An Interview with C.J. Raphael

C.J. Raphael hails from the rugged beauty of Cornwall, where moorlands stretch under open skies and the ocean’s rhythmic waves narrate tales of resilience. Raised amidst the Tamar Valley, he found inspiration in the stories shared by strong matriarchal figures, shaping his appreciation for the region’s heritage.

Fueled by the dramatic landscapes of moorlands and the coastal symphony, C.J. Raphael developed a profound love for drama and music. His journey led him to the stage, where he immersed himself in the art of storytelling through performance. From the whispers of the moorlands to the coastal breeze, these natural elements became the canvas for his creative endeavors. Beyond the realms of drama and music, C.J. Raphael ventured into the world of writing. Armed with his mighty pen, he wove narratives echoing the spirit of Cornwall, where legends and tales found resonance. His stories captured the essence of the region’s folklore and the enduring magic of its landscapes.

Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?

Eight years ago, my best friend and I embarked on a journey together by starting a novel, a project that has become a labor of love for both of us. Although life has thrown its share of challenges our way—causing delays and distractions—we have remained dedicated to this story, weaving it slowly over time. The process has taught me the importance of persistence and the beauty of collaboration, even when the road is long and winding.

Writing, however, has always been more than just a shared project for me. It’s a deeply personal outlet that has been a constant in my life. From a young age, I found solace and expression in poetry and short stories, pouring my thoughts and emotions onto the page. The works of poets like Robbie Burns, with his vivid imagery and celebration of everyday life, and Maya Angelou, with her powerful voice and profound wisdom, have been sources of inspiration for me. Their words resonate deeply within me, guiding my own journey as a writer and shaping the stories I seek to tell.

Whether I’m crafting a poem or working on our novel, writing remains a fundamental part of who I am. It’s how I connect with the world, make sense of my experiences, and explore the limitless realms of imagination. This passion for storytelling has only grown stronger over the years, fueled by the influence of literary giants and the enduring friendship that began this creative journey.

What inspired you to start writing this book?

The Musings of a Mason & Other Works was born out of a deep-seated love for both history and storytelling. The inspiration for this collection came from my fascination with the enigmatic world of Freemasonry and the rich, symbolic language it carries. As I delved into the traditions, rituals, and philosophies of the Masons, I found myself captivated by the profound mysteries and timeless wisdom embedded within the craft.

This intrigue led me to explore the parallels between the Masonic journey and the broader human experience—our search for meaning, the pursuit of knowledge, and the internal struggles we all face. Through poetry and prose, I sought to express these universal themes, weaving them into narratives that resonate on both a personal and collective level.

Additionally, I’ve always been drawn to the power of words and their ability to evoke emotion, provoke thought, and create connections. This collection represents my own musings on life, identity, and the intricate patterns that define our existence. Influenced by the works of poets like Robbie Burns, with his blend of simplicity and depth, and Maya Angelou, whose voice speaks to the resilience of the human spirit, I aimed to create a body of work that is reflective, introspective, and inspiring.

The Musings of a Mason & Other Works is a culmination of my passion for poetry, my curiosity about the mysteries of the world, and my desire to share a piece of my inner journey with others. It’s an invitation to readers to explore not only the esoteric world of the Mason but also the universal experiences that connect us all.

Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?

The title of my book, The Musings of a Mason & Other Works, wasn’t something that came to me instantly. In fact, it was the result of a long, thoughtful process. The journey to finding the perfect title was much like the writing itself—filled with reflection, revisions, and moments of sudden inspiration.

When I first started writing, I didn’t have a clear title in mind. The book began as a collection of poems and essays inspired by my fascination with Freemasonry, history, and the human experience. As the collection grew, I realized that the title needed to capture not only the essence of these works but also the deeper themes they explored.

I played around with various ideas, some of which focused solely on the Masonic aspect, while others were broader, trying to encapsulate the entire scope of the collection. But nothing felt quite right. I wanted a title that would invite curiosity, hint at the depth within, and resonate with the themes of reflection and introspection.

After what felt like countless revisions and much deliberation, The Musings of a Mason finally emerged. The word “Musings” perfectly encapsulated the reflective, introspective nature of the poems and essays, while “Mason” directly linked to the Masonic influences that sparked much of the writing. The addition of “& Other Works” came naturally, as it acknowledged the broader scope of the collection beyond just the Masonic-inspired pieces.

So, while it wasn’t an easy process, finding the title was ultimately a rewarding one. It took time, patience, and a lot of brainstorming, but when the right words finally came together, I knew it was worth the wait. The title now feels like the perfect gateway into the world of ideas, reflections, and stories contained within the book.

If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?

If The Musings of a Mason & Other Works had a soundtrack, it would be a carefully curated blend of songs that evoke introspection, mystery, and the timeless quest for meaning. Here are some tracks that would perfectly complement the themes and moods of the book:

“The Sound of Silence” by disturbed

This hauntingly beautiful song captures the essence of solitude, reflection, and the search for understanding—core themes in the book.

“Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin

With its ethereal lyrics and gradual build-up, this classic rock anthem mirrors the spiritual journey and the pursuit of enlightenment explored in the text.

“Mad World” by Gary Jules

A somber, introspective song that reflects on the complexities of life, much like the contemplative tone found in many of the poems and essays.

“Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen

This deeply spiritual and poetic song resonates with the themes of redemption, struggle, and the search for meaning present in the book.

“Brothers in Arms” by Dire Straits

A song about loyalty, sacrifice, and the bonds between people, which ties into the Masonic themes of brotherhood and shared ideals.

“Time” by Pink Floyd

A powerful meditation on the passage of time and the human experience, reflecting the book’s exploration of life’s transient nature and the pursuit of legacy.

“Fields of Gold” by Sting

This song’s gentle melody and nostalgic lyrics evoke a sense of peace and reflection, aligning with the book’s quieter, more meditative pieces.

“Scarborough Fair” by Celtic Woman

A traditional folk ballad that brings a sense of history and timelessness, much like the historical elements woven into the book’s narrative.

“Into the Mystic” by Van Morrison

A soulful exploration of spirituality and the unknown, echoing the book’s themes of journeying into the deeper, mystical aspects of life.

“Knights of Cydonia” by Muse

With its epic sound and lyrics about perseverance and heroism, this song would complement the more adventurous and heroic themes found in the Masonic-inspired works.

This soundtrack would create a rich, atmospheric backdrop for the book, enhancing the reader’s experience by drawing them deeper into the world of The Musings of a Mason & Other Works.

What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?

I have a diverse professional background that spans several industries, reflecting my adaptability and willingness to explore different roles. My experience includes working as a Healthcare Assistant, where I provided personal care and emotional support to patients. I also have experience in the hospitality industry where I worked as a Bar Supervisor, Catering Assistant and Chef, honing my skills in food preparation, customer service, and team management. Additionally, I have served as an Occupational Health Technician where I performed phlebotomy, health assessments, and managed administrative tasks. My journey also includes time spent in the military as a Private in the British Army, and roles in administration and co-facilitation for a mental health support organisation.

Despite my varied career, something readers might not know is that I took a sabbatical to focus on personal growth and healing after leaving the Army. During this period, I pursued additional qualifications, including first aid and phlebotomy training, which enhanced my skills and prepared me for my subsequent roles. This time away allowed me to reset, gain new perspectives, and return to the workforce with renewed focus and dedication.

What books did you read (for research or comfort) throughout your writing process?

For comfort, I reread lots of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series

What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?

I hope they take away a sense of resilience and passion. Any reader is a perfect reader if they enter the pages with an open mind.

Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.