nina semen.

Q: Are you as dark as you seem from your writing? Not that it’s a bad thing, I’m just wondering.

A: no, not at all. i’m actually quite chipper. possibly because i purge my unclean thoughts here.

Q: how old are you? and where do yo live? you seems to be pretty interesting.

A: i am twenty-five years old, and i live in bumfuck, north carolina. i’m moving to san francisco soon enough to pursue my career as a transient misfit. i’ll be spending my days panhandling in the mission, twirling and dancing with my french bulldog named ‘massacre’ in front of the pungent fruit stands until some poor, sympathetic soul throws me a basket of strawberries or a grapefruit, and my nights telling lies to passersby that infer about my tattoos, asleep in the park at union square, living off the fumes wafting out of see’s candies, stealing toilet paper and smoking joints of weed so poorly grown i get headaches that only vodka can ease. that’s the plan, at least.

i’m really no more interesting than the average folk.

Q: Would you ever consider being a professional writer? - papayatime

in my real life, that’s what i am. but i cannot do that forever, it’s draining. i would gladly write for money for the rest of my life, if i were able to write what i want. i’m too rebellious to be complacent being told what to do with my words.

Q: do you write anywhere else publicly? any longer pieces? keep up the lovely stories! - 405

A: i do, under my actual name, and under a few pseudonyms. my topics very greatly, so i use different names to prevent google linkage between the two. no fiction or creative writing. nothing like ninasemen. more opinion-editorial and journalistic pieces with a chosen theme.

thank you, very much.

Q: Did you know that you are in the new tumblr directory? You are an editor pick in creative writing.

A: i did. i’m very surprised and even more flattered that i was recognized; i know there must be thousands they chose from. i feel like i did after i slow danced with tommy hutchinson in 8th grade. my cheeks are flushed, palms are moist. a hint of a proud smile won’t stop tickling the corners of my mouth because he’s the cutest boy in school and he likes me.

Q: hey. found you in the creative writing directory. i haven’t read all your posts because I wanna ask you this first: why nina semen? - rewritingnotes

A: nina simone conveyed so much power and pain through her voice, i listen to her often when i write. one night i was writing a passage detailing a pearl necklace. i have a habit of putting down what i’m thinking, or listening to when i’m distracted, and unconsciously wrote nina and semen.

it fit, i thought. the dark and explicit, fused.

Q: You are a terrific writer. If I may ask: Where did you get your literary education, and do you have any general tips on writing creative fiction? Finally: who is your favorite writer? - velvetrobots

A: thank you, very much.

i have no literary education, at all. i was alone most of the time as a child, books contained my only friends, save the ones i created for myself. i’d like to believe whatever small amount of talent i have is innate, exacerbated by how much i read. my only tip would be to write, constantly and furiously, but not to force it. whatever will come when it realizes itself.

my favorite writer is Truman Capote. he is my god and has been since i was 9 years old, after i outgrew R.L. Stine. he’s followed fairly closely by Cormac McCarthy, William Faulkner, Chuck Palahniuk, J. R. R. Tolkein, and Neil Gaiman.

Q: Hi. I have three questions. What are your top 3 favorite records of all time? If you could choose to be born in a different day and age, which would you pick? Do you think the perfect story exists, and if it does, is it in essence actually imperfect?

A: one. stipulating that these are my favorite records to write to because i could never choose in actuality - the sound of the smiths: the smiths, in rainbows: radiohead, the great show live in paris: nina simone.

two. i would choose the seventh decade of our current century. i would live a free and wild existence in california, perpetually high, fucking every well endowed man with a pretty face i came across, raging against the machine with flowers in my hair and bare breasts over high waisted bell bottoms over bare feet. i’d experience the best in cinema, in theaters, cry over john f. kennedy, scream over paul mccartney, stalk Vonnegut, Kerouac, Dick, and Salinger hoping that remnants of their brilliance would rub off on me.

afterward i would move to new york in hopes of meeting Capote, fail, take up domestic help, replace carla as caretaker of the draper household after betty leaves forreno and begin a torrid, secret affair with don who would tell me all of his secrets, and love me like he’d loved no other before. then, after a few years, i would disappear with a broken heart after he couldn’t handle the emotions that came with sharing himself so completely with someone like me and die young of an overdose at woodstock in the arms of my newest lover as he cries and begs me not to go. 

three. “For sale: baby shoes, never worn.” -  Ernest Hemingway. that is a perfect story, with no imperfections.

