Alison Wells Author

I had a chance to discuss the more writerly aspects of the stories behind the collection Random Acts of Optimism recently on Shauna Gilligan’s writing blog.

“When I came to write the title story I recognised that for Cynthia and Tom and for many of the other characters in my stories they were often taking action in spite of or in defiance of the constraints of their circumstances.“

“I think writing this story, more than any, allowed me to really depict the stoicism, humour and camaraderie that so many ordinary people have while negotiating everyday challenges.”

“Like many writers, I’m always pained by the gap between the richness and impact of reality, especially that of the natural world and how well I am getting it down on the page.”

Talking the use of imagery and symbolism, themes and ordering stories in a collection, the inspiration from working in a library during lockdown and more, you can read the full interview here.