MEET THE AUTHOR
FEATURED AUTHOR: Robert Stanhope
Hello everyone, it’s Royal. I’m here today to bring you guys another great interview with a truly gifted author. His name is
Robert Stanhope. We here at SBC are extremely happy to be able to share all of the interesting facts we learned about Rob with all of you readers out there. So without further ado, Mr. Rob Stanhope
Let’s start with GETTING TO KNOW YOU Rob by getting familiar with your work. What GENRE DO YOU WRITE and why?
I have a tough time answering why, but poetry and short stories about moments in time that are truly inspirational seem to provide for most of my writing. I am working on two novels, Family First and The Last Lie (or Bedside Matters). The second novel may be that work that continues to evolve in all aspects for many years to come. Both novels are Suspense/Thrillers.
Great titles. I’m sure the books are the same. (Royal)
Can you tell us what the TITLES ARE OF YOUR BOOKS?
All of my books are forthcoming. Salty Eyes, a collection of beach inspired and personal loss and heartbreaking moment poems and short stories will be published in December 2016. Family First will release in the first quarter of 2017.
I know I would love to read them. I am a fan of poetry. I’m sure readers will connect with them. (Royal)
So Rob tells us, HOW DID YOU START WRITING?
I remember the first short story I ever wrote was in sixth grade. I don’t remember what I got for a grade, but I do remember the comment on the page was “Creepy!”
The poetry bug bit in my Junior year of high school during a Creative Writing class. My assignments included reading Langston Hughes, Sylvia Plath and song lyrics by Bob Dylan and other musicians. These stories, told so simply, elegantly, and flowing captivated my creativity and I started writing.
Cool. I love the mix of Hughes, Plath and Dylan. I’m glad the bug bit. I’m sure our readers are too. (Royal)
When did you KNOW IT WAS YOUR CALLING Rob?
It wasn’t until the death of my father in 2014 that I felt that writing
was my calling. Though, even today, I believe it’s just one calling. I feel we all need to share our stories. I read a great deal of history, fiction and nonfiction. Strangely enough, in my personal life I believe in looking forward. But, history draws me in because I like to know how we have managed to rise above struggles in the past, where have we learned from experiences and where are we struggling with repetitive actions. I’m a sucker for memoirs. Give me a personal story through writing, in a photo, or in a song and I’m sold.
I’m sorry about the circumstances that brought about your writer voice. However, I think it is great that you decided to share your stories. (Royal)
What is one thing that you WANT US TO KNOW ABOUT YOU ROBERT?
One thing? How do I narrow who I am to one thing? I’m simple.
We wanted to know, outside of writing, WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR OTHER INTERESTS?
I’m a big music fan and more specifically, an Indie music fan. My wife and I have a goal to see 100 different bands live in 2016. As of this interview, we have seen 87. We’ll reach our goal in Atlanta in mid-September. We attempted this goal for the first time in 2014, but relocating to Florida slowed us down. We reached 87 that year.
I’m also a fan of craft beer. On a recent trip to Hawaii, we visited both craft breweries on Kaua’i and Maui. There’s so much creativity in craft beer and the passion behind these startup breweries is inspiring.
Wow, that’s impressive. You’ll have to let us know when you have met that goal. (Royal)
Rob you seem to be a very interesting guy, so I’m curious, where do you DRAW YOUR INSPIRATION from?
The obvious inspirations come from my own life experiences and the people I see and meet each day. Writers are often categorized as reclusive. I’m content by myself, but I love meeting new people and hearing their stories. Knowing that most people will never write their story, I feel almost an obligation as a writer to share it for them. I write fiction, so most people I meet lead to the foundation of a future fictional character.
Additionally, back to that reclusive stereotype, I love being alone in nature. I can open my eyes and my mind to the sights, the sounds, and the creatures. If I have writer’s block, I go to the beach or a nature trail and typically within an hour or two, I’ve gained my focus back. Unfortunately, at times, the focus might be another story or poem instead of the project I was working on before the walk.
I have music playing while I write and while I’m being creative. With
the books I have listed, there are several artist that I play again and again: Beth Hart, Lissie, SIRSY, Sam Cooke, and The Electric Hearts to name a few.
You have a lot of great sources Rob. (Royal)
Now we are going to go a little deep and learn more ABOUT THE BOOKS:
What should someone EXPECT WHEN READING THIS BOOK or any of your titles?
I’ve read very few male writers that can express their emotions like a female writer. In Salty Eyes, I’ve tried to achieve the goal of expressing loss, love, spirit, and inspiration. Men like to hold back their emotions. I know from experience. Two years ago, I found that writing through a very hard time, physically and emotionally, that I was providing my own therapy. I’ve written several hundred poems in two years and many of the most heartbreaking and heartrebuilding ones are in Salty Eyes.
