Summary of a June 2024 interview by Fra. Jossip
The publications, written by Gunivortus Goos, usually the first name is shortened to ‘Guus’ by his family and friends, have a multiple background.
First, there is since many decades his addiction to research by going to the ‘bottom’ of his sources. This may mean, for example, after reading a non-fiction book, he browses through the overview of used literature, to find out, which of the opinions, and deductions of facts mentioned do rely on. Then he tries to get those older works, to see what they are telling and what sources are used, Often, the same process repeats itself. Often, but certainly not always, the oldest available source is found.
Second, there is his deep interest in early European history, strongly restricted to Germanic history, but also, if related to that, Roman or Celtic history. To that also the Viking ages belong, with an accent on it on the Continent and less on Scandinavia. An exception is his passion for the Celtic queen Boudicca.
Third, there is the fact, that he is retired for many years already. So, he has plenty of time to practice the above. He often spends too much of his retirement income to realize part of his research and writing projects. Be it buying expensive books or commissioning artists for book covers and inside illustrations. That restricts other parts of his life.
Not all of his research projects are finished by writing an article or book about the respective topic. Often he is just satisfied with gaining new knowledge and insights. Nonetheless, he has published quite a few books, as can be seen under the menu item ‘books’ on this site. It has to be added, that the three languages Guus’ site offers, also show different books. Often translations, are done by himself, but not all of them.
By far most reviews, critics, and other reactions Guus gets are quite positive, despite his deliberate attitude to challenge his reading audience by sometimes writing opinions that are arguable at the least. He loves the resulting discussions.
Having this all said… writing the kind of non-fiction Guus publishes, belongs to a small niche of interest in our society. None of his books are big sellers. It usually takes a handful of years, before the costs made for a book are earned back, if ever. Yet, this does neither dismay nor stops him from starting new projects.
Jossip
Note from me (Gunivortus):
The interview was held in Dutch and the summarized Dutch text was later offered to me.
The translations in English and German are done by me.
The aim of the interview was, that Jossip had planned to make a Wikipedia entry about me and my books. For a reason I don’t know, that failed. I am not mournful about it.
