Norman Dixon is a classically trained Cartoonist with a BA in Ilustration/Cartooning from the School of Visual Arts. He is an artist, author and father of two amazing little girls.
What first attracted you to horror writing?
The obvious answer here is Stephen King’s IT, but more than that I think it was also David Cronenberg’s Videodrome and the whole idea of body horror. It comes in many shapes and sizes and when executed well it’s impactful beyond measure.
What is your most notable work?
The Creepers which started as an indie title but is now part of the Permuted Press family. Book 1- Born in Winter is out now.
What are you working on now?
Two series. One is an urban fantasy – the first two books are done and I plan to release in the spring. The other is a deep fantasy story that spans several generations and, right now, it’s simply my project x as it’s going to be some time before it’s ready. It’s deeply rooted in Beowulf and medieval literature but set in modern times.
How much planning and research do you undertake before writing?
I usually get an idea and just start writing and research as things come up. With my current work in progress it’s too deep to do that. I am currently plotting and running multiple timelines.
Describe your writing routine.
No matter what, I try to write at least 500 words a day. Most of the time I’m over but, on occasion, I don’t get any (or very little) down. The most important thing is to write daily.
Who do you admire in the horror world?
Stephen King, George Romero, Mark Z. Danielewski
Do you prefer all out gore or psychological chills?
Gore on occasion, but really I love the horror of isolation that dystopia brings.
Why should people read your work?
It’s not the same old ZA novel. Sure, it has some classic tropes, but really it’s got roots in My Side of the Mountain. The trilogy is Bobby’s journey from a child to a grown man. It’s about loss and love and life in a gritty, very bleak, world.
Recommend a book.
House of Leaves is always first on this list. It’s interactive but it also has some of the most frightening atmosphere ever put into book form. Atmosphere is the key to really great horror and Mark Z. Danielewski just owns it in House of Leaves. The quarter scene; just remember that and hit me up on twitter about it @normandixonjr. It’s mind blowing.
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