INTERVIEW OF WINGLESS DREAMER HALL OF FAME WRITER- ANDY BETZ

Hey ho, let’s go.

Welcome to the Wingless Dreamer Publisher’s Hall of Fame wall— to honour the bards from our literary community who etched their marks on the Hall of Fame section of Wingless Dreamer through their outstanding performance of all the time, remarkable talent disposition, and think out of the box – innovating techniques in the realm of the subject English Literature. They have indeed left our editors awestruck with their exemplary works.

Through Hall of Fame Wall, we proudly celebrate a carefully selected group of writers from our contributors’ circle—those whose work has not only stood out for its craft, but for its courage, originality, and emotional depth. These exemplary writers have nailed the art of expressing emotions through their works which very well resonates with our motto, “Feel the Feels”. These are the voices that linger long after the last line, the ones that dare to push boundaries and redefine what storytelling can feel like. At Wingless Dreamer, we truly value experimental and ekphrastic literary works.

Those who have been following us since the beginning of our journey in 2020 know how much effort we put into our writing contests, editorial services, podcasts, and publishing—supporting writers and nurturing the writing community. Adding the Hall of Fame blog section just seems right to boost our writers' morale. If you’re new here, no sweat! You can always participate in our writing contests, and who knows, you may end up earning your own certificate as a Hall of Fame writer.

The Hall of Fame is more than just recognition—it is a living archive of excellence. Through this space, we aim to honour consistency, creativity, and the quiet resilience it takes to keep showing up for one’s art. Each featured writer represents a journey of growth, discipline, and fearless expression, reminding us that literature is not just written—it is lived.

“A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies… The man who never reads lives only one.”- Geroge R.R. Martin

Wingless Dreamer, we believe that even without wings, words can fly—and in this Hall of Fame, they soar.

Without any further ado, let’s honour our Hall of Fame writers. 

INTERVIEW WITH HALL OF FAME WRITER, ANDY BETZ

At Wingless Dreamer, we are always drawn to voices that carry both depth and quiet intensity—and Andy Betz is one such writer.

His work moves beyond surface storytelling, inviting readers into spaces of reflection, vulnerability, and layered meaning. With a style that balances introspection and clarity, Andy explores the intersections of lived experience and imagination, often leaving behind a resonance that lingers long after the final line.

What sets his writing apart is not just its craft, but its honesty—the willingness to sit with discomfort, question familiar truths, and transform them into something profoundly human. His words do not rush; they unfold, asking the reader to pause, to feel, and to truly engage.

In this conversation, we step into the mind behind the words—exploring his creative process, his philosophies on writing, and the deeper purpose that fuels his work.

Dear Andy,

Congratulations on being honoured in the Wingless Dreamer Hall of Fame wall.

1.     How are you feeling to be honoured with such distinction?

Every time the people at Wingless Dreamer inform me that I have been published, I am honored.  I currently have been honored 52 times.  Include entry into the Wingless Dreamer Hall of Fame and the count resides at 53.

2.     In your own words, can you tell our dear readers about yourself? Where are you from and what do you do?

I am a man with many jobs, most centering around teaching and tutoring for over 40 years.  I live in Atlanta, Georgia (USA) and have been writing for nearly 13 years with limited success, but a good deal of fun.

3.     We’ve had the pleasure of reading several of your standout pieces in the Wingless Dreamer Writing Contests such as Brace for it, The Last Night, You Can Always Keep Falling in Love, and With Winter Closing In among others . Your work often feels deeply introspective and layered—how do you balance drawing from real-life experiences while still allowing room for creative interpretation? 

I don't see it as a balance.  Rather, I get a spark from a creative Muse and sit down (whatever hour of the day) and begin to write until I am finished.  Rarely do I have to stop to outline or draft.  It is all about working in the moment.  The pieces all come together and I am usually pleased with the result.

4.     In a time where attention spans are so short, how do you write in a way that encourages readers to slow down and truly reflect on their writings? 

I am a big fan of keeping things simple.  Sometimes, I work within the narrative of getting to the point, delivering what the reader expects in a digestible portion.  Other times, I will meander, leading astray the reader, only to circle back, keeping them guessing.  The former is easier to publish.  The latter is easier to write.

5.     Is there a particular emotional or philosophical idea you find yourself coming back to in your writing, no matter the subject?  

Yes!  Abject truth, hidden in plain sight, for the reader to discover.  Think of the "Butler did it" ending in most mysteries.  The best subject is the one the writer knows best, the writer has (possibly) lived through, and/or the reader finds exhilarating.  If I triumph within this rubric, I will tally it a success.

6.     How do you tackle with creative block? 

This may sound braggadocios, but I never have writer's block.  I have written thousands of poems and short stories yet to be seen.  They patiently wait for the right opportunity (or prompt) to see the light of day.  Even when I have no reason to write, I write.  Only time will tell if my effort was worth it.

7.     Do you feel that writers have a certain ethical responsibility toward their readers, especially when exploring themes like vulnerability, identity, and truth?  

I have no ethical or moral responsibility to any reader as long as that reader has the choice to read my work or not.  Some of my topics include murder most foul and unspeakable criminal activity.  Should the reader discover that I am not his "cup of tea", he can decline to finish reading.  I will not think poorly of his decision.  In fact, I applaud it.  No one should be forced to be uncomfortable or waste their precious time.  There are enough readers for a writer to build a formidable foundation without worries of ethics or responsibilities.

8.     What’s your stance on excessive usage of AI in the creative industry? 

I do not use AI in any way.  I will never use AI.  I live in 1974 and find solace with my manual typewriter, dictionary, and thesaurus.  If others choose a path less traveled, I commend their decision and wish the best of luck in all they endeavor.  Let the best story win.

LET'S COME TO RAPID FIRE ROUND

1. Write at dawn 🌅 / Midnight 🌙 / In the rain 🌧️ 

All of the above.

2. Poetry 📜 / Prose 📖 / Somewhere in between ✨ 

Both between and on both ends.

3. Write for yourself 🖤 / Write for readers 🌍 / Write for legacy 🕰️

For myself and hope for the best

4. First draft messy ✍️ / First draft perfect 🎯 / No drafts—just flow 🌊

No drafts - just flow

5. Silence 🤫 / Music 🎶 / Chaos ☕ 

Chaos gives me the inspiration, but silence gives me the finished piece.

6.  Inspired by pain 💔 / Inspired by love ❤️ / Inspired by curiosity 🔍

Mostly pain.

7.  Classic literature 📚 / Contemporary voices 🖋️ / Experimental writing 🧠

Classic literature rocks!

8. One powerful line ✨ / A complete story 📖 / A lingering question ❓ 

Depends on my mood.  One powerful line is a great inspiration to write while a lingering question is a great inspiration to read

9. Fame 🌟 / Impact 💫 / Immortality through words 🕊️

IMPACT

10. Write what you know 🧭 / Write what you fear 😶 / Write what you dream 🌌

Write what I know everyday, twice on Sunday

Thank you note.

Once again, thanks for this and every opportunity Wingless Dreamer presents.