Q & A
Q & A session with Wesley C. Wells
When did you start writing?
I started writing when I was young(10-11), but I never took it seriously until a University Professor took interest in my work. When you are a kid, imagination is like a magical card you keep in your back pocket. Day or night, it’s easily accessible, and at a moments notice it can rescue you from the most dreadful situation. Unfortunately, as we “grow-up,” that convenience often becomes taken for granted. Over the course of time the card fades – perhaps forgotten, or placed in the large pile of laundry most people call life. My hope is that my card hasn’t faded too much, as I always like to keep it close when writing. Then, if I’m lucky, I can pass it on to my daughter…or perhaps another generation of readers.
How many books have you written?
I’ve only published one book, Bottom Bridge. However, I’ve written in almost every medium. I have several feature length screenplays and children’s stories waiting to be discovered(or turned into kindling). I also have a profound respect for those that write songs and poetry.
Do you have a favorite author or book?
Tough question. I believe my favorite author and book are one and the same. Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird. I don’t believe she set out to change literature or the world, she simply had a story to tell. It was something that grew inside her, until she was ready to share it with the world. That’s the pinnacle of success in my mind – When imagination blooms and unknowingly pollenates the world with inspiration.
How long did it take you to write Bottom Bridge?
The process is complicated, so I’ll break it into two categories:
1. Actual time spent writing(laboring over the PC) = Almost 2 Years.
2. Other(Outlining, Editing, Mailing submissions etc) = 5 Years. Total time spent = 7+ Years.
Are you writing a sequel?
Hmmm. Honestly, I never envisioned Bottom Bridge as an ongoing series of books. It was a story I needed to tell, and well, I told it. Having said that, I never say never. Recently, there’s been a ton of interest in Bottom Bridge, so I’ll keep you posted.
Did you design the cover for Bottom Bridge?
Ha! I wish!! No, I have zero artistic capabilities when it comes to drawing. My very good friend, Jeremy Alexander brought the cover to life. His talent and vision make me quite envious. He has the ability to create something from nothing and instantly have a tangible product for the public to experience. He once let me watch him create a piece from scratch, and it is something I’ve never forgotten. Artists of his caliber go into history books.
Who’s your favorite character in Bottom Bridge?
I have several. All in fact. But I suppose if I had to choose one, it would be Nyla. Her character took Fox in a direction I never dreamed. As with so many heros before him, I believe Fox was struck(like me) by her lightning quick wit and tongue, as well as her thundercloud type presence. She was a joy to bring to life.
When is the next book coming out?
I’m hoping to release a new book by Christmas. I am currently juggling two projects, both of which should be available by the end of the year.
Final question – What’s with the quote on your website?
Thought you might ask that. The quote was by the famous artist JMW Turner. His work was the preface to what would later become the Impressionist Movement. Anyway, he sold a piece of art to a collector overseas, who in turn commented that the artwork itself was “Indistinct.” Upon hearing the collector’s remarks, Turner said: “You should tell him that indistinctness is my forte.” This cuts directly to the core. The ability to hide something incredible in plain sight: Concealing Superman under a reporter’s clothes etc. That, I believe, is the gift of greatness.