Today, we are interviewing Failus Washington, an author and storytelling enthusiast. Failus had self-published his first book Blur Havok: Paragon War on Amazon in 2019. His recent book Blur Havok: Inciting Incident is now available on Amazon.
How did you get into what you do right now? Please tell us more about your journey?
Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always loved telling stories by making comics, writing random novels and short stories, or making short films and videos.
Who are your role models?
My role models include Christopher Nolan, The Russo Brothers, Todd Phillips, and James Gunn. Even though I write books, movies, and novel storytelling aren’t too different, and much can be learned from both mediums.
What inspires you?
God, I’m inspired by everything; regular life, movies, events, history, even jokes.
Please tell us about your book series “Blur Havok”.
My book series “Blur Havok” takes place in the middle of a civil war between two factions; Blur Havok and The Synthetic Legion. The Legion is a faction full of Synthetics, a race of organic mechanical beings of unknown origin. Alastor Hacon is the irreverent and wise-cracking leader of Blur Havok, who has made it his mission to bring peace to the country of Valhalla. But because of the delicate nature of racial tensions, this is easier said than done.
What’s your most memorable experience?
There are so many memorable experiences I’ve had. It’s kind of hard to pick just one. 😂 But I’ll say that one awesome experience was being in this movie called “The DUFF”. I was an extra, got to laugh at Mae Whitman, and I was in one of the trailers. So that was cool.
Which social media channels work best for promoting your work? What exactly do you do on the social media channel that makes it work for you?
Instagram, because “Blur Havok” is a character-driven franchise, and I wanted to make characters and an art style that brought the whole world to life. Unlike most novels, I wanted to give readers concrete and vivid depictions of each character. With Instagram being a platform focusing on pictures, what better way to let everyone see the character designs?
What’s your greatest fear?
Either drowning or… Nah, just drowning. 🤣
Looking back, what’s one thing you wish you understood better before you ever got started?
I wish I understood the publishing process a little better and what financial needs to create a book required. I jumped in headfirst and came up with an empty wallet, but it’s worth every penny.
What are the strategies that helped you become successful in your journey?
I watch videos by this YouTuber named “MauLer” (yes, the long-man). He helped me understand what consistent writing is and why it’s important to all forms of storytelling.
What keeps you going when things get tough?
I Google myself. I’m not there yet, but being Google-able is a sign that I’m doing something right. 😂
Any message for our readers.
I want to be a part of a new wave of artists that will shift the entertainment culture, and I want other artists to be out there with me. If you have any ideas, jump on them, and work hard. We can be a new generation.
How can people connect with you?
Either DM me on Instagram or email me at blurhavokofficial@gmail.com. Check all about “Blur Havok” here.