Q: Your prose is beautiful, and very unique. My questions is, how much do you edit? I am never satisfied with what I write, so I rework it a hundred times before I am happy enough to share it with anyone. Do you do the same? Also, you don’t have to answer if you don’t want to but why don’t you capitalize?

A: thank you. what is written here, i don’t edit much at all. i purge and publish. it’s more feasible that way, and to come back later and clean up, even that in minuscule amounts, as i normally cannot recognize fresh errors.

i have no reason behind the lack of capitalization.

Q: I’m aspiring to be a writer when I grow up. Where, who, or what do you usually go to for inspiration? Or are you just a fountain of ideas in and of yourself? - themementoproject

A: everything is inspiration. pictures, movies, music, the world around you. all of it, good, bad, or neither can be written about, if you feel it. you have to feel it.

most of what is here is based on memories. some of it is just what finds itself wandering around in my mind, stories that develop themselves there, that i transcribe as best i can, never well enough.

Q: what is your favourite thing to write about?

A: fucking.

Q: Wht books do you recommend? Or Authors at least? - amusememuch

A: in cold blood by Truman Capote, ulysses by James Joyce, absalom, absalom! by William Faulkner and a heartbreaking work of staggering genius by Dave Eggers.

Q: Your blog is definitely one of my favorites. I love all the stories about fucking. So is the “Crack & Porn” story just fiction? Or is it true… - muchlove-kl

A: thank you. if there is anything more interesting to write about, i have not yet realized it.

it is a true story, as is everything else here with the tag ‘memories’.

Q: I don’t know if this is something you’ve answered or something you want to answer, since I just discovered your page today, but you seem to write a lot of pieces dealing with rape and sexual abuse. Is this based off of personal trauma?
I ask because I was raped this past year and, while I find your work incredible, I also find some of it difficult to stomach when you brush on these issues. I don’t know what my exact point is, but I find it bold and brave for you to address rape and sexual abuse from a seemingly real perspective, and not one that is glossed over. I guess that realness can only come from a woman. - storiesfromlastnight

A: it is.

i’ll tell the tale one day; have i referenced rape more than once? i don’t recall doing so more than that, i could be mistaken.

i prefer to write about the darker things, things that make people uncomfortable. consensual sex, death…

Q: Are you planning on writing a memoire? You really should this is such a fascinating read, so enthralling.

A: i’m not planning on writing anything, but if the opportunity arose, i would. i’ve lived an interested twenty five years thus far.

Q: Hey Nina, My friend and I are enchanted by your writing. It’s almost always the only thing we talk about. Where abouts are you from? - smellingonions

A: i would love to eavesdrop on your conversations. the answer to your question is here.

Q: I love your writing. I look forward to it actually on my dashboard. Though, every time I am mesmerized by beautiful love stories, I immediately loose I guess ‘respect’ for the story because of the dick sucking and such. Can’t you make one sane love story? - laadiiidaa

A: i think you expect too much of me. although i have, many times, written about love without referencing sex. “sanity and happiness are an impossible combination.”- Mark Twain

Q: What do you think of holding your partner’s hand while you give them a blowjob? I think that would be pretty darn special if someone were to do that.

A: it wouldn’t be something i would do. i’m more of a run my fingernails up his thighs and use them to enhance the deed itself kind of woman. i suppose it would be sweet.

Q: Your writing is so raw and I love it! Do you write from off the top of your head or do you plan it out? I am a writer too! -  crashingdown

A: thank you. most of it is only what is rumbling around in me at the time. some of it is more planned out. i prefer to write what i’m feeling to, not what i’m wanting to.

Q: How do you feel towards Bukowski?

