Today we're very happy to have interviewed the talented Felix Odih, author of The Giants. We took a look at Felix's inspirations, the way he writes and took a look at some features in his novel.
When did you first know you wanted to be a writer?
January, 2009
Do you have any favourite books?
If you’re talking about my books, yes: Betrayed by His Blood – cultural fiction, A Ride on Tiger’s Back – political fiction, Identical Twins – literary fiction.
What were some ideas for this book that you didn’t end up using?
Activities in the political theatre of Africa are intensive and mind-boggling. Unused ideas were numerous and have given birth to 2 titles, namely: A Ride on Tiger’s Back – finished and awaiting publication, Tormented – this title is about 70% finished. Like this work, they are both political fictions.
Where do you write from?
I started from my village, when I was writing Betrayed by His Blood – my first title, yet to be published. I later relocated to Lagos. Lagos is the commercial, economic and industrial hub of Nigeria where almost all the facilities required are handy.
Who are some of the authors that inspire you?
The late Chinua Achebe in particular.
What do you like to do when you're not writing?
I derive pleasure in reading, discussing politics and issues of the moment, mentoring the young ones, taking active part in community development and, Christian activities.
When did you first become interested in politics?
All my years in the bank, I was a trade union leader. When I left the service of the bank, I won election as the president-general of my community development union (Onicha Olona Development Union). These offices afforded me the opportunity of meeting with politicians of all shades and opinions. To answer your question straight, I became interested in politics in the early 1980s.
How did you research your country’s culture?
Nigeria is a multicultural country, having more than 50 distinct cultures, well over 250 languages and innumerable dialects.
Why did you choose to comment in a comical or satirical way?
I am a poet with more than 6 good titles. My mind creates a dramatic picture of what I want to write about or say at any given time. Poems are my style of pictorial illustrations of the chapters they relate to. To some extent, they serve as the trademark of my literary works, distinct from other authors.
What was the hardest part of writing this book?
I have tried to present a fiction despite the urge not to do so.
Did you learn anything from writing this book and what was it?
Writing generally is not a cheap project. It is tedious, tiring and sometimes frustrating if you are not meeting up your target. I have learnt to be patient, thorough, focused and persevering.
If you could review Olympia publishers in a few words, what would they be?
I see a group of simple, friendly, honest and hardworking people whose corporate hallmark is quality and integrity.
To get yourself a copy of The Giants, just click here!
