Stephen Duxbury

Stephen Duxbury is a writer living in Ellesmere Port, UK, with his partner, dog and two cats. He has had short stories published in a variety of websites and magazines, and received a Writer's Digest Honourable Mention for an early version of the first chapter of his novel, "The Weight of Me". Stephen is seeking representation for this novel.

Twitter: @duxbury_sjd76.

In a few words, tell me about "The Old Oak Tree", your latest serialized story.

“The Old Oak Tree” is a horror story set in the fictional town of Orlow. When the old oak tree’s roots grow, the town is split in two. And not just physically, but psychologically, as well…

What inspired you to write it?

I was inspired by my own fear of tribalism. Humans are naturally tribal – it helped our primitive ancestors cooperate and survive. But it also drove them to wipe out the Neanderthals. Nowadays, with our politics as divided as they are and people becoming increasingly entrenched in their positions, tribalism is as scary as ever. So, I thought I’d write a horror about it!

Which part did you enjoy writing most?

I really enjoyed writing Episode 3, in which poor Isaac climbs the old oak tree. It was fun to write a straightforward, no-nonsense, nightmare-inducing horror… but I won’t ruin it for those that haven’t read it yet.

Who are some of your favourite authors?

I adore Robert Cormier and his super bleak young adult novels. His books are smart, insightful, and utterly heart-breaking. Everyone should read “The Chocolate War”. If you’re anything like me, then you’ll immediately start devouring everything he ever wrote.

Where is your favourite place to write?

My favourite place to write is any spot next to my dog, Tofu. Normally the sofa!

What's your writing process like?

I’m a burst-fire kind of writer. I write in bursts of inspiration and productivity, then loiter aimlessly until the inspiration returns. I’m not sure I’d recommend that as a process to anyone else, though! On the other hand, it might resonate with any fellow procrastinators out there…

What would you like people to take away from your writing?

That’s a tough one! Fundamentally, I just want people to enjoy my writing. But I’m always trying to explore characters with mindsets different to mine. If a reader finds something authentic or thought-provoking in my work, I’d be thrilled.

What advice would you give to aspiring short story authors?

If you write a short story, you’re no longer aspiring: you’re a bona fide short story author! So, start writing, and don’t listen to the imposter syndrome. Remember that a first draft is just a first draft, and that writing is a skill to be practiced like any other.

Do you prefer tea or coffee?

Coffee’s my jam! Though I wouldn’t say no to a tea, if you’re offering…

What made you take a chance on Novellea?

I have my partner to blame. She saw the opportunity on Facebook and encouraged me to take a chance. She’s savvy with this kind of stuff, so I thought I’d give it a go. I’m so glad I did!