Friday, August 29, 2003
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Friday, August 29, 2003 |
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Grantville writer Wilson gets first novel published By MICHAEL BOYLAN
David A. Wilson, a lifelong Grantville resident, seems to fit all the criteria of a good horror author/playwright. An imposing figure with a shaved head but a gentle southern accent, Wilson writes every day in a home he shares with his mother. The home was built during the Civil War and a Civil-War era cannon ball lies in the front yard, surrounded by aromatic bushes and flowers. Inside his home Wilson has displayed a mixture of Civil War memorabilia and classic monster movies collectibles. It is said that a good writer writes about what he knows and Wilson knows a lot about both the Civil War and classic horror tales. "Growing up in the 1960s, I was a fan of films that starred Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff and Lon Chaney," said Wilson. "I also read every issue of Famous Monsters of Filmland magazine, which was an homage to the great monsters of film." Wilson has taken his love of these characters and classic horror stories and has written several plays, a number of short stories and his first novel, "Curse of the Vampire," which was recently published and is currently on sale. "Curse of the Vampire" is about a vampire who comes to America during the Civil War, seeking revenge on a family who he feels has wronged him. During his search, he feeds indiscriminately on both Union and Confederate soldiers and it is up to two doctors, one from either side, to cast aside their differences and work together to eliminate the vampire. Wilson describes himself as an old fashioned horror fan and his work reflects that. "You won't catch me at 'Freddy vs. Jason,'" he said. "To me, that is not horror. It is just gross." Among his literary influences, Wilson cites Bram Stoker, who penned the classic tale of "Dracula," and Anne Rice, whose vampire novels revolutionized the industry. Years ago, before "Curse of the Vampire" was even close to completion, Wilson sent Rice a letter, asking for publishing advice. Rice responded with a two-page letter, offering encouragement and advice, even stating that "Interview with a Vampire" had been rejected a number of times before it got published. Wilson has hung on to the letter and it has been preserved in a scrapbook with other mementos of his career. Since "Curse of the Vampire's" publication, he has sent her an autographed copy, thanking her for her support. While "Curse of the Vampire" is starting to find its audience, his Barbara Nolan plays have already found an audience that looks forward to the weekend before Halloween each year, when Wilson presents his comedic plays at the Grantville Auditorium. His first play, "Barbara Nolan Meets the Vampire," deals with vampire author Nolan, who is also a vampire herself, meeting a vampire who wishes her to write his tale. He does not know she is a vampire but soon finds out. They become fast friends but find themselves on the run from two fearless vampire hunters in the sequel "Barbara Nolan Writes Again." Last year's play, "Barbara Nolan Meets the Werewolf," was perhaps the best-received play yet. The Nolan books are being banned by the city council and the Rev. Terry Smallwell, who harbors a "hairy" secret. Wilson took the stage to play Smallwell last year but will have a much smaller part in this year's Nolan play, "Barbara Nolan Meets The Mummy." The Nolan plays are a way to raise money for the Grantville Auditorium, a venue dear to Wilson's heart. This year may be the last Nolan play for awhile but Wilson promises that there will be a play at the auditorium every Halloween. While the majority of people enjoy the Nolan plays, which are family-friendly and more humorous than horrific, Wilson has encountered some criticism. Answering his critics, Wilson said, "I don't mean any harm and I am deeply religious myself. These plays and stories are meant to entertain and good always triumphs over evil." As Wilson has continued writing, he has become more comfortable in his ability. He cites the support of the Coweta Writers Group, of which he is the co-founder, as one thing that has helped him grow as a writer. "I was once told that good things happen at writers workshops and I have found that to be true," said Wilson. The Newnan-Coweta Writers Group meets the second Thursday of every month at the Newnan-Coweta library and is open to the public. Wilson is very grateful to everyone who has helped him get "Curse of the Vampire" published, offering thanks to Angie at the Grantville library, where he used their computer; Steve Roberson, who helped edit the book for him; the Coweta Writers Group for their help; Publish America, who published the book; and Scott's Bookstore, who has sold the book and held a signing for him. He also believes his faith in God and his support from his mother, Emily Gene Smith Wilson, have been extremely helpful. Now that one book is on the shelves, Wilson is re-examining his earlier attempts and is trying to get them ready for publishing. As for advice for other writers, Wilson suggests persistence. He has written every day for 12 years, only missing one day in that time. He plans on keeping to that schedule, despite having rehearsals and a show to put on in a little over two months. "Curse of the Vampire" is available at Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com, as well as through Wilson's Web site, www.david-a-wilson.com. It can also be purchased at Scott's Bookstore in Newnan and may be in other stores soon. "Barbara Nolan Meets The Mummy" will be presented at the Grantville Auditorium Saturday, Oct. 25. Tickets are $3 for adults, $2 for kids and free for children coming to the show in costume.
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