Avigayl Sharp discusses her evolution into writing, noting that while she read extensively during her childhood, she did not initially aspire to be a writer. Her early experiences were filled with various forms of creative expression, including singing and theater, but writing took a more serious turn during her college years. A pivotal moment came when she took an Intro to Fiction course, where a demanding instructor encouraged her to hone her craft and embrace the challenge of writing.
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Sharp reflects on her struggle with self-expression, describing writing as a refuge where she could communicate without the immediate feedback of others. She acknowledges that initially, the validation of praise drove her, but her perspective shifted to valuing the effort of creation itself.
Although she previously focused on short stories, the decision to write a novel emerged unexpectedly. Initially intimidated by the form, she found the motivation to create a novel while on a fellowship in Provincetown. This change in environment inspired her to write, and she completed the first draft within a year, where the early sections took longer to develop than the latter parts.
Sharp’s writing process requires her to deeply engage with language, as she seeks to craft something that resonates before moving on to subsequent sections. This meticulous approach leads her into what she describes as writing into the dark, uncertain if what she creates will come together.
The novel’s vibrant and unique voice was a priority for Sharp, who draws from a range of literary influences. She experimented with dialogue, opting to omit quotation marks to create a fluidity between character voices and the narrative.
Addressing the topic of autofiction, Sharp expresses a nuanced view, acknowledging some personal connections within her work while maintaining that the stories are ultimately fictional. She emphasizes that humor plays a critical role in her writing, allowing for deeper explorations of complex themes and emotions.
Reflecting on her time away from social media, Sharp notes that removing herself from the pressures of image creation has helped her focus and maintain her integrity as a writer. Living abroad in Germany has also influenced her perspective, though she’s still processing the impact of her experiences there on her writing.
Ultimately, Sharp finds writing to be both a gift and a challenge, emphasizing the difficulty of translating her ideas into finished work. She acknowledges the pain that comes with creative endeavors but considers it integral to the artistic process. Sharp’s advice to other writers includes structuring their time effectively and cultivating a commitment to their craft, even through periods of uncertainty. As her first novel gains recognition, she encourages her past self to embrace the journey and trust in the creative process.