How do you get inspired to write?

I was recently asked what inspires me to write.  And as I say on my “The Author’s Show” essay of “50 Writers you should be reading,” which I hope you’ll look up and give me a vote, writing is in my family. My oldest son, Nate, covers the NFL for USA Today and is a gifted sports writer. A younger son, Nick, is an English professor at Northwestern specializing in film studies. I’ve written some previous studies, and one book assessing the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982, “40 Kilometers Into Lebanon.” I also write occasional opinion pieces for various newspapers. So, to prove to my family that I do read things without footnotes, I decided to try a novel — and thoroughly enjoyed the process. Modern technology for writing, editing, and researching makes it easy — I have no idea how Herman Melville handled it. So, craft a story and jump in!

And by the way, As mentioned above, I am now a finalist to be a featured author in the 2017 edition of “50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading.” Thank you to all of you who voted in phase one. I appreciate your time and support.

This does mean that another round of voting has commenced. Phase two of voting is open until December 4th!

You can vote directly here:
http://www.questionpro.com/a/TakeSurvey?id=5429436