Char asked Cornelia Funke:

Hello! I was just wondering 3 things -- 1. Is there any specific language you imagined meg and the other characters speaking - I remember they were near italy? 2. in my copy, it says that it was translated. was it in english? 3. How do get motivated to write? I love writing once I sit down and do it, but I find it hard to make myself. 4. Do you keep a journal?is it good for writers/ people looking to write?

Cornelia Funke 1.
I imagined them to speak German and English...and some Italian because of family relations to Italy- and I ignored the whole language thing with Dustfinger, as he for sure speaks Italian, but as a literary character is understood by everyone:)
In MirrorWorld I take the language them more serious as location is so important.
2
No, I write mostly in German. All other countries translated the German manuscript.
3
I long to write as much as I long to eat chocolate. I want to do it so badly most of the time that it doesn't need much motivation. Editing and rewrites need more discipline sometimes, but as I earn a living with my writing I am used to being my own very strict boss.
Another thing: I write my first drafts into notebooks, that I prepare (I make them as beautiful as I can to lure me in) I noticed that I sit down to write in a much more playful mood with them than when i use the computer
4
I never kept a journal but many writers do. There is no rule whether you should do it or not:) I prefer to put my writing energy into stories

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