Family First and The Last Lie are stories about families overcoming great physical and emotional strain to ultimately come out the other side perhaps not perfect, but having successfully overcome mental health issues that can eat away a life of happiness otherwise.
My heart breaks just reading what you said here. I think I identify with what you are saying because I have experienced loss before. I think that it is great you have shared with us something that helped you cope. It probably will help others understand their grief as well. (Royal)
So as far as your CURRENT WORK, where did you draw your INSPIRATION?
There’s a great deal of my own experiences in these first three titles. I also grew up in a small New Hampshire town where many of my friends experienced similar life experiences. Putting all of the pieces together led to story ideas for both novels. A third novel, Tommy & Charlee, I hope to finish by the end of 2017. The inspiration came from a fallen soldier leaving behind a wife and unborn child.
All very interesting. I can’t wait for their release. (Royal)
One of my favorite things to find out from an author is are there any TRACES OF YOUR PERSONALITY IN YOUR MAIN CHARACTER(S)?
There are traces of me in at least one character in each of my books.
So Rob, what is one of your FAVORITE THINGS ABOUT THIS SERIES?
I’m hoping that through these books that I can get men to open up and share their stories. It may take my female readers to help them. And, if there’s a man that feels he has a story, but he’s not sure where to begin, I’d like him to contact me and we’ll work it out together. Writing is healing.
That’s beautiful. It’s great that you want to help others heal. (Royal)
So can I ask, who is one of your FAVORITE CHARACTERS and why?
I’ll leave favorite characters to the reader. I look forward to having conversations about my characters with readers.
I think that is a great. You never know who someone will connect within the pages of your work. I know your conversations will be rewarding for both you and the readers. (Royal)
Rob, Can we get a BRIEF BIO ABOUT YOU for our readers here at SBC?
Robert Stanhope was born and raised in the small New Hampshire town of Newport. He’s been married to his wife for 25 years and together they have raised a son and daughter into their adult years. Robert makes a living as a ghost writer and graphic designer for small business, with an emphasis on the motorsports and automotive industries. After relocating to the sunny Gulf Coast of Florida in the Fall of 2014, Robert began creatively writing again after almost 30 years of the pen sitting still other than for work.
Thank you. And can I just say as a reader myself, I am glad you started back writing for more than work. (Royal)
So it has come to my attention that YOU LIKE PHOTOGRAPHY. Can you tells us more about that?
Photography is a hobby. I started this hobby shooting race cars at speedways throughout the US Northeast. My photography has matured over the years and now focuses primarily on nature. I’ve had numerous requests to sell this art, but haven’t shifted gears to that enterprise yet. This might change in the next year.
Well if it does, I’m sure like me the SBC audience would love to know about it. (Royal)
Robert Stanhope. We here at SBC are extremely happy to be able to share all of the interesting facts we learned about Rob with all of you readers out there. So without further ado, Mr. Rob Stanhope
Let’s start with GETTING TO KNOW YOU Rob by getting familiar with your work. What GENRE DO YOU WRITE and why?
I have a tough time answering why, but poetry and short stories about moments in time that are truly inspirational seem to provide for most of my writing. I am working on two novels, Family First and The Last Lie (or Bedside Matters). The second novel may be that work that continues to evolve in all aspects for many years to come. Both novels are Suspense/Thrillers.
Great titles. I’m sure the books are the same. (Royal)
Can you tell us what the TITLES ARE OF YOUR BOOKS?
All of my books are forthcoming. Salty Eyes, a collection of beach inspired and personal loss and heartbreaking moment poems and short stories will be published in December 2016. Family First will release in the first quarter of 2017.
I know I would love to read them. I am a fan of poetry. I’m sure readers will connect with them. (Royal)
So Rob tells us, HOW DID YOU START WRITING?
I remember the first short story I ever wrote was in sixth grade. I don’t remember what I got for a grade, but I do remember the comment on the page was “Creepy!”
The poetry bug bit in my Junior year of high school during a Creative Writing class. My assignments included reading Langston Hughes, Sylvia Plath and song lyrics by Bob Dylan and other musicians. These stories, told so simply, elegantly, and flowing captivated my creativity and I started writing.
Cool. I love the mix of Hughes, Plath and Dylan. I’m glad the bug bit. I’m sure our readers are too. (Royal)
When did you KNOW IT WAS YOUR CALLING Rob?
