We recently had the chance to connect with Mathieu Cailler and have shared our conversation below.
Mathieu, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A normal day for me always starts with writing. I like to write and think and plot before the day steals the magic from me. Before emails and texts and calls. I think, too, by doing so, I’m able to trick my brain into being in a sort of dream state. This makes for more imaginary, fun writing. I then teach and hang out with my cat and, if lucky, head to the beach to surf. I need to get outside for some sun each day–be it golf, a hike, or basketball.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Yes, I’m a writer of prose and poetry. I’ve written seven books and been published in over 150 spots–from Wigleaf to the Saturday Evening Post to the Los Angeles Times. I’m lucky enough to have won a multitude of awards, including a Pushcart Prize. I’m came to writing through stand-up comedy. Later, I realized I wanted to tell stories of all types, and for that, I needed the blank page. I recently finished a couple of projects that I hope will find a home in the world soon.
I love writing because I get to be alone and free but also with people in a sense. I get to craft characters and get them into trouble and hopefully see them flourish in the end.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My mother for sure. She saw I was creative and liked to sit in my room and draw and paint, write and sing. She left me alone and allowed me space to dream. She also never tried to steer me into anything I didn’t want to do. When I told her I wanted to write, she didn’t hesitate for a second. She just nodded, smiled, and said, “That will be great.” The unconditional love she gave (and continues to give) is akin to a blazing fire, where I can feel the warmth and strength I need each day to continue.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I think I’ve become more open with my struggles. I used to think that I had to keep things tidy and not share sadness with those close to me, but as I’ve aged, I’m okay letting people in. What I’ve found, too, is that is has strengthened my relationships. Once you share secrets and pain, others feel safe to do the same.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
In some ways. The same way a petal is a part of a flower. It might be the brightest and most colorful, but I wouldn’t be without the stem and leaves either. I think the public version is certainly louder and more engaging, but the real me is much quieter and enjoys working in silence.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
I think I show up with enthusiasm. I love the process of writing and the way there’s this idea in your head–one which is abstract and clunky–and over time, it gets out on the page, and begins to gather shape and momentum. I think of it as sculpting. There’s this block of marble, but you–the writer–sees something in it: an angel, a tree, an elephant, and it’s your job to get it out. I always bring excitement to the desk with discipline, too. Gregory Hines might not think of it as tap dancing, but there’s rhythm in there, I swear.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mathieucailler.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/writesfromla/
- Twitter: https://x.com/writesfromla
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/em.cee.372/
Image Credits
Christine Cailler
