An Interview with Michael Colon

Michael Colon is a creative freelance writer and novelist, born and raised in the Big Apple, New York City. He uses his craft to profoundly impact the lives of others with thought-provoking words that breathe life into his characters. He often equates his writing to painting masterpieces with prose. His inspiration comes from various societal abnormalities, cultural differences, and his own life experiences. When he isn’t writing, he enjoys working out, watching sports, visiting museums, and exploring nature trails.

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

What made me want to become a writer was when various platforms and magazines accepted my art. Writing feels like a natural way for me to communicate what I am passionate about. I often live in my thoughts throughout the day, and creative writing blends perfectly with me, showing others what’s in my art in a tangible format.

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

I played semi-professional basketball for a couple of years for a New York-based traveling team. Before I thought about writing stories and being a published author, basketball was my life. I played every day as a kid.

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

To be honest, I figured out the title of the book not too long after writing the first chapter. The title describes the story as the main character having a gift to share with the world. The name Aelius is a character who jumpstarts the adventure that takes place throughout the story.

How did it feel when you first saw your book cover? Or when you first held your book in your hands?

I was taken aback by how well my publisher did with the artwork. Holding the book in my hands for the first time felt surreal. I’m sure most authors can relate to this feeling. It’s a moment of feeling proud of oneself and of the possibilities that can come from my work.

What new writing projects are you currently working on? Or, other projects that are not writing?

I am working on a sequel to The Gift From Aelius and plan to write more fiction after that. My goal is to have a short film made after one of my books. I would also like to write more poetry projects as well.

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