The Interview - Aishwarya Khale
Tell us what you enjoy most about writing [genre].
In three words- Uber creativity, being able to play god and the catharsis.
Have you been able to incorporate your previous experience in [jobs/education] in your writing?
"Absolutely, my life experiences have been a profound source of motivation for my writing. While I don't necessarily write in a literal sense about my life, I do draw inspiration from the lessons learned along the way. There's a certain richness that real-life experiences bring to my writing, whether it's in the form of nuanced emotions, complex relationships, or the exploration of deeper themes. So, while I might not directly recount personal events, the essence of my life experiences undeniably shapes the emotional and thematic landscape of my writing."
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
"Absolutely! For some reason, I find that the act of writing fiction on paper is a more visceral and immersive experience. There's a certain connection I feel with the story when I'm physically putting pen to paper. On the other hand, when it comes to academic papers, the laptop becomes my tool of choice. The structured nature of academic writing and the need for frequent edits and revisions make the digital environment more practical. It's curious how the medium can influence the writing process, but for me, it's about finding the right balance between the tactile and the digital, depending on the type of writing I'm engaged in."
What is your take on book boyfriends? Do they actually exist? Or do they set the bar for “real life men” impossibly high?
"Oh, I'm definitely a fan of fictional men. I remember the first classic I read at the age of 14, which was The Great Gatsby, and I absolutely fell for Jay Gatsby. Interestingly, when the latest Gatsby movie came out, Leonardo DiCaprio portrayed him so perfectly. It's fascinating how a well-crafted character can leave a lasting impression. However, I do recognize that perfection in the real world is quite a different story. While it might be challenging for men or women to measure up to the flawless nature of fictional characters, I believe having standards is always worth striving for. They can serve as aspirations, guiding us in finding qualities that we truly value in real-life relationships."
What are you reading right now?
Mother of 1084 by Mahasveta Devi
Where do you like to write? In a coffee shop? In your home office? On the beach?
"I typically find myself most productive when I'm writing at a library or at a desk in my workplace. This environment allows me to focus and immerse myself in my work. I like the idea of keeping my writing separate from my home space so that when I return home, I can fully relax. However, there are times when the comfort of my home office also becomes an appealing option. It's all about finding the right balance for the type of writing I'm working on and my mood at the moment."
Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what kind of music do you like to listen to?
"I am not a huge fan of listening to music when I write. But if I do- it's usually Instrumental."
What other hobbies do you have outside of writing?
I enjoy cycling, sketching and watching movies.