Anuradha Prasad Interview: Inspiration Behind …and Some Stories and Her Writing Journey
We had the pleasure of interacting with acclaimed author Anuradha Prasad to discuss her latest book, …and Some Stories. From the inspiration behind the collection to her writing journey and memorable experiences as an author, she shared fascinating insights into the world of storytelling and the emotions that shape her work.
1. What inspired you to write this book, and what message do you hope readers take away from it?
My book is as realistic as it can get. It resonates at a level that most people would think normally.
I tell stories of ordinary people with extraordinary hidden talents that came to the fore in a fluke may be while-taking a morning walk, cooking in the kitchen , between a board meeting, baby baths, while travelling in a local, having dinner, at a restaurant, watching T.V, while lounging on a couch on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
My short stories are about regular people like- a young man bagging a job, a teen winning a gold in an inter-collegiate race, a young woman breaking up with her boyfriend , a mother choosing her babies ,turns her home into a start-up joint, an old uncle starting a business at 70 or a woman walking the ramp again at 75.
These stories happen in a lucid flow, in my books bring about a smile , a frown, a shrug, sadness , joy, laughter, a sparkle into the mundane lives of people who might question themselves – Why me? Why not me? Why cannot I?
I want this book to leave a lagering emotional impact. An inspiration to reflect on the beauty of life.
2. Can you share a bit about your writing process and how you develop your ideas into a finished manuscript?
I conceptualize the stories first. I start working on a rough idea that takes shape as it flows. The characters, situations and dialogues all conglomerate to be compiled hundreds of times in the story/stories. Script goes under writing and rewriting till I am certain. It’s a ‘warzone’ “Per say” when I start but then the story takes shape eventually. A manuscript is born.
3. What was the biggest challenge you faced while writing this book, and how did you overcome it?
Not in particular. Not while writing this book.
4. Is there a particular character, story, or chapter that holds special significance for you? Why?
The character is -‘Ananya’ my first ever fictitious creation . The book is ‘Two Winters and 365 Days’. My first book. She will always hold a special place in my heart and her story will always remain to inspire many across the globe.
It is special ; as it was my first book.
The chapter that stands for me is the last one in the book, gives me goose bumps even today- when she delivers her award winners speech!
5. How do your personal experiences influence your writing and storytelling?
Personal experiences of an author find manifestation subconsciously always through the characters and places and incidents. So it happens to influence my writing as well without my own knowledge.
6. What advice would you give to aspiring authors who are just beginning their writing journey?
Don’t expect extra ordinary results from your writing stint. Have patience. True talent gets rewarded eventually.
7. What’s next for you? Are you working on any upcoming books or exciting projects that readers can look forward to?
My next will be a purely romantic love story. I am attempting it for the first time. Hope to tell in a way that would palpitate hearts like they never did before.
