Interview with writer Katrina Johnston
Katrina Johnston is the winner of the CBC/Canada Writes True Winter Tale (2011). Works of short fiction may be found at several on-line sites and a couple of print issues. She lives in Victoria, BC, Canada. The goal of her fiction is to share a human journey.
In this interview with letters editor Dariel Suarez, Johnston talked about her plans for the future as a writer, about what inspired her to write “Once Upon a Time on Elizabeth Avenue," and what she'd like readers to take with them when they read her work.
Dariel Suarez: What inspired you to write “Once Upon a Time on Elizabeth Avenue”?
Katrina Johnson: The accident (at a busy intersection) really happened. I thought it useful to explore what occurs in terms of feelings when a stranger witnesses this type of misfortune.
DS: Do you write mostly nonfiction, or do you delve into other genres as well?
KJ: I usually write short fiction.
DS: What themes are you most interested in exploring?
KJ: I am interested in themes of aging, belonging, and finding a purpose or connection.
DS: Where can readers find more of you work?
KJ: Works of short fiction may be found a several online publications: carte blanche, Sliver of Stone, The Missing Slate, DeadBeats Literary and others. Occasionally, I've broken into print, but only a couple of times. Lots of rejection. Tons of rejection. Waterfalls of rejection. A short essay of mine may be found at CBC/Canada Writes - True Winter Tale.
DS: What plans do you have in relation to your writing for the near future?
KJ: I try to write everyday - aiming to finish one short story per month. I want to get published, not for fame or money, but just to feel accepted. Okay, money would be lovely. Yeah, send money.
DS: What would you like readers to take with them when they read your writing?
KJ: I would like readers to feel thoughtful, to have a clear sense that we've shared a journey together.