Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your latest book? What was the spark that set the story in motion?
I am used to writing poems, proses from early years. Recently to overcome personal tragedy and sense of loss, I started to write actively and express my feelings. I was never sure of my writing, but a friend of mine suggested to publish my writings. That was time I actively thought of converting my poems into a book. Yes, I must say took some courage to take this route as now you are opening to the world with personal expressions. Hmmm but scary but same time fulfilling also.
How did your journey as a writer begin? Was there a particular moment or experience that made you realize this was your path?
I cannot remember when was I attracted to rhythms and poetry. I am an avid reader, will read be it fiction, non-fiction, poems, haiku etc. But beauty of poems and proses are something else for me. The beauty and essence of a poem lies with the readers; everyone has different interpretation.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while writing this book, and how did you overcome them?
Hmmm, this is a tough one. Time, I would say. It is very difficult to take out time for writing between full time corporate job, being a mother and managing home. The writings need thinking and quality time which is very difficult, therefore it took long time for me publish my first work.
How much of your personal experience or worldview is reflected in the themes or characters of your book?
Well, a lot. Some poems written by me are experience and narration of my near and dear ones. But most of pieces are reflection of my personal tragedies and world around me.
What does your typical writing routine look like? Do you follow a strict schedule or write more intuitively?
I am not a disciplined person even though I like the concept of consistency. But for me definitive time, dedicated hours for writing never works. I like more intuitive, free flow kind of work and schedules.
How do you approach writer’s block or creative fatigue, especially during long projects?
My style of writing is more free flow and whenever ideas, thoughts flash I just scribble it on a piece of paper or take notes on my mobile and in my leisure, I refine it. Creative fatigue is natural and to overcome, I keep writing incomplete proses which can be relooked later.
What role did editing and feedback play in shaping the final version of your book?
If Poet is the heart, Editor is the brain. She/He is the first reader, their feedback is so crucial from creative and commercial viability. A good editor can sharpen the book for larger audience and cutting down the flab of unwarranted rhetorics in a book. I must say my Editor & publisher were patient with me and very accommodative.
How has publishing this book changed your perspective—on writing, on readers, or even on yourself?
Our world is changing so fast and we are living in an AI age. Content can be delivered through AI, so human written stories are becoming very precious but challenge is whether such stories can connect with audience in a raw, authentic manner without plagiarism.
What advice would you offer to aspiring writers who are trying to find their voice or get published?
Be authentic and write from your heart. There will always be readers for raw stories, that’s my belief and with this belief I have written this book.
What’s next for you—are there upcoming projects or ideas you’re excited to explore?
Nothing thought, yet but I would definitely want to explore poems on everyday life and common man’s POV.
We thank Neena Manoj for taking out moments from her busy schedule to give us this interview and share these exciting insights about her life.
Team Thinnk.in