BD: No, because Maiden has its own internal politics and its own way of writing and I'm used to that. What I'm aware of now is relying on that and I think the band has been guilty of that in the past. Because we have a very identifiable style and boundaries, don't expect the "Iron Maiden Rap Album" any time soon. [Writer's note: Thank God for that!] The point is that there are certain things that are absolutely out of the question for the band to do. Because of the way the band exists in a particular "space" it could be easy to end up re-assembling a number of clichˇs and to convince yourself that it's good, and that's where you have to worry. From that point of view, it can be more difficult to write for Maiden compared to a solo project. Both things, however, have their aspect of challenges. You just have got to be aware of the pit falls of both.
FH: Speaking of your writing - anymore Dickinson books on their way?
BD: No, because I'm just too lazy! It's just far too much hard work. I wouldn't mind, but it's a question of gearing up the "mental wheels" for four months, staring at a word processor for a number of hours every day.
FH: Do you ever get any influence from newer bands?
BD: (Pause) Not really. Mainly because what I can affect the most in the music is the singing, and that's kind of out of fashion these days!
FH: Did you set a time limit with Steve Harris when coming back to Maiden or are you going to go as long as possible?
BD: A time limit?!! Like what?! As if we'll explode or something at a certain point?? (Laughs)
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