It wasn’t until the death of my father in 2014 that I felt that writing
was my calling. Though, even today, I believe it’s just one calling. I feel we all need to share our stories. I read a great deal of history, fiction and nonfiction. Strangely enough, in my personal life I believe in looking forward. But, history draws me in because I like to know how we have managed to rise above struggles in the past, where have we learned from experiences and where are we struggling with repetitive actions. I’m a sucker for memoirs. Give me a personal story through writing, in a photo, or in a song and I’m sold.
I’m sorry about the circumstances that brought about your writer voice. However, I think it is great that you decided to share your stories. (Royal)
What is one thing that you WANT US TO KNOW ABOUT YOU ROBERT?
One thing? How do I narrow who I am to one thing? I’m simple.
We wanted to know, outside of writing, WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR OTHER INTERESTS?
I’m a big music fan and more specifically, an Indie music fan. My wife and I have a goal to see 100 different bands live in 2016. As of this interview, we have seen 87. We’ll reach our goal in Atlanta in mid-September. We attempted this goal for the first time in 2014, but relocating to Florida slowed us down. We reached 87 that year.
I’m also a fan of craft beer. On a recent trip to Hawaii, we visited both craft breweries on Kaua’i and Maui. There’s so much creativity in craft beer and the passion behind these startup breweries is inspiring.
Wow, that’s impressive. You’ll have to let us know when you have met that goal. (Royal)
Rob you seem to be a very interesting guy, so I’m curious, where do you DRAW YOUR INSPIRATION from?
The obvious inspirations come from my own life experiences and the people I see and meet each day. Writers are often categorized as reclusive. I’m content by myself, but I love meeting new people and hearing their stories. Knowing that most people will never write their story, I feel almost an obligation as a writer to share it for them. I write fiction, so most people I meet lead to the foundation of a future fictional character.
Additionally, back to that reclusive stereotype, I love being alone in nature. I can open my eyes and my mind to the sights, the sounds, and the creatures. If I have writer’s block, I go to the beach or a nature trail and typically within an hour or two, I’ve gained my focus back. Unfortunately, at times, the focus might be another story or poem instead of the project I was working on before the walk.
I have music playing while I write and while I’m being creative. With
the books I have listed, there are several artist that I play again and again: Beth Hart, Lissie, SIRSY, Sam Cooke, and The Electric Hearts to name a few.
You have a lot of great sources Rob. (Royal)
Now we are going to go a little deep and learn more ABOUT THE BOOKS:
What should someone EXPECT WHEN READING THIS BOOK or any of your titles?
I’ve read very few male writers that can express their emotions like a female writer. In Salty Eyes, I’ve tried to achieve the goal of expressing loss, love, spirit, and inspiration. Men like to hold back their emotions. I know from experience. Two years ago, I found that writing through a very hard time, physically and emotionally, that I was providing my own therapy. I’ve written several hundred poems in two years and many of the most heartbreaking and heartrebuilding ones are in Salty Eyes.
Family First and The Last Lie are stories about families overcoming great physical and emotional strain to ultimately come out the other side perhaps not perfect, but having successfully overcome mental health issues that can eat away a life of happiness otherwise.
My heart breaks just reading what you said here. I think I identify with what you are saying because I have experienced loss before. I think that it is great you have shared with us something that helped you cope. It probably will help others understand their grief as well. (Royal)
So as far as your CURRENT WORK, where did you draw your INSPIRATION?
There’s a great deal of my own experiences in these first three titles. I also grew up in a small New Hampshire town where many of my friends experienced similar life experiences. Putting all of the pieces together led to story ideas for both novels. A third novel, Tommy & Charlee, I hope to finish by the end of 2017. The inspiration came from a fallen soldier leaving behind a wife and unborn child.
All very interesting. I can’t wait for their release. (Royal)
One of my favorite things to find out from an author is are there any TRACES OF YOUR PERSONALITY IN YOUR MAIN CHARACTER(S)?
There are traces of me in at least one character in each of my books.
So Rob, what is one of your FAVORITE THINGS ABOUT THIS SERIES?
I’m hoping that through these books that I can get men to open up and share their stories. It may take my female readers to help them. And, if there’s a man that feels he has a story, but he’s not sure where to begin, I’d like him to contact me and we’ll work it out together. Writing is healing.
That’s beautiful. It’s great that you want to help others heal. (Royal)
So can I ask, who is one of your FAVORITE CHARACTERS and why?
I’ll leave favorite characters to the reader. I look forward to having conversations about my characters with readers.
I think that is a great. You never know who someone will connect within the pages of your work. I know your conversations will be rewarding for both you and the readers. (Royal)
Rob, Can we get a BRIEF BIO ABOUT YOU for our readers here at SBC?
