The Centifictionist

kerry rawlinson’s microfictions, “Carrie Contrary”, and “Friday Afternoon at the Hair Salon” will appear in the first issue of The Centifictionist (Vol. 1, Issue 1, Spring/Summer 2020). kerry graciously answered a few brief questions for us. Read the interview below.

1. What inspired the stories “Carrie Contrary” and “Friday Afternoon at the Hair Salon”?

I’m always conscious of cracks. I like to peek in and see what’s lurking there. Also: gratitude for small things, and what occurs when it’s missing.

2. What inspires you and your writing?

Cracks. Society’s lack of global awareness.

3. What keeps you going when experiencing times of misery and despair?

Sheer bloody-mindedness. It’s not necessarily conscious–possibly conditioned–but I always believe a light will come on & illuminate consciousness.

4. What advice do you have for microfiction writers?

I don’t presume to advise, but I think microfiction should be like a beam of light through a prism.

5. Is there anything else that you would like people to know about you and/or your writing?

It’s tough sustaining belief in yourself in the face of rejection & prejudice. But I’m the only person who can do that for myself; so I do. And I vow to keep learning & improving.

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Decades ago, autodidact & bloody-minded optimist kerry rawlinson gravitated from sunny Zambian skies to solid Canadian soil, nurturing family and a career in Architectural Design. Fast-forward: she follows Literature & Art’s Muses around the Okanagan, barefoot, her patient husband ensuring she’s fed. She’s cracked some contests (e.g. Geist; Fish Poetry Prize) and features lately in: Ellipsis Zine, Spelk, Across the Margin, Pedestal, Connecticut River Review, Reflex Fiction, Riddled With Arrows, Arc Poetry; amongst others. Website: kerryrawlinson.tumblr.com. Twitter: @kerryrawli.