KSP Chats With...Anna-Nicole Del Re

We recently had the privilege of hosting the talented writer and 2024/25 participant of the Emerging Writers Program, Anna-Nicole Del Re.

In this captivating Q&A, Anna-Nicole opens up about her experience as part of the Emerging Writers Program, the significance of being immersed in a supportive writing community, and how creative writing serves as a powerful tool for sparking thought-provoking and often difficult conversations.

• In what ways did the opportunity to be part of the Emerging Writers Program shape your creative process or push your writing in a new direction? 

The Emerging Writers Program has kept me accountable to bringing my manuscript to life. It’s been brewing inside me for so many years and now I feel more motivated than ever to complete it. I am also dedicating more time to my writing practice and the manuscript is unfolding in a way I didn’t expect. This has involved doing more  research and pushing my writing in a new direction.

• How do you handle moments of creative block or self-doubt in your writing process?

Like many writers I experience writers block and imposter syndrome. At times, I find it difficult to write about challenging life experiences. When I find myself in this position, I go back to read articles I’ve published and the responses I received afterwards. This provides me motivation and reminds me that people feel seen when you share stories from a place of vulnerability and authenticity.

Another method I use to help with writer’s block is reading more books, especially other memoirs. I find reading books in the same genre I am writing incredibly helpful to my creative process. 

• What role do you think storytelling plays in promoting conversations about mental health, particularly among women?

I believe storytelling has a huge role to play in raising awareness for mental health. Especially lived experiences which are the most powerful stories to share. Whenever I write about my mental health struggles, I have women reach out and share their own personal stories with me. If my story can help even just one person feel seen when it comes to their mental health, then it has achieved its purpose. 

• What do you think is the biggest benefit of a writing fellowship or residency?

The biggest benefit of the Emerging Writers Program is definitely the mentoring. I am incredibly grateful and lucky to have author, Josephine Taylor as my mentor. Jo understands my writing style and has provided me invaluable feedback throughout the process. She has opened my mind to new ideas and is helping me explore scenes that need further development. To have someone who believes in your work feels so positive and reassuring that I am on the right track. 

• What role does language play in your work? Do you find yourself drawn to certain words or phrases?

Poetry is the most succinct form of writing, no word is wasted, it must be exactly the right word/s to convey a picture, an experience and what it might mean. I am currently obsessed with light, trees, birdsong, the companionship of animals and deep connection to each other and the world. My dog makes it into quite a few of my poems!

• Is being part of the local or online writing community a must for writers? Why?

I think it’s important to be connected with likeminded people on the same journey because no one understands the writing process better than another writer. The ups and downs can be difficult to navigate on your own. Having a mentor or other writers you can sound board your ideas with is such a great way to expand your thinking and look at your writing from a different lens. Writing is such a solitary process, so I also think it’s important to get out of your head and connect with others. I love attending writing workshops, festivals and I’m in a monthly book club which all fill my cup with inspiration. 

A massive thanks to Anna-Nicole for answering our questions, and a big than you to Writing WA for giving us the opportunity to be part of the Emerging Writers Program and support the voices of Perth's next generation of storytellers!