Q & A with author Stephen Silke and Susan J. Farese of SJF Communications

SJF: In a nutshell, tell us about your book or written piece.
SS: My story “The Means of Production,” published in Issue 51 of Fiction International, is written in the stylistic and tonal tradition of Kafka and David Foster Wallace. In this story, I fill the narrative with conspicuous tchotchkes and comic characters who are at odds with arbitrary regulations and imperious corporate mandates. The characters break workplace rules and explore their roles in a factory and their corporation. Is getting fired from a place like this always a bad thing?

SJF: What has your experience been as a writer in San Diego?
SS: I’ve been supported continually by Grossmont College, San Diego State University, and San Diego Writers, Ink. I’ve spent significant time studying craft as a part of these San Diego institutions. These are places where I’ve been a student, I’ve taught, and I’ve participated in literary community. They have done so much to grow me and develop me as a writer. I haven’t regretted the time I’ve spend with them one bit.

SJF: How has storytelling influenced your life?
SS: Every day I read stories, so I’ll mention a few writers that I can’t get enough of. Chaim Potok has shown me religion in conversation with contemporary values. Franz Kafka has toured me through the terror and humor in everyday life. Isaac Bashevis Singer taught me that enchanted and mystical interactions exist with every person I come into contact with. David Foster Wallace has explained to me how addiction and tragedy and humor are all mixed up in the story of a life. These are all storytelling experiences that have been constant companions. These are only a few of my influences.

SJF: If you had a magic wand, what kind of opportunities would be available to writers in San Diego?
SS: A place that publishes avant-garde books on paper. A place that brings together book artists and writers to make fine literary works of art. Know of any? If you do, I have a manuscript that needs publishing.

SJF: What are you excited about when it comes to participating in the inaugural San Diego Writers Festival?
SS: I’ve performed with the musicians Chris and Ariana Warren of A Hundred Ghosts before, and I never know what amazing things they’re going to bring to a show. I’m looking forward to our storytelling performance (at 5pm at the Shiley Special Events Suite) because I know the stories will come alive in a rich way. Live music and evocative prose are meant to go together.

SJF: What advice would you give to a new writer in San Diego?
SS: Work hard. Consider rejection one more step toward success. Find a good deal on scotch.

SJF: Many thanks, Stephen!

Read Stephen Silke’s story “An Artist Prepares“,
published by decomP magazine
Read his short story collection, Trickster Stories. Available on itunes http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id600175790

Learn More about Susan J. Farese of SJF Communications