Author Interview: Scott Oglesby: Lost in Spain: Now My Past Is As Clean As A Shaved Goat

He is the author of the hilarious "Lost in Spain" and is currently at work on his first novel. He has the rare ability to combine serious themes with offbeat, irreverent humor and sardonic wit. His first humor blog developed a loyal, almost cult-like following and he has been published in numerous humor magazines.

He now lives in Florida with his wife Karen, two dogs and a cat. You can keep up with his exploits at scottoglesby.com

Welcome Scott Oglesby J

Your real name and pen name?

My real name is Scott Oglesby….. now. I had to have it changed on the black market after a serious incident involving a local politician, duct tape and a goat. So yeah, now I’m Scott Oglesby and my past is as clean as a shaved goat.

Please share some of the best memories of your childhood?

One time I saved President Reagan’s daughter from drowning at my local pool. After that Reagan issued me a card which entitled me to “buy” anything I wanted without money. Another time I hit a home run in the ninth inning of game seven of the World Series. All of this only happened in my head though, unfortunately.

About your education?

When I was small I plugged a fork into an electric socket. After that I learned to eat only finger foods.

What career did you plan during your education days?

I was okay with everything except being either an electrician or a food critic.

What is your biggest source of inspiration in life?

My pets. They do what they want all day and they still get to eat. They don’t even have to clean up their own poop. My pets pretty much have life by the balls.

What is the biggest challenge you have faced? How did you overcome it?

I was once tied to a radiator while dressed as a Boyscout in a locked basement. It was pitch black and there was also a goat. The whole thing was ridiculous really. Luckily, goats get hungry and I got it to eat the rope binding my hands. It also ate a bit of my Boyscout uniform. I was happy that the Senator never got free or I never would have gotten out of there alive.

If you had to live a day of your life as one living or dead personality, who would it be and why?

Jesus Christ. I think I’d reemphasize the “just be nice” part.

When did you start writing? What is the purpose of your writing?

I started writing young. Honestly, I want people to laugh. I want people to think and I want them to laugh at what they think about. Once you realize the absolute absurdity of 99% of your problems, and can truly laugh at them, you are free! I want to set people free.

Which of your work has been published so far? Would you like to share a synopsis of your work?

Lost in Spain; A Collection of Humorous Essays. Scott Oglesby moved to Spain with the thought that it was the perfect chance to start over. Unfortunately, he brought himself with him. The result was dysfunction, delusion, chaos and one hilarious book. Lost in Spain is a collection of humorous essays centered around one very awkward American. With irreverent imagination, larger than life characters posing as humans, and surprising heart, this book will move you. Whether to laughter, tears, anger, or even an adventure in another country is anybody’s guess.

What are your forthcoming writings?

In a few months “Lost in Awkwardity” will be available. It’s another collection of essays focused on the most awkward stories of my awkward life. In one year I plan to release “Gatelandia,” my first novel.

Your dream destination on Earth?

Fiji. I’m convinced that if I travel to Fiji I’ll find a Jedi-like guru who will teach me a superpower.