Cypriot
First Language(s): Greek
Second Language(s):
English
Maria A. Ioannou is a writer and festival organizer based in Cyprus. She recently completed her PhD in Creative Writing at the University of Winchester. Her publications include two short fiction collections and a fairy tale (Emerging Writer State Prize 2012). Her short fiction “Pillars” was nominated by SAND journal to be included in Best Small Fictions.
What was your favorite book as a child?
I really don’t remember. My mother, instead of reading fairy tales, was actually narrating different versions of classic tales (and fairy tales she was devising on the spot). She wasn’t a writer herself but what she did really affected the way I now approach creative writing.
Do you remember the original reason or motivation why you started writing creatively?
I attended creative writing workshops and knew there was something there. I enjoyed writing, short fiction especially, but these workshops really made me believe in my ‘twisted’ way of seeing things and gave me the confidence I needed at the time.
What was the most adventurous or thrilling thing you ever did/experienced?
The most adventurous and thrilling things happen in my mind. I think that’s why I became a writer.
Do you listen to music while reading or writing?
This doesn’t usually work for me. I feel that music offers me a point of view, it guides me towards a specific direction. I prefer to have an open mind when I start to read or write.
Short Story
Cannon
Issue Fall '20
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