what kind of story would I like to read? is it the same as I'd like to write?
I guess in the end writing is about creating a version of the world; one that both transcends and uncovers the real world.
I'd like to have good characters, ones with real voice. and I'd like what they have to say to leave readers feeling they understand themselves better. but what would I know about readers? apart from being one myself?

this is something I've put off for too long. the funny thing is that once I'm doing it - and that means finding the topic etc first - it absorbs me like nothing else. even writing some stupid 15cm non-story for work does it. it's what I do. but too often, I don't.