Behind the Bylines
Carolyn B
Meet... Carolyn R. Buchanan
Birthdate: February 5th
What was your favorite school subject?
Music. English was a close second.
When/how did you first know you wanted to write?
I think I had a clue as early as 1st grade. At that time I wanted my writing to look really pretty. Unfortunately I was never much good at penmanship or drawing, but when I learned that I could "paint" pictures with words -- I was hooked.
What do you enjoy about your job?
The greatest thing about being a journalist is the variety of people you meet and the places you see. It's amazing how, when you show a little interest in other people -- which you must do in the course of reporting a story -- they will open up their lives to you. Reporting helps you see the world through the eyes of others.
How did you develop a nose for the news?
Most of us have a natural interest in what brother Tommy is doing downstairs, or neighbor Sally is up to in her backyard. Reporting the news is just an extension of this curiosity. What makes a balanced news story is that you must look at an event from all sides. It's really hard to separate your feelings from what is actually taking place. But with practice you learn.
How do you overcome writer's block?
For me, the only way to overcome writer's block is to just force myself to get started. Usually what I begin with is pretty bad. But if I just keep going, words and ideas will begin to flow, and I can go back later and revise my rather sad beginning.
What do you write best with or on?
I really love writing on the computer. I love pressing my fingers to the keys and watching my words appear on screen.
Who do you look up to?
Well, I'm barely 5'4" so I look up to lots of people -- especially basketball players. But there are many writers -- of all shapes and sizes -- who I admire. I guess the writers for whom I have the greatest respect are the ones who take subjects that sound dull -- things like plate tectonics, nuclear fusion, and the life cycle of a bat -- and make them highly entertaining AND understandable. Now that's talent!
more bylines
