Interview With Author La Carmina
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m La Carmina – I’m a Gothic culture / fashion blogger, freelance journalist, and the author of four books. I’ve long been researching and writing about alternative subcultures worldwide (I’ve been to over 70 countries, and specialize in Japanese alt culture). My previous two books were published by Penguin Random House, and my upcoming one will be released by Simon & Schuster.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
The Little Book of Satanism: A Guide to Satanic History, Culture, and Wisdom will be published by Ulysses Press / Simon & Schuster on October 25, 2022. I spent a great deal of time in Japan since the mid-late 2000s, and was fascinated by the vibrant Japanese Satanic community that included an Osaka Satanic shop and ritualistic club nights. I also was intrigued by the development of The Satanic Temple in the mid 2010s. I’ve participated in and written about both for some time now, for publications like CNN, Fodor’s, and The Daily Beast. This led to a book deal about Satanism — I cover the history, culture, practices, pop culture, and more in my “Little Book of Satanism.”
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I’m a night owl, so I love to work late into the night, and find I do my best writing then. I also emphasize the importance of sleep — I always get newly inspired after a good night’s rest.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I’m fond of works of literature that have impacted the way we think of The Devil. These include Paradise Lost by John Milton — his nuanced and compassionate characterization of Satan influenced the Romantic Satanists like Milton and Shelley. And Rosemary’s Baby by Ira Levin is a page-turner that influenced 20th century pop culture notions about the Devil and Satanism.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently prepping for the release of The Little Book of Satanism, which comes out right before Halloween (worldwide on Oct 25, via Simon & Schuster).
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve been blogging since 2007 so I have a long-time following, and am active on social media @LaCarmina. I publish updates about my book at lacarmina.com, along with my travels and outfits worldwide.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Build up a portfolio of writing that showcases your niche and skills, whether on a blog, freelance publications, or other outlets.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Krishnamurti: “I don’t mind what happens. That is the essence of inner freedom.”
And it applies to writing and publishing books — let go of the reception and outcomes, and be present for each step of the process.
What are you reading now?
I’m about to head to Japan for a job, so I’m brushing up on my Japanese language skills by reading books about kanji, idioms, and more!
What’s next for you as a writer?
It was a dream come true to do this passion project about Satanism, and I’m keen to write more books in the future.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
If I have to be pragmatic, I’d choose books about how to survive in the wilderness! I’m not an outdoor person, so I wouldn’t have a fighting chance otherwise.
Author Websites and Profiles
La Carmina’s Social Media Links