Donna Faulkner is a writer who lives in Rangiora. Her book ‘The Oracle of Birds’ – is available here.
She spoke to us about her creative practice.
How would you describe what you do?
I write short stories, flash fiction and poetry. Then I find good homes for them in lit mags, books, and anthologies.
I like to condense an idea, flay it down to its marrow and bone. I read a lot and am constantly surprised by how a master wordsmith might wield language to provoke emotion. I admit to being slightly obsessed with words. Immersing myself in how they look and sound, and stretching the limits of their connotations. I get genuinely excited about words and have notebooks of words I most admire.
What was your most recent project?
Working on my debut book ‘The Oracle Of Birds : Stories for the Fireside’, Published by Written Tales in late December, 2023. It is available in both paperback and ebook. I have multiple projects on the go at any one time. I’m always working on a draft, a revision, research, or a submission. My calendar is full of looming deadlines.
What project have you worked on that you’re the most proud of?
I’m very proud of getting ‘The Oracle of Birds’ published. It combines never before seen stories and poems with work that has already earned its place in the pages of lit magazines. It is particularly poignant to me as I dedicated this book to my late dad. I was pretty chuffed to win the second place prize for nonfiction by Havik in 2023, but was even more touched when I was approached by a reader about the positive impact this story had on them. For a writer the pinnacle of success is when your work has emotionally impacted a reader. I am also proud of writing ‘The Devil’s Kiss’ and ‘The King ,Gillies and a storm at Sea’ (forthcoming) for the charity Remembering the Accused Witches Of Scotland’ – a cause that is close to my heart.
What is essential for creatives to have in their life?
Supportive friends, copious amounts of tea and a structured plan with ample room for spontaneity and flexibility. Personally I would love more time to focus uninterrupted on my writing. I am not alone in this desire, hence the fierce competition to secure a spot at a writer’s residence.
What inspires you about Ōtautahi?
When I am needing inspiration, I love to immerse myself in the vibrancy that is New Regent Street. I adore the cotton candy apartments hovering above the shops. Perfectly poised to watch the pedestrians and patrons of the sprawling eateries below. New Regent Street really does emanate its own special energy.
What piece of advice about your creative work has served you well?
Advice that has proven useful in my writing has been to get used to rejection, and let it cultivate a sense of resilience and perseverance. There is no sweeter victory than one hard won. I was also advised to recognise when to leave a piece alone. To let it sit and ferment, returning to it with a fresh perspective. And arguably the most important advice I received was to immerse myself in the work of other creatives and in particular to seek out perspectives that aren’t necessarily my own. To get comfortable being uncomfortable.
What’s the biggest misconception about your creative work?
That the writing I produce comes easily and can be attributed to talent or a gift that luck bestowed. It negates the work. In reality most people have a natural proclivity for some expression of creativity, but realizing its full potential is a lifelong pursuit. Ultimately creativity is a muscle that requires nurturing and flexing.
What Christchurch artists do you most admire?
I loved the sculptures of the late and immensely talented Llew Summers. I was lucky enough to meet up with him a few years ago and visit him at home. What an experience, it was like entering the beating heart of the sculptor himself.
What artwork/piece of music/performance has taken your breath away?
I love both music and art and couldn’t possibly pick a single piece that has transfixed me, there are too many to list. However, I enjoy seeking out the new and undiscovered. The band ‘Ersatz Savant’ has some genuine talent. The music they produce is both exciting and original, and they aren’t afraid to experiment. Although their music is on Spotify, they don’t have all the social media hype that drives and corrals so many musical trends, yet Ersatz still sparks intrigue and gets you hooked before the second chorus.
What do you wish you’d have known about creative work when you were younger?
That the experiences that make up life are a personal cache of raw material, ripe for the harvest that is writing. There is no wasted opportunity in this regard. That the act of writing doesn’t necessarily mean locking yourself away in a bareroom awaiting inspiration. Many ideas for my writing have been seeded spontaneously whilst I’ve been out in the world. In this regard it is essential to either maintain a great memory or carry a notebook, always.
What’s your favourite hidden secret in Ōtautahi?
I like visiting Belfast cemetery. Although it’s neither hidden nor secret I suppose it’s an unusual choice of a spot for a favoured destination. Intrigued by the sense of familial legacy, I’ve always loved visiting cemeteries.The cherished and cared for eventually succumbing to delicate decay. Often the headstones themselves are works of art. Belfast cemetery makes my list of favored spots, not least because my Dad is buried there. Although the old oaks that bordered the cemetery are now long gone, the swathe of bouncing wildflowers enhance its congeniality.