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Penning the inner voice
For me writing a book is all about the experience, which comes forward and develops in the mind. These could be personal experiences, but not always. It takes the form of fiction, characters, and slowly develops into the book. Every reader should get an opportunity to have their own experience about the publication. It’s like challenging the reader instead of trying to give a universal message for
Ulla Lenze, the German author was in Hyderabad as a part of her book reading tour in India; for the latest book ‘Die endlose Stadt’ (The endless city), which features three cities of Mumbai, Istanbul and Berlin, looks into the lifestyle of the cities; and similarities if any. She shares her experiences and inspirations in India that have resulted in writing her books
Is there a constant dialogue and conflict in the mind of the writer if she has to keep in mind the thought process of reader or go with the creative instinct?
For me writing a book is all about the experience, which comes forward and develops in the mind. These could be personal experiences, but not always. It takes the form of fiction, characters, and slowly develops into the book. Every reader should get an opportunity to have their own experience about the publication. It’s like challenging the reader instead of trying to give a universal message for all.
Can you share details of your other books?
My first novel ‘Schwester und Bruder’ (Sister and Brother) centered on India, won me the Juergen Ponto-Prize for the best debut in 2003. The second book ‘Archanu’ was based on my three-month stay in Auroville. Der Kleine Rest des Todes is about the thoughts of a girl after the death of the father in a plane crash.
Can you throw light of your spiritual quest in India?
When I stayed in Pune with a Maharashtrian family, my spiritual quest got ignited. I started reading Sant Gyaneshwar, Tukaram, Eknath and Nisargadatta Maharaj with the lineage of the Navnath Sampradaya. It’s so nice to see that ‘Gyaneshwar’ is available for the common people. You can feel love in the air, when you visit Alandi. It’s beyond words. All this has strengthened my spiritual leanings towards India and make me wonder at times, about the chaos around which the country is developing. There is big time leap towards the tag ‘development’ while at the same time there is an issue like a ‘Dharavi slum’ or the many homeless on the streets of Mumbai.
Who are your favourite writers?
Many writers like Altaf Tyrewalla, Naresh Fernandes, Suketu Mehta and Jayant Prakash have been creating works that inspire me. Especially Suketu Mehta’s ‘Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found’ is a readers delight.Peter Kurzeck is another author who has always dwelled into minute details. This unique style of writing giving importance to details is what really made me appreciate his works.
Any word of advice for young writers?
A word of advice for new young writers ‘Try to get feedback as soon as possible by joining creative writing groups or find trustworthy people to judge your writing. At the same time listen to your own narrative voice and trust it fully.
By:Jaywant Naidu
