Though it's very late, it's better than not to make it as it’s a saying " better late than never"
Can you tell us a little about yourself? Your profession and your hobbies!!
I am a Navy Veteran (I served as a Naval Officer for more than 33 years). I have studied at IIT Delhi, IIT (BHU) Varanasi and Lawrence School, Lovedale. Earlier I indulged in multifarious activities – at present – my hobbies include Reading, Writing and Blogging.
1. How did you first get involved in with writing, are you an imaginative person?
Since my school days, I always loved reading. During my college days, I started writing as well, mainly professional, technical, managerial articles and non-creative writing. I have written a number of research papers and articles in journals and magazines. Later, in my Navy career, I always seized the opportunity to do “literary” tasks like writing articles, participating in seminars and literary and intellectual events, editing and producing in-house journals etc. Soon I started writing short fiction stories, many of which were published and appreciated. I realized that I was passionate about writing, and, with the advent of blogging, I realized that I had discovered my true “métier” – creative writing and blogging.
2. What do you find most challenging about your writing?
There is a saying that “writing” comprises 90% of “Thinking” and only 10% is the actual physical process of writing. I keep getting ideas – so I first “write” my stories in my brain – for me – this is easy. The challenging part comes later – to sit down and actually write the story on my laptop and post it on my blog.
3. What do you do when you are not writing?
I retired from the Navy many years ago. Now – I am a stay-at-home “househusband” while my wife pursues her career. So – I do all the “home management” tasks when I am not writing.
4. Where do you see yourself in the next 6 months, and 5 years down the road?
Every person strives to achieve four things in life:
1. To LIVE
2. To LOVE
3. To LEARN
4. To Leave a LEGACY
My Writing is my literary and intellectual “legacy” collated in my blogs in cyberspace for posterity. I may go away but my blogs and writing will remain forever.
Even if I write 24/7 it would take me many years to clear the backlog of stories I have “written” and stored in my brain – and to me – new ideas keep coming every moment – so – even 5 years down the line – hopefully – and health permitting – I shall be still actively writing and blogging.
5. How do you keep coming up with material/content for your story?
I “observe” people and situations – I “feel” – and then – I write because I want to express my feelings. On most occasions – I express my “feelings” in the form of a fiction short story. I write from my heart. I do not make any conscious attempt to tailor my writing to pander to readers’ perceived tastes as I believe that this makes your writing lose its authenticity. First – I “write” the story in my mind - later – I write it on my laptop and post it on my blogs.
6. Any specific tips you have for new writers who want to make it big in the world of published books?
Frankly speaking – I feel that new writers should not attempt to publish books in the first instance. It is best to start blogging and writing online. Once you establish yourself – and – when you are confident – go in for publishing a print book.
7. What’s the best thing a writer can give to his readers?
A writer must try to deliver his “message” (moral/values) – in an enjoyable and readable form.
8. A lot of people are interested in writing for the money earning potential. What are some tips for people interesting in making money from writing? What are some realistic expectations in regards to what can be made?
In today’s world – there is not much “money earning potential” in writing print books. But yes – a writer can make money by blogging (online writing).
There are two types of bloggers: Professional and Amateur.
Professional Bloggers are hired by firms to blog on specific topics or to review products and are paid for their services. Professional Blogging can earn you a good income.
Amateur Bloggers do it as a hobby to satisfy their creative urge – they blog for self-satisfaction. Amateur Bloggers do not earn any money per se for blogging – but once you make a name for yourself – you may be offered various paid assignments.
I once said: “Your Blog is your best Resume”
Well – I have been offered writing, training and lecturing assignments – and even lucrative full time jobs – just because of my writings on my blog.
9. What motivates you most in life?
I have a thirst for knowledge – so – “learning” motivates me most in life. I love to keep learning.
10. What is the story behind the name of your book?
My first Book on Foodie Adventures was based on my Food Walks in Mumbai – so it was aptly named AN APPETITE FOR A STROLL. My second book (an anthology of short stories on relationships) was named COCKTAIL which was the title of a story in the book. Other professional books, where my writings are featured, are named as per their respective domains/subjects/topics.
11. What are your views on increasing plagiarism?
Plagiarism is cheating and stealing and is a most unethical and immoral practice. A writer must create his own merit instead of trying to masquerade “fake merit” by stealing the creative works of others.
.jpg "BOOK REVIEW - “IT HAPPENS FOR A REASON” BY PREETI SHENOY")
