George Williams
George Williams is the pen name of a Dutch author. He grew up in the 1970s and 1980s, in a time when home computers were emerging and science fiction was flourishing. From an early age, he developed a fascination with chemistry and astronomy, alongside a love of science fiction and—like many of his generation—Aliens and UFOs.
He later studied chemical engineering and computer science before building an international career as a program manager, specializing in turning around complex, struggling programs. His work has taken him to many countries, deepening his fascination with different cultures and their histories.
Outside work, George has always had more hobbies than time. He enjoys playing bass guitar, motorcycling, swimming, martial arts, learning Spanish, watching films, and gaming. In 2019, he returned to his greatest passion: writing science fiction.
A short interview with George
What led you to write The Grid?
In May 2019, I was looking for a new science fiction book, but I couldn’t find one that really appealed to me. Then a thought occurred to me: why not write the kind of book I would enjoy reading myself? And so it began…
Back then, I had the illusion that I could finish the book in a year alongside my work. Instead, it became a seven-year journey, with long periods when I simply couldn’t find the time to write.
What are books, movies or series that have inspired you?
So many things. I loved the original Star Trek series, which is impressively creative considering that personal computers, the internet, mobile phones, and CGI didn’t even exist at the time. Books that left a lasting impression were Tschai, Foundation, Dune, Ender’s Game, Old Man’s War, The Three-Body Problem, and Hitchhikers Guide to the Universe.
I’m also drawn to books, series, and games with a darker or grimdark atmosphere, such as Game of Thrones, Rome, Leon, and Half-Life 2. As with music, what I appreciate most in all these works is their creativity.
Can we expect a sequel to The Grid and if so what can you tell us about it?
Absolutely. I always conceived The Grid as part of a much larger story, and I’ve already begun writing the sequel. There is much more to explore in this universe, and some of what happens in The Grid will have consequences that reach far beyond the first book.
For now, though, I’d rather keep the title and storyline a surprise. I’ll reveal more as the sequel gets closer to completion.
If The Grid were ever adapted into a film, would you have any ideas about it?
I think the film industry has incredibly talented directors who would be far better qualified than I am to translate The Grid to the screen while preserving its atmosphere and the essence of the story. I’d be very curious to see what they would make of it.
I might have a few suggestions when it comes to the music, though. Besides jazz, soul, and funk, I’m a big fan of progressive rock, and I think TesseracT would be a fascinating choice. Their album War of Being has an atmosphere and intensity that I think would fit the world of The Grid remarkably well.
