Allen Levi, a multi-talented singer-songwriter, storyteller, lawyer, judge, and novelist, shares his rich journey from law to creative endeavors. He discusses the power of personal storytelling and the importance of human connection, particularly through acts of kindness. Levi highlights the creative challenges of small-town life and how genuine relationships foster authentic narratives. He reflects on overcoming fears in writing and the influence of esteemed authors in shaping his craft, all while urging listeners to embrace bravery in their own stories.
Allen Levi's novel emphasizes the importance of seeing individuals' stories to foster compassion and genuine connections within communities.
Levi reflects on how living in a small town provides both challenges and inspiration, enhancing his creative writing through meaningful interactions.
Deep dives
Exploring The Dragonlord Saga
Comic artist Johnny Jimison has created a graphic novel series titled The Dragonlord Saga, which blends elements of adventure and humor inspired by works like The Princess Bride and Calvin and Hobbes. This series features characters such as Martin, the stable boy, and his brother Marco as they navigate a world filled with dragons, bandits, and a sarcastic talking horse. The recently released third volume, Dragons and Desperados, is now available, showcasing Jimison's vibrant art style and storytelling ability. The series invites readers into a fantastical journey that resonates with themes of brotherhood and bravery.
The Creation of Theo of Golden
Alan Levi's first novel, Theo of Golden, tells the poignant story of a kind-hearted old man who sits on a park bench listening to people's stories and performs small acts of kindness. Central to the plot is his discovery of a coffee shop adorned with 92 portraits, which he buys one by one, presenting them to the subjects with heartfelt affirmations. This unique approach to storytelling reflects the profound impact that kindness and recognition can have on individuals, emphasizing the importance of seeing and appreciating one another. The story's development stems from Levi's personal inspiration and the desire to explore themes of community and connection.
The Importance of Faces and Connections
In discussing the novel, Levi emphasizes the significance of truly seeing people and understanding their stories rather than treating them as mere abstractions. The character's interactions highlight the importance of face-to-face communication, contrasting the modern tendency to engage through screens. Reflecting on his experiences as a judge, Levi acknowledges the need for compassion and connection in the courtroom, where understanding individual circumstances is crucial. This insight drives the narrative of Theo, showcasing the beauty of human connection and the healing power of affirmation.
Creative Life in a Small Community
Levi shares his experiences as a writer living in a small town, highlighting both the advantages and challenges of such an environment. While there may be fewer resources and creative peers, he finds inspiration in the close-knit community and the rich relationships he fosters. The quiet atmosphere allows for deep reflection and creativity, allowing him to draw upon the nuances of lives lived around him. Ultimately, Levi emphasizes that meaningful conversations and genuine human interactions fuel the creative process, underscoring the value of listening and storytelling in everyday life.
Allen Levi is a singer-songwriter and an exceedingly talented storyteller. His memoir from a few years ago, The Last Sweet Mile, is a very moving account of his life with his brother–especially the last year before his brother died. Allen has also been a lawyer and a judge. And now he is a novelist. Theo of Golden, Allen Levi’s first novel, is the story of a mysterious and kind stranger who comes to a small town.