Exploring the Inspirations and Themes Behind Woke: Cool Assassins 1
J. O. Quantaman discusses character creation, metaphorical storytelling, and the balance of adventure and ethics in “Woke: Cool Assassins 1,” drawing from his rich life experiences.
J. O. Quantaman is a storyteller whose narratives are as vibrant and dynamic as the cityscapes he once navigated. With a career spanning nearly three decades as a taxi driver in Vancouver, BC, Quantaman has transformed his wealth of real-world experiences into compelling fiction that resonates with authenticity and grit. His works, including the acclaimed “Woke” are a testament to his ability to weave intricate tales that explore the complexities of human nature and society. Quantaman’s writing is marked by a deep empathy for his characters, often drawing inspiration from the diverse individuals he encountered during his time behind the wheel. His stories are not just tales of adventure and intrigue but also profound explorations of resilience, integrity, and the human spirit.
In this issue of Reader’s House Magazine, we delve into the mind of J. O. Quantaman, exploring the inspirations and themes behind his latest work, “Woke: Cool Assassins 1.” Through our interview, Quantaman shares insights into the creation of his characters, such as the formidable Jen Marov, and the metaphorical layers that enrich his storytelling. He discusses the significance of settings like Yakutsk and Paris, and how they shape the narrative and character development. Quantaman’s ability to balance adventure with ethical decision-making is evident in Jen’s interactions with gang leaders and her unwavering sense of fairness. Join us as we uncover the creative process of an author who continues to captivate readers with his unique perspective on the human experience.
Question: What inspired you to create the character of Jen Marov, and how did you develop her unique skills and personality traits?
Answer: Jen’s character is based on a composite of strong women I was fortune to meet during the summer in the early 1970s when I lived on the streets of Winnipeg.
Question: Can you elaborate on the themes you explore in “Woke: Cool Assassins 1,” and how they relate to the concept of “all fiction is metaphor”?
Answer: “Woke” describes Nyssa’s journey from high-class call girl to qualified security agent. The narrative has Shepp and Nyssa exploring the tunnel at Mishima’s compound. Readers may see the tunnel as a metaphor for the vaginal canal. This image connects to flashbacks that Nyssa recalls from her years servicing Japanese tycoons. Sex for money is capitalism on its most basic level. An intrusion.
Question: How do the settings, such as Yakutsk and Paris, influence the narrative and character development in the story?
Answer: Yakutsk is Russia’s Wyoming or Montana, populated by hayseeds. To win a promotion trip to Paris is a huge boon. Jen isn’t impressed. The night climb of the Eiffel Tower is far more important for her than visiting the famous tourist traps.
Question: What role do Jen’s relationships with her peers, such as the eclectic group of gamers and hackers, play in the overall plot of the book?
Answer: Jen is extremely gifted, both physically and mentally. She operates on another universe than her school peers. It’s only natural that she competes with male sports jocks, for they are the only persons that match her competitively. If she wasn’t recruited for an elite circus troupe, she might’ve ended up using her unique talents for criminal feats.
Question: Could you discuss the significance of the Eiffel Tower scene and how it contributes to Jen’s character arc?
Answer: Unlike most of us, Jen strives to be the best that she can be. The climb of the Eiffel Tower illustrates her amazing abilities. It foreshadows more difficult ascents of Andean mountains, and eventually the climb of Petronas tower 2.
Question: How do you balance the elements of adventure and ethical decision-making in Jen’s story, particularly regarding her interactions with gang leaders and her sense of fairness?
Answer: A trillion dollar bribe wouldn’t tempt Jen in the least. Nor does she waste time with whiners. In Jen’s world you must pull your own oar. Like all blackbelts of Dog Breakfast co-op, Jen is tougher than nails.
