September 08, 2009
writer stephen lacey
When was the last time you laughed when reading a book? And not just laughed, but laughed out loud. Really loud. And consistently. Well, for me, it was when I recently read Stephen Lacey's book Henry Loves Jazz: The Diary Of A Reluctant Father. It was actually a little embarrassing because I was on a plane flying from Sydney to Perth. But I couldn't help it.
You may have read some of Stephen's work previously - he is a regular writer for The Sydney Morning Herald as well as magazines such as Belle. He has also written two other books, one of which was shortlisted for the 2006 Commonwealth Writer's Prize.
Which five words best describe you? Talkative (in fact I never shut up), neurotic, curious, cynical, generous.
What was your first job and what path have you taken since then? Suburban mall fashion model (seriously). Then a series of jobs from which I'd inevitably hear those words: "I'm sorry, but we're going to have to let you go." Of course they weren't sorry at all; they were bloody pleased to see the back of me. Over the years I've worked as a car washer, builder's labourer, researcher on Today Tonight, Animal Hospital and The Great Outdoors. And I was a PR hack. I then decided it was best to work for myself, if only to avoid getting boned.
What's your proudest achievement? Riding across Australia after having a mid-life crisis. It was a cheaper option than buying a Porsche and getting a 21 year old girlfriend.
What's been your best decision? Marrying Marianne. We'd only known each other 5 months. She was a pommy backpacker working her way around the world.
Who inspires you? Henry, my 2 year old. I'm inspired by the wonder and laughter he sees in this world.
What are you passionate about? Truth.
What's the best lesson you've learnt? Dance to the beat of your own drum, no matter what the bastards think of you.
Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? My mum (who passed away in 2007) just give her another cuddle. And Jesus; to ask him what really happened in that sepulchre.
What dream do you still want to fulfil? Become an Indian and win the Booker prize for a boring, worthy novel.
What are you reading? Nothing if not critical by Robert Hughes.
images courtesy of stephen lacey and melbourne university press