An interview feels a lot like looking in the mirror first thing in the morning. Ack! Let me brush my hair and put on some makeup!
Frankly, it’s a little daunting, especially when your interviewer is not only a published author but an English teacher as well!
The best and most memorable English teacher I ever had was Mr. Eaton, who taught senior English at Westminster High School, Westminster Maryland. This was way back in the last century, and Mr. Eaton was old then, or so we thought. At any rate, he is no longer with us; rest in peace, Mr. Eaton. Or should I say, “Out, out brief candle!” Mr. Eaton introduced thousands of teenagers to the joys of Shakespeare, Chaucer, Dickens, et al, and he required us to memorize a number of soliloquies and sonnets. He likewise had Great Expectations for us when it came to creative writing and compositions, as well. I can truly say Mr. Eaton contributed to my becoming a writer. (For a biographical sketch of this influential teacher, see my classmate, fellow writer and former mayor of Westminster, Kevin Dayhoff’s blog post, Remembering Mike Eaton.)
Earlier this week I was honored to be interviewed by Elizabeth Caulfield Felt, an English instructor at the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point, and an author of four books herself. (The grades aren’t in yet, but I’m hoping for an “A”…) Here’s the link to Elizabeth’s grade book — er — blog:
Now I wonder what Mr. Eaton would have to say about that?