Michael Colon is a creative freelance writer and novelist, born and raised in the Big Apple, New York City. He uses his craft to profoundly impact the lives of others with thought-provoking words that breathe life into his characters. He often equates his writing to painting masterpieces with prose. His inspiration comes from various societal abnormalities, cultural differences, and his own life experiences. When he isn’t writing, he enjoys working out, watching sports, visiting museums, and exploring nature trails.

 

1) First, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this interview with me!  When did you know that writing is what you were called to do? What is it about being a writer that you love the most? What about being a writer frustrates you the most?

Thank you for taking the time to interview me. Writing is something I feel I was called to do when my work I would submit to magazines, blogs, and other literature-based websites started accepting my work and getting good feedback from professionals in the field. What I love most about being a writer is that I get to express my thoughts creatively. I am naturally a deep, reflective thinker, so being creative with my ideas is very liberating. Being a writer frustrates me because I am somewhat never truly satisfied with my work. Like any artist who paints a picture, there is always something else to add or take away that we think can make the piece better.

2) Can you tell us a little about your book(s) and where our readers can find out more about them and you? 

I have a self-published book of poems titled My Life’s Muse in Dark and Light Moods and a traditionally published sci-fi novel titled The Gift from Aelius. My Life’s Muse is a collection of poetry I wrote that outlines specific points of my life to share with the reader. That project was also a therapeutic release for me. The Gift From Aelius is me wanting to push the envelope with my capabilities as a writer and storyteller on a grander fiction scale. The Gift from Aelius is a philosophical adventure set in a dystopian world where man and artificial intelligence try to find the balance of their lives and purpose in history. Both my books can be found on Amazon.

3) What projects are you currently working on?

I am working on a sequel to my sci-fi book, The Gift From Aelius, and another general fiction novel.

4) What has been your most significant achievement as a writer thus far? Where do you see yourself within your career in the next five years?

My most significant accomplishment as a writer thus far is getting a book deal. In the next five years, I see myself publishing more fiction books.

5) How have you dealt with rejection within your writing career?

I dealt with rejection by not taking it as a personal attack. Rejection doesn’t mean your work is terrible; everyone has their own taste. I accept rejection with no malice and keep doing what I must, mentally preparing for more rejections and opportunities to grow and learn from them.

6) Do you have a schedule for when you write?  Do you outline your novels?  How long does it generally take you to finish a novel?

For me I personally like to write early in the morning and late in the evening. I outline my novels to a degree, but I approach writing a story like painting. I throw my ideas on paper and organize what contributes towards the story afterwards. It takes me about a year to finish a novel.

7) Do you believe that there is ever a point in life where it’s too late for an aspiring writer to become successful in this industry?  Do you feel a late start would hinder their chances?

It’s never too late to do something you’re passionate about for as long as you’re alive. There are plenty of successful authors of all ages, including older people, who want to leave a book behind as part of their legacy. I do not feel a late start would hinder their chances because there is no technical definition of being late when creating art.

8) Are you an avid reader and have you always been? What’s the first book you ever read that really touched you emotionally and moved you?  Who is your favorite author? What book are you currently reading?

Most of my inspiration as an author comes from cinema, music, and other artworks such as paintings.

9) Given the recent shake-ups in publishing, what are your thoughts about how the publishing industry is being represented today? Do you lean more towards traditional publishing or self-publishing as a preference? Does being a hybrid author interest you? 

I feel like today’s publishing resources are so broad that they give people opportunities to accomplish their dream of being an author. Of Course, we must be careful with many scammers out there, but the self-publishing field is excellent, in my opinion, for the creative looking to get their hard work out there.

10) I feel like writing is a remarkable tool to help people not only express themselves, but also to cope emotionally and mentally.  I know for me I write to be and feel more authentic. What unique quality is there about you, about your art, that you feel represents your authenticity?  How does writing help you to be more empowered in your purpose?

This is a great question, and I completely agree that writing is good for anyone emotionally and mentally. My art represents my authenticity by showcasing my deep, reflective thoughts, my directness when it comes to specific topics, and my big imagination, which I often get lost in. As for purpose, writing is not my sole purpose of existing; it’s part of a pie. This pie is called life, and each slice, some bigger than others, allows me to be more purposeful as a human being.