Francesca Lia Block

If you haven’t yet discovered the magical world of francesca’s writing, you are missing out on a spectacular collection of gems (Read this interview, go straight to the library, thank me later).

When do you feel your most creatively charged?

At home after matcha, a green smoothie, yoga, walk, lunch with a friend.

What does "creating without fear" mean to you?

It can be scary to be vulnerable but that’s where good art and catharsis often come from. I think it is always worth it.

What helps you move past creative blocks? How do you avoid burnout?

I like to joke that the term “writer’s b_ _ _ k” doesn’t exist in my house because of my last name.

I try to take a break and fill up on inspiration from reading, art, nature, exercise and life in general. I talk to friends and find support. I write though it.

Favorite outfit or accessory when writing?

Some people say they need to get dressed properly to create well. I do it whenever, however and wearing whatever (which is usually black and comfortable). I lose myself in the world of the story and it’s what they are wearing that counts! (Until I have to go out of the house for a class, meeting, reading or event and then it’s white jeans and heels but I broke my ankle in July so...)

What was the best advice anyone has ever given to you in regards to writing?

Write for someone you love.

How do you keep inspired and creative each day with your work? Do you have any nontraditional sources of inspiration? Is there anything that helps you get into a creative space?

With two teenagers and a big mortgage and no steady job, it's always catch as catch can. I just work hard every day. It’s not always inspired.

The characters you create are so richly developed and original, and some of them (Weetzie Bat!) have become truly iconic; how do you explore the many dimensions of your characters and their evolution?

Thank you. Weetzie was my alter ego. So are many of my other characters. I usually start with parts of myself and then try to develop them using elements of craft. I like to compare it to Jung’s theory of dreams where every part of the dream is the dreamer; in the same way, every character is the writer on some level.

What music is on your writing playlist?

Currently 90s women like Sinead, Tori, PJ, Bjork, Courtney Love. Also some Johnny Cash and Nirvana. Favorite song? “Lust for Life” by Iggy Pop and “Winter” by Tori Amos and about a million more…..

Which book are you most proud of?

I like The Elementals and Beyond the Pale Motel and my most recent, The Thorn Necklace: Healing Through Writing and the Creative Process, a memoir and writing guide. But when people meet me they always mention Weetzie Bat.

If you could have dinner with any of your characters which would you choose? Where would you eat?

Charlie Bat at the Tick Tock Tea Room.

Now that Weetzie Bat is (finally!) being adapted as a film, how does it feel to see your art realized in a different form?

It’s a long story. I will keep you all posted. I’m so sorry I don’t have anything more concrete to share.

How is your creative process different writing a screenplay vs writing a novel?

Much more craft based. You have to hit every beat. But I’m learning from screenwriting to make my fiction plots stronger.

Was there a bit of creative nostalgia revisiting the Weetzie group again?

Yes and no. They are always with me.

Is there anything you would like your readers to know?

Thank you for sharing your stories with me. Thank you for your support over all these years. I love you.

Discover Francesca: http://www.francescaliablock.com/