Get Inside Scoop on Debbie Burnham-Kidwell's Writing Process

debbk9
Jul 25
5 min read

Writing is an art, and every artist has their unique approach. Today, we are diving into the fascinating world of Debbie Burnham-Kidwell, a talented writer known for her engaging storytelling and vivid characters. If you have ever wondered how she crafts her stories, you are in for a treat. In this post, we will explore her writing process, the tools she uses, and the inspiration behind her work.

Debbie's journey as a writer is not just about putting words on a page. It is about connecting with readers and creating a world they can immerse themselves in. Let’s take a closer look at how she does it.

The Spark of Inspiration

Every writer has a moment that ignites their creativity. For Debbie, inspiration often strikes in the most unexpected places. She finds ideas in everyday life, whether it is a conversation overheard at a café or a scene from a movie.

Debbie believes that inspiration is everywhere. She encourages aspiring writers to keep their eyes and ears open. Here are some tips she shares for finding inspiration:

Observe your surroundings: Take a walk and notice the details around you. What stories do the people you see have to tell?
Keep a journal: Write down your thoughts, dreams, and observations. This can be a treasure trove of ideas for future stories.
Read widely: Explore different genres and styles. Reading can spark new ideas and help you find your voice.

By staying curious and open-minded, Debbie has built a rich reservoir of ideas that fuel her writing.

Crafting Characters

Characters are the heart of any story. Debbie spends a significant amount of time developing her characters. She believes that well-rounded characters can make or break a story.

To create memorable characters, Debbie follows a few key steps:

Character Profiles: She starts by writing detailed profiles for each character. This includes their background, personality traits, and motivations.
Backstory Exploration: Understanding a character's past helps Debbie shape their actions and decisions in the story.
Dialogue Practice: She often writes dialogues to get a feel for how her characters speak. This helps her ensure that each character has a unique voice.
Character Arcs: Debbie maps out how her characters will grow throughout the story. This adds depth and makes their journeys more relatable.

By investing time in character development, Debbie creates individuals that readers can connect with on an emotional level.

The Writing Environment

Creating the right environment is crucial for any writer. Debbie has a dedicated writing space that inspires her creativity. Here are some elements of her writing environment:

Comfortable Furniture: A cozy chair and a sturdy desk help her focus on her work.
Natural Light: Debbie prefers to write in a well-lit space. Natural light boosts her mood and keeps her energized.
Minimal Distractions: She keeps her workspace tidy and free from distractions. This allows her to concentrate fully on her writing.
Personal Touches: Debbie decorates her space with items that inspire her, such as photos, quotes, and artwork.

Creating a conducive writing environment can significantly enhance productivity and creativity.

The Writing Process

Debbie's writing process is both structured and flexible. She believes in the importance of routine but also allows room for spontaneity. Here’s how she approaches her writing:

Outlining: Before diving into a new project, Debbie creates an outline. This serves as a roadmap for her story, helping her stay on track.
First Draft: She focuses on getting her ideas down without worrying about perfection. The goal is to complete the first draft, knowing that revisions will come later.
Revisions: After finishing the first draft, Debbie takes a break before revisiting her work. This distance allows her to see her writing with fresh eyes.
Feedback: She often shares her work with trusted friends or writing groups. Constructive feedback helps her refine her stories.
Final Edits: Once she incorporates feedback, Debbie goes through her manuscript one last time to polish it.

This blend of structure and flexibility allows Debbie to maintain her creativity while also producing high-quality work.

Overcoming Writer's Block

Every writer faces challenges, and writer's block is one of the most common. Debbie has her strategies for overcoming this hurdle. Here are some techniques she uses:

Change of Scenery: Sometimes, a simple change of environment can spark new ideas. Debbie often writes in different locations to refresh her mind.
Free Writing: She sets a timer for ten minutes and writes whatever comes to mind. This exercise helps her break through mental barriers.
Reading for Inspiration: When stuck, Debbie turns to her favorite books. Reading can reignite her passion for storytelling.
Taking Breaks: Stepping away from writing allows her to recharge. A walk or a short break can provide the mental space needed to overcome blockages.

By employing these strategies, Debbie keeps her creativity flowing and her writing process moving forward.

The Role of Research

Research plays a vital role in Debbie's writing process. Whether she is crafting a historical novel or a contemporary story, she believes that accuracy adds authenticity to her work. Here’s how she approaches research:

Diving into Books: Debbie often starts with books related to her topic. This provides a solid foundation of knowledge.
Online Resources: The internet is a valuable tool for quick facts and information. However, she ensures that her sources are credible.
Interviews: When writing about specific professions or experiences, Debbie reaches out to experts. Their insights add depth and realism to her characters and plots.
Field Research: Whenever possible, she visits locations relevant to her story. Experiencing a place firsthand can inspire details that enrich her writing.

By conducting thorough research, Debbie ensures that her stories resonate with authenticity and depth.

The Importance of Community

Writing can be a solitary endeavor, but Debbie emphasizes the importance of community. Connecting with other writers and readers enriches her experience. Here are some ways she engages with the writing community:

Writing Groups: Debbie participates in local writing groups where members share their work and provide feedback. This fosters a sense of camaraderie and support.
Social Media: She uses platforms like Twitter and Instagram to connect with fellow writers and readers. Sharing her journey and insights helps build a supportive network.
Workshops and Conferences: Attending writing workshops and conferences allows Debbie to learn from industry professionals and meet like-minded individuals.
Book Clubs: Participating in book clubs helps her engage with readers and understand their perspectives. This feedback is invaluable for her growth as a writer.

By nurturing her connections within the writing community, Debbie finds encouragement and inspiration.

The Joy of Storytelling

At the heart of Debbie's writing process is a deep love for storytelling. She believes that stories have the power to connect people, evoke emotions, and inspire change. Here are some reasons why she finds joy in writing:

Creative Expression: Writing allows her to express her thoughts and feelings in a unique way.
Connecting with Readers: Knowing that her stories resonate with others brings her immense joy.
Exploring New Worlds: Through her writing, Debbie can explore different cultures, time periods, and experiences.
Leaving a Legacy: She hopes that her stories will leave a lasting impact on readers, sparking their imaginations and encouraging them to dream.

Debbie's passion for storytelling shines through in her work, making her stories not just entertaining but also meaningful.

Final Thoughts

Debbie Burnham-Kidwell's writing process is a blend of inspiration, structure, and community. By staying curious, developing her characters, and embracing the joy of storytelling, she creates captivating narratives that resonate with readers.

Whether you are an aspiring writer or a seasoned author, there is much to learn from Debbie's approach. Remember, writing is a journey, and every writer has their unique path. Embrace your process, stay connected with your community, and most importantly, enjoy the art of storytelling.