Dom Luka is the author of many stories such as In The Fish Bowl and The Ordinary Us. He is looked up to by other gay authors, and I had a chance to chat with him.
Q. Tell me a little about yourself.
Dogs not cats, I have six toes on one foot, I like snow but not cold and I have too many sisters. Kidding about the six toes.
Q. What inspires you to write?
Most of the time it’s just getting an idea that inspires me. If it nags me enough it turns into a story. I like the creative outlet, and when it’s there I have to write more than I want to write.
Q. What are your favourite books?
“The Giver” by Lois Lowry has been on my top list since I read it in grade school, and Jayne Finn’s “Human Condition” was probably my first real introduction to gay fiction that had more plot and less kinky sex.
Q. What is the most thoughtful feedback you have received from a reader?
I’m very lucky to have some amazing, encouraging readers. I think the ones that feel special are those from people who have been able to relate to the characters more than the story itself, or hearing that one of my stories has helped someone come to terms with something.
Q. Do your characters represent anyone in your life?
I think all of my characters have a little of the people around me in them. However there is one I’ve modeled after someone more than others. Travis from In the Fish Bowl turned out like a good friend of mine. He’s pushy, has no filter for anything that comes out of his mouth and not everyone’s cup of tea, but he’s still one of the best friends I’ve ever had and loyal ’till the end.
Q. What is on your favourite iPod playlist?
Hmm, I’ve been listening to Lifehouse and Apocalyptica on a loop all week…
Q. Are you married or single?
Not married but not quite single, either.
Q. Tell us a little about “In the fish bowl”
In The Fishbowl is a sequel/spin-off to my story, The Log Way. It’s about a group of friends who have some learning to do when it comes to dealing with problems and each other. Travis is a guy who sort of throws himself into the mix because he likes drama as long as it’s not his own. He’s a little bit of a trouble maker, but most of the time he means well. Dennis would rather have nothing to do with drama and would rather keep to himself, so naturally there’s plenty of clashing when he meets Travis. But, they learn they have more in common than they think.
Q. Is there another gay online author to whom you look up to, and if so, why?
Like I said, Jayne Finn was the first author I read that made me want to start posting my stories on the internet. I’d also include John Francis, who is an amazing author and a very wise man. Dan Kirk has been an inspiration and so have so many others.
Q. If you had a million dollars, what would you do with it?
Go shopping?
Q. What does your partner/significant other say about your writing?
He knows I write, but if he read anything I’d probably stop. It’s easier to share with strangers.
Q. What do you do for a living?
Landscaper, and whatever else involves no boss and lots of sunshine.
Q. What do you think of Twilight by Stephanie Meyer?
I haven’t read it.
Q. When do you feel most out of your comfort zone?
Public speaking. In public. With people.
Q. What do you enjoy the most about working in Landscaping?
I get to create things, which is cool. I get to make my own schedule which means more freedom and I’m never stuck inside in nice weather.
Q. Do you have any little quirks when you are writing?
A lot, actually. For starters if someone around me happens to glance at my screen while I’m writing I’m convinced the chapter is jinxed and usually rewrite or start over. I need background noise whether it’s music or the television and I need to be able to reach my coffee.
Q. Who do you think you are?
A person.
Q. What is your favourite cereal?
Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Can’t keep my hands out of it.
Q. Have you ever thought when a hearse goes by that you might be the next to die?
No, but one time everywhere I went one crossed my path. Very creepy.
Q. If you could have one wish, would you give it to me?
Only if you need it more than I do.
