Claire
asked
Bryan Pentelow:
My great-aunt Florrie lived in Raunds. I have been there. What exotic location would you like to say you're from? Also, do you think it's easier to keep writing books within a series rather than starting a fresh idea or can it be restrictive at times?
Bryan Pentelow
Sorry for the delay in answering this question but I typed in what I thought was a really good answer then hit the wrong key and lost the lot. So here goes for a second attempt.
First, what was your aunt Florrie's surname, I knew a number of Florries all adults when I was growing up and would love to put a face to the name.
Second, When you come from a place as strange as Raunds who needs somewhere more exotic? But seriously, It was a great place to live in till about 12 after which going to school in the metropolis of Wellingborough was a great release. The American Airforce provided an outlet for my teen dreams with rock and R&B music, tenpin bowling and low-cost booze and cigs. Neither of which were cardinal sins in my young day. I have in my time imagined coming from all sorts of exotic locations and backgrounds but have come to the conclusion that coming from the mundane encourages me to go out looking for the unusual even if I find it next door.
I have had to think hard about the third of your questions. Writing in a series appeals to my lazy streak. I don't have to think up a whole new cast of characters, just one or two as springboards for the storyline. Also, I have grown to know how my main people think and react to any given situation. This is handy but also restricting as an old man like Brassroyd can't suddenly develop the ability to run faster than a speeding car, or leap tall buildings at a single bound. At present, I can find outlets for my imaginings in either the Sprocket books or my Sci-Fi writing but I have written a short story with a completely revolting main character just for the fun of it and may try a few more.
First, what was your aunt Florrie's surname, I knew a number of Florries all adults when I was growing up and would love to put a face to the name.
Second, When you come from a place as strange as Raunds who needs somewhere more exotic? But seriously, It was a great place to live in till about 12 after which going to school in the metropolis of Wellingborough was a great release. The American Airforce provided an outlet for my teen dreams with rock and R&B music, tenpin bowling and low-cost booze and cigs. Neither of which were cardinal sins in my young day. I have in my time imagined coming from all sorts of exotic locations and backgrounds but have come to the conclusion that coming from the mundane encourages me to go out looking for the unusual even if I find it next door.
I have had to think hard about the third of your questions. Writing in a series appeals to my lazy streak. I don't have to think up a whole new cast of characters, just one or two as springboards for the storyline. Also, I have grown to know how my main people think and react to any given situation. This is handy but also restricting as an old man like Brassroyd can't suddenly develop the ability to run faster than a speeding car, or leap tall buildings at a single bound. At present, I can find outlets for my imaginings in either the Sprocket books or my Sci-Fi writing but I have written a short story with a completely revolting main character just for the fun of it and may try a few more.
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