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THE INTERVIEW with Abbey Charlamb
Why did you want to revive Still Waters?
Writing has always been a big part of my life, and this by no means changed when I came to Brooks. However, my inspiration has always been reading poems, short stories, etc. from other writers. I think Brooks lacked a space to share amazing writing with the community, and that is why I am so glad Still Waters is making a comeback! Brooks students have some pretty cool stories, and now we have a place where everyone is able to read them.
What has the act of writing meant to you in your life?
I used to write fiction. Crazy stories about girls turning into trees or opening my own restaurant. These stories were the culmination of my childhood creativity. As I got older, my writing topics shifted towards my own “realistic” life, and this is how I now deal with my hardest times. Writing has allowed me to open up about my world and understand my own life in a new way.
Who are your favorite writers and why?
One of my favorite writers is Beth Ann Fennelly. I was introduced to her by Brooks School’s very own Mr. Haile, and in my poetry winter term we were lucky enough to actually speak with her. Her writing has a sense of rawness to it; she tells her life how it is, and it is very interesting. Whenever I read her work I find inspiration to write my own poems.
Do you have a specific process when you sit down to write?
I write anything that comes to mind. I get it all down on paper. No matter how weird or bad or unpoetic it sounds, I put it into words. This is the only way I come up with writing that actually has meaning to me.
Do you have any bits of advice for other young writers out there?
I can’t take credit for this advice — it is from my mother. But write what you know. Making up fictional stories is fun and all, but the best writing always has some truth in it. Even if it seems kind of boring or un-earth shattering to you, no one else knows your story.
