Creating New Forms—and Rearranging the Alphabet, featuring Elwin Cotman
Apr 29, 2024
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Elwin Cotman, an established writer, discusses breaking traditional form boundaries in his new story collection. Grant announces his departure from NaNoWriMo. They explore poetry's influence on prose and fantasy writing, ethical concerns in AI companies using authors' works without permission.
Grant Faulkner stepped down from NaNoWriMo to focus on new ventures, including the Flash Fiction Institute.
Elwin Cotman's storytelling blends fantasy elements with character-driven narratives, pushing the boundaries of form.
Deep dives
Grant Faulkner Leaving NaNoWriMo After 12 Years
Grant Faulkner, the former Executive Director of NaNoWriMo, made the decision to step down after 12 years to focus on his side ventures that have grown significantly and require more attention. His transition from the Executive Director position was challenging amidst the pandemic, but he planned his departure with NaNoWriMo's board for a smooth transition. Faulkner expressed gratitude for his time at NaNoWriMo, highlighting the growth and learning he experienced, while also looking forward to serving writers in new capacities.
America's Next Great Author TV Show and Other Ventures
Apart from his involvement in a TV show, 'America's Next Great Author,' Grant Faulkner has been working on establishing the Flash Fiction Institute, an online platform for Flash Fiction resources. He emphasized his shift towards writing more short stories than novels in recent years. Faulkner also mentioned his upcoming teaching commitments and multiple book projects in the publishing pipeline, indicating a diverse range of projects and ventures.
Grant Faulkner's Evolution in the Writing World
Grant Faulkner reflected on his journey in the writing world, emphasizing his transition from focusing solely on personal writing to now finding joy in supporting and teaching other writers. He acknowledged his initial struggles in establishing a writing career but found fulfillment in helping others improve their writing. Collaborating on the 'Write Minded' show has provided Faulkner with a platform to engage with fellow authors and continue exploring various aspects of the writing life.
Elwin Kotman's Unique Approach to Speculative Fiction and Poetry
Elwin Kotman, a storyteller and author, discussed his approach to writing speculative fiction and poetry, highlighting the interplay between the two genres in creating unique narratives. He emphasized the importance of language in his storytelling, striving to push the boundaries of form and world-building. Kotman's storytelling style blends fantasy elements with a focus on character-driven narratives, offering readers a captivating and innovative reading experience.
This week Write-minded is interviewing an established writer whose star is on the rise. Elwin Cotman’s new story collection blew us away for how he played with form and takes readers on an expected journeys. His stories don’t fit into any box—including length, and we loved it! On this week’s show Grant also announces his departure from NaNoWriMo and what some of his new ventures will be. We’re celebrating creation and recreation and taking on new forms, on the page and in real life.