Page 42 - Reader's House Magazine Issue 52

A Life of Adventure, Writing, and Endless Imagination
Matthew Hughes discusses his influences, writing process, and love for morally complex characters. He shares insights on dialogue, world-building, and genre- crossing storytelling, offering a glimpse into his captivating creative mind.
“A minor streak of criminality runs through my extended family, so when characters
emerge, they tend to be on that side.”
atthew Hughes is a masterful storyteller whose works bridge the realms of fanta- sy, space opera, and crime fiction with a singularly rich voice. With an astonishing
42 II Reader’s House
MATTHEW HUGHES
A MASTER OF FANTASY, CRIME, AND SPACE OPERA
Mby Dan Peters I London
literary career spanning 24 novels and over 100 works
of short fiction, his contributions to speculative fiction
are nothing short of legendary. Whether crafting intri-
cate worlds reminiscent of Jack Vance’s Dying Earth or weaving compelling narratives filled with morally complex antiheroes, Hughes has consistently delivered fiction that
is both intellectually engaging and deeply entertaining. His latest novels, Margolyam and Henchmen, further cement his place among the greats of the genre, offering readers a dazzling mix of wit, intrigue, and boundless imagination.
A recipient of the Endeavour, Global Book, and Arthur El- lis Awards, and an honouree of the Canadian Science Fiction and Fantasy Association’s Hall of Fame, Hughes has earned the admiration of readers and critics alike. His literary career, however, is far from conventional. From writing speeches for Canadian government ministers to travelling the world as an itinerant housesitter, his life experiences have shaped the depth and authenticity of his storytelling. His sharp dialogue, layered plots, and keen observations on human nature make his work resonate across genres and generations.
In this exclusive interview, we delve into the creative mind behind Henchmen and Margolyam, exploring Hughes’s literary influences, his intuitive approach to storytelling, and the fascinating journey that has brought him to this point in