No, that’s not a quote by William Shakespeare, J.D. Salinger or Jane Austen.
These insightful words come from accomplished musician, music journalist and author Joe Matera, who will share more of his wisdom at an upcoming event.
On Thursday, May 29, at Shepparton Library, and Friday, May 30, at Euroa Library, Mr Matera will host an author talk and writing workshop.
“If you’re an aspiring writer, you’ll learn what it’s like to be a writer and what sort of stuff you need to look for when writing, and for musicians, you’ll learn how songs are put together,” he said.
“But you can come whether you’re a writer or not — you will pick something up from my workshop regardless.”
Attendees will also enjoy behind-the-scenes stories that offer a glimpse into life on tour, a question-and-answer segment, and, uniquely, a live performance.
“There are not many authors who can talk about a book or writing and then actually go and perform a concert,” Mr Matera said.
Even fewer music journalists have a list of interviewees that reads like a musical hall of fame, with guitar titans such as Hank Marvin of The Shadows and British icons including Queen and The Korgis.
Mr Matera described the experience of meeting and interviewing his heroes as a “wonderful exchange”.
But not all heroes wear capes; some wear catsuits and platform shoes.
When asked about upcoming projects following the author talk, Mr Matera let the catsuit out of the bag: his third book, focusing on ABBA’s self-titled album from 1975, will be released in Australia in December.
“I’ve written a whole book about that album and its effect on popular culture,” he said.
“During my trip to Europe last year, I went to Stockholm to research and Benny Andersson’s studio to interview some of the people involved in making this album.”
Professional creatives such as Mr Matera, who live almost entirely for their art, seem to sidestep landmines of burnout and writer’s block to push their artistry and deliver one project after another.
How do they manage it?
“I love what I do — that’s the thing,” he said.
“If you’re passionate about something, it comes out in everything you do.
“You can dream, but the dream doesn’t make anything happen.
“It’s the passion that drives you.”
Author Talk and Writing Workshop with Joe Matera is on Thursday, May 29, from 7pm to 9pm at Shepparton Library, 41-43 Marungi St, Shepparton.
This event will also be held at Euroa Library, 62 Binney St, Euroa, on Friday, May 30, from 6pm to 8pm.
To book, contact GV Libraries on 1300 374 765, email euroa@gvlibraries.com.au or shepparton@gvlibraries.com.au, or visit gvlibraries.com.au/events
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