About The Phantom Struggle
The Phantom Struggle:
During his first year in college, Omar was given a series of assignments by his psychology professor. Initially, he didn’t think much of them, as he felt they were just the professor’s way to correlate the behavioral concepts of the class with the students’ own experiences. However, with each passing assignment, Omar found himself revisiting many of the most significant moments of his life. Whether it was his first or most impactful encounters with domestic violence, love, heartache, or adventure, he recounted them all. This book collects the first of Omar’s writings, recounting his most significant memories that occurred between his childhood and adolescent years. While most people may consider the events that took place early on in his life to be harsh, these events laid the groundwork for the foundation he stands on today. What began as mere assignments has evolved into an insightful experience revealing much to Omar about his life and abilities.
About the Author
Omar Gonzalez is a former member of the US Armed Forces having been honorably discharged in 2014. He is currently a Doctor of Physical Therapy having graduated from the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, KS. More notably, Omar is also the product of a turbulent, alcohol-ridden, and low-income home. He has been homeless and was not afforded the opportunity of having an all-around safe and fun childhood. However, when speaking to him directly, he would never disclose such information. Instead, Omar would like for people to read about his various experiences in life. Whether it is encounters with love, heartache, religion, or self-discovery, he has a poem or story for such an experience. When he is not busy with professional endeavors, Omar spends his time thinking of ways to write about his life and does not shy away from using fantastical elements to convey his message. Omar yearns to write emotion-driven stories that captivate the readers’ spectrum of emotions and imagination so that they not only feel but also see the story unfold before them. Although writing is not his main pursuit at the moment, it is Omar’s hope to have the opportunity to write for many years to come.
Qn 1: Can you tell us more about The Phantom Struggle, What is it about?
The book collects writings that entail significant moments that occurred during my childhood years to my late teenage years. Although it is a quick read, the book deals with some very heavy issues. Ultimately, it is about learning to overcome those heavy issues, learning to forgive, and learning to love yourself and those around you.
Qn 2: Who do you think would be interested in The Phantom Struggle, is it directed at any particular market?
Anyone that may be struggling, especially those that may be struggling but too afraid or ashamed to seek help. Whether they are dealing with family struggles, domestic violence, or heartache from intimate relationships, I would like them to know that they do not have to try to keep their struggles unknown to the world. Please seek help, talk to someone, or simply write stuff down. Whatever you do, do not bottle it all up.
Qn 3: Out of all the books in the world, and all the authors, which are your favourite and why?
I honestly do not have a favorite author. I have read many books from various authors, simply too many to have a favorite. However, if I were to choose a book as one of my favorites, it would have to be Born to Run by Christopher McDougall. I credit it as being one of the first books that really got me into reading as it was written so brilliantly and told a story unlike any other I had ever read before.
Qn 4: What guidance would you offer to someone new, or trying to enhance their writing?
Be patient and take your time. Also, learn to leave your ego at the door and be willing to accept constructive criticism about your writing. Strive to continually improve your writing ability and do not become complacent. Finally, make sure that writing doesn’t become burdensome, stay passionate about it, and enjoy it.
Qn 5: Where can our readers find out more about you, do you have a website, or a way to be contacted?
Facebook @J.O. Gonzalez
Instagram @joshjo20
Twitter @Doc_OmarG
Email: josue.omar.g@gmail.com
Be the first to comment