The Interview - Ajay Khanna, author "Tangled in 1984"
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When you're working on a book and a new idea pops up, should you pursue it immediately (also known as 'UP syndrome') or finish your current project first? What do you think is the best course of action?
Keep it in a parking lot. Write it down and tell yourself to come back to it later. Sometimes, you'll remove a piece of the book you are writing, but you are very passionate about that piece and sad about that cut. That may lead to a different new book. So, keep saving your thoughts and ideas.
Which character do you enjoy writing the most as a writer and why? If choosing a favorite character is like choosing a favorite child, which character do you find requires the most attention and detail from you as a writer?
Yes, it is like choosing a favorite child. You love all alike but have a special something for the ones who are struggling, a bit left behind, and feel the emotional trauma the most. Paying utmost attention to these lovely but vulnerable characters is critical.
Can you explain your writing process? Do you prefer to create an outline and plan beforehand, or do you prefer to write more spontaneously and organically?
Yes, writing "Tangled in 1984" involved a lot of planning. Since it is close to historical fiction, it needed thorough research. The plans included researching incidents, reading newspapers and articles, building a timeline, character development, and broad structure before I started putting pen to paper.
What are some books or authors that you would recommend to our readers?
My top favorite books are:
- To Kill A Mockingbird
- Kite Runner
- The God of Small Things
- Siddhartha
- One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
Have you been able to incorporate your previous experience in [jobs/education] in your writing?
Yes, many pieces in my writing are inspired by my experiences or of those I know.
Do you identify with your main character or did you create a character that is your opposite?
The main character is very much like me and his journey is inspired by my own experiences and that of my friends. So, yes I identify strongly with Chetan Malhotra.
Describe the [book/series] in 10 words or less for people who are just learning about it.
A boy's triumph over fears and tragidies of 1984 Punjab.
Would you like readers to have any specific takeaway from your book?
Hope. I wish the readers would realize we are given a very short time on this lovely earth. Let's not spend this time hating each other and trying to kill one another. In these countries, states, and other boundaries are created by men, men who want to control and instill fear. Let's think for ourselves and find a way to love and respect each other.
As an author, what critique has been the most challenging for you to receive? On the other hand, what compliment has been the most rewarding?
During the writing process, many times, we feel strongly about some idea that does not add much value to the story. Even though it is hard to cut those, it must be done. Getting feedback from the editor to cut various pieces hurts the most :-)
The most rewarding compliments are when people reach out to me and tell me how much they related to the story and how much it felt like their own story or when certain parts made them cry.<huggs>
Share some advice for aspiring authors. What advice would you give to your younger self?1. What is your favorite line from your book?
Make writing a habit. Good comes on its own, but you have to put in the work. Plan well and give yourself permission to change your mind. As you write, your characters will take a life of their own and find their destiny. You may not be able to control them, so follow their journey and not make them follow your plan.
My favorite line from "Tangled in 1984" is "It’s called a home, not a house."
“It’s too late, Peter.” - Fountainhead. Is my most hated line :-) For years this soul-crushing line stopped me from doing things that I always wanted to do, like writing a book. It's (almost) never too late.
To date, what is your favorite (or most difficult) chapter you have ever written?
The most difficult "November 1984: Delhi Massacre"
My favorite: "Home"
Have you ever experienced writer’s block? How did you deal with it?
Yes, many times. Going on a run helps me. I run about 4 miles a day, and many new ideas come during that time. Sometimes, it is okay to just put the pen down and go outside and observe things without analyzing them or judging. New insights soon start emerging.
Was there anything you had to research for the book?
Since this is historical fiction, it required a lot of research and fact-checking. I did a ton of research before I started to write, but then, with each chapter, there were places that required ongoing research and fact checks.
Did you have any say in the cover design?
Yes, I worked very closely with the cover designer and collaborated throughout the process. It was imperative that the cover communicated the right feeling.
What are you reading right now?
I have taken to reading Bibek Debroy's complete, unabridged, 10-volume "The Mahabharata." It is a project in itself—more than 6,000 pages and 2+ million words, I think—but it is very rewarding to read its actual nuances.
What can we anticipate from you moving forward?
Well, currently, I am busy promoting the book, reading, and taking some time off writing. I am thinking about the next project, and it may start sooner than I anticipate. We'll see!
Do you have any movie or tv adaptations in the works?
Not yet :-)
How long did it take you to write this book?
It took me over three years to research and write the book.
However, it took me over fifteen years to gather the courage to write it.
Where do you like to write? In a coffee shop? In your home office? On the beach?
Home!
What other hobbies do you have outside of writing?
Well, I like keeping fit. Run and spend time in the gym. I love to try my hands at painting. However, I am not good at it. That is something I would like to learn more.