Interview Robert Nugent

by

A. Dee Carey

1) What prompted you to become a writer?

I grew up in the West of Ireland, where we spoke both Gaelic Irish and English. The Gaelic Irish tradition places a huge importance on the power of storytelling--both oral and written. Throughout the community--in the schools and Pubs--stories are exchanged, created and exaggerated. Later when I went to University, my oral storytelling became the written word.

2) How long did you write before you were published?

I had a number of short stories published during my University days, but when I enlisted in the army I lost touch with my writing. It was only when I began teaching some years later that I concentrated on The Woodlander, which is my first novel.

3) Do you have a favourite time period? When and Why?

I have a deep love of medieval history and the world of knights. But also of Celtic mythology and the ancient Gaelic way of life in Ireland. It was a time that was both harsh and beautiful, and free from the petty concerns of modern living. I feel much of this simplistic forgotten way of life is reflected in The Woodlander.

4) How long do you take to complete a book?

The Woodlander took about three years--from the moment I thought of writing it until I finished it. Of course, work, travel and a thousand other things got in the way. I believe, however that a book cannot be rushed. The reader should be respected. The reader deserves to have our best.

5) Is there anything that would stop you from being a writer?

Nothing I can think of.

6) Do you write in various genre?

I write in Historical fantasy, like The Woodlander, but also in regular fiction.

7. Do you have a day job? What is it and how do you budget your writing time?

I am an English teacher at present. I have just returned from two years teaching in Japan, where I wrote The Woodlander. I usually write in the evenings--often into the night if I am in the zone.