Author Interview: Dave Dröge

Interview Questions – Dave Dröge

Today we are talking with author Dave Dröge  of “The Game Changer.”

PBR:  You’ve created a novel with a strong sense of place. During the writing of “The Game Changer” what places in Rotterdam inspired you –– (they don’t have to be places that appeared in the story.)

The novel contains several walking routes through the city of Rotterdam, including a long walk from Rotterdam center. Optionally, a fast water taxi (powerboat) can be used to reach the Delta hotel,15 kilometers West across the river. Room 33 of this hotel plays an important role in the novel. Their restaurant provides customers with a splendid view across the Maas and harbor of Rotterdam and area. This hotel is situated in Vlaardingen, my hometown. As another reviewer (Joe Kilgore of US review of Books) wrote: Rotterdam area seems to be a character in this novel. I am pleased with his remark.

PBR:  Despite how commonplace certain images are on the internet and in various media, nudes in art are often still controversial –– as they have been for centuries. Why do you think this is?

Well, I guess it challenges people in a way it makes them feel exposed or unpleasant, maybe because some see art as something to express beauty and serenity instead of provocation, but art can also be about provoking, making you think and look at live in different ways, confront you with another reality you seem to be familiar with. In the case of this novel, it’s eighteen-year young Julia seeking identity and freedom by doing so, seeking confrontation with her father and society, being critical. Further-on, during the book, she however starts to perform other forms of art, she develops her skills. But it’s all still provocative, leaving her father no option than to react, which he does in his own special way.

PBR:  What was the biggest challenge you faced describing the relationship between Henk and his daughter?

This is not how I wrote this novel, honestly. I did quite some research in advance and enduring as well, but the writing itself was most of the time highly intuitive. During this writing process, the characters developed further, and sometimes to my own surprise in a direction I did not think of beforehand. I was never challenged in this sense. This kind of challenges can come afterwards maybe moreover, like: shall I publish this at all? What will others think? Writing can be a burden at times. As I stated in the preface of this novel, a preface I only published on my website so far as a blog: “the real torment however begins after publication.”

PBR:  I noticed that you have also written the screenplay for “The Game Changer.” Which actors would you like to see play Henk and Julia?

This is a funny question (it’s a first draft btw). Honestly, I didn’t think of this and have no idea. Let’s see: Nicole Kidman is not young enough unfortunately. Let’s for the fun think of some names. Kiernan Shipka as Julia and for Henk: Jeff Bridges.

PBR:  What concerns did you have as you translated your novel into English?

Well, I gave it my best shot, going over it several times and looking up a lot of stuff. I thought it might be beneficial to do it myself, keeping all artistic freedom, and it’s good for improving my English as well. Translating was a real challenge and gave me an opportunity to try and grasp the atmosphere the best I could. Personally, I believe a good novel is all about maintaining a certain atmosphere and see that through till the very end. Thanks for this interview!

To learn more about “The Game Changer.” please visit:  Pacific Book Review