Robert Stanhope was born and raised in the small New Hampshire town of Newport. He’s been married to his wife for 25 years and together they have raised a son and daughter into their adult years. Robert makes a living as a ghost writer and graphic designer for small business, with an emphasis on the motorsports and automotive industries. After relocating to the sunny Gulf Coast of Florida in the Fall of 2014, Robert began creatively writing again after almost 30 years of the pen sitting still other than for work.
Thank you. And can I just say as a reader myself, I am glad you started back writing for more than work. (Royal)
So it has come to my attention that YOU LIKE PHOTOGRAPHY. Can you tells us more about that?
Photography is a hobby. I started this hobby shooting race cars at speedways throughout the US Northeast. My photography has matured over the years and now focuses primarily on nature. I’ve had numerous requests to sell this art, but haven’t shifted gears to that enterprise yet. This might change in the next year.
Well if it does, I’m sure like me the SBC audience would love to know about it. (Royal)
Rob, you are a MASTER AT DIALOGUE and pulling the emotion out in the moment. Can you tell us how you do this and when do you feel the part has legs and is there?
Master? Let’s get through a few books before we start throwing around compliments like that. I love writing dialogue. It’s when my writing feels most comfortable. I’m a people watcher, not to be confused with stalker. If you watch people from a distance, you won’t necessarily hear their words, but you can read their emotions. In my imagination, I develop a story based on the emotions seen. I’m sure that sounds like a strange process, but people shine their emotions brightly, or darkly, if they don’t know that someone is watching. If I have profiled my characters properly before I start writing, I can draw on those real emotions I have witnessed to create the dialogue. If the dialogue doesn’t flow smoothly, I go back to address my character profile(s).
That sounds like mastery to me. *wink* It is also an awesome method. Thanks for sharing it with our readers here at SBC. (Royals)
Rob, you are a MEMBER OF THE FLORIDA WRITERS ASSOCIATION. Can you please tell us how that came to be, what they do, and what does it mean when it says writers helping writers?
I joined the Florida’s Writer’s Association to learn from the seminars they offer. While a busy schedule has kept me from attending as many of these seminars as I’d like, I find it great to learn more about the writing trade from other writers. They also have a great Facebook presence that I frequent to see what events are taking place in the state and chime in on conversation where I might be of assistance. I have blocked off four days of my schedule to attend the annual conference in October. I’m already registered and paid, so I’m committed!
That sounds like a great group. (Royal)
YOUR POETRY is incredibly well written. Can you tell us more about it and what it means to you?
Thank you! All of my poetry was written in the past two years. Poetry is very spontaneous for me. A moment, or an emotion, or a person, will move me and I have to write immediately or I might lose it. If I can’t right immediately, I’ll quickly text myself the details for later use and hope that I can still capture the moment. I also use photography to capture moments in a walk through nature for future use. When I read an emotional poem again, it brings me back, but I feel I’m closer to peace each time I read it.
You’re welcome. It’s great that it will be here for us to read as well. (Royal)
What is one of YOUR FAVORITE POEMS that you have read or written?
Soar, Baby Bird and My Two Dads are two of my favorite poems that I have written. They are both available on my website.
Rob let me ask you, in what ways are you DELIGHTED that YOU ARE A WRITER?
I’m delighted that I started writing again after raising a family. I wish I had never stopped after high school. I’m delighted that I can share my story.
Do you ever REWRITE A MOMENT IN YOUR LIFE the way that you wanted it to go or do you usually create moments from scratch?
Great question! While I outline most of my stories, I never know what’s going to develop until I put pen to paper. We can’t rewrite the past without it becoming fiction. I write fiction. I’ll leave it at that as I believe I’ve covered more of the details in the process earlier.
Very well put. (Royal)
You mentioned that you like to have the BOOK IN HAND. What about that makes it more enjoyable for you Rob?
Paper is warm and inviting. Opening a book, closing a book, starting a new chapter, closing a chapter in the pages of a novel – isn’t that life? While I’ve embraced the tablet a little more this year, I know that I’ll never wholeheartedly commit to ebooks. It’s a personal preference.
I still love paper books as well. But I have to admit, I have begun to enjoy the convenience of getting a novel instantaneously on e-book. Shhh, don’t tell anyone. (Royal)
I’m going to ask a fun question here Rob, where is your FAVORITE PLACE TO WRITE? What about your FAVORITE PLACE TO READ?
I do most of my reading in bed. I can write almost anywhere that I get an idea.
I know we have kind of touch on this already Rob but let me ask you specifically, do you have a SET TIME TO WRITE DAILY or is it when inspiration hits you?
