AUTHOR INTERVIEW: MESCAL

 

                              

Author Interview of Mescal for the book ‘The Illumination : Izol

 

1)        If you could put yourself as a character in your book, who would it be?

 

 I hadn’t given this much thought until I read the question. The first thing that came to mind was a beloved great aunt of Izol’s on her mother’s side, who lives in a far-off realm, possibly Niy, and visits Izol every so often during a festive season. Both corresponded via mail and frequent phone calls. She would be the person Izol confides in and most likely to heed her advice.

 

2)       Do you ever get writer’s block? What helps you overcome it?

 

       What works for me is to not over think it. If I’m stuck, I let go of the thought or issue I am struggling with and occupy myself with something else. Usually, reading interesting articles on art or history eases my trouble mind. When I return to writing, the issue or thought that caused my lapse somehow resolves itself without my fixation on it.

 The few times I am genuinely stock in a rut, I skip the paragraph or section causing the dilemma and continue writing until I have a clear idea of how to approach my stagnated thoughts.

 

3)       What was the highlight of writing this book?

 

               The highlight for me was the realization of the power of being present. Understanding that with everything, there is a time and a season, and accepting our magical moment at whatever stage of life it comes to us is how we find purpose and fulfillment in our lives.

Could I have written this story ten years ago?  And if so, would it have been this fantastical tale? I can say emphatically that it would not have been anything remotely close to what I have written.

 

4)         What is your writing schedule?

 

 Having an eight-hour job, which on most days turns into ten hours, one can well imagine how tirelessly busy my twenty-four hours are. I do the bulk of my writing during the early morning hours between two and five, and review what I have written during the evening, usually around eight, while I am having dinner at work.

On my days off, I would write until I reached the point of exhaustion, my fingers cramping, my focus waning, and desperately needing sleep. At that stage, I know it’s time to call it a day.

 

5)       Favorite spot to travel?

 

               It’s hard to choose since I have several favorite cities that I love to visit, but for weekend trips, Paris and Rio De Janeiro are my go-to spots. In Paris, steak au poivre, my absolute favorite, at Paul Bert’s bistro is my first stop. Sampling macaroons, which I’m obsessed with, at Pierre Herme’s shop near the opera house is a most for me. Lastly, shopping for eclectic items, such as street art on Rue Des Pyrenees is a glorious way to spend the evening.

 In Rio, I look forward to spending Saturday afternoons at Leblon Beach, where relaxing and feeling the sun on my face is always a welcome experience. Meandering the promenade Avenida Delfim Moreira as I walk back from the beach, is always a treat, and dinner at Marius Degustare at sunset makes for a beautiful end to the day.