We recently connected with Ben D’Alessio and have shared our conversation below.

Ben, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. 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?

I wanted to write as far back as First Grade. I have a vivid memory of my first day of school asking my teacher when we’d get the chance to write in our marble notebooks. I reignited my interest in high school with creative writing classes but focused more on scholarly (and not scholarly) pursuits in college. I regret not taking writing classes at that time. I started my first novel at 23 while living in Spain. I worked in a school and had a lot of free time. I focused on learning the language and writing my first book.
I try and write every day and usually on a novel, short story, or non-fiction piece. But even if it’s just a movie review (I have a blog on The Reckless Muse online pub) I always feel better when I’m writing something.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I think I write unique, entertaining, but thought-provoking fiction. Because I’m an independent author, I don’t have to appease any publishers/executives. I write exactly what I want.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

By far when someone reads and enjoys my work. Especially people I have not heard from in a while or a complete stranger who leaves a positive review.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Society can not censor or abridge work. “Inclusivity” includes work/statements/pieces you may not agree with or even find tolerable. Art can be transgressive and provocative, even if it’s transgressing and provoking your sacred cows.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bendalessio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bendalessio/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenDAlessioWriting/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/El__Ben
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQsRz4pi9_D7wawo1dl03Sg