I’ve tried to make my writing fit to a schedule, but it hasn’t worked yet. I write in tsunami-like waves when working on the novels or longer short stories. Poems and short stories are inspired moments, at any hour of the day. Usually the hours I should be sleeping.
I’m laughing over here. I know how it is to lose sleep to writing. (Royal)
So as a DEFINITE LOVER OF MUSIC, can you tell us in what way music has touched your life? And how does it influence your work?
Music is life and I wish that I could create its beauty. A person’s story told with the accompaniment of music, choreographed to touch listeners deep in their souls. Lyrics, smooth flowing poems with hooks. Yes. You could say that I’m a music lover. Music keeps memories alive, music inspires, music heals, music sings a story. Music depends on the work in progress at the time. I’ve mention a few artists earlier in this interview. One could track my emotions based on my playlists. I create a new one each month.
You mentioned previously in this interview that you wear a few hats. Please tells us more about your GRAPHIC DESIGN company and its origins.
I went to college for computer programming. To state that it bored me out of my mind would be a great understatement. But, there were a few business courses, a few design courses and I grew up at race tracks from about the age of 6. So, I put the pieces together and started my own business creating logos and websites for race tracks, teams and automotive related businesses. The business grew as I wrote press releases, feature stories, and social media content for the same client base. I’d like to expand by helping writers that need help in these areas as well.
What is the best part of LIVING IN FLORIDA?
It’s not cold! Oh, and the soft white sand between my toes. Let’s not forget that.
You told us earlier about liking to go on NATURE WALKS, do you mind discussing this a little more?
I touched on this a bit earlier, but it’s the peace and clarity and the simple nature of it all. It’s an opportunity to unplug.
We have to say that we love your WILDLY FUN DEMEANOR AND YOUR HUMOR is quite the gift. Can you tells us how you sneak it into your writing?
Thank you! Humor is a challenge to write. I wish it were a gift that I could unwrap each time I felt I needed it, but it doesn’t come to my writing as easily as that. Humor is about timing and timing is everything. I wish I had a better answer to this question. Maybe someday.
That was a great answer. (Royal)
I’ve seen you mention this quote before, “A man who enjoys the simple things in life.” Can you explain in your words Rob, WHAT THE QUOTE MEANS TO YOU?
I’m not about keeping up with the Joneses. I don’t have to have the best of everything. I don’t need a Like on Facebook to make my day. Shoot me a smile and I’ll share one back. Talk to me and I’ll listen and we’ll have a conversation. Simple to me is having just what I need. I want for very little. I believe I could live out of a backpack and a tiny home. Simple.
Finely stated. (Royal)
Rob, let me ask you about your readers now. What do you think will CONNECT THEM WITH YOUR BOOKS YOU WRITE?
I write to relate to people that have experienced life from its lowest of lows and occasionally those shiny moments on the other side. My characters include those that have thrown in the towel, but also those that refuse to give up. If you want to be inspired, my books will provide positive moments.
I was raised a small town boy with manners and loyalty to others and respect for my elders and a hard day of work for a respectable wage. If my readers are from Anytown USA, they’ll find a relatable story with a few shocking twists.
I know that our readers here at SBC will probably connect with what you write. Again we look forward to your book release. (Royal)
Got to know Rob, are you a PANSTER writer or do you plan things out in a DETAILED OUTLINE?
The poetry and short stories just flow in the moment. I outline novels as a guide, but the story rarely sticks to the outline.
And can you tell us, what do you find to be the BEST PART OF WRITING?
Writing is sharing my story. If one person can relate to my story, I’m happy. Writing is therapeutic and it allows me to progress on a peaceful journey.
I know you mentioned the DREADFUL WRITER’S BLOCK previously in this interview but I wanted to know if you had a TIP you could give our readers to help fight it off?
Walk away! I’ve never broke down the writer’s block wall while staring at a computer screen or pad of paper. When I owned a brick & mortar shop and needed to clear my head, I’d clean the shop. Nobody likes cleaning, but eventually it needs to be done. Sweeping a floor provided a great opportunity to clear my head because it’s such a simple task. Just keep your eyes on the broom and the floor. Since cleaning isn’t one of my favorite things and I no longer own that particular business, I had to find another outlet. Nature trails and the beach are now the two things that clear my head. Search for a simple task without distractions.
Thank you. That tip will be very useful. (Royal)
Alright, I wanted to ask you Rob, what is one fun fact SOMEONE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOU?
I love to cook. I’ve entered three cooking contests and won all three.
Congratulations. Maybe we could get a few recipes from you in the future. (Royal)
I love asking this question, who is one of your FAVORITE AUTHORS?
I’m a John Grisham fan. I didn’t start reading his work until he was well into his career as a writer. I bought an entire lot of his work on eBay and began binge reading. Ah, the days before binge watching a television series.