A: i have read much of his poetry, none of his novels or other work. what i’ve read is dark, poignant and brilliant. and he spoke some of the truest words about writing ever:

“You don’t try. That’s very important: not to try, either for Cadillacs, creation or immortality. You wait, and if nothing happens, you wait some more.”

Q: So other than writing or reading, what is you favorite passtime? - zippygoeszoomzoom

A: i would say that watching movies is my favorite. i also enjoy music, video games, photography, cooking and television.

Q: I enjoy your stylistic choices concerning the visual appearance of your text. That is, the non-capitalization, use of italics, etc. Is there any particular motivation behind these decisions? -  halfthought

A: no, not really. i needed to purge something one day, and i wrote it with little regard to “the rules”. i went back over it, italicized the dialogue, and decided to stick with it.

Q: i’m a writer and my genius comes to me in the night unfortunately. if you have a time, when do you write your best work - mypoetsportrait

A: i write any time i’m able to find time, so usually at night. it more depends on my mood, than the time of day.

Q: I’ve had the most ridiculous writers block for what feels like too long. My inspiration is gone. I feel like I don’t even know how to write anymore. From one amazing writer to a very amateur and very lacking writer such as myself, do you have any advice? It would be greatly appreciated. Much love, KL. - muchlove-kl

A: i don’t believe in writer’s block. i believe that sometimes we’re inspired, focused, and other times we are not. currently, i am not either. don’t force it. all of it will come back. always does.

Q: do you view life as a torture or as a gift? & why? - jaywonglovesyou

A: i view life as life. i don’t believe it is given, i don’t believe there is any grand purpose. it happens, by some random, cosmic circumstance, and we make of it what we wish. i view life as something to be lived with little regard to why or what comes next.

Q: You are awesome. I love this post (http://ninasemen.com/post/243763446/im-studying-my-reflection-in-the-mirror-hanging) as well as many others. What inspires you to write prose like that? Previous relationships, you imagination, or both? <333 

A: thank you, very much.

both, definitely.

Q: Give me a raw and detailed account of whats currently on your mind. - memotome

A: sandra bullock most definitely did not deserve that award. every performance from every woman nominated in that category, other than her was hundreds of times more, just more.

carey mulligan captured the essence of a teenage girl, trying to muddle her way throughout her life, entranced by a stranger, an older man, her first real love. she deserved it.

the blind side was a glorified heart-string tugger; an after school special captured with better cameras. the performances were forgettable; they were average; they were adaquate. nothing about that film was oscar worthy, nothing about sandra bullock’s performances in any film that she has ever done, have ever been oscar worthy. i am disappointed.

Q: I think you are a fabulous writer, and wouldn’t in the least bit mind if we met and had coffee together. We would rant and spit and spew and maybe even just sit and soak it all in. You remind me to stay inspired. Thank you. PS: Which writer do you feel most inspires your work? Poetry, prose, etc? - wesmc

A: that sounds lovely. i would happily sit and watch you drink coffee, as i don’t myself. would you allow me to smoke? we’d have to sit outside.

maybe it would rain that day, or the wind would be hefty and you’d cup your hands around my lighter while i lit my cigarette. we would talk about whatever, intensely, as i drew my sweater closer around myself and wished i could kick this godforsaken habit, and feel sad that i was causing you to suffer the cold with me.

i’m just daydreaming: i don’t smoke either. but i would love to sit and talk with you.

i don’t know if anyone really inspires me, but Truman Capote and Anaïs Nin make me want to be better.

Q: Humphrey Bogart, Leonard Cohen or Vincent van Gogh? - u-r-hear

A: leonard cohen.

Q: I wish you capitalised, I really do.

A: you have my most insincere apologies.

Q: when do you find yourself your most creative? - emleemurphy

A: no particular point or time. it comes and goes. days alone after nights spent with my boyfriend do stand out though, as a time when i can write prolifically.

Q: i love your writing, and you seem like such a strong person. what are you scared of? - palomadove

A: hell. i am an agnostic atheist, but i fear hell.

