The human brain is hard-wired to appreciate tension. That’s why we keep reading stories like the Michael Phelps one.

Of course they do, am currently enrolled in a creative writing specialization from Wesleyan University on Coursera and one of the courses is focused on the craft of character, i was just seeking the relevance between your beautiful article and fiction writing, maybe they can intersect at one point, i mean, getting real stories then modifying and enhance them to launch a totally new story is always on the table.

I’m not a fiction writer but I imagine that developing a character is really important because then you can imagine how they might react given certain life situations. Do any fiction writers have any advice to give Ahmed?

That’s a really good point, Abby. Also, making the interview a true CONVERSATION will make a big difference, too, because it allows people to become interested and engaged (thereby forgetting about the camear.)

Yes, the stilted Q&A session is a good thing to avoid. Interesting how your questions were already answered. I find the same thing happens to me, too!

Glad you enjoyed it, Pauline. I find I have no difficulty coming up with questions DURING the interview. The ones I have in my notes tend to fall more into the “obvious” or “if I’m desperate” categories!