclusive content for loyal followers, such as sneak peeks, special promotions, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of my projects. By providing unique experiences and content, I aim to create a lasting connection that keeps my audience engaged and invested in my work. Ultimately, my goal is to cultivate a loyal community of readers who feel a personal connection to my stories and are excited to follow my journey as a writer.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.danny-dickerson.com
- Instagram: Talldarkandwriting
Image Credits
Mercy Media