Last night, after three years and eight months of hard work that began on Block Island, RI, I finished the third and final draft of my novel "Lux ex Tenebris." I can't believe how far I've come with this book and never in my wildest dreams did I think it would develop into a 350 page, 90,000 body of work. During the course of my entire graduate school experience I have slaved over it, month after month, taking it through four fiction/novel workshops at City College, slaving over re-writes and agonizing sessions where I wondered what book were other people reading during critiques. I'm glad I stuck with it. Perhaps it's a part of my "Taurus" nature - stubborn, determined and thick-skinned. Wanting to see a project through and make it into something special. Not only do I believe I've done just that, I also have left the door wide open for it become a series.
So what is "Lux ex Tenebris" about? It chronicles the lives of two men: "Cupid" - an African-American man born on Chicago's south side, who has suffered tremendous heartache at the early loss of his parents and is raised by his grandmother and grandfather, and Antonio "Tony Cupp" Cuppicciotti, Jr - an Italian-American man born in "Little Sicily" on Chicago's north side, who has long lived under the shadow of his celebrated father - Antonio Cuppicciotti, Sr. "Tony Senior" became a superstar in the Chicago Police Department due to his legendary take down of the Ferruccio Crime Family. "Cupid" (a nickname given to him by his mother after giving birth to him on Valentine's Day) and Tony Junior both do seemingly evil things, but Cupid serves as an anti-hero who struggles to find meaning in his life while Tony Junior was affected by a single moment from his childhood that puts him on a path of rancor and vitriol. Their lives parallel for most of the book until a chance occurrence brings them together. Can they put out the fire that burns within them and make a return to love? I guess you'll have to read the book and find out!
This became my masters thesis somewhere around a year and a half ago. I had another project in mind, but this book took up so much of my time that I thought it would make a great thesis. It really feels great being done with it, and my intention is to locate an agent who will hopefully land it with a traditional publisher. Why this, you ask? I believe not only could this book fare well in a larger marketplace, but I can also see a film project come out of this as well, in addition to a three or four book series. I will consider later projects for Another Shore Press, LLC, but this could be the one that gives me the exposure I'm looking for.
We'll see.
Showing posts with label Chicago. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chicago. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Changes
This has been an interesting couple of months for me. My business has officially launched its first publications, I'm in the process of completing my master's degree and am making plans on my future. I have to admit, I'm both excited and nervous because I'm actually on the verge of really living my dream. I've always wanted to write while also being in full control of my destiny, which is really not an easy task. Every step I've taken over the last five and a half years has been carefully thought out, and to see it come so close to fruition is such a blessing. While I'm glad to be finishing at The City College of New York in December, I'm really going to miss it. A good portion of what I'm doing now originated from being in the MFA program and I really owe a lot to CCNY as well as my professors and classmates, some of whom I'm going to be working with professionally.
In terms of what happens after I graduate, I plan on hustling - getting out there and telling as many people as I can about me and the press and what I'm trying to accomplish with all of this. I also have this dream of making my hometown of Chicago proud by representing the city through my art. My inspiration, drive and determination all come from that "Windy City by the Lake", and so often Chicago is overlooked for being a hotbed of culture, art and music (which it has been for many years). I think with the innovations in technology and a growing movement of new and fresh independent artistry, the ability of writers to get their work published and in front of the reader is changing the entire publishing industry. Chicago has long had a thriving literary scene and the list of talented authors from the city is long, but now there's going to be an upswing because more people are able to more things on their own. That's going to be a wonderful thing to witness and I plan on being a part of it.
There are more changes coming, but I'll hold onto those for now. I don't want to give away too much too fast! :-)
Dave
In terms of what happens after I graduate, I plan on hustling - getting out there and telling as many people as I can about me and the press and what I'm trying to accomplish with all of this. I also have this dream of making my hometown of Chicago proud by representing the city through my art. My inspiration, drive and determination all come from that "Windy City by the Lake", and so often Chicago is overlooked for being a hotbed of culture, art and music (which it has been for many years). I think with the innovations in technology and a growing movement of new and fresh independent artistry, the ability of writers to get their work published and in front of the reader is changing the entire publishing industry. Chicago has long had a thriving literary scene and the list of talented authors from the city is long, but now there's going to be an upswing because more people are able to more things on their own. That's going to be a wonderful thing to witness and I plan on being a part of it.
There are more changes coming, but I'll hold onto those for now. I don't want to give away too much too fast! :-)
Dave
Saturday, March 26, 2011
What's going on?
Hey there! Sorry I've been off the radar for a while, but I've been so busy with school and working on my projects. Fear not! I'm still on the horizon, doing what I do best - hustle! I'm really excited about the possibilities that I see coming down the pike and I'm working toward a long future as a full time writer.
