The Centifictionist

Susan Hatters Friedman’s 76 word microfiction, “Tonight”, will appear in the fourth issue of The Centifictionist (Vol. 2, Issue 2, Fall/Winter 2021). Susan graciously answered a few brief questions for us. Read the interview below.

1. What inspired the story “Tonight”?

The topic has been in my mind as both a forensic psychiatrist and a mother. In an Arvon writing week, Vanessa Gebbie prompted us to write about a critical moment of change, and the piece was born.

2. What inspires you and your writing?

My work as a forensic psychiatrist and in maternal mental health inspires many of the themes I explore in my writing. Family and friends and nature are what inspire me personally.

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

Family and close friends, nature, music, and stories.

4. What advice do you have for microfiction writers?

The one positive of the pandemic has been writing classes from around the world going online. Even working long hours, you can now take classes in other time zones in the very early morning or late night, and to learn from diverse and amazing teachers. Take advantage of that.

---

Susan Hatters Friedman is a psychiatrist specializing in forensic psychiatry and maternal mental health. She is pursuing a Master’s in Crime Fiction at the University of Cambridge, and has studied satire writing with the Second City. Her recent creative writing can be read (or is forthcoming) at JMWW, Star 82 Review, and Eclectica.