Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I have written two books to date. My latest is really my seminal, life’s work. It is the culmination of sixteen years of development, in which I have refined my ideas through a number of manuscript versions. I am also a photographer, or rather a photographic artist, as I am currently interested in composite images that are non-representational. I’m passionate about creativity generally and intend writing a book on the subject, sooner rather than later.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
It’s called “The Liberated Self” and it was inspired by an insight I had in 2004, while reading about transpersonal theory in a book by Ken Wilber called “The Atman Project”. Just why it is that we often deny our needs as individuals (especially in relationships) suddenly became clear to me. It’s actually a kind of ‘anti-egotism’ and its influence over lives can be so vast that I think my book only really introduces the subject.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I normally try to write about half a page each morning, which is generally when I get the most inspiration. I will then often review what I have written in the evening as I find that I’m often my own best (and worst) critic at this time of day.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’ve been influenced by Carl Jung, whose psychology inspired me when I was a young man. I found Ken Wilber’s books to be useful ‘potted summaries’ of psychological thought and they have increased my understanding of the stages of conscious development. Eckhart Tolle has helped me to appreciate the value and importance of being present, or in the Now as he often refers to it.
What are you working on now?
I’ve just finished editing “The Liberated Self” for the second time, so I’m taking a break from writing. I’ll be going out with the camera, which is just good fun and less intense than writing for me.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I list my books on Amazon. I experimented with Facebook and my own blog, but I’m just not a social media kind of author. I know that’s sacrilegious in terms of the ‘how to’ of being a successful writer online, but I believe my strengths lie elsewhere.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
My advice for new authors is to write. Only by writing (and rewriting) have I been able to develop as a writer to the point where I am generally satisfied with what I produce.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
As per the above. There’s no great secret to writing. If you’re good enough to succeed, sheer bloody-minded persistence and dedication will get you there.
What are you reading now?
I like to read Lee Child for entertainment. He’s a master of crime fiction. I’ve also been reading a book called “Creating” by Robert Fritz, whose concept of structural tension I find interesting.
What’s next for you as a writer?
As I mentioned earlier, my next book will be on creativity and not just that of an artistic kind but in general.
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?
I’d take a Lee Child book to reread, “The Atman Project” by Ken Wilber and “How to Survive on a Desert Island for Dummies”, if such a book exists.
Author Websites and Profiles
Francis Keogh Amazon Profile