Interview with Philip Bentall, Author of Song of a Stranger

What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Song of a Stranger?

As with all my books, I start with some kind of scene in my head. It could be a conversation between two people that sets it off, or in the case of Song of a Stranger, a teacher receiving an email from a Japanese film-star asking for his help, and I go from there and see where it takes me.

What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?

When it comes to fiction, I read a mix of genres from noirish mysteries to writers considered more literary. My writing no doubt reflects my reading in this respect, which can make the task of specifying a genre difficult at times.

What books are on your TBR pile right now?

The Power and the Glory by Graham Greene.

What scene in your book was your favorite to write?

I’m not sure about the writing of it but when it came to reading it back it was the chapter that begins at Heathrow Airport when the main character realises things are not quite what they seem.

Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)

Not that I can think of, though sitting alone in a room for long periods of time thinking up stories might be considered quirky by some.

Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?

Not particularly, though there’s a character in Song of a Stranger who’s fond of saying, ‘if you’re not going to live now, when are you?’ which is perhaps worth bearing in mind.

If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?

When fiction feels like it really happened, although by definition we know it didn’t, and lives on in your head – as a reader, at least, that is what I hope to experience.