Curiosity Invited

Episode 96 - The Harvesting of Haystacks Kane - Steve Schlam

• David Bryan

David Bryan speaks with author Steve Schlam about his debut novel, 'The Harvesting of Haystacks Cain.' They explore the inspiration behind the book, which originated from a dream, and delve into the character development of the protagonist, Herschel "Haystacks" Kane. Schlam discusses the themes of identity, empathy, and the writing process, as well as his literary influences, including Faulkner and Joyce. The conversation also touches on the importance of empathy in storytelling and Schlam's reflections on his future writing projects.

"Steve Schlam first gained entry to the City of Words through the doors of the public library in Brooklyn, New York, where he was born and spent a good part of his childhood; and has maintained his residency ever since while living in cities and towns across the United States and in Mexico. An actor as well as an author, he has performed on stages in all the places he has called home, and earned a Master's Degree in Creative Writing and English under the tutelage of Joseph Heller, renowned author of "Catch-22." He lives currently in Southern California in a pretty little Craftsman bungalow with orange and lemon trees growing in the backyard, in the company of his wife, Liora. His debut novel, "The Harvesting of Haystacks Kane," was released in March 2024."