Page 10 - Reader's House magazine

Exploring Queer Narratives Through Time Alan Lessik discusses his inspiration, creative process, and research for writing deeply resonant novels that interweave personal history, spirituality, and queer themes while preserving and celebrating LGBTQ+ stories across cultures and time. “ D R A F T ALAN LESSIK WEAVES HISTORY, IDENTITY, AND SPIRITUALITY INTO UNFORGETTABLE STORIES as told to Zosia Roberts Fiction has the power to illuminate lives left out of textbooks, the very lives that created history.” boundaries of time, geography, and the human condition Alan Lessik is a literary force whose works transcend the itself. A novelist, Zen practitioner, queer activist, and fig- ure skater, he brings a unique alchemy of lived experience and meticulous research to his storytelling. His most recent novel, Make the Dark Night Shine, is a shining accomplishment, earning the Gold Medal from Literary Titan and the Silver Medal from the Glob- al Book Awards. This remarkable work delves into themes of identity, history, and healing, skillfully intertwining personal narratives with the broader canvas of political and cultural shifts. Meanwhile, his debut novel, The Troubleseeker, shortlisted for the Publishing Trian- gle’s prestigious Ferro-Grumley Award for LGBTQ Fiction, similarly weaves mythology, spirituality, and queerness in a heart-wrenching exploration of love and loss. Lessik’s devotion to authenticity is striking: he travels exten- sively to experience the places about which he writes, ensuring the historical and cultural accuracy of his settings. His ability to weave fact with fiction elevates his historical novels into immersive and poignant masterpieces. From tracing the echoes of Zen Buddhism in his work to deftly exploring Cuban and Greek mythologies, Alan’s characters embody richly human experiences while never shying away from their queerness. His steadfast commitment to showcasing unashamed queer identities makes his novels essential contribu- tions to LGBTQ+ literature, fostering visibility and celebrating the spectrum of life. In this issue, we sat down with Alan to explore his vivid storytell- ing methods, his intersectional approach to research, and his insights into preserving LGBTQ+ history through literature. From the deeply 10 II Reader’s House