Q: Nina, a quick question regarding your writing process. How calculated is your work, stylistically? By that I mean, do you start with a general theme, and work functionally backward, constructing paragraphs, then sentences, then words, each serving a specific purpose (i.e. each contributing sometime essential to the original theme)? Or do you write with a casual flow, transcribing whatever gems you find in your thoughts? - joyinthestruggle

A: it is completely casual. i write it as i think it, sometimes going back later and rearranging it if i think it’s not clear enough, or could be written better. i very rarely plot anything out, or even proofread immediately.

Q: who the fuck are you??? your writing is fantastic! - jalonelumerti

A: i’m no one, really. just someone.

Q: what is your secret to writing? what possess u to write? and what is your ideal situation when it comes to writing? ur wriiting is pretty great and i’m adored! i just want to know where you get your idea and how your idea were translated to your writing. - nataliasulaiman

A: i have no secret. i write because when i don’t i am combustive. i prefer to write with electronica or jazz blaring in my ears, in my bed, with a ginger ale on my nightstand, in the dark. and, thank you.

Q: I am not a creep. I swear. I could supply references. But your words have aroused me in several ways… Are you projecting or writing from life? - beatingvoicebox

A: both, with a little complete bullshit thrown in for good measure.

Q: Your tumblr is amazing. You find words to capture the emotions that I thought were impossible to express.

A: thank you, very much.

Q: I love your blog! Like no joke. It’s my new favorite. Is this all your life for real? - rxmvoisin

A: not all, no.

Q: What is your nationality?

A: American.

Q: your writing is amazing, and i greatly admire you for i write stories myself, yet have never finished one unfortunately. have you ever published a book of short stories or your creative writing? and if you have where would i be able to get it? thank you for sharing your writings. they always make my day! - unreadnote

A: thank you. i never have; maybe one day i will, if the opportunity presents itself.

Q: how do you come up with such amazing stories? (I only read the first one, then I found myself reading the next one and the next. I find your writing addicting and I can’t wait to read more!) - ell-ohh-vee-eee77

A: they just…come to me. they’re just there, i don’t know how or why. and i appreciate that.

Q. As I just joined here, your tumblr was the first read. You express the ideas that I never could, but have had stored in my subconcieousness for quite some time. As a inspiration to me, im sure you tower above other veteran writers, as crazy as it might sound to you. But I wanted ask a question, which I would like to propose to a perplexing mind such as yours.

What do YOU think of this generation, and the ideals of america today?
As random as it may seem, I would just to love that answer from someone who isn’t just full of absolute shit. - yourscarletavenger

A: thank you, for your much too kind words. i’m not sure what i think of this generation, really. i guess i think they need more heart. they don’t value compassion and acceptance as much as they should.

i think that my generation is attempting to push the ideals of our country in the right direction, but those before us are intent on holding us back. hopefully, this generation takes after mine.

Q: Do you only publish your own writing on this page? Would you ever publish someone else’s if they asked/it was good enough?

A: only my own; no i wouldn’t.

Q: i really admire u. your writing is so amazing that I want to read more and more. I basically bookmark your tumblr just to see whether you did a new post or not. I’m not asking much just that your a writer, and you said it was draining you. What do you mean by that? Oh, it’s a compliment too. Thank you. Keep up the good work!

A: not being completely free with my words - ie., being assigned topics, having to follow rules from various stylebooks, etc - it forces me to both expend and stifle my creativity. that’s hard for me. writing has always been about freedom for me. not having complete control is difficult for me.

Q: When did you start writing and why? What inspired you? What inspires you to write now? Why do you write? Please don’t ever stop, you’re really very good at what you do.- onelonelyday

A: i don’t remember a time in my life that i did not write. everything serves as inspiration, but as of late, most of my inspiration comes from my romantic relationships - current and past. i write because i feel like i would suffocate from the inside out if i didn’t. i won’t, and thank you.

Q: I absolutely ADORE your writing style. It’s really moving. Like, I’m infatuated. What advice can you give to people that are just starting to discover their writing abilities? - iamthesass

A: thank you. my only advice is to write. relentlessly. don’t worry about rules and guidelines, focus only on getting your point across effectively, from your head to someone else’s. and never force anything.

