'Setting a pattern for success'

 

“When I get started each day, I read through and correct the previous day's 2,000 words, then start on the next. As I reach that figure, I try to simply stop and not go on until reaching a natural break. If you just stop while you know what you're going to write next, it's easier to get going again the next day.” – Neal Asher

Born in England on Feb. 4, 1961, Asher is a leader in the world of science fiction writing.   The son of educators "and sci-fi" fans, he has been writing since secondary school, although he didn’t turn to it seriously until he was nearly 30.  After working as a machinist and machine programmer, then as a full-time gardener, he wrote his first short story and had instant success.  After a few more, he turned to novels and never looked back.  

Since 1989, he’s turned out some 50 novels and dozens and dozens of short stories – many of his books set in a sci-fi world he calls “The Polity.”  His most recent book, the start of his new “Time Shadow” series, is Dark Diamond.    Asher credits his success to hard work and a regular writing routine (that 2000 daily words mentioned above), and keeping an active, inquiring mind. 

 

“For me,” he said, “the writing process is the same as the reading process. I want to know what happens next."