Dane Cobain Explores the Art of Writing Across Diverse Genres
Photo: Dane Cobain, the versatile author behind a diverse array of captivating literary works.
A Journey from Poetry to Crime and Horror
Dane Cobain shares his journey from songwriting to diverse literary genres, balancing freelance work, and his passion for unusual words.
Dane Cobain, a versatile author from High Wycombe, UK, has made a significant impact in the literary world with his diverse range of works, spanning from poetry to crime and horror. His journey began as a songwriter and lyricist, which naturally evolved into writing poetry. By the age of seventeen, Cobain was already immersed in music, lyrics, poetry, and working on his first novel. Although much of his early work remained unpublished, it laid the foundation for his love of writing and his current success.
Cobain’s transition from poetry to genres like crime and horror was inspired by his wide reading habits. He approaches writing by creating books he would want to read himself, allowing him to explore different styles and genres with ease. Balancing his writing projects with freelance work presents its challenges, but Cobain remains motivated by his passion for writing, even as client work often takes precedence.
One of Cobain’s notable works, “The Lexicologist’s Handbook,” was inspired by his habit of collecting unusual or obscure words. This unique dictionary began as a personal collection and expanded through Cobain’s meticulous review of the Oxford English Dictionary. He believes that while a wider vocabulary doesn’t necessarily make one a better writer, it provides an additional tool for creativity. His advice to writers is to use unusual words sparingly, ensuring they enhance rather than overwhelm the narrative.
Dane Cobain is a masterful storyteller, seamlessly blending genres with creativity and passion, captivating readers worldwide.
Cobain’s involvement in “Local Haunts: A HorrorTube Anthology” highlights his connection with the HorrorTube community, although his role was primarily as a contributor. He acknowledges the challenges of working on anthologies and admires the efforts of those who manage such projects.
Dane Cobain’s body of work includes titles such as “No Rest for the Wicked” (supernatural thriller), “Eyes Like Lighthouses When the Boats Come Home” (poetry), “Former.ly” (literary fiction), “Social Paranoia” (non-fiction), “Come On Up to the House” (horror), “Subject Verb Object” (anthology), “Driven” (crime/detective), “The Tower Hill Terror” (crime/detective), “Meat” (horror), “Scarlet Sins” (short stories), “The Lexicologist’s Handbook” (non-fiction), “The Leipfold Files” (crime/detective), “Oceanus” (poetry), and “Boys in Blue” (crime/detective).
For more information about Dane Cobain and his works, visit his website at www.danecobain.com or follow him on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Goodreads, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok.
This article is based on an interview published in Reader’s House magazine.
