Writer Feature: Scotty Olsen
The Writer's Notebook
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The Writer's Notebook *
Scotty Olsen is from Edmonton, the capital of Canada. He is one of IHRAM’s treasured writers. In this interview, he shares his musings, inspiration, and honest thoughts on his experience with us as an author and activist.
His latest publication with IHRAM Press is My Grandmother, My Kookum, featured in IHRAM Quarterly: Heart, Hope, and Land: Reclaiming Indigenous Voices
Thank you for all you do, Scotty.
Now be honest, how has your experience been with IHRAM Press? How did you find us and why did you choose to publish with us?
The experience was incredibly rewarding. I was stunned when I learned that my story had been accepted. More than that, the careful editing and thoughtful handling of my work meant a great deal to me. I didn’t want my voice to be lost—and it wasn’t. Instead, it was strengthened. I discovered this publication through a small group of Indigenous writers who collaborate through Audible’s Indigenous Writers Circle. It was an honor to have my story represent human rights, and I felt both grateful and deeply proud. And personally, I think I crafted a deadly story that I'm proud to have out in the world.
Would you recommend IHRAM Press to other writers/artists?
Absolutely. Any of the quarterly concepts that IHRAM will feature I'll make sure to track and recommend to any author.
Share a couple of quotes from your written piece/s published in IHRAM Literary Magazine 2024!
“An Indigenously-sensitive Canadian teacher wearing a big sweater with three wolves and a moon, – you know the one, – that she probably bought at a gas station”
“Oh that’s so wonderful. You are going to make such a difference. I am so proud of you for taking advantage of the funding and programs. So few of your people ever do”
Now for the fun questions! What compels you to pick up a pen or open your laptop to free-write? And what inspires/influences your writing, particularly when it comes to addressing human rights issues?
Lately, I’ve been deeply motivated by the absurdities I see in society, particularly in the relationships between Canadians and Indigenous peoples. I often find myself flipping the narrative, almost like holding up a mirror—using words to transcend norms and expose the lines in humanity that are so brazenly crossed.
I also feel incredibly fortunate. I’ve had the guidance of remarkable mentors like authors Richard Van Camp and Katherena Vermette, whose insights have shaped my work. Being part of supportive institutions like Audible’s Indigenous Writers Circle and the University of British Columbia’s MFA in Creative Writing has taught me to embrace this moment in my life and fully step into my craft.
The human rights concerns addressed in the IHRAM literary magazine are often complex and challenging to navigate. How do you navigate the balance between highlighting these challenges and maintaining a sense of hope or optimism in your writing?
This is a common question that comes up in my work. First, I tend to follow my mom's advice and just write despite any resistance. And second that I have to keep faith that paddling forward through the fog will be what transform myself and the world.
How do you personally connect with our mission? Particularly on the power of art and literature to influence social change, and our values of beauty as a fundamental creative principle, sincerity, vulnerability, celebrating diversity, and opening doorways of engagement.
I'm just here to plant some seeds and see if they grow.
The IHRAM magazine aims to celebrate authors contending with their identities within the context of their environments. How does your environment influence your view of the world (your home country, city, and surrounding culture)?
I believe Edmonton and Alberta have a close connection to myself and my work. It's a challenge in a lot of ways to find the balance between urban, rural, REZ, and nature but I think the crossover is where a lot of magic happens.
Support Activist Writers
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Support Activist Writers *
Read and enjoy all of Scotty’s previously published work:
“My Grandmother, My Kookum.” IHRAM Press, Quarter 4 Literary Magazine: Indigenous Voices, 2024
You can find Scotty on Instagram.
