Questionnaire with Abha Iyengar

So, for this month featuring author is "Abha Iyengar"

Can you tell us a little about yourself? Your profession and your hobbies.

I am a poet, author, editor, translator and a British Council certified creative writing mentor. I love to travel and take photographs on the go.

Questionnaire with Abha Iyengar

1. How did you first get involved in with writing? Are you an imaginative person?

I read a lot, a habit I formed in early childhood. I always carried a book with me to read wherever I went. I find it easy to express myself through writing. I began to take writing seriously as a profession in 2001.

2. What do you find most challenging about your writing?

I have to write very fast to put what I am thinking onto the page. Otherwise, the thought or idea gets lost, and/or I lose interest in it.

3. What do you do when you are not writing?

The external world calls upon my time when I am not immersed in writing. Friends and family and travel, these are of importance after my writing.

4. Where do you see yourself in the next 6 months, and 5 years down the road?

I go with the flow. However, yes, I do want to send many more books out into the world and to my readers.

5. How do you keep coming up with material/content for your story?

The ideas are all around. I just have to tap on something that affects or moves me. I often work with prompts. They are like magic for me. Ideas flow once I begin to write.

6. Any specific tips you have for new writers who want to make it big in the world of published books?

Just follow your passion for writing and find your unique voice. Don’t look for the easy way out. Writing is hard work.

7. What’s the best thing a writer can give to her readers?

A good writer shares her soul with her readers. What else is then left?

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?

A truly realistic picture is this. Except for the big names who have arrived, very few writers make money. If they wish to make money, they have to pursue not only writing but also the marketing of their work with extraordinary zeal.

9. What motivates you most in life?

I am a seeker. I constantly want to know and learn. That is my prime motivation. I am also driven to create awareness among women for the need to be self-reliant and strong; to speak their truths.

10. The majority of the readers tend to take sides due to religion and such other considerations.

Viewpoints will be subjective. But do not force your words and values down another’s throat. Be democratic.

11. What is the story behind the name of your book?

I have written several books, which include a poetry collection, flash fiction collection, novels, and a short story collection. I am now co-editing an anthology titled ‘The Other’. This is a collection of stories by 33 writers. There are some established as well as fresh, vibrant voices in this anthology to be launched by the end of the year.

12. What are your views on increasing plagiarism?

There can be no two views on this. Plagiarism is a crime. However, while anyone can steal material wealth, a writer’s voice will always belong to her.