I've Written 4 Novels... Here's Everything I've Learned - Lux Raven [FULL INTERVIEW]
Education
Introduction
In a candid discussion, author Lux Raven shared her journey into the world of writing, the joys and challenges she has faced, and her thoughts on the romance genre. Below is a compilation of insights from her reflections on her writing experience.
Discovering the Writer Within
According to Lux, her journey as a writer wasn’t marked by a defining moment, but rather a series of gradual realizations. She noted, “I think it wasn't so much that I thought of myself as a writer as much as I was just writing all the time.” Writing as a child led her to hone her creativity, and it wasn't until others recognized her talent that she started to embrace her identity as a writer.
Writing as a Hobby and More
Lux always wrote for fun, creating poetry and stories, especially during her teen years. She later pursued journalism in college, which, while professional, did not fulfill her passion for fiction. After some time away from fiction, she found Wattpad and returned to her roots of casual, enjoyable writing, stating, “It kind of came back around, and I was like oh I guess I’m writing again.”
Joys of Writing
Lux finds immense joy in the playful aspects of writing. She compared it to the imaginative play of childhood, allowing creativity to flourish through experimentation with characters and scenarios. Writing gives her the chance to connect with readers on a deeper level, particularly when she explores themes such as chronic illness and diverse identities. She expressed gratitude when readers share their personal connections to her characters, feeling that her work can provide validation and visibility.
Transitioning to Professional Writing
Initially skeptical about pursuing writing professionally, Lux's outlook shifted when she recognized that she could create stories true to her interests without adhering to traditional literary standards. She yearned to express herself through her narratives and write about topics that resonated with her.
The Role of Tropes
While discussing the romance genre, Lux emphasized the importance of tropes, suggesting they serve as shorthand that helps readers quickly grasp what to expect. Common tropes include“enemies to lovers,” “friends to lovers,” and “only one bed.” Lux explained how these help readers connect with stories faster and engage with the characters emotionally.
Writing Process and Feedback
Lux described her writing process as largely linear, enjoying a straightforward approach but remaining flexible. To tackle feedback from readers, she views it as a resource for improvement, seeking insight into their experiences. Lux believes in the necessity of “writing bad pages” as a way to uncover genuine creativity.
Connecting with Wattpad
Wattpad allows creators to engage with audiences more intimately, enabling direct interaction through comments and reader feedback. Especially since her first novel amassed over two million reads, Lux feels that her journey has been marked by serendipity. She acknowledges that filling gaps in representation, especially for chronically ill characters, has resonated with many readers looking for relatable stories.
Lux appreciates her position as an official Wattpad Creator, which provides opportunities while maintaining her passion for writing. With a focus on her audience, Lux strives to provide content that enriches their reading experience while nurturing her creative spirit.
Conclusion
Lux Raven’s story illustrates the power of persistence and authenticity in writing. Her journey showcases the importance of connecting with audiences and filling gaps within genres, leading her toward success and a fulfilling creative path.
Keywords
- Lux Raven
- Writing journey
- Romance genre
- Wattpad
- Reader feedback
- Tropes
- Creative process
FAQ
Q: What inspired Lux Raven to become a writer?
A: Lux found inspiration in her childhood love for writing and her desire to create stories that resonated with her experiences.
Q: How does Lux approach writing feedback?
A: Lux values feedback as a resource for improvement, allowing reader insights to inform her writing and strengthen her narratives.
Q: What are some common tropes in romance novels discussed by Lux?
A: Lux mentioned tropes such as "enemies to lovers," "friends to lovers," and "only one bed" as ways to engage readers quickly and effectively.
Q: What is the significance of Wattpad in Lux's writing career?
A: Wattpad provided Lux a platform to interact with readers directly, receive feedback, and publish her work in a serialized format, leading to increased visibility and engagement.
Q: How long does Lux typically take to write a book?
A: Lux mentioned that it generally takes her about a year to complete a book.
