Ten Questions with John Scully

August 1, 2008 -

OB:

What was your first publication and where was it published?

JS:

Am I Dead Yet?, Toronto

OB:

Describe a recent Canadian cultural experience that influenced your writing.

JS:

Absorbing the rythmns of Nova Scotia stepdancers on a TV special.

OB:

If you had to choose three books as a “Welcome to Canada” gift, what would those books be?

JS:

The Deptford Trilogies, Robertson Davies; The Stone Angel, Carol Shields; The English Patient, Michael Ondaatje.

OB:

Describe your ideal writing environment.

JS:

Quiet atmosphere, no music or any other distractions.

OB:

William Faulkner was once asked what book he wished he had written; he chose Moby Dick (with Winnie the Pooh as a close second). Is there a book that you wish you had written?

JS:

Under the Volcano, Malcom Lowry.

OB:

Is there a book that you think you should have read by now but haven’t?

JS:

The Complete Works of John Dos Pasos.

OB:

What are you reading right now?

JS:

Joe’s Politicians, Mendelson Joe

OB:

Do you have a specific readership in mind when you write?

JS:

No, but a musically-literate reader is often on my mind, although I do not write about music but I make many overt or veiled musical references.

OB:

What are you working on right now?

JS:

My first attempt at writing a play.

OB:

Do you have any advice for writers who are trying to get published?

JS:

Make personal contact with someone, anyone, at a publishing house.