The USUAL questions for C. J. Cherryh

Where we ask the same questions of many people

Has your interaction with fans, for example at conventions, affected your work? C.J.C: Generally it's been positive. At times when I've had a hard time with my publishers [schedules, conflicts, etc] a kind word from my readers goes a long way. Is there any particular fannish incident that stands out? C.J.C.: Well, there was the chap who yelled at me in a very loud voice about being a dastardly sumbitch who didn't care about the readers because I'd killed a character, and then the chap asked me to sign his book.

Do you have a favourite author or book or series that has influenced you or that you return to?

C.J.C.: I like Moorcock, Leiber...the Grey Mouser, the Eternal Champion, and I enjoy Tolkein. Now, that's different from who influences my writing...although Fritz has had a considerable influence there, too. He's one of the most seamless craftsmen in the field. You don't see his hands move.

Who would you most DISlike to be trapped in a lift with?

C.J.C.: I decline to answer. But I will tell concoms who propose to put me on another panel with him. Who would you most like to be trapped in a lift with?

C.J.C.: Probably Fancher and Abbey: we get along realtime. I think we could survive that.

What would you pack for space?

C.J.C.: Lots of coffee. What is the most important thing you would like to get from your work?

C.J.C.: Mostly I enjoy telling myself stories. I figure while that's true I will more likely please others.

What is the special satisfaction of your work?

C.J.C.: Hearing that someone recommended it to the next generation.

Official website: www.cherryh.com

For other people's answers to the usual questions, click here.
See also: The author index.