The Journey of Keith Steinbaum

From Landscape Professional to Award-Winning Author

“Light-hearted inspiration is certainly an enviable reason to tap into one’s creative juices, but those feelings don’t stimulate the kinds of thoughts that lodge within me and grow in complexity.”

Keith Steinbaum’s journey as a writer is a testament to the transformative power of creativity. After dedicating years to poetry and spending nearly a decade as a professional song lyricist, Steinbaum found himself immersed in the landscape industry for almost thirty-five years. It was during this time that he discovered his deep-seated need to write, a realization that ultimately led to the creation of his first published novel, The Poe Consequence. This modern tale weaves together supernatural suspense and human drama, featuring six main characters navigating a world fraught with tension and intrigue.

Steinbaum’s second novel, You Say Goodbye, marks a significant milestone in his writing career. This Beatles-themed whodunit murder mystery was inspired by a poignant obituary he encountered in his local newspaper about Alexandra Scott, the founder of the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. The novel showcases Steinbaum’s ability to blend personal experiences with broader themes, creating a narrative that resonates with readers on multiple levels.

Reflecting on his early life, Steinbaum recalls a personal, life-changing event in his mid-teens that ignited his passion for creative writing. Although he spent years working in landscaping to pay the bills, he always identified as a writer at heart. The emotional challenges he faced during this period fueled his desire to create, leading to the therapeutic writing of The Poe Consequence. This novel, inspired by the gang-affiliated neighborhoods he worked in, served as a cathartic outlet, allowing him to process his experiences and emotions. You Say Goodbye emerged as a continuation of this creative journey, further solidifying his commitment to storytelling.

“I can pinpoint a tragic, life-changing event that occurred in my mid-teens that transformed me into a writer, and it seems that the weightier side of life continues to be my motivation.”

Steinbaum’s latest work, In Lieu of Flowers, released on March 26, 2024, delves into the realms of supernatural horror, exploring the real-life horrors of humanity across different eras. The novel is described as a time-traveling cemetery story, connecting events from 1920 Bucharest to 2017 Los Angeles. This ambitious narrative structure allows Steinbaum to examine the cyclical nature of human suffering and resilience, inviting readers to reflect on the past while considering the implications for the future.

The Influence of Songwriting on Storytelling

When asked about the transition from songwriting to novel writing, Steinbaum emphasizes that his career as a song lyricist, while not as successful as he had hoped, provided invaluable lessons in creative expression. Through crafting over 100 lyrics and numerous poems, he learned the importance of introspection and understanding the motivations behind his words. In You Say Goodbye, the protagonist, a former rock star, allows Steinbaum to incorporate song lyrics into the narrative, enriching the character’s depth and emotional journey.

Blending Supernatural Elements with Real-World Issues

Steinbaum’s work often grapples with complex themes, such as gang violence and social divisions. In The Poe Consequence, he draws from his experiences in gang-affiliated neighborhoods, using supernatural elements to explore the consequences of violence and vengeance. His admiration for Edgar Allan Poe inspired him to infuse his narrative with dark themes, ultimately conveying a message of hope and transformation. As he writes, “one’s life can change for the better in the most unlikely of situations, at the most unexpected of times, and in the most unpredictable of circumstances.”

Exploring Dark Themes and Social Issues

In You Say Goodbye, Steinbaum introduces a chilling concept: a serial killer who leaves behind Beatles song titles as his calling card. This unique motif not only adds intrigue to the plot but also allows for a deeper exploration of the characters’ relationships and struggles. The dynamic between the aging ex-rock star and a ten-year-old girl battling cancer serves as a poignant backdrop for the unfolding mystery, highlighting themes of resilience and connection in the face of adversity.

Steinbaum’s commitment to addressing social and ethnic divisions is evident in his narratives. He believes that exploring these complex issues is essential for fostering understanding and empathy. Drawing from real-life scenarios, he places his fictional characters in situations that reflect the weighty realities of life, tackling topics such as racism, alcoholism, and bullying, while also celebrating love, hope, and redemption.

Paying Homage to Literary Classics

In Lieu of Flowers draws inspiration from dark literary classics like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and The Exorcist. Steinbaum explores themes of obsession and possession, weaving a narrative that spans nearly a century. By connecting the past, present, and future, he creates a rich tapestry of horror that resonates with contemporary readers while paying homage to the genre’s roots.

In conclusion, Keith Steinbaum’s evolution from a landscape professional to an award-winning author is a remarkable journey fueled by creativity, resilience, and a deep understanding of the human experience. Through his novels, he invites readers to confront the complexities of life, offering both chilling narratives and profound insights into the human condition. As he continues to write, Steinbaum remains committed to exploring the darker aspects of existence while illuminating the potential for hope and change.

Source: Reader’s House