The following is an imaginary interview with Harper Lee, the author of To Kill a Mockingbird.

Ms. Lee, it is an honor to meet you. Thank you for your time. I am a high school student in Korea who hopes to be a writer like you someday. Can I ask you to say hi to Korean high school students?

Absolutely! It’s a pleasure to meet you. Hello to all the high school students in Korea! I’m Harper Lee, the author of To Kill a Mockingbird.

How did you write the novel To Kill a Mockingbird?

It’s actually my autobiographical novel. The setting of the novel is also based on the city where I grew up. In fact, my father worked as a lawyer in a small town in the south. I wanted to write about the racial problems of that time through the pure eyes of a child.

That’s fascinating. Thank you for sharing. I heard it was your first work when you were young. What was your reaction to the success of the novel?

My reaction was not one of surprise. It was one of complete shock. It was one of being hit over the head. I never expected the book would sell. I was hoping for a quick and merciful death at the hands of the reviewers.

What kind of writer do you think you are?

I’m a steady worker. I like to write, and sometimes I’m afraid I like it too much, because when I get into my work, I don’t want to leave it. And as a result, I’ll go for days and days without leaving my house.

I wish to be a steady worker like you. Thank you for your time.