Exploring the Counterculture: Luke Goebel's 'Kill Dick' and the Beatnik Spirit
In a cozy diner in Los Feliz, writer Luke Goebel shares his recent drive from San Francisco, where he cruised through Big Sur at high speeds while listening to the Grateful Dead. He is gearing up to release his second novel, "Kill Dick", a Californian tale filled with twists and turns inspired by the '60s counterculture. Goebel's promotional efforts for the novel include stencil art across L.A. and social media posts featuring book-inspired photo shoots.
"Kill Dick" is a dark satire set in 2016 Los Angeles during a series of serial killings and the opioid crisis. The story follows a privileged girl's journey to become an artist and her encounters with a character named Luigi Mangione. The novel explores themes of wealth disparity and societal issues against the backdrop of L.A.'s diverse landscapes, from lavish mansions to Skid Row encampments.
Goebel drew inspiration from writers like Bret Easton Ellis and Nathanael West for "Kill Dick", but his main motivation was to process the loss of his brother to an Oxycontin overdose. Having battled addiction himself, Goebel's personal experiences shaped the narrative of the book. Despite facing rejection from major publishing companies, he found a home for his novel with the Pasadena-based Red Hen Press, known for its support of independent authors.
With a grassroots approach to promotion, Goebel aims to reach readers through word of mouth and genuine connections. He hopes "Kill Dick" resonates with audiences seeking art that confronts the complexities of the modern world. Embracing the spirit of the Beatniks, he believes in the power of storytelling to inspire change and provoke thought in turbulent times. Through his novel and creative endeavors, Goebel seeks to make a meaningful impact and engage with the world around him.