Writer’s passion is adventure stories
For Frank Giron — a 76-year-old author of adventure-based short stories — writing is a “healthy sickness.”
He spent his early years working as a dishwasher while following his dream of becoming a writer. At the age of 18, he was finally able to get his first two short stories published. That gave him a sense of hope and inspiration.
Giron is a spiritual individual who believes in openness, and said he believes in the old American way of life. He is not a fan of capitalism and of the larger corporations. Instead, he said he believes more in humankind’s power to succeed.
YULIYA GRINBERG: How did you feel when you got your first few stories published?
FRANK GIRON: When I had first started writing professionally, I had gotten some rejections from different publishers. So when my first story had gotten published, I felt like I could finally make it in the writing profession. I felt optimistic and hopeful. I felt good. Then when my second story had gotten published, I started crying. I felt proud and overwhelmed.
Q: What type of stories did you write?
A: I wrote adventure stories. Some of the characters that I had written about were based on real adventurous people that I had met. There was actually an Adventure Club in Los Angeles at that time. I used to go there to talk to all types of individuals.
Q: How did you know you wanted to become a writer?
A: I feel like it’s a natural gift that one has. I loved to write just about anything. I find that dialogue is more difficult to write. It can be a challenge. At a young age, I sought independence. There is good and bad in the world. But everything is a learning experience. I don’t think anything can ever be wasted, especially when it comes to a profession that you feel passionate about.
I enjoy writing about characters the most. Writing is a healthy sickness because it does not harm you in any way. It’s a profession that draws you in. And you become attached to being a writer.
Q: What advice would you give to the new writers just starting out?
A: I would tell them to write about what they know. A good writer is someone who is extremely curious about everything. Also, be yourself. Do not forget who you are. Take chances in life.
Q: What are some of the things you would change if you could?
A: I would have been even more broad-minded. You need to be open to experiences and to life in general.
Q: How many books and stories have you published?
A: More than 30 of my short adventure stories have been published. I was also able to publish one book. I wrote it in Spanish. It was a book about spirituality. It was only published in Mexico.