Leila Marshall is a writer, reader and video essay enjoyer. If you’ve been thinking about seeing that one movie, she absolutely wants to come with you and discuss it over drinks afterward. She currently studies Creative Writing and Professional Writing and Publishing at Curtin University. 

Tell us about a typical day?

I’ll wake up late, call my sister or stalk her on Life360. Go to work where I play an irl chicken restaurant simulator. Reward myself with an overpriced bubble tea. Usually by afternoon I’m itching to drive out to Leederville and see whatevers playing at Luna Cinemas. I love driving home on the freeway late at night, listening to music and updating my monthly playlist. 

What is your future hope?

Keep reading and writing things that inspire me. Having interesting conversations with friends and finding community with queer people wherever I end up in the world. 

If you could invite one person to dinner, who would it be and where would you take them in your city?

Natalie Wynn from the youtube channel Contrapoints. I’ve been a patreon supporter and fan of her work since highschool. Her set design, eye for aesthetics and playful approach to philosophy/cultural criticism has always captivated my attention. Dinner would have to be a sushi train followed by a late night cinema experience. 

What does port culture look like to you?

Liminality. Making meaning of in-between spaces. The way time is stretched by our perception. The port becomes a liminal place for reflection and anticipation. Empty container ships humming with the night current. Waiting to become something. 

What’s your favourite sea creature?

I think whale sharks are very mysterious and very beautiful. I’m sure they have other great qualities too but they seem to like their privacy. Many of the so-called ‘carpet sharks’ appeal to me aesthetically.