We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Zachary Kuhl. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Zachary below.
Zachary, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you feel you or your work has ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized? If so, tell us the story and how/why it happened and if there are any interesting learnings or insights you took from the experience?
I think most creative folks feel a little misunderstood. We live in this strange world now, where the internet is forever, but virality is fleeting. People understand that they could put themselves out there, not be accepted, and then be forgotten all in the same breath. So, yeah, I think I’m a little misunderstood. My published works, so far, both involved kids dealing with monsters because the adults in their lives are incapable of getting out of their own way…that probably says a lot about me. I’ve had some people tell me that my writing isn’t for me, for one reason or another, and I think that’s just a part of the process.
That’s the risk you take to tell a story, any story, that is honest to who you are.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your background and context?
I’m an independent novelist based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I write stories about self-discovery, heroism, and the importance of support from others, all against the backdrop of looming danger. My characters are shaped by honesty, drawing from my experiences in real towns and stories, lending a “shadow world” feel—a familiar setting with just enough off-kilter detail to keep you looking over your shoulder.
People who like my books tend to enjoy mysteries, monsters, and probably read every Goosebumps book in their elementary school library.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
Quit letting AI slop into your life. I don’t care if it’s a logo, a bad video on social media, or someone trying to sell t-shirt designs – don’t participate. With the way AI is moving, more and more people are going to choose the easy path of letting some machine do the hard work of making things for them, and that’s just sad. To be human is to create, really create, things that matter to you or that better your community. So, support local writers, musicians, and artists with your dollars, your time, and your word-of-mouth. AND, don’t let AI junk seep into the things you surround yourself with.
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Anyone interested in writing needs to read “On Writing” by Stephen King. He does a great job of leveling with the reader on what it takes to be a good writer while also giving the reader tools and exercises they can start using right away.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/punkrocknovelist/
Image Credits
Zachary Kuhl (myself)