Interview with artist and writer Lucas Salmon

Artist and short story writer Lucas Salmon joins me today to chat about his new sci-fi, Sounds Fishy.

Bio:
Lucas Salmon is an independent artist with over 35 years of experience in drawing and painting. These days he’s focused mainly on painting with watercolors. His style can be called “Realistic”, or “Photo-realistic”, depending on the subject matter.

In his early 40s, Lucas lives near the east coast where he continues to hone his skills as an artist, always seeking to improve his craft. Inspired by science and nature, he continues to experiment with different styles and subjects.

Lucas has found writing to also be rewarding. He has written, illustrated, and published his first book, Sounds Fishy. He is now putting the finishing touches on his second book, Smells Fishy Too, the sequel. Both books were inspired by his great love for science fiction and remembered ideas from his childhood as he would create imaginative characters and worlds in his mind, just to keep busy!

What do you enjoy most about writing short stories?
Well, the easy answer is that they don’t take much effort, but that’s a little trite. I think that when I consider that method over novels or more time-invested writing styles, what I really like is how much can be transmitted to the reader in so few words. It’s kind of like writing a song that conveys so much emotion and meaning, yet so little is said.

Can you give us a little insight into a few of your short stories – perhaps some of your favorites?
Well, I’ve only completed two so far, Sounds Fishy, and Smells Fishy Too. Both have basically the same plot: Fish go to space to protect the earth from danger, and in doing so they learn to become better friends.

What genre are you inspired to write in the most? Why?
I really enjoy Sci-fi. It’s probably because I’ve watched and read so much of it, but I’d really like to do a semi-autobiography. I’d, of course have to embellish quite a bit. I don’t think my life is exciting enough as is!

What exciting story are you working on next?
One story I’m processing right now is a graphic novel/ comic book about how silly drug users are. It’s essentially a PSA about the dangers of drug use, and pokes a bit of fun at junkies too. There would be characters for each of the drugs known to us. For example, we’d have Mayor Methadone and his methadone men. Captain Fentanyl, who knocks people out with the wave of his hand, etc. It’s certainly something for an older audience.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I didn’t even think I was an author (writer) until someone said, “Ok. You’re published!” I think I’d feel more like an author if I had a greater body of work, but I am concentrating on my artwork and expanding my portfolio.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
I don’t know if it’s a quirk, but I do like to be alone. I am easily distracted and just can’t work with someone yammering away in my ear. Go figure!

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a doctor. I loved to study anatomy books and figure out how it all works. It was not to be though!

Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
I just want to entertain people and make them laugh. So, whether it’s something whimsical, or something laugh-out-loud hilarious, I enjoy penning a good joke and story.

Links:
Amazon