Today's Q&A Author: D. Cameron Lawrence

Welcome to D. Cameron Lawrence, author of the essay "Charlie the Graceful," included in our anthology, Fits, Starts & Matters of the Heart.

How long have you been writing essays?

I’ve been scribbling ideas down for decades! I’ve been writing coherent essays for about 8 years.

When and where was your first essay published?

The Washington Post Style section in April, 2006.

How did it feel when you discovered your essay had been chosen for inclusion in this book?

Lovely! It’s always nice to hear a “yes” where one’s writing is concerned. Plus my essay is about a beautiful animal who graced my life, and I was especially happy that others would learn about him.

Tell us a bit about the essay published Fits, Starts & Matters of the Heart. What is it about and why did you write it?

“Charlie the Graceful” is about a wondrous cat who entered my life briefly. I was so moved by his charm and grace that an essay bubbled up. I’ve been an animal lover my entire life and have known many wonderful creatures. Charlie remains one of the dearest.

Had you tried the essay market before?

Yes. I’ve had essays published in The Washington Post, the Lexington Herald-Leader, The Hartford Courant, Health, Notre Dame Magazine and New Southerner and in NPR’s Kitchen Window feature.

What does it mean to you to be published in this anthology?

It’s a tremendous honor to have my work appear with that of so many talented writers. The freelancesuccess.com community is an amazing group.

Do you have any words of wisdom to share with someone who says "I don't have anything to write about."?

Everyone has stuff to write about--unless you’re a couch. Hey, come to think of it, that might make an interesting piece. The couch could write about what it’s like to get sat on, or who sat there, or what they did…