Interview with Jeri Rafter - Runner up in the WOW! Fall 2006 Flash Fiction Contest

Jeri Rafter is an amazing woman with a wonderful vision for creating imaginary worlds. Just read her story, Death By PomPom, and you'll see why. Her writing is raw, edgy, and in tune with the underground scene. It's no wonder that her guilty pleasure is 'indulging in dirty gossip rags' because she writes with a fashion-vibe (to coin a term), and I could easily see her creating the next girl-version of the uber-popular "Fight Club."

In an e-mail from Jeri, she had told us that she hadn't entered a contest since high school, and we were amazed. In fact, this is how the interview starts...

WOW: Jeri, is it true that you haven't written anything since high school? You're such a great writer, we find that hard to believe! What made you decide to enter the WOW! 2006 Flash Fiction Contest?

Jeri: Of course not! Did I say that? Seriously, I don't know where my brain goes sometimes. I have been writing everyday since high school, but not until the WOW! 2006 Flash Fiction Contest have I ever had anything published since 2001. I think it's important for women to have support out there in this literary world, and WOW is an amazing source of that support.

WOW: Thank you! And 'my bad' -- I assumed when you said you hadn't entered a contest since high school, that you weren't writing. Okay, it's my brain that's going places!

Jeri, one thing we love about your short story, Death By PomPom, is your ability to transport the reader into this other world -- an underground subculture of Goth Anti-Cheerleaders. What inspired you to write this story?

Jeri: I'm all for anti-heroes of any sort. I think black comedy is the best comedy, and the 'pom-pom' theme just generally leads itself into this dark subculture that had already existed in my mind.

WOW: That's great! And you look like such a sweet girl ;-) No really, I tend to be drawn to that kind of writing myself... you should ask Beryl about my short stories!

Anyway, let's move onto your bio. You were born in Montana and recently moved to L.A. How do you like it so far? Is it different from where you grew up?

Jeri: I love LA! The energy, people, and ideas here impress me every day. Back in Montana, you have to slow way down and learn to be patient and take things easy. Nothing happens in a day, but that is the beauty of it. No high heels either, there isn't a whole lot of pavement.

WOW: Oh no! I don't know if I could survive. I'm 5'4" and have to wear high heels if I don't have time to tailor my jeans. LOL. So tell us, what are you reading right now?

Jeri: Nine Plays by Sam Shepard

WOW: And what was the most challenging thing about entering the flash fiction contest?

Jeri: Making myself edit.

WOW: Yes, that 500 word count can be a bear. So, do you have any writing, or other, goals for the New Year?

Jeri: I want to finish my screenplay and get it out to the world.

WOW: That's a great goal. We can see this happening for you. Please keep us up to date! Thanks again Jeri, and we hope that all your dreams come true.

If you haven't already checked out Jeri Rafter's short story, Death By PomPom, check it out HERE.

Side Note: Since we talked to Jeri for this interview, she sent us an e-mail about her prize-pack:

Dear Beryl and Angela-

WOW! is right! I can't believe how sweet and beautiful the package was that I received yesterday! I had no idea that was coming, what a nice surprise. You two are doing a great job, keep up the good work. I really appreciated all of the little touches, it was an amazing gift and I thank you so much!

With kindest regards,
Jeri Rafter

WOW's comments: You're so welcome Jeri, you deserve it and much more! We know you will go far with your writing.