Manila, Philippines: In an era where professional life often feels detached from personal values, author Alfred Quinsay presents a compelling narrative of integration. His journey, marked by two decades navigating the intricacies of global commerce, a steadfast Christian faith, and an unexpected dedication to martial arts, has uniquely shaped him as a modern thinker now articulating his insights through engaging fiction.
Quinsay’s literary spark ignited in his early twenties, initially envisioned as a screenplay. However, as his story and characters deepened, they naturally took the form of a novel. Despite completing his first manuscript within a year, youthful apprehension and a lack of industry contacts led him to postpone publication. Instead, he embarked on what he now calls his “real-world education,” a twenty-year immersion across diverse sectors that would ultimately enrich his perspective and fuel his later writing.
His pursuit of practical knowledge led him to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and earn a Master of Business Administration (MBA). This academic foundation propelled him into a variety of industries, including the demanding fields of gold mining, logistics, manufacturing, Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), and education. This extensive experience, within both local and multinational corporations, provided Quinsay with an intimate understanding of power dynamics and ethical challenges in the business world – an “eye-opener” that would later profoundly influence his literary work. These firsthand experiences became the fertile ground from which his writing and business insights would eventually emerge. Witnessing the interplay of ambition, ethics, and human behavior across these varied industries provided him with a rich tapestry of understanding that now informs the complexities he explores in his novels.
In 2010, Quinsay transitioned to academia, becoming a university professor teaching accounting and business subjects. This new role further honed his analytical and communication skills. The academic environment demanded rigorous research, a process that sharpened his critical thinking and refined his writing abilities. A significant achievement during this period was his co-authorship of a research paper in his field, alongside established senior researchers. This accomplishment instilled in him a renewed confidence, reigniting his long-held literary aspirations.
By 2012, the desire to return to writing contemporary novels, stories rooted in the realities he had observed, became a driving force. Balancing the demands of his academic career with his creative passion, Quinsay completed his first official novel in 2014. This time, the hesitation of youth was replaced by a firm resolve. He submitted his manuscript to a publisher. While the initial rejection could have been discouraging, two decades of professional experience and a stronger sense of purpose propelled him forward. His subsequent submission to another publisher yielded a positive response within days – his novel was accepted.
This pivotal moment marked a true return to his passion. The years that might have seemed like a detour from writing were, in his view, a crucial “gathering of enriching experiences” that had shaped him into a more perceptive thinker and a more nuanced writer. They were not wasted years, but rather a period of essential preparation.
Throughout this journey, Quinsay’s unwavering Christian faith has served as a guiding principle, illuminating his path and shaping his understanding of purpose. It is a fundamental element that underpins his perspective on the human condition and the ethical dilemmas he explores in his narratives.Drawing upon his deep understanding of the corporate world, Quinsay has authored multiple books, each delving into compelling real-world business scenarios.
His latest novel, “Lies of Influence,” transports readers to Delhi, India, immersing them in a world of power struggles, the allure of influence, worldly ambition, and the intricate relationship between business and politics. The novel fearlessly examines the darker aspects of human nature, grappling with the timeless challenge of finding balance between altruism and self-interest – a concept he frames as striving for the wisdom of the serpent while maintaining the innocence of the dove (Matthew 10:16).
Quinsay believes that human nature, whether in the context of business, personal relationships, or the political sphere, is inherently complex.
He argues that individuals rarely respond well to extremes. Excessive shrewdness or manipulation breeds resentment and isolation, while excessive naivety can lead to exploitation. In his view, human nature is a paradoxical blend of cunning and gullibility. This intricate understanding of human behavior forms the foundation of his storytelling.
Alfred Quinsay is more than just a novelist; he embodies the spirit of a contemporary intellectual. He possesses a unique ability to translate the often-complex dynamics of the business world into accessible and engaging contemporary fiction. Drawing upon his diverse professional background and the steadfast tenets of his Christian faith, Quinsay encourages his readers to embrace the multifaceted nature of their lives – the integration of the physical, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual dimensions.
His stories are not merely for entertainment; they serve as potent catalysts for reflection and personal growth. In a world often seeking meaning and purpose, Alfred Quinsay offers a compelling voice, bridging the divide between the practical realities of the modern world and the enduring human quest for a life of integrated purpose.
