My name is Matthew John Meagher, and I am 34 years old. I have an MFA in Creative Writing from Regis University and a B.A. in Elementary Education from the University of Northern Colorado.
My novel, “Irish Town,” is available at Barnes and Noble, Amazon, and most recently Audible. I have also been published in 34th Parallel Magazine.
I incorporate modern social issues in my writing. I push narratives to limits that most writers steer away from, especially when it comes to dialogue. You may inquire about my blog, my publications, and my reviews on my website at matthewjmeagher.com
I provide a unique content-editing service. I specialize in content and getting your message across. I support you in telling your story. You may inquire about my services and my company MARSMEN Ltd. on my website at matthewjmeagher.com.
What excites you?
I am excited when I see hard work pay off. It took a lot of hard work, but I received my Master’s degree and have been published twice in the past calendar year. I am proud of myself and excited to be an example of success with a mental illness.
What matters to you?
I believe there is a stigma to mental illness. I want to play a part in removing that stigma.
Hope. In order to be strong, one needs hope. Hope is a precious weapon for the good.
What do you stand for?
Chivalry, Love, Family, Trust, Honesty
How does your writing and advocacy go hand in hand? Do you try to raise awareness through your writing?
I use fiction to display the challenges of mental health. My characters are always in difficult situations. I used to be teacher. I witnessed the mental challenges children go through on a daily basis. It was brutal. I write about PTSD, Alcoholism, Depression, Mania, Abuse, Violence, and Drug-Abuse. I compose my narratives with first person narration, so the reader feels and experiences the challenges with the characters.
What message do you want to get across when you utilize GIFs? What power do they have to you?
I use gifs to bring light to heavy topics. The topics I write about are heavy, and I try to use gifs for positive support. People enjoy humor. It’s fun to be funny. You know the cliché, “A picture is worth 1,000 words,” well a gif is like 500.
What causes are special to your heart?
NAMI is a non-profit mental health awareness organization. They provide services and support in a variety of fields. Proof that WE can succeed is a special cause to my heart.
What's the difference you want to make?
A symbol. I just want to be a symbol of hope. I am an example of success with an artform that requires mental strength. I have a condition that most would consider difficult to succeed with in my profession. I consider it a benefit.
If there's one message you want to leave readers with, what would it be?
We’re going to win. I write about hope in the dark. My readers will read modern examples of chivalry, love, family, and friendships. I write YA because I’m dedicated to showing the world that kids fight along with us.
Follow Matthew here:
Twitter: @MatthewMeagher4
Instagram: @matthewjohnmeagherbooks
TikTok: MattMeagher0
matthewjmeagher.com
Email: matthewjohnmeagher@gmail.com
What do you want to symbolize, based on the way you decide to live your life?