S5 E2 C. L. Clark: The Patron Saint of Sword Lesbians
Summary
V.E. Schwab interviews author C.L. Clark about her creative process, physical training, and the *Shattered Sea* trilogy. They discuss how sports inform her writing, the balance between outlining and discovery, and overcoming writer’s block. Clark shares insights on her daily routine, including morning pages, and reveals the literary and personal influences behind her fantasy worlds.
Topics discussed
Introduction and guest welcome
Overview of Priory of the Orange Tree
Current locations and fencing gear discussion
Fencing styles and weapon preferences
Childhood storytelling and early writing
Transition to professional writing and journalism
Academic path and MFA exploration
First finished story and the power of completion
Writing habits and mental health impacts
Early career interests: soccer, acting, and writing
Lessons from sports: effort and repetition
Dealing with lack of inspiration and daily work
Exercise as self-care and creative fuel
Organization strategies and chapter breakdowns
Daily routines and morning pages
Linear vs. non-linear writing and outlining
Outlining for IP and trilogy planning
Balancing discovery and efficiency in drafting
Approaching short stories and novellas
Anxiety, time loss, and the value of outlines
Overcoming writer's block and finding core scenes
Influences and ingredients of her fantasy world
Easter eggs and personal inspirations in text
Accessibility of tabletop RPGs for new readers
Curiosities: ancient rock and personal items
Starting to run and lifestyle changes
Celebrating good news and milestones
The 100-year question: legacy work
Closing remarks and gratitude
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