A Book(ish) Life: Interview with Matthew Mercier
"Be fearless. Take chances. What do you have to lose?"
Hello, friends! We’re back with another edition of A Book(ish) Life. Today we’re featuring Matthew Mercier, a fellow 2024 Debut who’s novel Poe & I was inspired by the time he spent living in Edgar Alan Poe’s basement (yes, really).
Welcome to Book(ish)! Please introduce yourself, and share a little bit about your latest book.
Hello! My name is Matthew Mercier, and I’m a writer and storyteller based in the Hudson Valley. My debut novel, Poe & I, is loosely based on the time I spent as caretaker for the last home of Edgar Allan Poe. If I had to classify it, I would call it a psychological thriller with dollops of humor and horror.
What’s one highlight from your debut journey?
Meeting other debut writers, and feeling less alone. When you’re able to share your journey to publication with folks who share the same ambition, you feel less crazy after all that time in your own head.
Describe your ideal writing scenario. What would a perfect writing day look like for you? Where would you be?
I’ve spent time in monasteries, and followed the rhythm the monks follow–rise early, read or write, morning prayer, write and think some more, followed by physical work in the afternoon. I’d love that to be my pattern, but I don’t always get it.
If your book had a themed scented candle made for it: what would it smell like?
Well, it’s about Edgar Allan Poe…so…Lavender Melancholy? Is that a thing? He also loved nature, and was a huge romantic, so the scent of Fresh Roses would also fit. He wasn’t always so bleak.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? How long did it take you to reach publication?
Oh, I’ve known it all my life, but it took me a good many years to figure out publication. And I’m still figuring it out.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given in your writing career?
Writing and publishing are two entirely separate tasks. Do not conflate the two. Write first, ask questions later. Your training as a writer is primary.
What advice would you give to future debuts?
Celebrate every chance you get. Don’t compare yourself to others since there will always be somebody who got a “bigger” or “better” deal, who got the interview or podcast you wanted. Status is SO not important.
How do you celebrate your writing/publishing wins?
Oddly enough, the same way I deal with rejection: I take a walk in the woods around my house. It always gives me perspective no matter if I’m feeling up or down. We are so very very small, and our earthly ambitions pale in comparison to nature.
What’s something you’re looking forward to?
Getting better as a writer. Making new writer friends.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Be fearless. Take chances. What do you have to lose?
Thank you so much, Matthew!! Read on to learn about his book, Poe & I.
About Poe & I:
Welcome to Poe Cottage… Would you like a tour?
Jonah Peabody takes a job as caretaker and docent for the last home of Edgar Allan Poe in The Bronx, but from the moment he moves into Poe’s Basement—where the caretaker must live—he finds himself also living inside a Poe story, stalked by a man who seems to be his doppelganger and who seeks revenge for past misdeeds.
Jonah claims to be hunting for his lost sister, but as the narrative shifts between past and present, it’s clear that he’s not telling us the entire story. What is he hiding and why?
Haunted by the violent ghosts of his own family and Poe himself, Jonah must reconcile with his dark past before the dual shadow of guilt and grief buries him alive. Living in Poe’s Basement might just be his last chance at redemption.
Order Poe & I:
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