Dec 23, 2024 | Interviews, Non Fiction
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I have an unnatural love for compost. Nothing makes me happier than to see my discards become something fertile and teeming with life.
Why do you write?
Writing is my outlet for channeling the voices that screech in my ear when I’m trying to sleep. It’s my sanity saver, giving me an outlet for all the insights, frustrations, and dark humor that I’d otherwise be shrieking into the void.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
This book is a series of essays and stories that reflect my need to process the upsetting truths about the poor condition of Earth’s life support systems. Not just climate change, but our fresh water, air, soils, oceans, biodiversity, and more are in bad shape. Why aren’t we doing more to save ourselves? Disinformation campaigns play a big part. I also believe that those of us who want to do more wonder if there’s anything we can do that will make a difference. So, for every problem I highlight, I decided to showcase a group that’s doing something about it, to help inspire us all to do all that we can to save our very life support systems.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
I’m not sure I have a genre.
How would you describe your writing process?
Both chaotic and systematic. I sit down to write every morning when my brain is still fresh, come what may. The routine helps me be productive. But the big ideas tend to come while I’m walking, meditating or sleeping—not, in other words, when I sit down at my desk. So, I make notes on my apps or shout them at Alexa in the night, and these become fodder for the next day’s writing.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
I enjoy following authors who share their trials and tribulations candidly. Not the ones who make it all seem simple but the ones who make me feel like I’m part of a messy, creative tribe. I’m still searching for the best means of connecting with interested readers.
What advice would you have for other writers?
Keep at it. I could not be writing what I am today if not for countless hours spent producing drivel. I also recommend taking a class or joining a writing group to get some new insights and perspectives. I don’t mean an MFA program, unless that’s meaningful to you—I don’t have one. I have, however, gleaned a lot from meeting up with a group of writers, as well as taking a few six-week online classes.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
The book title is the very last thing that comes to me. The title Madness on the Brink of Eco-Apocalypse arrived after the entire book had been edited and proofread. My writing is so chaotic, bouncing from one idea to another, that I need that bit of distance after the writing is done to sit back and ponder what the whole thing was all about. I’m fortunate that the cover designers came up with just the right design for both of my books because I think in words, not pictures. But I know what I like when I see it, and I’m thrilled with how the covers turned out.
What’s your next step?
This book came fast and furious, given the urgency of the topics. I’m looking forward to writing some lazy blog posts and enjoying the holidays.
FIND CHERYL’S BOOK ON AMAZON
Jul 3, 2024 | Audio Book, Editors' Blog, Interviews, Non Fiction
Today, we’re talking with Evan Soundwell about his book,
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I am a holistic sonic therapist, not a professional writer. My expertise lies in the field of sound. With a robust academic background as a music teacher, performer, conductor, composer, and musicologist, I represent the new holistic sonic modality “Sonic Consciousness.” While my primary language is music, I have ventured into writing to communicate my discoveries in sound therapy.
Why do you write?
In today’s segmented world of knowledge, sound healing remains a field that ordinary people have limited awareness of and often rely on so-called experts. I aim to bridge that gap, educate people, and help them form their own judgments to avoid misconceptions and fraudulent claims in the realm of sound healing. Writing allows me to share my discoveries and insights, documenting the profound impact that sound and frequency can have on well-being. It provides a comprehensive answer to the general question of whether sound can heal.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
The inspiration for “Sonic Consciousness” came from the gaps I observed in the existing literature on sound therapy. Many materials I encountered lacked either musical depth or scientific precision. This motivated me to share my comprehensive understanding in a structured and accessible way, addressing important questions that have never been fully answered, such as the true nature and clear definition of harmony, among many others.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
I enjoy the holistic health genre because it allows for a comprehensive approach to well-being, integrating physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects. It’s rewarding to see how alternative therapies can complement conventional medicine and provide relief to those in need.
How would you describe your writing process?
I discovered that writing and composing have a lot in common; they are just different languages. While everyone possesses the ability to understand the language of music naturally, writing is another skill I have developed to share my insights. My process is methodical and intuitive, starting with a broad outline and delving into detailed research and personal anecdotes to make the content relatable and engaging. This audiobook is designed with numerous sound examples to allow listeners to experience firsthand every claim I make.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
Social media offers authors a platform to connect directly with their audience, receive immediate feedback, and build a community around their work. It is a valuable modern tool that makes it easier and more cost-effective for authors to gain recognition and engage with readers.
What advice would you have for other writers?
With my limited experience, I can say: Stay true to your voice and message. Be wary of relying too much on editors; your authentic voice is what matters most.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
I choose titles that encapsulate the essence of the book. For “Sonic Consciousness,” the title reflects the book’s focus on music as a language for our DNA. The cover is designed to visually represent its themes and invite readers to delve deeper into the book.
What’s your next step?
My next step is to deliver on my promises to readers by creating sonic therapy sessions that align with the concepts presented in the book. Additionally, I will soon introduce the world’s first sound homeopathy modality, which will be announced on my Facebook page. So stay tuned.
What book do you wish you’d written?
I wish I had written “The Tao of Sound” by Fabien Maman. It’s a comprehensive exploration of how sound affects the body and mind, aligning with my interests in holistic health and the transformative power of music and frequency.
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
I haven’t yet received any public reviews, but my colleagues among musicians have shown interest, as many parts of the book have been revelations even for them. This makes me proud to present concepts not previously discovered. My colleagues in holistic health, even without prior knowledge, find it very valuable and educational. The feedback I have received gives me confidence and satisfaction.
FIND EVAN’S BOOK ON AMAZON
