George R.R. Martin, author of the "Song of Ice and Fire" fantasy series
IN PHOTO: George R.R. Martin, author of the "Song of Ice and Fire" fantasy series that is the basis of the television series "Game of Thrones", gestures during his masterclass at the Neuchatel International Fantastic Film Festival (NIFFF) in Neuchatel July 10, 2014. Reuters/Denis Balibouse

Writer's block may not be the reason for the delay in "Winds of Winter" book release. The author, George R. R. Martin, explained the challenges he faced while writing the next novel in "A Song of Ice and Fire" book series. The author has so far not committed to a release date for his next book.

The author was speaking at the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival with filmmaker Pen Densham. According to a report by Indiewire, the conversation focused on comic books, parental advice and also touched upon the upcoming book "Winds of Winter."

George R. R. Martin reportedly said that there have been many distractions in the recent years that have prevented him from concentrating on finishing "Winds of Winter." The huge popularity of the book series and the TV show "Game of Thrones" has led to the author having to travel a lot and give too many interviews.

The author hoped to cut down on the interviews, which he viewed as "stifling" to his creativity. The author reportedly had to deal with different journalists asking the same questions over and over in Switzerland and France. Such situations are said to have "drained" the author.

But George R. R. Martin may find it difficult to turn down all the invites which require him to travel. The author admits that sometimes he suddenly gets invited to travel to South Africa or Dubai. "Who's passing up a free trip to Dubai"? the author reportedly asked rhetorically.

The release of "Winds of Winter" has become more important now with the TV show "Game of Thrones" having caught up with the material in the books. Many of the story arcs of important characters have ended. The material however is sufficient for the next season which is currently being filmed.

Two big battles are set to feature in "Winds of Winter." The first is concerning the forces of Daenerys Targaryen against the Yunkai and the second battle is of Stannis Baratheon's army against Ramsay Bolton and his army. But George R. R. Martin reportedly doesn't write on airplanes or hotel rooms and will need to be in his house to finish the book.

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