Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to B Alan Bourgeois. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
B Alan, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
As I begin my 50th anniversary as a writer, one would think that learning your craft in college would be the ideal situation, but it is not. Yes, it can help you to fine-tune your writing skills, but living a full life is the best education a writer can have. In addition to life well lived, a writer must also be willing to adjust their skills based on what is happening in the industry.
I first started writing with pen and paper, and I still do my first drafts that way. But in fifty years, we have progressed from typewriters to word processing to full PCs, the internet, and small tablets to capture our words on. The changes in the publishing world also changed from chasing the publishing contract to self-publishing. Both of which have created their own challenges and benefits.
Thus, no matter how you started, continue to grow and change along the way. With technology constantly changing, those who fight it, or drag their feet in learning the tools, are the ones who are left behind. You don’t have to be the first in the new technology, but don’t be left in the dust. Your skills and understanding of the world is what sets you apart from other writers, what tools you use, can advance you along the path, or leave you behind.
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 back background and context?
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B Alan Bourgeois stands as a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the transformative power of storytelling. In 2025, he will mark a remarkable milestone: 50 years as a writer whose journey defies conventional narratives.
Although his first published short story emerged in 1989, Bourgeois’s creative spirit was never confined by traditional timelines. His debut book, published in 2001 by a small press, was a four-year labor of love—most of which was actually written in an intense six-week burst. The delay was not about the writing, but about overcoming the profound vulnerability of sharing his work with the world.
Conquering that initial fear became a turning point. Since then, Bourgeois has produced an impressive body of work: over 40 books and 40 short stories. His literary achievements are not just quantitative but qualitative, evidenced by 3 book awards, 6 short story awards, and a speaking award that underscore his storytelling prowess.
Bourgeois’s life experiences—often challenging and unconventional—have been his greatest writing asset. Where many might see obstacles, he finds narrative depth. His willingness to explore uncomfortable territories and translate personal challenges into compelling stories sets him apart. Each book and story becomes a bridge, helping readers understand experiences they might otherwise never comprehend.
Beyond his personal writing, Bourgeois has dedicated significant energy to supporting and mentoring other authors. He embodies the belief that every writer has a unique story to tell, and that with guidance, persistence, and courage, those stories can find their audience.
His journey illustrates a profound truth: creativity is not about perfection, but about honest, brave expression. Through his writing and mentorship, Bourgeois continues to expand the boundaries of storytelling and inspire fellow writers to do the same.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
I’ll help you revise the text to make it more clear, cohesive, and impactful. Here’s an improved version:
Over the years, advocates like Bourgeois have worked tirelessly to challenge the narrow definition of art and recognition of creative professions. Writing, often marginalized and categorized primarily as an educational tool, deserves to be celebrated as a vital art form. Unfortunately, the creative ecosystem frequently segregates itself into siloed disciplines—visual art, music, theater, and writing—which inadvertently diminishes the artistic value of each medium.
Words are fundamentally a creative expression, as fundamental to human communication and artistic expression as any other art form. From the earliest human narratives to contemporary literature, writing transforms thoughts, emotions, and experiences into powerful, evocative creations. Yet, authors are frequently excluded from arts funding, grants, and cultural events that celebrate creativity.
Bourgeois has been instrumental in educating government officials about the critical importance of expanding artistic recognition. By advocating for the inclusion of writers in creative grants, events, and cultural programs, these efforts aim to break down artificial barriers between artistic disciplines and acknowledge the profound artistry inherent in writing.
To truly support a thriving creative ecosystem, society must:
– Recognize writing as an equally valid and valuable art form
– Develop inclusive funding mechanisms that support writers alongside other artists
– Create cross-disciplinary platforms that celebrate diverse creative expressions
– Integrate comprehensive arts education that honors all creative mediums
– Challenge institutional biases that artificially separate artistic disciplines
The goal is not to elevate one art form over another, but to create a holistic, supportive environment where all creative expressions can flourish, interconnect, and inspire.
Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?
Here’s a revised version of your text:
Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) represent an emerging technological frontier for authors to diversify their income streams and engage with readers through innovative digital platforms. Since 2022, forward-thinking professionals like Bourgeois have been educating authors about the potential of NFTs as a tool for book promotion, sales, and creative distribution.
The digital publishing landscape is rapidly evolving, and NFTs offer authors unique opportunities to monetize their work beyond traditional publishing models. By creating a comprehensive bookstore ecosystem that integrates print, eBooks, audiobooks, and NFTs, authors can maximize their reach and revenue potential in an increasingly digital marketplace.
While technological advances like AI and blockchain-based technologies understandably generate anxiety within the writing community, adaptation is crucial. Authors who approach new technologies with curiosity and strategic learning can transform potential challenges into opportunities. The key is not to fear technological change, but to understand and leverage it effectively.
NFTs can provide authors with:
– Direct sales mechanisms that bypass traditional publishing intermediaries
– Unique digital collectible editions of books
– Enhanced reader engagement through exclusive digital content
– Potential for ongoing royalties through secondary market sales
– New approaches to intellectual property management
The publishing world is at a critical junction. Those who proactively learn, experiment, and integrate emerging technologies will be best positioned to thrive in the rapidly changing creative landscape. Hesitation and resistance often lead to missed opportunities, while thoughtful exploration can unlock innovative paths for creative and financial growth.
Ultimately, NFTs are not just a technological trend, but a potential paradigm shift in how authors create, distribute, and monetize their literary work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://BourgeoisMedia.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/balanbourgeois/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/misterbourgeois
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/b-alan-bourgeois-35425a18/
- Twitter: https://x.com/BAlanBourgeois
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS17w1rVL_1kB6dVMq-AE8A
- Other: tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scorpiondaddy1
Image Credits
@2024 Chris James