For Michael Xavier Awogbemi, writing is more than an extension of his imagination; it’s his superpower. The fantasy writer loves playing God with his characters and manipulating their worlds as he deems fit. In this Litverse interview, he talks about what it means to be the first writer in his family and bagging an international book deal for his debut novel.
In this interview, Zia sits down with Michael, who she dubs Professor X, about this superpower has shaped his life.
Describe yourself in one sentence.
Professor X: Esoteric. Oops, I thought I read one word, lol. But then again, if I’m being honest, that’s the word that sums me up. I’m someone whose art will be marvelled at but will be understood by a select few
So going off of that, who is Michael Xavier?
Professor X: Michael Xavier is an American-born Nigerian Esoteric being who has the ability to blend reality and fiction. A walking contradiction of emotions as you can’t decipher how he’s feeling or what’s going through his head. He dwells in there and he’s very careful about what and who he lets in, also making him an advocate for mental health. That’s about it, I guess 😊
When did you start writing?
Professor X: I started at age 12 due to depression; it was the only way I could air out my feelings as I was an extreme introvert
Does that mean your works were very heavy?
Professor X: Pretty much, sometimes happy because I realized I could bend reality as I was also a big fan of cartoons. Still am 😊
A cartoon stan, we endorse. How does it feel when you bend realities to fit your perspective?
Professor X: It’s amazing, honestly; it began by seeing my imagination as my kingdom, my domain where I rule, so bringing that into reality is fantastic; the same way I control my subjects in there, I can bend the mind and emotions of my readers as I deem fit
Agba king. Does that mean that you’re a planner type of writer?
Professor X: Hmmm, not exactly, I will let you in on my process. My imagination is fueled by music. I, sometimes, take long walks while listening to songs that put my imagination “on steroids”. When I get that, I sketch what I see in my head, then I write it out either in prose or poetry form. Sometimes the writing can come before the sketches
Oh you sketch too?
Professor X: Yeah, but not like Da Vinci-level biko. Then again, I’d have you know that it was with this same process that I was able to complete the first instalment of my upcoming franchise The book is titled “Oluse: The Genesis”
Can’t wait! What’s it about?
Professor X: It’s the story of my life, combined with Yoruba mythology and scriptural allegory ( the holy bible). I’ve been able to secure a publishing deal with Inkwell publishers. it’s an indie publishing company based in Atlanta, GA, USA.
Getting a publishing deal means that you’re really taking this writing thing as a proper career, yes?
Professor X: Yes, I am, there’s actually a much much bigger incentive, but that will be saved for later
And how does your family feel about that?
Professor X: They are EXREMELY supportive, especially since I’m the only writer in my bloodline, lol
That’s very nice. How do you deal with creative block?
Professor X: Just like every writer, I have struggled with this too. However, my process is not for everyone. I see writer’s block as my “kingdom” needing a break; then I continue to listen to songs I enjoy, not with the purpose of revitalization but for entertainment then out of nowhere, the ginger comes back on. Creativity is a current; you cannot beat it into submission; you flow with it.
This is so real. You mention music a lot; what impact does it have on your work?
Professor X: As I mentioned earlier, it is the fuel on which my imagination runs. Fun fact: EVERY chapter in my book has a soundtrack. The very song that inspired the imagination and construction that birthed the chapter
You’re constructing a playlist at the beginning of the book for us?
Professor X: Yes, yes I am. for every chapter, that way, you’d be able to see the movie before it comes out
You started writing pretty early; as you’ve grown and matured, how has your writing grown with you?
Professor X: First off, grown and matured? I’m still a baby, man. But yeah, writing grew with me because whatever you don’t nuture will die. I use it in all scenarios of my life. When I’m shooting shot ( especially this, OMG😭😭😭) You cannot shame the shameless. Trying to pass off a message because I don’t know how to speak with you mortals.
Obviously, your work is very African; what do you think about the African literary space?
Professor X: Picture a very malnourished child in the middle of an elegant buffet. So many options to choose from but needs guidance else it is that very thing you think it needs that would kill said child, especially overfed under such a health condition. Africa’s literary space is said malnourished child, alive and in need of nourishment, the elegant buffet? Multiple stories to choose from, the well-fed dignitaries? ( Did I mention this earlier) , that’s the world waiting for us. Basically, we are the centre of the world right now, all eyes on African storytelling. But it’s left to and for us to feed ourselves ( with the right dosage of course) and we will shock the world
This is an angle I hadn’t considered. How do you hope to impact this space with your work?
Professor X: To just prove that it is possible. And one can make a lifelong career off this
Which authors inspire your work?
Professor X: Wole Soyinka and Neil gaiman
Do you have anything out so far? what has been the reception to it?
Professor X: No, actually. This book is my firstborn.
And what do you hope the reception is like to it?
Professor X: Omo, this is my life’s work (literally) and I’m putting in EVERYTHING I have. I’m talking artwork and animation videos for promotion. Just so someone can donate to my ministry 🤲
For those of us expecting the book, what do you want to say?
Professor X: The biggest franchise to ever come out of this continent
