Yitzchak Friedman

In the beginning of every college semester one of the worst inventions of humanity is visited upon me. The dreaded invitation to 'introduce myself.' What are you supposed to say? In print, of course, this task is marginally easier but the lack of a clear raison d'etre remains. My name? Sure,-- Yitzchak. Yes, I live in Brooklyn. No, I don't have a bucket list or enjoy skiing. I've never been to the Empire State Building and I don't believe in astrology. That's about it for now.

Question 1: When did you first call yourself a writer? 

When I was unemployed and needed to pretend that I was busy.

Question 2: What is your writing process like? Are you more of a plotter or a pantser?

I don't believe in plots. Much of the time I don't know how a story will end when I begin writing it. I don't believe in outlines either. I just write.

Question 3: If you could spend a day with another popular author, whom would you choose?

Haruki Murakami

Question 4: What is your kryptonite as a writer?

Happiness

Question 5: Do you play music while you write — and, if so, what’s your favorite?

Cyberpunk ambience

Question 6: What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

That you don't have to end off every sentence of dialogue with "he/she said." It seems simple but until it's pointed out it can be a struggle.

Question 7: Are there any books or authors that inspired you to become a writer?

The Lord of the Rings was one of the first books that inspired me to write anything. Admittedly, it was a slavish imitation with poorly drawn maps and uninspired tongue bending fantasy names, but it was a start.

Question 8: What do the words “literary success” mean to you? How do you picture it?

Money...money...money... Or being translated into Klingon.

Question 9: Who has been the biggest supporter of your writing? 

My siblings