Featured Author: Ruth Isabella Peters
WE HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO INTERVIEW AUTHOR Ruth Isabella Peters ABOUT HER APPROACH TO WRITING AND NEWLY PUBLISHED SHORT STORY Violence.
What inspired you to write the short story Violence?
Violence is inspired by my personal experience of being in an abusive relationship and the flashbacks I would get whenever I commuted. I am a little daydreamer. So the best place for me is sitting in London's public transport. I would wander off in my thoughts and find myself vividly in those violent situations. Whenever it got "too deep", I'd just shake it off like it never happened.
Can you describe your creative process?
Most of the time, I put my headphones in and allow myself to feel whatever I feel in that very moment. I write whatever comes in my head - even if it's single words. Eventually, I come up with a story and build on it, compare it to my personal or other people's experiences to make it more relatable to the reader.
What does your workspace look like?
I mostly sit on my worn-out, but very comfy turquoise couch in my living room. I live in a typical Londoner Victorian flat with high ceiling windows and a view to the backyard. I love to sit in the corner of the sofa and listen to music on my vinyl player. The couch tray for my laptop is a must too... Can't risk spilling my cup of tea over my laptop right?
What is your motivation for writing?
I believe in the power of words. I also believe that there are people out there whose voices aren't heard loud and clear enough. I used to be one of them.
How did you become a writer?
I've been writing since I was a teenager. I never had the courage to pursue a writing career. One day, I got inspired by God to simply do what I really care about instead of trying to do what I believe is asked of me. So I just started writing and put myself out there.
Has the coronavirus pandemic changed how you approach your craft?
Yes. The lockdown has taught me that anything can happen at any given time. That's why it's best to do things in the now, instead of waiting for a moment. I have become more proactive in my writing approach.
What does literary success look like to you?
That is a very good question. Literary success is finding and perfecting my style of writing, at the same time being open to change.
Where can readers read more of your work?
Readers can read/listen to more of my work on
Medium and Instagram @sparkspoetryofficial @ruthisabellaa
