Colin Burnett
Who are your favourite Scottish writers?
Scotland is fortunate to have an abundance of quality writers. It’s a difficult choice to narrow the list down. But Irvine Welsh’s writing has had such a profound impact on me as a writer. He brought working class Edinburgh to the forefront of Scottish literature. Also, he created so many memorable characters that I could relate to. That’s something that’s influenced my own writing greatly.
Alan Bisset is another writer I really admire. Also, I’m a fan of Ely Percy’s work.
What is your favourite Scottish novel or short story and why?
Trainspotting, it’s the book that’s shaped my own style of writing the most. For me it’s the book that captured Edinburgh’s voice and experiences the best. People often mistake the capital as some tourist paradise (which is to a large extent) but he authentically represented those who are often ignored in their own city.
I personally think that those marginalised in society can be better represented by writers/creatives than politicians.
Welsh took the local (Edinburgh) and engaged it to a global audience. Before the book was even written I think if you presented the premise ‘a novel that follows the exploits of a group of drug addicts in Leith’ then said it will become a global phenomenon I think that most people would think you’re crazy. The success of Trainspotting shows the power of Scottish literature and the working-class experience to break cultural divides.
What piece of writing of yours are you most proud of?
I have to say I’m most proud of turning a character like Aldo into a popular figure. Really, he’s not someone people should like. In terms of him being a gangster, violent, and sometimes selfish. But people seem to love him as he’s redeemable and is more of an anti-hero than villain. I think most recognise, deep down he has a good heart. Which is best reflected in his relationship with Bruce (his dog). I find it quite mental how a dog is arguably my most popular character.
But I’m very proud of both of my novels A Working Class State of Mind and Who’s Aldo. The reaction both books have received has been amazing. It’s been great that readers outside of the UK have really taken a shine to the characters and the comedy in the books.
If I were to pick a piece of writing from each book though that I’m most proud of I would say the chapter Lost and Found in AWCSOM. This is where Aldo rescues Bruce as a pup from an abusive owner. Reluctantly, Aldo takes the dog in but it turns out to be the pivotal moment that changes his life forever.
In Who’s Aldo? the chapter titled The Committal stands out to me as I think it highlighted my ability to write comedy. People constantly bring this chapter up and it was great knowing readers enjoyed the humour. In that story Aldo gatecrashes a funeral’s proceedings and manages turn the sombre occasion to his advantage.
What is your 274 Miles story about?
All Deals are Final is about friendship and the depths Aldo will sink to turn situations to his own personal gain. Even when his ideas are directed to Craig, someone he considers a ‘brother’. It’s a comedic scene so hopefully it will give people a laugh.
Tell us about your writing process.
I wouldn’t say I have a process. Normally, I just wait for an idea to hit me then I start writing.
If you have one piece of writing advice, what would it be?
For me and I know this is subjective, but dialogue is what makes a story great. Whether I watch or read something it’s the dialogue that I remember. To write snappy dialogue I feel can really immerse readers into the stories and give readers a better understanding of the characters.
I would always say to learn how to write dialogue watch The Sopranos, Breaking Bad, and Quentin Tarantino’s movies.
Obviously, you should enjoy what you’re writing, that’s important.
I love writing Aldo’s character as he’s larger than life and explosive. Whereas me being Autistic I’m a very quiet person. We share some similarities but if I were Aldo, every conversation would start and end in a panic attack LOL.
What are you working on at the moment?
Currently, I’m writing my third novel that will continue Aldo’s arc. This book will be more focused on Aldo’s criminal empire in Edinburgh. A much darker tale than my previous two books in terms of the levels of violence. I’m introducing quite a few new characters to Aldo’s world and readers will engage with members of his ‘crew’. One character in particular I think will catch readers attention is ‘Sunshine’ who works for Aldo. People who are familiar with my work will know Aldo isn’t scared of anyone, but Sunshine is the one person who even puts him on edge.