J.J. Campbell On Books And Writing

For my latest author interview, I turned to J.J. Campbell. He’s co-author of “Altered States of the Unflinching Souls,” which was published last month.

Campbell lives in Brookville, Ohio.

This interview has been edited lightly.

Would you tell me a little bit about your new book?

Casey Renee Kiser mentioned to me that she wanted to do a book with me. The funny thing was I had wanted to work with her for years, so this was a chance I jumped at. She definitely had a vision for the book and what kind of poems she wanted.

Are there any particular themes or ideas that the book addresses?

The usual trappings of a society where you don’t seem to fit in. And all the hijinks that come from that life.

How long did it take to write? Do you have a writing routine?

The process probably took around six months or so. It certainly made me really try to come up with some new poems, which hasn’t exactly been easy for me recently.

My routine is more or less, always have pen and paper nearby because you never know when the poems will come. Now, there are times where I will sit down and force myself to write. But, those never seem to churn out my best work. Of course, those poems usually hit me in the shower or on the toilet.

What was it like to collaborate with Casey Renee Kiser?

It was kind of seat of your pants while racing down a highway over 100 miles per hour. I tend to handle chaos pretty well, so I really didn’t mind it. She has a billion thoughts running through her at any given time and I just tried to stay on that bull until I was eventually thrown off.

How did the publishing process work?

She handled everything. All I really needed to do was sign a few books and mail them back to her.

Any big projects in the works?

Thankfully no. Most of my time is spent taking care of my disabled mother. I imagine if I were a little more tech savvy I would truly embrace the digital world, but at 48, I really don’t want to learn new tricks.