Erin Farrel
Writer

Newsletter: March 14 – March 28, 2018

Can you tell us a little bit about what you do?
During college at UCLA, I started writing novels. After several attempts, I finally found a plot that I felt was going somewhere, and I hope to finish and publish my first novel by the end of summer 2018

How did you first become interested in writing?
I became interested in writing through….reading (surprise! haha). I have always loved mystery romance novels and during college there were several points where I came up with story lines in my head and just started writing. I’ve learned a lot through the process, both about myself and about my abilities as a writer. I never thought of myself as a writer and sometimes when I have writer’s block I still don’t consider myself a writer, but I’m closer than ever to finishing my first book and I can’t wait to see the end result.

How do you think art can enrich our community, and what are some ways people can become engaged with art in Burbank?
Burbank is a great place to become engaged in art! I believe that Burbank is now, more than ever, a growing town filled with young people trying to pursue the arts. Beyond that, Burbank schools are incredibly supportive of people pursuing artistic careers. I went to Burbank High School and was inundated with support. My English teachers were very supportive of people with different writing styles. I’ve always felt that my writing style is more “casual” than most published authors, and it’s not something I ever wish to change. I write how I speak, and in my opinion, it results in an honest and candid work product. I know that part of the reason that I have developed so much as a writer is because I had the support of my teachers from a young age, and they never tried to change who I was as a writer. From a writer’s perspective, writers tend to write about what they know. After living in Burbank for the entirety of my life, I can’t think of a better setting to include in my stories than Burbank.

If you could share with our community one thing about art, what would it be?
I would share that it’s important to pursue art, even if your work is never recognized on a large scale! Art is a way to express yourself and gives an outlet that goes beyond work and home life. Even though I haven’t published my written work yet, just the fact that I’ve been working towards a goal gives me an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and joy. So, pursue your art and support those around you who pursue theirs! Nothing but good can come of it.