Very recently I attended a book signing event and discussion of Walter Mosley's new book, titled "When the Thrill is Gone." The book is the third installment by Mosley of the Leonid McGill series, and judging by the reviews and the reading he gave, it appears to be quite good. Mosley's ability to get inside the mind of his characters as they process what they see and feel makes reading his work such a delight. I've bought a lot of his books, most of which are still waiting for me to read (and I will, once I get through with this semester) so I look forward to learning all about McGill and what he's up to in this post-Obama society that we live in.
Another writer I love to read is Sara Paretsky. I love her V.I Warshawski books coupled with her rich descriptions of my hometown Chicago. In fact, Paretsky is SO good with her books that I've actually forgiven her for living on the South Side (White Sox Country) while being an unabashed Cubs fan. Sara! If you're reading this blog, I love your work, despite rooting for the North Side team!
I also attended the AWP Conference in Washington, DC this past February. I had a GREAT time and next year's event will be in Chicago. I will definitely be there hawking my books and talking to people, trying to get the word out.
It's my intention, as my new work gets ready for print, to push myself to become the very best I can be. I feel like my years here at The City College of New York have been so beneficial and have helped refine my work to the point where I've become a far better writer because of it. I think I can do anything I set my mind to, and I'm intent on making it on my own. I've chosen two incredible writers as mentors and have learned so much from their work and listening to them speak, but I'm well on my way to making a name and a style all my own. Someday I hope to be able to influence someone to do the same thing.
Who knows?
Very recently I attended a book signing event and discussion of Walter Mosley's new book, titled "When the Thrill is Gone." The book is the third installment by Mosley of the Leonid McGill series, and judging by the reviews and the reading he gave, it appears to be quite good. Mosley's ability to get inside the mind of his characters as they process what they see and feel makes reading his work such a delight. I've bought a lot of his books, most of which are still waiting for me to read (and I will, once I get through with this semester) so I look forward to learning all about McGill and what he's up to in this post-Obama society that we live in.
Another writer I love to read is Sara Paretsky. I love her V.I Warshawski books coupled with her rich descriptions of my hometown Chicago. In fact, Paretsky is SO good with her books that I've actually forgiven her for living on the South Side (White Sox Country) while being an unabashed Cubs fan. Sara! If you're reading this blog, I love your work, despite rooting for the North Side team!
I also attended the AWP Conference in Washington, DC this past February. I had a GREAT time and next year's event will be in Chicago. I will definitely be there hawking my books and talking to people, trying to get the word out.
It's my intention, as my new work gets ready for print, to push myself to become the very best I can be. I feel like my years here at The City College of New York have been so beneficial and have helped refine my work to the point where I've become a far better writer because of it. I think I can do anything I set my mind to, and I'm intent on making it on my own. I've chosen two incredible writers as mentors and have learned so much from their work and listening to them speak, but I'm well on my way to making a name and a style all my own. Someday I hope to be able to influence someone to do the same thing.
Who knows?
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Progress
I'm working on several new projects for the upcoming year. I've recently completed Mystery, Malevolence & Murder - Volume Two, which will be released under Another Shore Press sometime late 2011 or early 2012. I'm also working on "The Merchant Chronicles", a short series about an old man who owns a Curio Shop in Chicago and sells strange "knickknacks" that seem to have a life of their own. At the moment "Lux Ex Tenebris" is entering its third re-write, and since I'm in graduate school it will end up being my thesis project. I'm expected to graduate on time (December 2011). I love City College very much and the experience has been wonderful, but I'm ready to get out there and hustle, make my own way. My time will come, I just need to be a little more patient. I was once told that you should be careful about wishing away your life. I agree wholeheartedly, and since I'm now a year away from my goal at CCNY I need to absorb every moment. I certainly plan on it.
Stay tuned, folks. I've got a lot more in store in the near future.
Dave
Stay tuned, folks. I've got a lot more in store in the near future.
Dave
Sunday, October 25, 2009
"Cuckoo's" Ghost! by David T. Boyd
Read this and see if you can tell me who it's about!
Peace,
Dave
---------------------------
“Cuckoo’s” Ghost!
By David T. Boyd
Once upon a stormy night,
At home alone I shook with fright!
A nightmare plagued my weary head,
Whilst’ I had turned throughout my bed!
This Hallow’s Eve, my family gone,
To Fifty-Fifth and Avalon!
Grim thoughts abound that made me cringe,
The Cuckoo-Man might take revenge!
He knew the art of pay-to-play,
The haters called him “disengaged!”
Yet it is he, with haughty laugh,
Who’ll burn them all within his wrath!
The howling wind blew forth my door,
And spindly shadows crossed the floor!
All that’s sane has neared the fringe,
As Cuckoo-Man takes his revenge!
I shan’t forget the breaking news,
His home chock full of TV crews!
Hearts dropped deeper than a well,
Our lives are now a living hell!
And he smiled wide, his hair intact,
Said “told you all I smelled a rat!”
