A complex question, indeed. Many rumors have been circulated, the most flattering of which are true. Here are the known facts supported by evidence:
He is a teacher:
Melbye has been teaching all of the creative writing courses at MUM as well as first-year English and literature courses since 2001. He is also the founder and editor of Segue, a really fantastic online literary journal.
> C.V. (flashpaper version | PDF version)
> "Serious Play: Creativity in Composition and Pedagogy" (essay)
> To view course descriptions, syllabi, and sample student writing, ckick the Creative Writing at MUM link to your right.
He is a writer:
> "The Travelers" (adapted from Tru, a novel)
> "Delamond" (adapted from Tru, a novel)
> "Paper Cuts" (adapted from Tru, a novel)
> "The Last Words" (short story)
> "A Closed Field" (adapted from Tru, a novel)
He is a husband and father:
> "Yes, officer, that's my husband. No, officer, he isn't dangerous
or crazy. Yes, our children are fine. I'm fine. A little weary. Yes, I
will take him inside now. No, I won't let him out onto the roof with a
bullhorn again. Thank you, officer."
—Peg Melbye, in coversation with local authorities,
as reported by a reliable, if incredulous, neighbor.