Augustine “Gus” Ege’s debut novel—Keep the Future in Mind—was published in January of 2019. The novel revolves around characters who are not necessarily connected, but who develop friendships with one another. Fate requires that they transcend the physical world when the group is called to act on a global scale. And for this month’s feature, we’re here to discuss Gus’s thoughts and views as a writer on the literary process and, of course, his novel.

One question that arises from the novel is: Where do our heroes and guardians come from? It’s an essential question. How is this significant to your readers?

I would like the readers to see themselves in a different light after reading the novel whoever they are. And no matter how small their deed, it may end up being heroic to a few or many others.

You managed to write a novel while teaching ICT and heading a department! How did you juggle both your professional and literary lives?

There is no easy solution to this, and it has been difficult. However, if you are doing two things you really enjoy then it is both manageable and enjoyable.

In your book description, you hint at ordinary people with ordinary lives embarking on extraordinary feats that influence the world. How connected are we and how much do you think our individual actions shape the collective?

In an increasingly connected world, we have the ability to contact a wider and more diverse audience than ever before. I draw inspiration from small isolated communities the world over courtesy of the internet. I then share these experiences with all of the pupils I teach and, of course, it is reflected in my writing.

Authors get influenced both by external experiences based on reality and the inner realms of imagination. Which one are you more inclined toward in this novel?

I am not sure if it is a blessing or a curse, but I have always struggled to separate reality from my imagination. The book suggests that the two are much closer than we think and heavily influence each other.

Finally, in your opinion, does literature have the power to transform the world?

Without a doubt. Over the centuries books (including fictional ones) have created political ideologies and economic systems. On a personal level, every time I read a book, I always come away with a bunch of new ideas to improve myself and those around me.

Keep the Future in Mind is available on Amazon (both Paperback and eBooks are available for purchase). You can reach Gus Ege at gusappdev@gmail.com. For more on Nejoud Al-Yagout, check out @coexistkuwait on Instagram.