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Michael’s first poem was published when he was 14 years old, and the check he received was more than his age. Generous Fiction marks his firts book. Michael is the restaurant critic for the Santa Barbara News-Press, and he writes three wine columns. He is the host and creator of Cervin It Straight on KZSB AM-1290, a weekly wine show - “No ratings, no scores, just straight talk about wine, spirits & beer.” 

His feature articles include architecture, art, history and business. Notable interviews have included race car driver Mario Andretti, musician Mick Fleetwood, comedian Dan Akroyd, and artist Mark Ryden, as well as winemakers from Napa, to Germany, Switzerland and Canada. Michael’s articles have appeared in diverse magazines such as: Decanter, Wine Enthusiast, Wine & Spirits, Santa Barbara Magazine, Westways, Skywest, Central Coast Magazine, LA City Beat, 65 Degrees, Ventura County Reporter, Fido Friendly, Juxtapoz, Pacific Coast Business Times, Mutineer, Arroyo Monthly, and many others.

Thank you Michael for taking the time to answer some questions for us!  To start, please tell us about your latest project.
 
Generous Fiction is my first book of poetry with a decidedly different twist. Each poem is followed by the genesis is that specific poem. I’ve found that poetry often is vague and incomprehensible for a lot of people. My goal is to demystify it. You can read exactly what I wrote each poem: maybe it’s a serious thing, maybe boredom, or too many Long Island Iced Teas, but whatever the reason, you’ll have insight into my thought process.
 
Do you also do speaking engagements, or seminars?
 
Yes. I keep my talks brief and maximize the entertainment value while education my audience.
 
What kind of other works (books, scripts, poems etc.) have you had published?
 
Four of my plays were produced when I lived in Los Angeles. Several of my poems have been read on National Public Radio, and have appeared in a variety of journals and magazines. And of course, hundreds of articles.
 
Is there any aspect to your profession that gets you in touch with your readers directly?
 
Writing often happens in a vacuum. As the restaurant critic for the Santa Barbara News-Press, my reviews appear each Friday and I have a very loyal following for that, but I receive emails, rather than face to face contact. But at parties and event, lots of people want to talk!
 
What will your next project be?
 
My first novel, Templeton comes out in the fall of 2009. A novel, especially a murder mystery like this one, takes a lot of work and attention to detail (are the clues throughout the book properly placed and understood by the reader, did I give too much away, too little?) In 2010 I have two more books slated for release. A short story collection I’ve titled, Blunted by Lunacy, and my second novel, The Doughnut King, a blend of humor and drama about how a son comes to terms with his family and more pointedly, his father and himself.
 
Who inspires you on a personal or business level?
 
My wife. Clichéd, perhaps, but true. She is so incredibly focused on her work and has a dedication that challenges me.
 
What type of work is the most rewarding or satisfying for you?
 
Anytime someone is moved to action by my work, I’m thrilled. If that means someone is inspired by my book to start/finish/work on their own, cool. If I recommend a wine, restaurant or artist to visit and people do, also very cool. I had written a magazine article about my lunch with comedienne Jonathan Winters. One reader laughed so hard at that piece. It’s the simple things that make the biggest difference.
 
What can you recommend for writers who are just getting started and are trying to make a name for themselves?
 
Have a plan. Without a roadmap, even the most talented writers won’t get anywhere. Know what you want to accomplish. It’s a myth that if you’re good you will rise to the top like the proverbial cream. Writing is a lonely profession, and it takes focus and a belief in yourself. Compromise as little as possible.
 
How did you get started as a writer?
 
My very first poem was published, and I was paid, when I was 15 years old. But going back even further, I still have school journals and stories from when I was in the second grade. Occasionally I look at these and it reminds me that telling stories has always been part of my DNA. I didn’t get serious though until 10 years ago. Now I have a body of work that stands on its own.
 
Which is your favorite book/work published? Is there a favorite?
 
I don’t believe in “favorites,” but the one work I consistently turn to is Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman. It’s something I read aloud to feel the cadence and rhythm of language.
 
What does a typical work day look like for you?
 
Mornings are most productive for me. I aim to be at my desk by 6 AM. After a few hours, I’ll workout (run, cycle or power-walk). Then it’s back to my desk until noon-ish. As the restaurant critic for the Santa Barbara News Press, I’m out to restaurants to review them often and lunch times are set aside for that. Then it’s back to work until around dinner time, where I take a much needed break and make dinner for my wife. It also provides a nice creative outlet as well. My wife works evenings, so it’s usually back to the desk until 9 p.m. or so. Throughout the day I take about four 10 minutes breaks where I get outside and walk and stretch.
 
Who is your favorite writer/author?
 
No “favorites.” And in fact I confess that I don’t often have time to read. As busy as I am, the luxury of reading a book happens maybe once a year. But I love poet Tomas Transtromer and writer William Langewiesche.
 
Finally, a most important question: what was the last song you sang out loud when you were by yourself?  :)
 
Patti Griffin’s “No Bad News” from her CD, “Children Running Through.” Ya can’t not get motivated by this one.

Thank you Michael! We wish you lots of success with your first novel Templeton!