Interview with Steve Bartholomew, Author of Changelings

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Changelings?

Story behind the story: I am always fascinated by ancient tales, whether myths, folk tales, or holy writ. I often speculate on how they may have been based on real events and how they have come down to us. For example, could the story of Humbaba in the Epic of Gilgamesh be based on a memory of the last Neanderthal? Or Grendel in Beowulf? Perhaps not, but it would make for a great story. I began to examine what are called fairy tales. The oldest stories are not about tiny people with wings and magic wands. They often appear as ordinary humans until revealed to be otherwise. They are said to have numerous magical powers. But what if their magic is mostly a form of hypnosis? What if they are really a slightly separate species of human? Perhaps not, but it would make for a great story.

If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Changelings, what would they be?

Theme song for the main characters: There are two main characters. The only song I can think of is What Will I Do Without You?

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

My favorite genre to read is historical fiction, which I also write. However, I also read some fantasy and mythology, which sometimes finds its way into my writing. My stories of the Fae I would have to call “historical-paranormal.” My current series takes place in the early twentieth century. A line from one of my previous books: “San Francisco was infested with fortune tellers and spirit mediums, all fake, of course.”

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

I don’t usually plan far ahead. I’m currently reading The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver, who has rapidly become one of my favorite writers. I must confess I will also read anything by Stephen King, a fine craftsman. I often read actual history books between novels.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

What scene was my favorite? I would have to say the last chapter. The two protagonists are destined and commanded to kill each other. They do so, but not in the way you think.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

I can only write after sunset, if that’s quirky. It seems quieter, with fewer distractions. Of course, I have the advantage of not owning a TV.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

I am more or less a Taoist. The Way that is called the Way is not the Way (one possible translation of “Tao”). That means that a painting of a pipe is not a pipe. When we name a thing, an event, or an idea, we have only the name, not the essence itself, not the reality. A Buddhist would say reality itself is an illusion. I try to keep this in mind.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

This has been a story. I hope it entertained you. It was all made up; any reality it has is an illusion. But it was made up out of real bits and pieces. I hope it may help you make up your own story from your own real pieces.

Steve Bartholomew is the author of the new book Changelings

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