1. What inspired you to write your first book?
Well, not to get too personal about a whole generation of folks, but for those of us who lived through the wild and crazy ‘70’s and 80’s—basically—well—I’ll talk about just me: it was apparent I wanted a bit of salvation. If nothing else, it became important to discover what I really felt about life, after-life, religion, redemption, the metaphysical, etc.
Now what’s that quote? “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.” A rather profligate historical figure—Casanova—appeared just as I was ready for a spiritual lesson or two; that is, his autobiography found its way to my hands. The more I uncovered about Casanova, the more I realized I’d found an anti-hero, a protagonist who could provide a strong character arc from decadence to redemption. I was inspired to write THE SECRETS OF CASANOVA—my way of getting at those profound, soul-searching questions.
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2. Writing can be a difficult job, what inspires you to keep going?
The need to express oneself is very potent. The need to tell a story. To explore deep, inner truths. I think these notions compel me to keep going.
In general, I feel writers are warriors who know in their gut that they must carry on; this powerful conviction inspires them to keep telling the stories.
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3. What are you working on now? What’s next?
I’m toying with sending Casanova to the new world where the French and Indian War is brewing. Casanova, war, and grog. Lord only knows what that adventure will be!
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4. What’s your writing process, schedule, or routine?
I write around my two teenagers’ schedules. Yikes! Need I say more?
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5. Who is your favorite book character of all time? Why?
“Raoul Duke” in FEAR AND LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS” by Hunter S. Thompson. The character’s an all-too rational maniac—so unintentionally humorous, so deadpan willing to self-destruct by any means available—it’s hard not to enjoy a character that comes screaming out of the wilderness with such a twisted, righteous vision of America.
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6. What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Advice? You mean other than “when writing gets frustrating, never beat your head against a red brick wall?”
Well, in a more practical vein, I offer that ol’ sage advice: “writing is rewriting.” It’s so darned true!
So. . .Aspiring Writers: cultivate Zen-like patience. And rewrite.
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7. What’s your favorite quote?
“There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy.” Hamlet—William Shakespeare
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8. Who would you most like to have a cup of coffee with?
I suppose Miley Cyrus sounds too superficial so I’ll opt for Thomas Jefferson (a childhood hero of mine). Well, wait, wait—Stop the Presses!
I’d really, truly, really like to have coffee with Jacques Casanova. From all contemporary reports this guy was a brilliant conversationalist who lived a fantastically adventurous life. He’s the one to share a coffee and a tale!
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9. What is your biggest pet peeve?
Drivers who tail-gate.
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10. Tell us something quirky about you.
Is this a test? Hmmm. . . quirky?
I write with my left hand. Eat with my right hand. Throw a ball with my left hand. Wield a broadsword with either hand. No joke. See my website for clarification.
Now the secret’s out!
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11. Favorite comfort food.
Chocolate cake. But let’s not forget how comforting a cool shot of tequila can be.
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12. Star Wars or Star Trek?
Star Wars
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13. Sunrises or Sunsets?
On a warm afternoon I prefer a sunset—which leads me into the wonder of the night.
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