Where are you in “Ten Scenes from A Typical Day in the Life of the All-Powerful Despot”?

Dead.

What would be your advice for other writers?

For God’s sake, write the kind of stories you’re not comfortable with. Don’t stick to plots you can write in your sleep. Bother yourself. Be nervous about whether you’re going too far, or revealing too much. Don’t do exactly what you did last time. Don’t try to figure out the formula of a popular market. Be like the person who accidentally walks on stage naked. Don’t worry about your dignity.

What are you reading lately?

I love thrillers and have recently made the acquaintance of a great producer of potboilers called Taylor Adams; marvelous. I find I am less likely to read series thrillers now, as I very much prefer to be surprised.

Other than writing, do you have any other creative pursuits? What do you do to relax?

Life upheaval has arranged that it has been a while since I relaxed. When I do, the cats assist. (I am a cartoonist as well, but it has been some time since last I even doodled.)

What are you working on lately? Where else can fans look for your work?

That life upheaval has slowed me to a near-stop of late, but I hope a recovery is in the offing. In the meantime, for stories very different from what you get from me here and at Nightmare, check out my contributions to Analog.