I found a new favorite in the past month. Andrea Michelle is a phenomenal poet. I keep going back to read her poems again and again.
There are so many talented Indie writers that I’d love to mention. I encourage readers to look beyond the best sellers lists in literature and in music.
Great authors. And I think that’s great advice about checking out books outside of the best seller list. (Royal)
Rob, what was one of the BEST PIECES OF ADVICE you received is?
Keep it simple.
Can you share a TIP FOR ASPIRING AUTHORS?
Just keep writing. And, if you haven’t started yet, just write the first word. The rest will follow. I promise.
Rob, here at SBC we like to know what is next for you. We have started asking these questions like it is a lightening round. So here we go.
Let’s start with your UPCOMING RELEASE.
Watch for Salty Eyes in December.
We will make sure we do that. (Royal)
Okay Rob, how about what people should EXPECT TO SEE FROM YOU IN THE FUTURE?
I’m considering a photography book with new poems that are inspired by the scenes.
That would be interesting and I’m sure great. (Royal)
ANY EVENTS you want to share that you will be appearing at in the near future?
There are five writers from my hometown of Newport, NH organizing a return in May 2017 for a meet and greet and reading at the local library. Hopefully, we’ll be able to inspire some students to start writing while we are there.
What are you MOST EXCITED ABOUT?
Life!
Whew! You did great with the lightening round Rob. Thanks for answering all of the questions. (Royal)
We are interesting in reading your work. How can WE BUY THE BOOKS?
I will be publishing on Amazon. Until then, enjoy my work at http://www.robertstanhope.com/creativewritingblog
And I know our readers here at SBC love to contact our writers. Can you share your SOCIAL MEDIA INFORMATION for us?
Twitter
Facebook
Instagram
Email
We also like to keep up to date on when new releases are coming. Where is the best place for us to find these updates?
Watch my website: www.robertstanhope.com and social media.
That was an incredible interview. Thanks again to the multi-faceted writer Robert Stanhope for take time out of his busy schedule to sit down with us here at SBC. It was great getting to know more about you and your upcoming work Rob. And we here at SBC will keep a look out for it. Plus, we will gladly give our readers the updates on the releases when they are available.
That’s it for now. Until next time, Royal.
Master? Let’s get through a few books before we start throwing around compliments like that. I love writing dialogue. It’s when my writing feels most comfortable. I’m a people watcher, not to be confused with stalker. If you watch people from a distance, you won’t necessarily hear their words, but you can read their emotions. In my imagination, I develop a story based on the emotions seen. I’m sure that sounds like a strange process, but people shine their emotions brightly, or darkly, if they don’t know that someone is watching. If I have profiled my characters properly before I start writing, I can draw on those real emotions I have witnessed to create the dialogue. If the dialogue doesn’t flow smoothly, I go back to address my character profile(s).
That sounds like mastery to me. *wink* It is also an awesome method. Thanks for sharing it with our readers here at SBC. (Royals)
Rob, you are a MEMBER OF THE FLORIDA WRITERS ASSOCIATION. Can you please tell us how that came to be, what they do, and what does it mean when it says writers helping writers?
I joined the Florida’s Writer’s Association to learn from the seminars they offer. While a busy schedule has kept me from attending as many of these seminars as I’d like, I find it great to learn more about the writing trade from other writers. They also have a great Facebook presence that I frequent to see what events are taking place in the state and chime in on conversation where I might be of assistance. I have blocked off four days of my schedule to attend the annual conference in October. I’m already registered and paid, so I’m committed!
That sounds like a great group. (Royal)
YOUR POETRY is incredibly well written. Can you tell us more about it and what it means to you?
Thank you! All of my poetry was written in the past two years. Poetry is very spontaneous for me. A moment, or an emotion, or a person, will move me and I have to write immediately or I might lose it. If I can’t right immediately, I’ll quickly text myself the details for later use and hope that I can still capture the moment. I also use photography to capture moments in a walk through nature for future use. When I read an emotional poem again, it brings me back, but I feel I’m closer to peace each time I read it.
You’re welcome. It’s great that it will be here for us to read as well. (Royal)
What is one of YOUR FAVORITE POEMS that you have read or written?
Soar, Baby Bird and My Two Dads are two of my favorite poems that I have written. They are both available on my website.
Rob let me ask you, in what ways are you DELIGHTED that YOU ARE A WRITER?
I’m delighted that I started writing again after raising a family. I wish I had never stopped after high school. I’m delighted that I can share my story.
Do you ever REWRITE A MOMENT IN YOUR LIFE the way that you wanted it to go or do you usually create moments from scratch?
