Matthew Hughes Weaves Complex Narratives Across Fantasy, Crime, and Science Fiction
PHOTO: Matthew Hughes: A Master of Speculative Fiction and a Pioneer in Creative Storytelling
Exploring Moral Ambiguity and Rich World-Building In New Novels, “Margolyam” and “Henchmen”
Matthew Hughes discusses his influences, creative process, and literary journey, showcasing his mastery in blending fantasy, crime, and science fiction narratives.
Matthew Hughes is a literary genius, seamlessly blending wit, adventure, and rich storytelling across the fantasy, crime, and science fiction genres. In a recent interview with Reader’s House magazine, Hughes opened up about his influences, creative processes, and the unique journey that has shaped his illustrious career. With a remarkable portfolio of 24 novels and over 100 short stories, Hughes is celebrated globally as a master of speculative fiction.
Matthew Hughes crafts compelling and intellectually engaging fiction, earning him acclaim as one of the most original voices in speculative fiction.
His latest novels, “Margolyam” and “Henchmen,” demonstrate his exceptional ability to craft narratives filled with wit and intrigue, solidifying his status among the greatest writers of the genre. Hughes’ works have often been compared to those of Jack Vance, a parallel he appreciates due to Vance’s influential style and the “coolness of the mood” that captivated Hughes as a young reader.
Hughes’ background is as unconventional as his writing. A former speechwriter for Canadian government ministers and an itinerant housesitter, his diverse life experiences have enriched his storytelling with authenticity and depth. This varied background has significantly influenced his approach to dialogue and narrative structures, forming a bridge between formal prose and the natural flow of conversation.
“I’m a pure-bred pantser. I start with a character, give them a problem, and see where it goes.” – Matthew Hughes
“Henchmen” sees its characters embroiled in ethically complex situations, a recurring theme in Hughes’ work, reflecting his roots as a crime writer. Hughes embraces the antiheroes of the 1960s, driven by a familial streak of criminality that endears morally ambiguous characters to his imagination.
Having traveled the world, Hughes draws inspiration from diverse cultures, incorporating nuanced observations into his world-building and character creation. His intuitive sense of rhythm allows him to balance the elements of humor and fantasy while maintaining narrative tension. His writing method, described as “pure-bred pantser,” involves crafting stories organically without extensive planning, letting character development drive the plot.
Despite having achieved widespread recognition, including prestigious awards like the Endeavour, Global Book, and Arthur Ellis Awards, Hughes remains grounded in his love for writing, particularly about characters who inhabit the shadows of society. His advice to aspiring authors? Let characters dictate the story rather than confining them to predetermined plots, as genuine narrative emerges from the characters themselves.
Matthew Hughes continues to captivate readers with his innovative storytelling. As he forges forward, his work promises to inspire and enthrall fans of speculative fiction for generations to come. For more insights into Hughes’ literary journey, check out the full interview in Reader’s House magazine.
