Mary Colson Interview

WriteWords

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Mary Colson who specialises in writing non-fiction. She has written over 50 non-fiction books for children on topics ranging from Einstein, secret codes and the ozone layer to Toni Morrison, sports poetry and Beyoncé. She is currently working on her first novel, a narrative non-fiction book for adults and two screenplays. Mary also copyedits academic journals, teaches on residential courses at Tŷ Newydd and delivers writing workshops in schools both here and abroad. When not writing, she spends her time making sounds on her French Horn and cycling slowly up hills in the Yorkshire Dales.

What is your favourite word?

Currently, it’s smooch. Previous title holders have been plinth, gazouillent and tmesis. Contenders include scurryfunge, pfft and hemlock.

Where and how do you write?

Anywhere and everywhere – at all times of day and night. There is no routine, no carrot, no stick, no to do list. I write in the shower, on the train, on my bicycle (Clive). I write whilst apparently in conversations and meetings with other people. When I’m at my desk, I have my back to the world and my mind fully on the story but I’m picking up stories constantly. I’m an inveterate eavesdropper, particularly on public transport.

What is the one thing you wish you'd written and why?

I wish I’d written all the stories I meant to. There are literally, tragically, dozens of started but unfinished manuscripts on my hard drive. I’m 53 so time is of the essence. If only I didn’t have to actually work for a living… I think all stories have value and the world needs comedy (what I generally do).
In terms of great books I didn’t write, Catch-22 wouldn’t be a bad one to have written. As Joseph Heller said when asked why he thought it had enjoyed such longevity for a modern novel, “It’s a good book.” It is, Joe, it is.
But the greatest book I didn’t write must surely be One Hundred Years of Solitude. I cried when I heard of Marquez’s passing. What. A. Creation.

The best thing about being a writer is...

…. is that you don’t have to excuse being a daydreamer. Or explain why you haven’t brushed your hair. Or why you’re doing your shopping at 11pm on a Friday night. Or why your house is a mess….

A longer version of this interview is available to WriteWords Full and Community Members.
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