Gossamer Interview with an Author: NicolaSimpson

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Interviews by Fans
Title: Gossamer Interview with an Author: NicolaSimpson
Interviewer: Widjojo, Yasinta ("Observer")
Interviewee: NicolaSimpson
Date(s): March 2, 1996
Medium: online
Fandom(s): The X-Files
External Links: Gossamer Interview with an Author: NicolaSimpson, Archived version
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The Gossamer Interview with an Author: NicolaSimpson was conducted in 1996.

It was posted in the non-fiction section of Gossamer's Specialty Archive.

Excerpts

When and why did you start writing x-files fan fic?

I think I started my first story ("Palm Springs") in January of 1995. [Does that make me an Old-Timer?] I had just discovered atxc, and was enthralled with the idea... I loved the show and was/am a complete romantic, and here were all these great USTY stories! I was thrilled, and after lurking for about a month, I decided to write a story of my own. I hadn't written fiction for a while, and I had no real clue what I was doing (as is probably now obvious by the story), and posted the first part. People seemed to like it, so I wrote the second part. And so it went on, me frantically trying to write the damn thing for the next month or so. I've certainly learned my lesson from that--I never posted anything again until it was finished :)

What fascinates/irritates/moved you enough about X-files to write fan fics?

I think the dynamics of the relationship between Mulder and Scully is what I love the most. I've always been a sucker for TV shows with lots of UST (notable faves include Remington Steele, Moonlighting, Northern Exposure, Max Headroom, Scarecrow and Mrs. King--all shows with great UST), and I loved the fact that there seemed to be a whole lot more going on with The X-Files than we saw on the screen.

How would you define Mulder and Scully's relationship?

Hmm. In my world, or in Chris Carter's world? I believe that Mulder and Scully are best friends, partners, and love each other on a very deep level (even though they don't really admit it). This is not to say that they are "in" love with each other, but they do love each other. Personally, in the show, I would like to see them realize their feelings, but both be too scared to do anything about it. That might satisfy the relationshippers and non-relationshipper alike...

Who or what influenced you most, while writing fan-fic?

I think mostly the amazing people on atxc. The writers and readers here (with a few exceptions) are the friendliest, most supportive, helpful, incredibly honest people that I've had the good fortune to be associated with. I certainly couldn't name any particular writer that has "influenced" me, but I'm proud to call people like Juliettt, Ra[Enright], Mac[spooky, Sheryl [Martin], Eleanor, and Jenny [Lyon] my friends, as well as colleagues (in a way)... :)

From the stories you wrote you seem to enjoy writing romance between M & S. What did you find so appealing about this side of their relationship?

I love the fact that so much goes unsaid between them. I'm in awe of their relationship, because I'm honestly not sure I could ever have one like it. I'm envious of the trust they share and the unspoken commitment that permeates their lives together... (um, I hope my boyfriend doesn't read this, he might get the wrong impression <g>)

Does anyone know of your writing in real life? What are their reaction toward it?

Everyone knows about it. Some people I know look upon fanfic with a raised eyebrow and curled lip, but other friends and family think it's a terrific venue. I have to agree with the latter. There seems to be a perception of fanfic as being the lowest of the low of writing, worse than Harlequins (which I enjoy writing and reading immensely, btw). I can't think of anyone who is close to me, family or friend, who doesn't support me in my literary efforts. I'm very lucky... Now if I could just get my boyfriend to make his own dinner while I work... <g>

Does anyone know of your writing in real life? What are their reaction toward it?

Everyone knows about it. Some people I know look upon fanfic with a raised eyebrow and curled lip, but other friends and family think it's a terrific venue. I have to agree with the latter. There seems to be a perception of fanfic as being the lowest of the low of writing, worse than Harlequins (which I enjoy writing and reading immensely, btw). I can't think of anyone who is close to me, family or friend, who doesn't support me in my literary efforts. I'm very lucky... Now if I could just get my boyfriend to make his own dinner while I work... <g>

What's the most memorable feedback you've received about a story after putting it on a.t.x.c.?

I got a lot of great feedback after "Gris-Gris", which I found very satisfying. Many people said that they really felt like they were in New Orleans, which made me happy, considering that I'd never been there and I researched a lot to enhance that kind of realism. I also, strangely enough, got a *lot* of positive feedback after "Solace" (which I have, ahem, yet to retitle). I wrote that as a missing scene to "The Blessing Way" in about an hour at school one day between classes, and I really didn't think it was much good. The overwhelming response just floored me... I've gotten a lot of feedback from all over the world, and the thrill never fades :)

Are you going to continue writing X-Files stories?

Well, I had planned to use this opportunity to announce my fanfic retirement. I don't plan to continue writing X-Files stories at this time. I've got my hands full with scripts and books, as well as full-time school and a part-time job :). Hey! Is that cheering I hear?

Other Interviews in This Series

References

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