This is the first in a new interview series for Foofaraw, Author autopsy, in which we speak with the writers of our short fiction to find out “where their ideas come from.”

🎙️ Erin Brandt Filliter

Read Erin's story, Eroticauto, on Foofaraw now!

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Okay, let’s get this out of the way... Why are you obsessed with automobiles?

I am neither obsessed with or know much about automobiles, but I relate to the complexities that come with the wear-and-tear of a mature family car.

So do you change your own oil?

I do not change my own oil—I know only enough about cars (and googling things) to be very dangerous.

Was there a particular Volvo that inspired this story?

No, this is an adaptation of a story I wrote for an NYCM competition a few years ago. The action prompt was “repairing a car,” and the word prompt was “spark.”  I could not resist this POV.

I chose a Volvo because it feels like the kind of car that is durable and reliable, but perhaps not overly flashy. It shows the spicy side of a solid, dependable vehicle.

If this were made into a movie, what actor would play Charlie? What actor would voice the car?

The car voice would undoubtedly be one of Marge Simpson’s sisters. The actor might be a Gerald Butler or Josh Holloway, with a bit of a scruffy beard.

How does the car feel about Charlie working on other cars?

I don't think she cares. She gets what she needs and knows where to get more when she wants it.

What’s your favorite short story you've read recently?

I participate in a lot of writing competitions and write with friends from around the world in a small writing group. Their stories are the toppest of the top!

What book are you reading right now?

Value(s) by Mark Carney

Do you have anything you'd like to promote or share with us?

My friend, Autumn Bettinger, is hosting an online course called: The Art of Micro Fiction on Sun 9 Nov 2025 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM GMT through WestWorld. It's for writers who want to improve their micro skills in a fun, supportive workshop where stories will be generated and polished. Tickets can be found: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/westword/1834873

Thanks to Erin for taking the time to chat with us!