Q: this is a really silly question, but i was wondering: which star wars trilogy do you prefer? prequel or original? i’m sorry, i had. personally, i like the prequel (anakin). also, which stories are from your life?

A: episode V, so, the originals. i did not care for the prequels at all. the tags on each post are the best way to decipher which entries are about me and which are not.

Q: What goes on in your mind and how does it work? - humanpoetry

A: my mind is a flurry of bright and dark, all the time. my thought process is impossible to follow, the way i arrive at conclusions is confusing. i overthink everything - a gift and a curse. if i’m not writing, i’m often drowning out my own thoughts with outside sources of entertainment. i believe that if i was ever left to my own devices, with no one to focus on but myself, i would go mad.

Q: Look here miss. You can’t just come on here and write any time you want. I have needs, 1 of them being that i have to read the fucking awesome shit you post so if you don’t increase your posts im going to find you tie you up in my room and make sure you give me beautiful write ups every fucking day !!!! - rurorin

A: i will do my best, although your alternative is not as intimidating as you might think. i have a salacious mind, after all.

Q: What theme do you have? Nice blog x
A: Prologue; thanks.

Q: Your writing is absolutely phenomenal. I can’t stop reading… I especially like the one where you talk about loving men. Even when you talk about their jaws clenching in rage seems loving. Incredible.

A: that’s something that i really, particularly, do love about them. and thank you

Q: I love the way you write. - releasethehoundz

thanks.

Q: I am sitting here reading through every single little passage you’ve written and I feel like my heart is breaking again. For the second time because you’ve put so perfectly into words every single broken little piece of whatever used to live inside my heart. Thank you for doing that. I feel less lonely now even though I’m painfully alert of my struggle. Thank you x - whattajerk

A: i’m sorry that you’ve been hurt. i’m glad that i helped you realize that you are far, far from alone

Q: Why don’t you tweet anymore? :(

A: i forget about that account, most days. usually when i remember, i have nothing to say.

Q: Are you coming back?

A: i never left

Q: post something! i’ve lost the excitement of waiting for your pieces! - gardenheaad

i’m very unreliable. you should never wait on me.

Q: I’ve just come across your blog at 1:30 am here in San Antonio,TX and i couldnt stop myself from commenting on your beautiful writing and honest, open portrayal of sex through a woman’s eyes. I’m so glad there’s someone out there who enjoys sex and is not afraid to talk about it […] - 500daysofchristina

A: thank you, very much

Q: Your stories are amazing ..Do you write fanfiction ?? - quixoticgaga8410

A: thanks; no.

Q: Can you tell me what exactly your blog is? I just started reading it and love your descriptiveness. Is this based on true events or is this fictional? Different perspectives in different situations? - gardenheaad

A: all of the above.

Q: Just wanted to let you know I love the honesty that’s always apparent in your writing. The sense of being with you at that moment is very powerful. - learnhowtofight 

A: thank you. my writing is almost entirely a purging of thoughts, and i believe that’s where that comes from. 

Q: What ever happened to project unknowns? - memotome

i haven’t had the time, or inclination. but i’m sure i will again.

 Q: your writing is absolutely wonderful. i love “Nicholai” (:
- mugglenetluvr

A: Thank you.

Q: What don’t you understand?
- searchforillumination

I don’t understand anything.

Q: Not gonna lie, ever since you posted that short story about a girl getting pregnant (she was a virgin) by rubbing up on a guy, I have been SO SCARED OF BEING PREGNANT ever since. - Anonymous

A: it can happen.

Q: is Nena-Semen a made up name? - Anonymous

A: it’s a pseudonym, yes.

Q: I love your writing. I really do. But up until today I hadn’t had the time to actually /read/. Today, I sat down infront of my laptop flip through every. Single. Page. I read all of your entries, listened to all of the songs you posted, and even went through the project unknowns and I have to say, I am every bit as blown away as I was when I first stumbled across this blog. You are really truly amazing. - nostopmakingsense

A: you are extremely kind, and i very much appreciate it.