Writer’s Corner — Terrance Griep

Where did you grow up, and what was that like?

My earliest years were spent as a Navy brat. My parents were both native Minnesotans, but I was born in Naval Submarine Base New London’s hospital. My first memories are of nearly being swept out to sea. Things got wilder from there.

Describe your perfect day.

I measure my time in weeks, not days. Ideally, I write no fewer than 12 hours, six days a week. Hopefully, I can spend a few hours with family and friends during the weekends. After I do, it’s right back into the word mines I go. Most people would go nuts working such a schedule, but since I’m already nuts, it works for me. Oh, and I’m one of those weirdos who likes spending time at the gym, so that’ll factor in somehow.

How long have you been a writer, and how’d you get into it?

I started trying to get professionally published while still in college at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. After many, many unfulfilled solicitations, I finally got my first assignment from a California-based comic book publisher called Heroic Publishing. I’ve written dozens of stories for them, including two which guest star my wicked professional wrestling alter ego, Tommy “The SpiderBaby” Saturday. For DC Comics, I’ve written Superman, Batman, Green Lantern, the Riddler, the Question and Scooby-Doo. In 1999, I first enquired about writing for Lavender Magazine… and I was rejected! Eventually, persistence (and a fortuitous editorial change) saved the day.

What are you reading/watching/listening to these days?

Whenever I drive, I listen to audiobooks. Currently, I’m enjoying “The Dark Tower V:  Wolves of the Calla” written by Stephen King and read by George Guidall. The two before that were “The Haunting of Hill House,” written by Shirley Jackson and read by Bernadette Dunn, and “Blood Meridian,” written by Cormac McCarthy and read by Richard Poe. If you find Stephen King’s work distressing, be sure to steer clear of Cormac McCarthy’s stuff!

Who or what inspires you?

Superman. Lord Acton tells us, “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Even though I freely acknowledge that the Man of Steel is fictional, I love the notion of someone who possesses absolute power and is corrupted not at all. These days, it feels like everyone and everything is corrupt or corrupted or corrupting — it’s inspiring to find one dependable exception.

Favorite qualities in another person?

In every relationship, I insist on being the craziest person. Also, I prefer spending time with people who are well-read — they receive bonus points if they’re fans of King, Jackson and McCarthy.

Least favorite?

A lack of personal responsibility. No one likes to own mistakes, but that’s where personal power lies.

Where’s your happy place?

Honestly, in my home office, tickety-tapping on my boardety-keying. As an homage to Superman, I call it my Fortress of Solitude.

What is your motto?

“Different strokes for different folks.” The biggest problems in this world are all caused by people telling other people how to live. Well, that and greed. Life isn’t always fair, but it’s always life … so get out there and stroke it!