Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was born in Trinidad & Tobago and emigrated to the U.S. when I was 12. Finding it difficult to assimilate to the new world, I immersed myself in music and writing. After spending 2 1/2 years in Iowa State University, I returned to NY and studied to be a nurse. Even though I practiced nursing for years, my heart was always in music and writing. A few years ago, after playing and recording music all over the U.S., I stopped to concentrate on my writing. So far, I have six books on Amazon. I’ve written more than six, but those were during my years in Iowa State.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is “Murder in Rock & Roll Heaven.” I’d been meaning to write a book of interviews, my subjects being historical geniuses like Benjamin Franklin, Beethoven, Einstein, Mozart, Da Vinci, Tchaikovsky, and several others. When I saw books like these had already been written, I thought I’d approach the subject with a new angle by involving historical figures in a crime drama.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I sometimes wake up in the middle of the night to write an idea down before it disappears. Most of the time, the only papers available to me are napkins from fast food restaurants, but they work just fine.
Since I’m homeless, I’m forced to write in public, specifically, the local shopping mall and library. In a sense, I’m immersed in public 24 hours a day, prime opportunity to engage in one of my favorite activities – watching and listening to strangers, wondering why they say the words recently emitted from their mouths.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Upton Sinclair has had a profound influence on my writing as did John Steinbeck. Most of my works have a strong sociological/psychological bent to them, topics that the aforementioned authors never shied away from.
What are you working on now?
It’s a non-fiction book called “Sick Twisted F*ck: The Confessions of a Troubled Clown.”
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
Facebook comes in handy for promoting my books as well as the CD’s I’ve produced.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Some books I’ve written brought me close to the point of madness; specifically, the ones I often had to fact check to make sure the details are accurate. Writing a book can cause you friends and family time, too. Are you willing to sacrifice important face time from your social network to lock yourself away in a discipline that may or may not prove fruitful? I write because I have to. It makes my days go faster, and gives me a sense of purpose.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
“Write as if your life depended on it.”
What are you reading now?
Mainly news stories. Real life drama can be just as scary as fictional literature.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Once I’m done with “Sick F*ck” I’d like to take another dig at playing music again. If I’m still homeless, then that idea will have to be postponed. I may then go ahead and have another look at my past screenplays, perhaps modernize them and try to get them in the hands of Hollywood agents.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
The Tattvartha Sutra
A Biography of Leonardo Da Vinci
Martyrs Mirror
Greek Mythology
Author Websites and Profiles
Robin Ray Website
Robin Ray Amazon Profile
Robin Ray’s Social Media Links
Facebook Profile