Janet Hafner, author of The Watermelon. Winner in the 2020 San Diego Memoir Showcase. Interview by Laura Engel, SDMWA Board President
LE: Congratulations, Janet! In a nutshell, please tell us about your winning memoir piece for the 6th Annual San Diego Memoir Showcase.
JH: A much-needed weekend vacation filled with firsts provided many memories and many stories to tell. First time flying in a single-engine plane, first time appreciating how beautiful San Diego is flying over land and sea, first time landing on a strip of dirt rather than a runway, and certainly a first being threatened by gun-wielding Mexican police who were looking for smuggled goods. It was a very exciting, frightening weekend vacation.
LE: What has been your experience taking classes/workshops and writing memoir in San Diego?
JH: It’s great learning from others who have wonderful stories to tell, and all the critique groups, classes, and workshops expand my knowledge of what makes a compelling scene.
LE: This year has been unsettling in so many ways. How do you think that has affected your writing?
JH: My daily life hasn’t changed much. I’m home with my elderly husband. I write about my life and the different times I’ve seen come and go. My patience has served me well. What I do miss is having lunch with my girlfriends. I’ve always liked technology, so Zoom meetings are okay, but it’s much better to get a hug in person.
LE: What are you excited about when it comes to participating in the 6th Annual Memoir Showcase?
JH: I am grateful for having been chosen for the Showcase. At times when you’re painting a scene, you envision how it would be on a stage. Now I get to hear my characters act out what happened. It’s wonderfully exciting. I also loved getting to know my fellow writers through their life events, and their ability to have us visualize the scene through wonderful details is such a learning experience.
LE: What advice would you give new memoir writers?
JH: Write, write, and write more—tell your story. No two stories are alike. You will definitely learn about yourself in the process. Join a read and critique group and be open to suggestions. Remember, you, as the writer, always have the final word. Once I started writing, I learned I had much to tell. Try it; it’ll grow on you!
LE: Great advice, Janet. Thank you. Looking forward to seeing “The Watermelon” performed on stage Saturday, Dec. 5, at 7 p.m.!