From landscape professional to award-winning author, Steinbaum explores the depths of human experience through supernatural thrillers and murder mysteries.
Keith Steinbaum discusses his transition from songwriting to novel writing, exploring themes of human drama, social issues, and supernatural elements in his works.
In the latest issue of Reader’s House magazine, author Keith Steinbaum shares his remarkable journey from a landscape professional to an award-winning novelist, showcasing his evolution as a writer and the inspirations behind his compelling stories. After dedicating years to poetry and spending a decade as a song lyricist, Steinbaum ultimately found his true calling in writing, culminating in the release of his novels, including The Poe Consequence and You Say Goodbye.
Steinbaum’s literary career began with a deep-seated passion for poetry, which later transitioned into songwriting. Despite achieving some minor successes in the music industry, he realized that his desire to write was not just a hobby but a fundamental need. This epiphany led him to pen The Poe Consequence, a modern-day narrative that intertwines supernatural suspense with human drama, featuring six main characters. The novel draws inspiration from Steinbaum’s experiences working in gang-affiliated neighborhoods, where he witnessed the harsh realities of life that would later inform his writing.
His first published novel, You Say Goodbye, is a Beatles-themed murder mystery that emerged from a poignant article in his local newspaper’s obituary section about Alexandra Scott, founder of the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. This unique premise allowed Steinbaum to explore the darker side of fame and the complexities of human relationships through the lens of a former rock star entangled in a chilling murder mystery. The protagonist’s journey is not just about solving a crime; it’s also a deep exploration of personal redemption and the impact of past choices.
Steinbaum’s latest work, In Lieu of Flowers, released on March 26, 2024, delves into the realm of supernatural horror, addressing the real-life horrors of man’s inhumanity across different eras. The narrative spans from 1920 Bucharest to 2017 Los Angeles, connecting past, present, and future through the lens of an immortal entity that influences the lives of its characters. This ambitious project reflects Steinbaum’s desire to tackle significant social issues while providing readers with a gripping and thought-provoking story.
In an exclusive interview with Reader’s House, Steinbaum discusses how his background in songwriting has shaped his writing style. He emphasizes the importance of introspection in creative writing, stating, “Creative writing originates from the ability to first look inside yourself and isolate the motivating reason(s) for what and how you want to say something.” This self-reflective approach is evident in his characters, particularly in You Say Goodbye, where the protagonist’s struggles and vulnerabilities are laid bare through lyrical passages that resonate with readers.
Steinbaum also addresses the themes of social and ethnic divisions present in his works. He believes that exploring these complex issues is crucial for fostering understanding and empathy among readers. “Light-hearted inspiration is certainly an enviable reason to tap into one’s creative juices, but those feelings don’t stimulate the kinds of thoughts that lodge within me and grow in complexity,” he explains. His novels tackle real-life scenarios, such as racism, bullying, and addiction, while also highlighting the power of love, hope, and redemption.
The interview further explores the chilling concept of a Beatles Song Murderer in You Say Goodbye. Steinbaum reveals that the idea stemmed from his desire to juxtapose the beloved image of The Beatles with a dark narrative involving a serial killer who leaves behind song titles as his calling card. This unique twist not only adds depth to the plot but also challenges readers to confront the duality of fame and the shadows that often accompany it.
As Steinbaum continues to push the boundaries of genre, he draws inspiration from classic literature, such as Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and The Exorcist. He aims to balance homage to these works while introducing fresh perspectives and original narratives. In In Lieu of Flowers, the themes of obsession and possession echo the struggles faced by characters in these classics, yet Steinbaum’s story spans nearly a century, offering a unique take on the horror genre.
Keith Steinbaum’s journey from landscape professional to acclaimed author is a testament to the power of storytelling. His ability to weave complex themes into engaging narratives makes him a compelling voice in contemporary literature. Readers can look forward to his insights and the intricate plots that characterize his novels in this must-read feature in Reader’s House magazine.
