Interview with Devon Hewett

Author of Romantic Propaganda

Where are you from originally and where do you reside now?

I am from California. Originally I lived in San Bernardino County in various cities such as, Upland, Pomona, Chino Hills, and San Bernardino

I then moved to a small town called “Phelan” and eventually moved to Los Angeles County where I reside now.

If you currently reside somewhere besides where you were born, what’s the story that lead from there to here?

I’ve traveled to many different places. Currently, I live in Studio City which is located in Los Angeles County. Prior to that I lived in North Hollywood.

I made the decision to move to Los Angeles County where I could further my passion for writing

What made you decide to write and publish your first book?

Gaining the understanding of why people feel the way they do, I was motivated to become a voice for those who don’t have one. My first book, “Romantic Propaganda” focuses on the errors that both men and women contribute in relationships. In a feminist Era, the focus on “wrong” has been geared more to men; allowing the errors of women to become overlooked. To satisfy both justices, I became a voice that speaks out, the comforts both genders. I also decided to throw in some personal poetry that I’ve written over the years in different chapters and acts. These poems, are poetry I was inspired to write when I battled failure, loneliness, heartbreak and abandonment. I knew that someone, somewhere around the world could be comforted by the words I had to say.

How would you describe your books to first time readers?

The first half of my book takes a critical stance against the expectations both men and women have in each other. It exposes the wrong actions and perspectives on both genders and this is critical and isn’t meant to be an ear tickler.

The second have is a collection of lyrical poetry that tells the story of the human emotion if it had a voice.

I aim to make this book, and all the rest that follow a book of words that aren’t like your typical new age instagram two line poetry. My book is nearly 300 pages and the latter passages are poetry lines that take up between 1-3 pages, so bring your thinking caps on

Who do you feel is most likely to connect with the topics you write about?

Men. Mostly men because the first half is a voice for them in which there isn’t one in this new age modern poetry Renaissance. Most poetry being published by inspirational instagramers are often used to highlight the beauty and brokenness of women.

But what about men? Whose talking about them? Whose talking about them in a positive and supportive light? I want to take part in that.

What unexpected or surprising thing did you learn during the process of writing and publishing?

That we are all the same. No matter where we are on the planet or what our culture is, we all want to be loved, valued and respected.

Once I began receiving letters in the mail from fans and those that have bought my book, to emails and online messages form those who stumbled across my pages, I began to see, that my opinion was valued because I have shed insight into issues that have only been addressed in a one dimensional perspective.

I tell the truth. I tell it raw. And people like to hear and taste the truth in a more brutal way, than what others choose to sugar coat

If you could, what advice would you give to your past self before embarking on this journey?

To possess more faith in your writing and to never feel insecure about doing what you love. To be more disciplined, and never give in to fear from the doubts of those that you love. I would tell the past Devon that pain and challenge is his destiny, but a part of that destiny is to remember that he is a strong and talented individual, whom he should be grateful and proud to be

How many people would you ideally like to reach with your books?

Everyone.

Simple as that. Everyone.

Particularly, those who know how it feels to be alone.

What has been the biggest challenge and frustration during the process to date?

Feeling like I don’t belong. Anywhere. I’ve been on difficult and unstable terms with my family and friends. There were many times where I needed help, and no one could help me. My focus on the lack of support, in conjunction with feelings of abandonment became a huge distraction.

I’ve been unemployed, homeless and broke.

My heart was broken as I was in love with someone who no longer felt the same way.

I was battling issues with my spirituality and trying to finish a 300 page book because much more trialing and difficult

What’s your biggest strengths when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

My biggest strength would have to be the desire to keep writing until I am heard; which is important because someone needs to feel and understand that they are not alone in how they feel. This is a strength because it is this particular will, that will allow me to continue where others fail and give up.

What’s your biggest weakness when it comes to book a) writing, b) publishing and c) marketing?

The fear of failure, which disables me many, many times.

When do you think you will write your next book?

I am in the process now. I am currently writing four more books. All in which I am slowly simultaneously working an writing each and every day

Are you self published or did you use a hybrid publisher, or a traditional publisher?

Self published for my first few projects