Q: The first thing we noticed in your piece is how uniquely you formatted the prose. Why did you choose this way to format the piece, and how do you think this format adds meaning to your piece? 

 

A: I like a unique format. I find that it adds depth to prose the way texture adds to a painting. I chose the italics and centre alignment to emphasize how innocent we are as children and how I was having such conflicted thoughts. I was terrified of doubting an elder and not having enough money. Even though it wasn't that serious, I was so worried and I wanted to show that; matching the italics and centre alignment with my worry. 

 

Q: The concept of "bargaining" in South Asian culture can broadly apply to other cultures as well, making it a relatable piece for many people of different customs. How do you think that writing can be utilized to share and express a culture to readers of different origins?

 

A: Through writing we are able to perceive and feel experiences that we might never get to in real life. We all come from different backgrounds but are able to relate to literature written in another decade. I believe through writing we can showcase our heritage and culture to those who may not be familiar with it. There are many stereotypes and misconceptions regarding South Asians and I think if we justly represent ourselves through forms of literature, we could change people's perception of our norms and culture. 

 

Q: At the end of the piece, you talk about a lesson your grandmother teaches you to not let greed fool you. What are some other lessons you learned through your family and culture that you still keep with you to this day?

 

A: I come from a family with very strong morals that we have carried over the years. I learned from my elders, culture and especially my religion that whatever happens, happens for the best. If you fail at something right now, it will be beneficial for you in the long term, even though you may never realize it. Many instances I've wondered if I could've done things differently but each time I try to shrug it off with the hope that it'll all work out. 

My mother personally loves quoting Master Oogway from Kung Fu Panda 3: "When will you realize? The more you take, the less you have." Similarly, the more we give, the more we'll have. People of our culture are well-known for their hospitality and how well they treat foreigners, as if they were their own. 

 

Q: Do you have any writers you take inspiration after and would like to share with beginner writers who wish to improve on their writing?

 

A: Two authors that I would recommend are R.F Kuang and Roshani Chokshi. Both write Asian literature and with some of the best work I've ever read. Chokshi's Substack is definitely worth checking out. While I can't even hold up a candle to them, I take heavy inspiration from Kuangs talent in blending fantasy with historical fiction and Chokshi's floral prose. 

 

 

Q: What is one piece of advice you would like to share with writers regardless of their experience and level?

 

A: Keep experimenting. Try out different genres, formats, themes, platforms...anything and everything. Once you feel like you've found your preferred writing style, don't stop there. Try writing out of your comfort zone and see what you end up with. You might not get published the first time but through trial and error you'll get there. Start big or small, it doesn't matter, just TRY. Throw those late night writings in a word document and hit send! 

With the rise of AI we writers play a big role in conserving human creativity. AI cannot begin to pen down the human experiences we go through everyday and so we are responsible to convey those to the world. 

 

Q: What are some topics or issues related to South Asian culture you like to explore across all your works and why do you think it’s important to write about them?

 

A: I've recently been trying to form a narrative about child labour. Across South Asia we come across child labour everyday. At some factory, a rural rest house, as house help. I want to shed some light on this and raise awareness regarding it because it's become so common that people have just accepted it. I also want to talk more about our culture just casually being stolen and Westernized. Scandinavian scarfs? Boho sets? Balloon pants? Clean girl slick-back? Bangles? All these prototypes have been a part of our culture for years. It's unfair to alter our culture into something else, something that doesn't come remotely close to what our ancestors have curated.