Interviews

An Interview with Author Padmaja Mishra

  • When did you discover your love for writing?
    Literature has always occupied a soft corner in my life. I remember, once my English teacher asked me to write for the wall magazine of my school. I was in the fifth grade then and that was my very first poem I ever submitted. The poem titled ‘Winter’. After that there was no stopping.
  • What drives you to write or who inspires you?
    Anything can trigger a writer. Sometimes, its a simple wildflower and the other time complex human emotions. For inspiration, the same goes as well, may be a sunset, a societal problem, a moment of despair. Nothing in particular to be precise.
  • Do you like reading?  If yes, please tell us about your favourite books and authors?
    I believe, good reading habits make a good writer. I am an avid reader. To cater to that need I decided to go for English literature, so that I have a plenty of good things to read. I have almost 200 novels, both contemporary and classics. I personally don’t like e-books. Holding a book in your hands, has altogether a different charm.
  • What do you prefer writing – poetry/short stories/prose and why ?                                                                                              I don’t have any fixed pattern of writing. I write poems, stories and quotes. I personally like writing poems because I can express a lot in few words in a veiled manner. Short stories are a little broad, they allow the writer to peep into the life of characters. Currently, I am working on my debut novel. Here, I can probe deep into the psyche of my characters, portray their transitions and give messages through them.
  • What’s your thoughts on storytelling platforms or open mic? Have you every participated in them.                            Open mics are a great outlet. I have attended many. They provide opportunity to know more about other writers and their works. It builds a healthy and productive environment for discussions on literature. It also reduces stage fear.
  • Every month there are so many calls for the anthology, how you choose the anthology?
    Choosing an anthology is difficult. I choose anthologies based on there themes. If I have a write-up on that genre then I am ready.
  • Do you have any near plans for writing your full-length novel? Or tell us about your upcoming novel?
    Yes, actually I am currently working on my debut novel. I am planning to have it launched this October. This is about the millennial ‘s problems. Its about heart break, anxiety, depression, hope, healing and inspiration. I really need your help and support to make it a success. Let’s hope for the best.
  • Apart from writing, what other things you prefer doing?
    Apart from writing, I read a lot. Also, I love singing, cooking, painting and shading.
  • Do you have any message for your readers?
    I believe, every reader is a writer. Some have carved themselves out, others are still trying to find the outlet. So, the one’s who are Readers cum writers, congratulations. The one who are in the process, good luck.
  • What’s your message to budding/ aspiring writers?
    I am not someone who can give proper advice regarding this. I am still in the process. One thing, just be consistent, you cannot write a masterpiece in your first attempt. Rather appreciate everything you write. And, I think, despite of growing apart, if we can grow together, success will be faster and worth cherishing.
  • Lastly, how was your experience working with us?
    Working with Inkquills is really a pleasant experience. They are very professional. Everything is updated and done in the given time frame. I personally loved the book cover of ‘Poetic Shadow’. I am humbled and I look forward to working with you. Also, it is worth mentioning, Prachita, the compiler is an extremely talented and supportive person. I am overwhelmed.

So that was Padmaja Mishra. Thank you for taking out time and interacting with us.
Wishing her good luck for her novel in progress. 

— Interviewed by Aditi Srivastava.