The Centifictionist

Katherine Shehadeh’s 100 word microfiction, “A Simple Request”, will appear in the third issue of The Centifictionist (Vol. 2, Issue 1, Spring/Summer 2021). Katherine graciously answered a few brief questions for us. Read the interview below.

1. What inspired the story “A Simple Request”?

“A Simple Request” was inspired by the seemingly small interactions we have with one another and the often unintended consequences that arise from these interactions. What may be a passing comment to one person, can be transformed into a mountain of obligations or doubt to another.

2. What inspires you and your writing?

I am inspired by the complexities of all things. To me, it’s interesting to look at the benefits that even the most difficult situations present.

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

I try to channel feelings of misery and despair into my many coping mechanisms, like writing, running, and meditation, and through these channels I often am able to find the silver lining (or at least create some myself).

4. What advice do you have for microfiction writers?

I’m not sure that I have any special advice, but what I would say is what I like about microfiction is the same thing I like about poetry, which is that less is often more in terms of conveying your own emotion and allowing the reader to intercept your words and breathe their own life into it.

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

Sometimes it’s meant to be funny.

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Katherine Shehadeh is an attorney, wife, and mom to two little boys. When not busy with work and family, she enjoys traveling, reading, and writing. Twitter: @your_mominlaw.