What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write See You In Eden: The Short Stories of Leonid Pekarovsky?
I was inspired to write this book, “My Personal Life. The Life of an Immigrant.” It was inspired by a time of disappointment and a time of victories.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of See You In Eden: The Short Stories of Leonid Pekarovsky, what would they be?
If I were asked which songs I would choose for my heroes, I would say that the songs of Vladimir Vysotsky, the great Russian bard, are the best fit. Because they are extraordinarily humorous, and at the same time, they inspire one to fight.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
My favorite reading genre is the short story genre. My favorite writers are the great Chekhov and the great American writer Edgar Allan Poe. Why? Because in a concise story, much can be expressed, just like in poetry. And if you have a talent for storytelling, no novel can surpass a short story.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
I consider one of the greatest Russian writers of the 20th century to be Mikhail Bulgakov, and I would like to reread his novel “The Master and Margarita.”
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
In my book, I consider one of the most expressive stories to be “Ten Agorot,” because I explore the small things that influence our larger life. “Ten Agorot” is like ten cents. It is about this small coin that I write.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
Before I sit down to write, I always have to listen to classical music, especially Chopin. That’s my little quirk—classical music.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
I have a philosophy by which I live. It is the philosophy of the ancient Stoics: to always move forward, never give up, and never be discouraged. Because life is one, and it must be lived in such a way that there is no agonizing regret at the end.
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
I want the reader to read my book and remember that I write about funny situations, and for people who observe the world around them and actively participate in life to never lose heart, always remain cheerful, and be kind.
Leonid Pekarovsky is the author of the new book See You In Eden: The Short Stories of Leonid Pekarovsky
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