In this aromatic exchange, we delve into the rich flavors of Matt Gabrielson’s literary journey, exploring his preference for coffee over tea and his penchant for cinematic comedies. From unraveling mysteries in crime fiction to navigating the ebbs and flows of creative slumps, Matt shares insights into his craft and the sources of inspiration that fuel his storytelling. Join us for a stimulating conversation as we sip on the essence of creativity and peek into the future chapters of Matt’s vibrant literary career.
TW: Do you prefer tea or coffee?
MG: Oh, for sure coffee, I drink it both hot and iced. More times than not you can find me with a tall glass of iced shaken espresso. But honestly, I do love tea from time to time, especially when I am sick.
TW: What is your favorite movie?
MG: This is a tough one because I have so many, but I would have to say either High Anxiety Written by and starring the wonderfully talented and funny Mel Brooks or Monty Python and the holy grail. Both of which I could watch every day and still laugh my butt off.
TW: What is your favorite genre to read?
MG: I would have to say crime fiction/mystery for sure. I love a good book that keeps me on my toes and keeps pulling me which in turn gets me personally invested in it. I find that the more twists and turns it has the better.
TW: What inspired your craft, and how did you get started?
MG: I have always been writing one form or another all my life, whether it was blogging, journaling or writing poetry which I really started doing early in Highschool. I have always been an avid reader of multiple genres, but it wasn’t until 4 years ago that I really started to consider writing a book. I figured I would give it a shot, I always told myself it would be a one and done. But as time went on i fell in love with writing books and have been hooked ever since with my debut book Small Town Chaos releasing June 25th. I currently have 2 other WIPS that are being worked on in my free time. .
TW: How do you handle creative slumps?
MG: For me it is simple, If I get in too much of a slump, I will walk away putting my projects on hold to spend time on other passions. By doing this it allows me a pressure free escape without getting too frustrated to the point where I just want to scrap something altogether. Eventually I make my way back to each project and they get finished. One thing I have learned over the years is that you cannot force a story or creative project, you must let it flow freely. Also, no matter what anyone tells you, there is no such thing as too many open projects.
TW: How do you come up with ideas?
MG: I tend to write about my life’s experiences or things that I am familiar with. By doing so it helps me to keep creative whilst adding a believable element to my work. For example, my first book Small Town Chaos is a crime fiction/mystery. I used my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, my past with farming and several externships at different law enforcement agencies to ensure everything was period correct and accurate. Many of my characters are based on people I have met along the way on my journey and in some cases even myself. I will say though that my ideas and inspirations are always growing, so you never know what you might see me write about next!
TW: What are your future goals and aspirations?
MG: I would like to finish the 3 Wips i currently am hacking away at and do more with my poetry such as submitting to anthologies and even a few contests. Because as much as I love writing books, poetry just hits a little different. But overall, the main goal is just to continue to learn more about my craft, hone my skills and continue this crazy journey to see where it leads. I am always asking questions, reading articles and practicing my craft to push my growth to a new level, and I think as a writer but moreover a human that is very important.
TW: What social media site has been the most beneficial for your craft?
MG: Honestly, Twitter has been the most multi-faceted site for my journey. It is almost like a catch-all for creatives. I can connect daily with other writers/supporters, Spread the word on new wips, poetry or blogs posts and network for future collabs or opportunities. I will admit that at times it can be a frustrating platform but over the years it has been the one that has gotten the most eyes on my work, as well as helping me to meet some great folks.
TW: What does the future hold for you?
MG: Well, these next 2 years will be packed with releases from my own books to anthologies I’m featured in and even a co-authored book. I hope to finish my 2 open WIPS in the next few years so that I can get those released for everyone to enjoy. But in all honestly, I am just taking things one day at a time doing the best I can. I am open to new opportunities as they arise, especially if they help me learn and grow my craft.
TW: Where can my readers find you? (Social media, website, tours, business address, etc. links)
MG: If you would like to connect with me below you will find my linktree. You can find my books, a reading recommendation list with books from many genres from great indie authors and all my social media sites. The two sites I am most active on are Facebook and Twitter.