A Point of Pride: An Interview with Lor Gislason
Lor Gislason (they/he) is a non-binary homebody and the author of Inside Out. They are also the editor of Bound In Flesh: An Anthology of Trans Body Horror. Find them on Twitter @Lorelli_ and their blog lorgislason.wordpress.com
What inspired you to start writing?
During the early days of the Covid lockdowns, I lost my job and suddenly had a lot of free time. I decided to catch up on horror movies, fill in my blindspots for classics, and that kind of thing. I watched Daniel Isn’t Real and it stuck with me—I texted my friend “Why isn’t anyone writing about this movie?”, to which she smartly responded, “Why don’t YOU write about it?” So I did! I originally only wrote non-fiction articles about movies and games, but later branched into horror fiction.
What was it about the horror genre that drew you to it?
I think part of it is that horror doesn’t shy away from weirdness but embraces it, and I find comfort in that. That, and the amount of creativity in every medium, from art and video games to fiction and film! I’m continuously surprised by what people can come up with, and in turn that inspires me, so it’s a wonderful cycle.
Do you make a conscious effort to include LGBTQ material in your writing, and if so, what do you want to portray?
Absolutely. I want to portray loving relationships, including poly ones, where partners work to understand and support each other, even when their communication methods or mental health make it a struggle. I want to write the kind of thing I wanted to see and experience as a teen.
What has writing horror taught you about the world and yourself?
Interacting with the community has really helped with my social anxiety and public speaking; I don’t feel like I stumble over my words as much as I used to, and that’s really helping my confidence, haha. I’m sure talking to folks about things I’m passionate about did the trick! That, and there will always be an audience for your work, no matter how off-the-wall it is.
How have you seen the horror genre change over the years? And how do you think it will continue to evolve?
Horror definitely goes through trends, and one I am extremely happy to see back in full swing is found footage narratives, which (besides body horror) is my favourite subgenre. Especially when they use current tech in fun ways, like Deadstream.
How do you feel the LGBTQ community has been represented thus far in the genre, and what hopes do you have for representation in the genre going forward?
There’s been a big push for more inclusivity, especially when it comes to LGBTQ writers and I’d love to see that continue. Not just as token diversity, but because queer horror is an important part of the genre and deserves just as much space as anything else.
Who are some of your favorite LGBTQ characters in horror?
My all-time favourite is the titular May, but seeing Glen/da appear in the new Chucky show was a treat. I think that was one of the first times I saw gender fluidity in film.
Who are some LGBTQ horror authors you recommend our audience check out?
I will always recommend Judith Sonnet and Paula D. Ashe; I love both their work so much. As well, M. Lopes da Silva, Zach Rosenberg, Cat Voleur and Mae Murray.
What is one piece of advice you would give horror authors today?
As difficult as it sounds, try not to compare yourself to others. We’re all at different stages in our lives, and it’s never too late to start your writing journey, however that may look to you.
And to the LGBTQ writers out there who are just getting started, what advice would you give them?
I can’t stress how important it has been for me to have a group of queer friends I trust, and with whom I can share my work for feedback or just casually chat. I highly encourage you to connect with people, join a Discord, or whatever works for you. Having it has honestly changed my life and made me a better writer.
