Hubert-Richard Clarke, author of Equation

FAP: Hubert-Richard, your novel Equation delves deeply into the intersection of crime, science, and psychology. What inspired you to create such a complex and thought-provoking storyline involving a mathematical formula at the heart of heinous crimes?

Clarke: As a, ‘dare I say’ artist, I find having something to say lends itself favourably in the writing process, if paired with a need for truthfulness. I am also drawn to darkness creatively. It is akin to dwelling deeper into the ocean, which is murkier, and more interesting than shallower shores, but also more dangerous.

Disciplined and organised writers usually sense what is needed in their stories to flourish and what elements support their vision through thematic expression. Equation explores human nature. Science, maths, religion, psychology and philosophy all have a role to play in this. In response to the concept and storyline.

I think there is a finite amount of, if not completely original, then at the very least, more interesting combinations of ideas that float through the air, which can reflect our internal imagination. Openness makes you susceptible. Yet, there are parts of the conceptualisation of creativity that remain a mystery to me. The initial concept of Equation, just appeared.

FAP: Detective Jaydon Lynch is a compelling character, grappling with pain and loss. How did you approach developing his character, and how does his personal journey tie into the unravelling of the mystery surrounding the equation?

Clarke:Equation was originally a screenplay, that I began developing whilst at university in 2008. Over half a decade later, it came close to getting made as a film with some well-established actors and actresses signing on for roles. I was set to direct, but it fell through.

However, in the process of its development, I had accumulated a literal bible of the world, and the characters that encompassed it. Of course, Jaydon Lynch, is the lead and therefore a lot of information was deduced regarding the characters backstory in the development process.

I can’t say too much in regards to his journey without giving away spoilers, as it is so intricately entwined within the story. Though, it was basically my job as a writer, to adhere to the plot, whilst remaining truthful to the character and his motivations. From this, a natural arc was allowed to manifest in a genuine way.

FAP: The three seemingly unrelated individuals—Caitlyn Colburn, Isaiah Carpenter, and Harold Mansfield—commit shocking acts that go against their established characters. What role does the concept of identity and personal transformation play in the story?

Clarke: That’s an interesting question. One of the themes of the story is the human condition, our morality and ethics. Lawyers, doctors and scientist should encompass a certain degree of morality and are bound by ethics. So, it was more about identity in relation
to their profession, the ethical aspect in particular, and how this fed into the intricacy of the plot, and the story in which they encompass.

FAP: The equation left behind at each crime scene is both a key and a mystery in itself. Can you give us any insight into how mathematics and logic are used within the narrative to advance the plot, and what kind of message you're trying to convey through these elements?

Clarke: There is something about maths, right? Could it be, that maths is the language of the cosmos? These themes were heavy and deep, and at times, there was an exploration of the internal self, alongside the human condition.

The ultimate destination of the internal self is to transcend, to realign with the substratum of the universal truth. This is beyond words. Most likely, maths is not the answer, but I thought it was feasible to use this as a kicking off point, to at least explore the human condition.

FAP:  Without giving away too much of the plot, the story builds to a revelation that could change everything for Detective Lynch. What do you hope readers will take away from the discovery, and how does it reflect on the themes of self-realization and the search for truth?

Clarke: Well, firstly, if I am doing my job right, it will be a surprise twist, that blindsides the reader. This answer also ties in well with question two. There is definitely a hero’s journey. It is very Joseph Campbell-esque. Beginning with a reluctant call to adventure, that is met with challenges in his role as a man, and also as a detective.

Jaydon moves beyond the threshold, embroiled in this mystery, and finally meets his tormentor. Throughout, there are lots of encounters with death, but more importantly, there is a death of Jaydon’s original intentions, which were revenge, mobilised by, grief, anger and pain. Followed with a rebirth of that which is self-forgiveness, hope and unwavering belief in humanity. This is the elixir that he is bestowed with, as he heads
back home towards the light.

Fourteenth Avenue Press thanks Hubert-Richard Clarke for his thought-provoking interview.