Chimnese Davids hails from Retreat, Cape Town, South Africa. She pursued her education in Accounting and Finance at Varsity College in Rondebosch and discovered her passion for tourism in 2021. Through her clientele, she has garnered numerous accolades. From a young age, she was inspired to create stories that transported her to unexplored realms. Chimnese has authored two poetry collections through KREATIV SA, titled “Muses of Wandering Passions” and “No Greater Love Than This,” along with her memoir, “Redeeming Soul.” Her organization, “Kingdom Writers Explorer,” helps aspiring writers by imparting the insights she has gained over the years. With nearly two decades of writing experience, she has also recently been honored with the African Authors Honoree Award for her literary contributions to her country, particularly for her two books, Ruins: God Find Us In The Ruins and Muses of Wandering Passions.
Hello Chimnese, welcome to BrandEducation! Where do you find inspiration for your books?
I find motivation in my environment and the elements that inspire me. Often, it’s a striking quote, a passage from a book, or meaningful songs that resonate with my writing.
How do you choose the titles for your books?
Many of my titles only reveal themselves after I’ve completed the book. Sometimes, a line from the text sparks an idea, but more often, it’s a drawing that helps me envision both the title and the cover collectively.
What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your work?
Every writer aspires to make a meaningful impact on their readers, which is why I often step back and view my work from their perspective. My goal is for readers to feel understood during their struggles and to recognize that they are not alone. I want to instill a sense of hope in those who may be feeling down, encouraging my words.
Can you share some insights into your creative process?
The way I create or the method I’ve relied on since the beginning of my writing journey is quite distinct. I’ve never been able to brainstorm or toss around ideas ahead of time. Instead, I curate playlists featuring various music genres, and this has become an integral part of my creative process.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not writing?
I love spending time outdoors, particularly hiking in the mountains, as it helps me find a balance between creativity and physical activity. Traveling is also a big part of my job, which I enjoy. Often, while I’m out exploring, I get inspired with ideas for stories or poems. I also appreciate going out for lunch with friends and enjoying a movie when there’s one I’m eager to see.
What challenges have you faced as a writer, and how have you overcome them?
Self-published or indie authors encounter numerous obstacles, and for me, the initial five years after becoming a published author were particularly challenging when trying to break into the market. The South African literature scene is quite harsh on unfamiliar authors who lack the support of a traditional publishing house. Despite receiving abundant negative feedback and rejection letters, I didn’t give up; I continued to persevere. Ultimately, connecting with writers from other countries turned out to be my greatest success.
Can you discuss the role of research in your writing?
How do you ensure accuracy in your work? This message is directed towards RUINS—I invested considerable time in research to ensure accuracy, particularly regarding the locations referenced in the book. As many are aware, Israel is home to numerous historical sites that are intertwined with biblical narratives and verses. Therefore, when I wrote about Galilee, I had to conduct in-depth research on its historical significance and find corresponding scripture in the Bible to support my writing.
What advice do you have for aspiring authors who are looking to get their first book published?
Never give up on your dream of becoming a writer. If others don’t understand your aspiration to be published, don’t let it discourage you. Trust in the fact that you have a unique story to tell, and often, those stories are exactly what the world needs. I once heard a powerful quote that resonates: “If there’s a book you want to read that hasn’t been written yet, then you must be the one to write it.” Keep believing in yourself!
How has your writing evolved or changed over the course of your career?
Over the years, I’ve seen my writing style transform and grow since the release of my first book in 2012! With each new book, I gain a bit more confidence, and it’s amazing how much you can evolve as a writer. Plus, being your own critic helps in this journey!
Are there any books or authors you revisit to reread for inspiration or comfort?
I find myself drawn to Paulo Coelho’s works, particularly The Pilgrimage and The Alchemist. These two books resonate with my writing journey, especially as my book RUINS reflects my pilgrimage. I often return to them for inspiration.
What role do you believe literature plays in society and culture?
I truly think that literature holds a vital position in today’s society and culture. When we revisit books from various decades or explore works that reflect our heritage, we gain insights into our roots. I’m grateful that those authors took the time to document their thoughts, allowing us to discover the history of the world through diverse genres.
In your opinion, what is the most challenging aspect of writing, and how do you overcome it?
The toughest part is starting the book. It’s all about finding that catchy phrase or hook that will entice readers to keep going. Getting through that first page can be quite a journey, but I’ve discovered methods to awaken my inner creativity. I picture the tone I want for the opening line, the dialogue, and how those initial sentences will seamlessly flow into the rest of the story.
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