In a candid discussion, acclaimed author Ivan Cox shares the behind-the-scenes tale of crafting his latest novel series, the Malinowsky saga. Cox, a seasoned writer and practicing physician, gives readers a glimpse into the intricate process that birthed “Blood Pudding,” the first installment in this compelling trilogy.
“When I started to write the Malinowsky saga, I envisioned a much longer book,” Cox admits, reflecting on the initial scope of the project. With an initial estimate of 1500 manuscript pages, the narrative took an unexpected turn around page 500 when editor Jib Ellis suggested, “Stop, tidy this up, and we’ll publish it separately.” The result? “Blood Pudding,” a standalone Bildungsroman that captures the essence of a young Tad Malinowsky.
Cox draws inspiration from classical historical fiction, incorporating a first-person narrative to create immediacy and intimacy with the characters. He emphasizes the importance of presenting a “vivid and continuous dream,” a philosophy championed by American novelist John Gardner. The evolving cultural landscape of an industrial city serves as a poignant backdrop, weaving a rich tapestry of family trials against the changing face of America.
Describing the process of writing a novel, Cox offers a vivid analogy: “Writing a novel is like knitting a sweater for an octopus.” He likens the initially murky structure to an octopus’s underlying form, eventually revealing distinct and lively arms that captivate readers in an unforgettable embrace. This imaginative process, he suggests, is the key to turning abstract concepts into vibrant artistic statements.
The cover of “Blood Pudding” features a striking image of Tad Malinowsky, a young boy walking into the future against the backdrop of a vintage brick structure with tall smoke stacks. The blood-red coloring serves as a symbolic representation of the fictive blood pudding, enticing readers to delve into its rich, sometimes bitter, ingredients. The major theme, Cox notes, is the resilient struggle of the immigrant family, with Tad navigating a gauntlet of boyhood cruelties against the backdrop of a growing industrial city.
Cox cites “The Catcher in the Rye” and “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” as major inspirations for “Blood Pudding.” These American classics, narrated by vulnerable young protagonists, mirror Tad Malinowsky’s journey toward maturity and victory. Beyond the Malinowsky saga, Cox reveals his involvement in screenwriting, with projects like “Death Dose” and “Mudpuppy and the Scout ” set to captivate audiences.
As a practicing physician, Cox acknowledges the dichotomy between his day job and the creative process. Medicine, often a reactionary discipline, contrasts sharply with the proactive nature of fiction writing. Reflecting on his dual roles, Cox embraces the challenge of assembling narratives akin to the creative act described by George Balanchine: “It is God who creates and all we human beings can do is ‘to assemble.'”
Ivan Cox invites readers on a remarkable adventure, assuring them that the authenticity of his fiction reflects life’s pains, ecstasies, and absurdities. With “Blood Pudding” standing as a testament to his storytelling prowess, the anticipation for the subsequent volumes of the Malinowsky saga is palpable in literary circles.