Great question! While I outline most of my stories, I never know what’s going to develop until I put pen to paper. We can’t rewrite the past without it becoming fiction. I write fiction. I’ll leave it at that as I believe I’ve covered more of the details in the process earlier.
Very well put. (Royal)
You mentioned that you like to have the BOOK IN HAND. What about that makes it more enjoyable for you Rob?
Paper is warm and inviting. Opening a book, closing a book, starting a new chapter, closing a chapter in the pages of a novel – isn’t that life? While I’ve embraced the tablet a little more this year, I know that I’ll never wholeheartedly commit to ebooks. It’s a personal preference.
I still love paper books as well. But I have to admit, I have begun to enjoy the convenience of getting a novel instantaneously on e-book. Shhh, don’t tell anyone. (Royal)
I’m going to ask a fun question here Rob, where is your FAVORITE PLACE TO WRITE? What about your FAVORITE PLACE TO READ?
I do most of my reading in bed. I can write almost anywhere that I get an idea.
I know we have kind of touch on this already Rob but let me ask you specifically, do you have a SET TIME TO WRITE DAILY or is it when inspiration hits you?
I’ve tried to make my writing fit to a schedule, but it hasn’t worked yet. I write in tsunami-like waves when working on the novels or longer short stories. Poems and short stories are inspired moments, at any hour of the day. Usually the hours I should be sleeping.
I’m laughing over here. I know how it is to lose sleep to writing. (Royal)
So as a DEFINITE LOVER OF MUSIC, can you tell us in what way music has touched your life? And how does it influence your work?
Music is life and I wish that I could create its beauty. A person’s story told with the accompaniment of music, choreographed to touch listeners deep in their souls. Lyrics, smooth flowing poems with hooks. Yes. You could say that I’m a music lover. Music keeps memories alive, music inspires, music heals, music sings a story. Music depends on the work in progress at the time. I’ve mention a few artists earlier in this interview. One could track my emotions based on my playlists. I create a new one each month.
You mentioned previously in this interview that you wear a few hats. Please tells us more about your GRAPHIC DESIGN company and its origins.
I went to college for computer programming. To state that it bored me out of my mind would be a great understatement. But, there were a few business courses, a few design courses and I grew up at race tracks from about the age of 6. So, I put the pieces together and started my own business creating logos and websites for race tracks, teams and automotive related businesses. The business grew as I wrote press releases, feature stories, and social media content for the same client base. I’d like to expand by helping writers that need help in these areas as well.
What is the best part of LIVING IN FLORIDA?
It’s not cold! Oh, and the soft white sand between my toes. Let’s not forget that.
You told us earlier about liking to go on NATURE WALKS, do you mind discussing this a little more?
I touched on this a bit earlier, but it’s the peace and clarity and the simple nature of it all. It’s an opportunity to unplug.
We have to say that we love your WILDLY FUN DEMEANOR AND YOUR HUMOR is quite the gift. Can you tells us how you sneak it into your writing?
Thank you! Humor is a challenge to write. I wish it were a gift that I could unwrap each time I felt I needed it, but it doesn’t come to my writing as easily as that. Humor is about timing and timing is everything. I wish I had a better answer to this question. Maybe someday.
That was a great answer. (Royal)
I’ve seen you mention this quote before, “A man who enjoys the simple things in life.” Can you explain in your words Rob, WHAT THE QUOTE MEANS TO YOU?
I’m not about keeping up with the Joneses. I don’t have to have the best of everything. I don’t need a Like on Facebook to make my day. Shoot me a smile and I’ll share one back. Talk to me and I’ll listen and we’ll have a conversation. Simple to me is having just what I need. I want for very little. I believe I could live out of a backpack and a tiny home. Simple.
Finely stated. (Royal)
Rob, let me ask you about your readers now. What do you think will CONNECT THEM WITH YOUR BOOKS YOU WRITE?
I write to relate to people that have experienced life from its lowest of lows and occasionally those shiny moments on the other side. My characters include those that have thrown in the towel, but also those that refuse to give up. If you want to be inspired, my books will provide positive moments.
I was raised a small town boy with manners and loyalty to others and respect for my elders and a hard day of work for a respectable wage. If my readers are from Anytown USA, they’ll find a relatable story with a few shocking twists.
I know that our readers here at SBC will probably connect with what you write. Again we look forward to your book release. (Royal)
Got to know Rob, are you a PANSTER writer or do you plan things out in a DETAILED OUTLINE?
The poetry and short stories just flow in the moment. I outline novels as a guide, but the story rarely sticks to the outline.
And can you tell us, what do you find to be the BEST PART OF WRITING?
