How do you think people perceive writers?
That they should be bearded seems to be a common misconception. There also seems to be this myth that you have to have had considerable angst in your life to access the creative side of your mind, something I don’t subscribe to.
What’s your next project?
I’ll be weighed down with The Chronicles of Hope series for the next 2/3 years. After that I’m planning to write a sitcom.
What would you love to produce in your life?
Comedy would be cathartic after writing The Chronicles Of Hope, where the subject matter is quite heavy at times.
How do you feel about self-publishing?
I think it’s a very feasible way of getting your book out there. You need some money to throw into it at the start, but if you can then sell your books you’ll get a better return.
How important are friends in your life?
Very important. I think the key to life is simply being happy, and having close friends is a big part of that.
Do you find the time to read?
Unfortunately nowhere near as much as I’d like. Often the only books I get to read are those that I think will be influential in my future writing.
Last book you purchased? Tell us about it.
Flim-Flam by James Randi. He explores and exposes what he believes to be the outrageous deception that has been promoted widely in the media in relation to tricks, frauds and fakery in the field of psychic ‘research’.
What is your favorite quote, by whom, and why?
Mahatma Gandhi — 'The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.' It’s just a great indicator of the morality of the human species in how we treat animals.
What inspired you to write your first book?
Initially monotonous tube journeys, a monotonous local government job, and a love for people-watching which inspired the characters.
Who or what influenced your writing over the years?
Without a doubt George Carlin. A visionary genius.
What do you consider the most challenging about writing a novel, or about writing in general?
Working to a set timeframe is both stressful and challenging.
Do you intend to make writing a career?
I’d never presuppose that might happen, though the thought of writing all day at home with a dog at my feet is an attractive one.
Have you developed a specific writing style?
I think so, and it’s not one the literary snob would appreciate. The most distinctive being its analogous humour and commentary, probably influenced by finding genius in rap lyrics over the years. I also think that if a word sounds right, works, and makes the commentary flow then leave it in there regardless of whether it’s in the dictionary or not.
Can you share a little of your current work with us?
The first paragraph – “Frank Noon wasn’t the most articulate of men. He was a fiercely intelligent, visionary thinker possessing many of the qualities that had been lacking for so long in British politicians – most notably honesty, integrity and character. But he could swear like a punk rocker. He was a strong man, outwardly and inwardly. Standing just over six feet tall, he was the archetype of tall, dark and handsome. His strong frame showed off the best aspect of his outer strength: a good–looking, physically fit man with a well-groomed body established over several years of gruelling daily training. His favourite sport was boxing and his regimented fitness regime drew a lot from that passion. His inner strength was moulded by years of fighting against and alongside the predictable views of the robotic face fitters fast-tracked from public schools into the House of Commons. Frank himself came through the state education system and was stoically proud of the fact”
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