Lana Schwartz is the author of the new novel Set Piece. She also has written the book Build Your Own Romantic Comedy. She lives in New York City.
Q: What inspired you to write Set Piece, and how did you create your characters CJ and Jack?
A: Creating the world and characters of Set Piece was a close collaboration with 831 Stories founders and editors Claire Mazur and Erica Cerulo. We talked a lot about the idea of someone caught up in the machine of Hollywood, like Jack, who has to “play the game” in order to advance his career, vs. CJ, who cares so much about her craft, but wants to live a normal life.
When we first started talking about the book, we knew we wanted CJ to be behind-the-scenes in some way.
Coincidentally, I’d just finished re-listening to the You Must Remember This season all about Polly Platt called “The Invisible Woman.” She was a production designer who worked on so many films and really elevated everything she was a part of, but never got the credit she deserved. So I was really inspired by her story, in combination with the ways stardom has evolved over the years.
Q: The author Laura Hankin said of the book, “Brimming with wit and charm, Set Piece perfectly blends Hollywood wish fulfillment with real depth.” What do you think of that description?
A: Well, first of all, I’m very grateful to Laura for providing such a kind blurb!
Secondly, I think the book really delves into what it’s like to be famous. While I’m not a movie star myself, obviously, I think a fair amount of it is probably glamorous, but I think a lot of it too is probably really annoying — at least in terms of all the silly events you have to go to and meetings to take.
So instead of CJ being really swept up in the excitement of being a movie star, it’s more about the capability of these two people being able to do the real work of building a life together, but still set against the backdrop of this still sort of romantic movie world.
Q: How would you describe the dynamic between Jack and CJ?
A: I think it’s ultimately very much based on respect. Each of them respect the
other as full, multi-faceted adult people, who have careers and friends and
family they value.
I think they ultimately have a very grown-up dynamic, which makes it easier for them to balance each other out, since Jack is a dreamer and schemer and CJ is more down-to-earth. CJ helps ground Jack and he helps her to think bigger, important in a partnership
Q: How was the novel’s title chosen, and what does it signify for you?
A: The title was chosen in collaboration with 831 Stories. For me, it signifies taking this fun production term and using it to communicate the meaning of these characters’ relationship, especially since it nods towards their love of film and their mutual passion for it.
Q: What are you working on now?
A: I have another novel I’ve been working on that has been through a few
drafts. It takes place in the music world, so a little different, but deals
with similar themes around art and fame.
Otherwise, you can check out short humor and essays I’ve published recently on my Instagram, @characteractresslanaschwartz.
Q: Anything else we should know?
A: Definitely check out all the other 831 books! They’re all a little different and complement each other in a great way.
--Interview with Deborah Kalb
No comments:
Post a Comment