Interviewed by Donald Pennington!

Having enjoyed writing with AC since April of this year, it has been a mind-expanding experience in more ways than one (no illegal substances involved).

Around the end of September, I began asking other CPs if they had any interest in doing interviews; word must have got around, because I eventually heard from the famous Donald Pennington. Of course, I agreed, while still unaware of how Mr. Pennington was making a name for himself.

That's when I began checking out his content, and realizing that Don's specialty was interviewing his fellow writers, and putting them in the public eye. From that realization, I began to compose my questions.

As I see now, one of the reasons that Mr. Pennington is so popular on AC is his charming wit, combined with the ability to take any story and turn it on its head. One of the questions I asked him was, "What inspired you to want to interview other CPs?" His response? "Prozac. What inspired you? I had to find a niche somewhere." All joking aside, however, he gave an honest and even touching reply.

Once my article had been completed, I then turned the tables and asked Don if he would do the same favor for me. Like many of you, I was directed to his "interview site" and filled out the questions, which I've come to realize can be answered in countless ways.

Looking back on it, perhaps a few of my answers were a little longwinded...but then again, I wouldn't want to compromise my style!

Then, practically overnight, it seemed as if my readership multiplied, almost by magic. I used to rarely receive any comments on my work, and it also seemed unclear what sort of articles would be popular, and which would get passed over. I'm extremely grateful to Don for his exposure, as well as inspiration in the field.

I would hate to steal Mr. Pennington's thunder...but as I said, I probably enjoy doing interviews almost as much as he does. There have been a number of CPs that have caught my interest lately, and it would be amazing to have the same opportunity to interview them as well!

At the same time, it's obvious that Don and I have radically different styles, and therefore occupy our own spaces in the Associated Content Universe (wherever it's located). Rather than viewing this as some kind of cutthroat competition, I'm coming to realize that each of us can gain something from one another. Whether it's an improvement in our writing style, a constructive criticism, or an opportunity to absorb some new and valuable knowledge, all can contribute to the betterment of this site (and hopefully to our lives).

Doing these interviews has also helped me to understand that when I write from "within my gut," as Don so eloquently put it, the prose (or poetry, etc.) feels so much better jumping off the page.

So, what do I have to contribute to AC (and the writing world) in the future? I have some idea...but then again, I could end up in a metaphorical Timbuktu. Either way, it's not a problem; I look forward to it.