Elephant’s
Bookshelf: The stories you’ve had published by
Elephant’s Bookshelf Press have all included an element of fantasy. Do you
consider yourself a fantasy writer primarily?
A.M.
Supinger: Without a doubt. Other things tend to
creep into my work—like horror, erotica, and small hints of mystery, depending
on my mood and/or what I’ve been reading—but my passion is fantasy. I credit
Anne McCaffrey and her beloved Pern.
EB:
The stories of yours that I’ve read also have tended to focus on birth and
motherhood. I know you’re looking forward to the birth of your son. Has your
perspective on motherhood changed as the reality of it approaches for you?
AMS:
Strangely, most of my stories containing themes of motherhood and birth were
written well before I got pregnant. In fact, ever since discovering I was
expecting this baby, my tendency has been toward more macabre subjects. I blame
pregnancy dreams—zombies all the way from conception to now, only days from my
due date.
Since I know more about pregnancy and motherhood
now, I can honestly say that my stories about the subject will never be the
same. The experience has already changed me, and I’ve yet to actually meet my
son.
EB:
Do you think your approach to stories and characters will change as a result of
becoming a mother?
AMS:
That is one of my fears. I love writing, and yet I have an odd approach to
getting my stories and characters out. It could be said that I have a bad case
of “Writerly Bulimia.” Basically, I write to purge. Most of my inspiration is
dream-based; my regular dreams are vivid and intense, my nightmares more so.
Getting the stories out of my head is sometimes the only way for me to get a
peaceful night’s rest. But with a newborn almost here…well, I worry that I
won’t have time to sit and write out whatever the Sandman throws at me. If I
ever again get enough sleep to dream, that is…
EB:
If I recall correctly, the trio of stories in Spring Fevers were your first
publications. How long have you considered yourself a writer, and what did it
mean for you to be published finally?
AMS:
I’ve only considered myself a writer for a short time, even though I’ve been
writing consistently for about two years. I guess I didn’t think my stories
were good enough to “make it,” especially since I’m still developing my voice. I’m
very glad that I heard about Spring
Fevers and decided to test myself, because getting accepted and published
has given me so much confidence. As far as first experiences go, mine has been
nothing but positive, and I’ve learned so much from everyone involved.
The feeling of validation that came with
seeing my name in an anthology was overwhelming, and I still thank my lucky
stars for the privilege!
EB:
Any novels in the offing?
AMS:
Two, actually. Both are YA Fantasy in different stages of completion. I’m
working on editing one and writing the second half of the other. DESMONA CHILD
follows the misfortunes of a hapless girl destined to sink Atlantis, and GOLDEN
is the twisted fairytale I’ve yet to finish.
EB:
Where did your fascination with owls come from?
AMS:
Your guess is as good as mine! I don’t remember a time when I didn’t love owls.
They are beautiful, majestic creatures, but are also true predators and masters
of stealth. The combination of beauty and power is riveting.
EB:
Well, that seems quite appropriate for you, then. (Well, maybe not the predator
part.) Thanks so much for sharing with us, and we look forward to seeing what
the future holds for you.
AMS:
Thank you for taking time out of your schedule to chat with me! I enjoyed your
questions and can’t wait to see what Elephant’s Bookshelf Press comes out with
next!
