Why Write About Dragon Ball?
Discover why Dragon Ball matters and why I write about it in this insightful interview on Year of Writing with host Omar Khafagy.
Topics Discussed
- Getting into the Dragon Ball Spirit
- How Shaolin Kung Fu led to learning Japanese and Mandarin
- The origin of Dragon Ball: Journey to the West
- Derek’s own Journey to the East
- How to create works of art that last
- Why writing a book is “like giving birth”
- How Derek deals with criticism
- The habit that gives Derek the ability to write for up to 10 hours straight
- And a whole lot more
Year of Writing
Year of Writing is a podcast focused on the art of writing. It’s a weekly series that helps you get into the mind of a profesional writer.
If you’re into writing or curious to learn more about the craft, then check it out.
It was an honor to be a part of Omar’s program.
I had a great time on this interview with you Derek. It was a total blast, and I can’t wait to read your upcoming book.
I’ve also been getting into that habit you use for maximum writing productivity… it’s already having a pretty amazing impact. Thanks again!
Same here, Omar. Thanks for asking me to be on your show.
Glad to hear it’s working for you!
This was a great listening Derek, I definitely saw myself in a lot of what you said.
I’m on a similar path as well, so I’m glad that your current way of life is satisfactory and working for you.
Thanks, Porice.
I’m glad to hear that you are walking your own path and being true to who you are. That’s what life is all about.
Thanks, Porice. I’m glad you got something out of it.
Yeah, but I’m not going to talk about it yet. Still too early to get everybody excited.
That’s up to Omar. If he ever does publish the other portion of the interview, then I’ll update the post and send you another reply so you can hear it.
I understand, frankly I got excited the moment you mentioned it in the interview :)
Sounds good, I understand Omar is a busy man but hopefully he gets it up sooner rather than later!
Hey Porice!
I’m still working out how I’m going to add that extra part of the interview. It’s been a bit of a hectic couple of weeks as I’ve had to adjust to a new schedule and some new demands. In fact, I talk about exactly those challenges in a recent episode of the podcast.
The moment I figure out how I’m going to present it, I’ll let Derek know!
Please do, i’d love to hear the rest :)
Excellent podcast/discussion! It’s nice to hear the DBZ passion in your voice throughout this interview!
The Japanese serialization of the graphic novels and animation are techniques for people to stay tune on the series. Not only is it constantly a way to keep promoting the cartoon itself; it’s also serving as an RSS feed to people’s daily lives (e.g. What’s the latest update on Son Goku and Vegeta’s battles? “Who will be the next character to enter the show?”)
Piccolo’s side story (i.e. Kame and King Piccolo) is one reason I adore the first Dragon Ball series. This sub-plot still lives to give birth to other characters. Because I’m not an avid fan of split personalities anime characters, I can only think of Naruto’s fox demon, Ichigo’s Hollow, InuYasha’s Demon, Son Gohan SSJ2; however, there are many more characters with similar aspects.
I also admire Derek’s speech when he mentioned people gain on some aspects when they learn how to cut down or lose on some things. They’re rediscovering themselves on a whole new level as they persistently go through the transformational process. Writing a book is not instantaneous. The books had a positive impact on its readers — it changed their lives. No wonder the “art reflects the artists”.
Derek, you are one of the very few brave people I have known to have quit their day job to transfer to a passionate career which merely began as a hobby. “The Way of Goku”, one of your long-term goals aligned so well with your interests; no wonder you give every effort to make your dreams a reality.
One of the interesting phrases you said in the interview was the “boat” metaphor. Thank you for sharing that. We should remember to keep our focus on one direction. While Vegeta was being egotistic, the Goku was always preparing for upcoming battles.
As a fictional character, it’s impressive how Son Goku’s influence initiates change that extends to the real world. He’s the “hub of the wheel” all right while being a charming and magnetic guy.
I also agree with your comment to “let go of things we’re attached to”. If we empty our cup, it will be easier to fill it up. Akira Toriyama chose an incredible way to constantly write his manga.
Finally, I have a quick question: How is the Brazilian March for Son Goku initiated? Was it because of the Spanish dubbed theatrical release of DBZ: Battle of Gods?
Thanks, Marianne.
I agree with what you said. I also agree that I should do more podcasts or start doing videos so that that readers can hear my voice. It makes a difference in expressing that Dragon Ball spirit. And it will help reach those who aren’t big on reading.
The March for Goku in Brazil was unrelated to the fans in Spain. The Brazilian DBZ fans were having a little fun by mimicking the March for Jesus that took place in Brazil prior to their own march.
Thanks, Marianne.
I agree with what you said. I also agree that I should do more podcasts or start doing videos so that that readers can hear my voice. It makes a difference in expressing that Dragon Ball spirit. And it will help reach those who aren’t big on reading.
The March for Goku in Brazil was unrelated to the fans in Spain. The Brazilian DBZ fans were having a little fun by mimicking the March for Jesus that took place in Brazil prior to their own march.