Yet it was clear through eyes that singe,
This Cuckoo-Man would have revenge!
I rose from bed, I could not sleep,
Despite warm milk and counting sheep!
Lightning flashed and thunder clapped,
A subtle chill crawled down my back!
To you, I say this much is clear,
‘tis not the darkness that I fear!
For what creates the slightest tinge,
Is Cuckoo-Man bent on revenge!
Monsters of the Midway ran,
‘Hyde’ went Jekyll near ’The Dan’!
Shockwaves bolted through the Loop,
‘Canary-ville’ had flown its coop!
Yes, he’s BACK, and might I add,
Chi-town’s gone stark raving mad!
All mankind shall soon unhinge,
If Cuckoo-Man enacts revenge!
Hark! I heard a sound nearby,
A ghostly thing flew ‘cross my eye!
I had sensed it coming close,
Time to leave before I’m toast!
Sickly fingers grabbed my hand,
“I’m no crook!” it said again!
Its grip was tight, it caused a twinge,
And so began Cuckoo’s revenge!
“Cuckoo! Cuckoo!” the Ghost just clucked,
And since I’m not a sitting duck!
I dashed in haste toward the yard,
But Cuckoo’s Ghost, it was not far!
I made a beeline down the block,
But I forgot my Ford was locked!
It was his name he must avenge,
The Cuckoo-Man wants his revenge!
It snatched me high up by my leg,
“LET ME GO!” I cried and begged!
I looked into its piercing eyes,
And knew I was about to die!
Without a word it took its due,
It made me wear the Cubby-Blue!
Lights out folks, this was the end,
The Cuckoo-Man had his revenge!
“NOT THE CUBS!” I shrieked and screamed,
Waking from this nasty dream!
The morning sun replaced the gray,
And I had lived to see the day!
But I shall wait for June the Third,
For that’s when Cuckoo’s voice is heard!
Will we be free or will we binge?
Will Cuckoo-Man… commence revenge?
Peace,
Dave
---------------------------
“Cuckoo’s” Ghost!
By David T. Boyd
Once upon a stormy night,
At home alone I shook with fright!
A nightmare plagued my weary head,
Whilst’ I had turned throughout my bed!
This Hallow’s Eve, my family gone,
To Fifty-Fifth and Avalon!
Grim thoughts abound that made me cringe,
The Cuckoo-Man might take revenge!
He knew the art of pay-to-play,
The haters called him “disengaged!”
Yet it is he, with haughty laugh,
Who’ll burn them all within his wrath!
The howling wind blew forth my door,
And spindly shadows crossed the floor!
All that’s sane has neared the fringe,
As Cuckoo-Man takes his revenge!
I shan’t forget the breaking news,
His home chock full of TV crews!
Hearts dropped deeper than a well,
Our lives are now a living hell!
And he smiled wide, his hair intact,
Said “told you all I smelled a rat!”
Yet it was clear through eyes that singe,
This Cuckoo-Man would have revenge!
I rose from bed, I could not sleep,
Despite warm milk and counting sheep!
Lightning flashed and thunder clapped,
A subtle chill crawled down my back!
To you, I say this much is clear,
‘tis not the darkness that I fear!
For what creates the slightest tinge,
Is Cuckoo-Man bent on revenge!
Monsters of the Midway ran,
‘Hyde’ went Jekyll near ’The Dan’!
Shockwaves bolted through the Loop,
‘Canary-ville’ had flown its coop!
Yes, he’s BACK, and might I add,
Chi-town’s gone stark raving mad!
All mankind shall soon unhinge,
If Cuckoo-Man enacts revenge!
Hark! I heard a sound nearby,
A ghostly thing flew ‘cross my eye!
I had sensed it coming close,
Time to leave before I’m toast!
Sickly fingers grabbed my hand,
“I’m no crook!” it said again!
Its grip was tight, it caused a twinge,
And so began Cuckoo’s revenge!
“Cuckoo! Cuckoo!” the Ghost just clucked,
And since I’m not a sitting duck!
I dashed in haste toward the yard,
But Cuckoo’s Ghost, it was not far!
I made a beeline down the block,
But I forgot my Ford was locked!
It was his name he must avenge,
The Cuckoo-Man wants his revenge!
It snatched me high up by my leg,
“LET ME GO!” I cried and begged!
I looked into its piercing eyes,
And knew I was about to die!
Without a word it took its due,
It made me wear the Cubby-Blue!
Lights out folks, this was the end,
The Cuckoo-Man had his revenge!
“NOT THE CUBS!” I shrieked and screamed,
Waking from this nasty dream!
The morning sun replaced the gray,
And I had lived to see the day!
But I shall wait for June the Third,
For that’s when Cuckoo’s voice is heard!
Will we be free or will we binge?
Will Cuckoo-Man… commence revenge?
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