Writing is sharing my story. If one person can relate to my story, I’m happy. Writing is therapeutic and it allows me to progress on a peaceful journey.
I know you mentioned the DREADFUL WRITER’S BLOCK previously in this interview but I wanted to know if you had a TIP you could give our readers to help fight it off?
Walk away! I’ve never broke down the writer’s block wall while staring at a computer screen or pad of paper. When I owned a brick & mortar shop and needed to clear my head, I’d clean the shop. Nobody likes cleaning, but eventually it needs to be done. Sweeping a floor provided a great opportunity to clear my head because it’s such a simple task. Just keep your eyes on the broom and the floor. Since cleaning isn’t one of my favorite things and I no longer own that particular business, I had to find another outlet. Nature trails and the beach are now the two things that clear my head. Search for a simple task without distractions.
Thank you. That tip will be very useful. (Royal)
Alright, I wanted to ask you Rob, what is one fun fact SOMEONE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOU?
I love to cook. I’ve entered three cooking contests and won all three.
Congratulations. Maybe we could get a few recipes from you in the future. (Royal)
I love asking this question, who is one of your FAVORITE AUTHORS?
I’m a John Grisham fan. I didn’t start reading his work until he was well into his career as a writer. I bought an entire lot of his work on eBay and began binge reading. Ah, the days before binge watching a television series.
I found a new favorite in the past month. Andrea Michelle is a phenomenal poet. I keep going back to read her poems again and again.
There are so many talented Indie writers that I’d love to mention. I encourage readers to look beyond the best sellers lists in literature and in music.
Great authors. And I think that’s great advice about checking out books outside of the best seller list. (Royal)
Rob, what was one of the BEST PIECES OF ADVICE you received is?
Keep it simple.
Can you share a TIP FOR ASPIRING AUTHORS?
Just keep writing. And, if you haven’t started yet, just write the first word. The rest will follow. I promise.
Rob, here at SBC we like to know what is next for you. We have started asking these questions like it is a lightening round. So here we go.
Let’s start with your UPCOMING RELEASE.
Watch for Salty Eyes in December.
We will make sure we do that. (Royal)
Okay Rob, how about what people should EXPECT TO SEE FROM YOU IN THE FUTURE?
I’m considering a photography book with new poems that are inspired by the scenes.
That would be interesting and I’m sure great. (Royal)
ANY EVENTS you want to share that you will be appearing at in the near future?
There are five writers from my hometown of Newport, NH organizing a return in May 2017 for a meet and greet and reading at the local library. Hopefully, we’ll be able to inspire some students to start writing while we are there.
What are you MOST EXCITED ABOUT?
Life!
Whew! You did great with the lightening round Rob. Thanks for answering all of the questions. (Royal)
We are interesting in reading your work. How can WE BUY THE BOOKS?
I will be publishing on Amazon. Until then, enjoy my work at http://www.robertstanhope.com/creativewritingblog
And I know our readers here at SBC love to contact our writers. Can you share your SOCIAL MEDIA INFORMATION for us?
We also like to keep up to date on when new releases are coming. Where is the best place for us to find these updates?
Watch my website: www.robertstanhope.com and social media.
That was an incredible interview. Thanks again to the multi-faceted writer Robert Stanhope for take time out of his busy schedule to sit down with us here at SBC. It was great getting to know more about you and your upcoming work Rob. And we here at SBC will keep a look out for it. Plus, we will gladly give our readers the updates on the releases when they are available.
That’s it for now. Until next time, Royal.
Click here to read more of Robert Stanhope's poetry on his website.
And make sure to look for SALTY EYES coming end of 2016.
And make sure to look for SALTY EYES coming end of 2016.
AND WE CAN’T WAIT TO READ IT!!!
Royal, Silver Beans Reviewer and Interviewer
Posting: POETRY AND SHORT STORIES
Posting Date: 9/6/2016
ROBERT STANHOPE- SALTY EYES, FAMILY FIRST, THE LAST LIE (BEDSIDE MATTERS)
Royal, Silver Beans Reviewer and Interviewer
Posting: POETRY AND SHORT STORIES
Posting Date: 9/6/2016
ROBERT STANHOPE- SALTY EYES, FAMILY FIRST, THE LAST LIE (BEDSIDE MATTERS)
HUGE THANKS AGAIN...
ROBERT STANHOPE for chatting with us!
ROBERT STANHOPE for chatting with us!
FUN FACT:
Robert and his wife are going to reach the goal they set to see 100 Indie bands in one year by Mid-September 2016!
Robert and his wife are going to reach the goal they set to see 100 Indie bands in one year by Mid-September 2016!
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for a good book readers. Check out
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