When did your interest in daikaiju and other giant monsters begin? What inspired it?

This anthology actually inspired my interest. I’m a tourist in the genre, I’m afraid. However, as a writer, I have long been inspired by anything ENORMOUS -- themes, ideas, and yes, monsters.

Perhaps you can tell us something of your career to date.

I’m the author of a short fiction collection called Short of a Picnic that came out in 2002. My second book, an apocalyptic novella titled It’s Only Temporary, is due later in ’05.

How many giant monsters stories have you written/had published?

This is my giant monsters debut.

Different people have different ideas as to why the giant monster genre holds such power? What is your take on it?

Within mankind’s super-consciousness are countless memories of being an ancient race, and getting chased and eaten by giant mammals and snakes. The giant monster genre allows us to relive the adrenaline of these memories in safety.

What lies ahead for you?

It’s Only Temporary is my present baby. I have to raise and nurture it (i.e., make sure it gets read) to the best of my ability.

Can you tell us how you came to write your story for the DAIKAIJU! anthology? What thoughts lay behind it?

The bird in my story is a symbol of massive, frightening, unrelenting Pressure. My wife and I were planning our wedding reception when I wrote it, so I must’ve been particularly concerned about the menu or my tuxedo.

The daikaiju genre (such as it is) has been very film-focused to date. Did this prove a problem when you came to writing your story?

Not particularly, but it’s too bad my PC cannot change my stories into cinematic form.

What would you say to those new to the idea of daikaiju films and stories?

Take a deep breath. Try to remain calm.

February 2005