Ever wondered what’s going through an author’s mind while they smile, nod, and look deeply contemplative on a lit fest panel? As an author gearing up for my session at the Apeejay Kolkata Lit Fest, let me spill some of the thoughts that might (or might not) cross my mind. Warning: This is where the line between reality and fiction gets delightfully blurry.
1. Do these people know I based my villain on my nosy neighbour?
Quite like other Indian thriller authors, I often find my inspiration from real life. Yes, it’s true. Writers find inspiration everywhere; even in the overly inquisitive neighbour who’s always peeking over the fence. In Love Swipe Blackmail, the blackmailer’s manipulative tendencies may or may not have been inspired by someone who once asked me too many questions about my book’s royalties. If someone in the audience connects the dots, I’ll just smile enigmatically and let them wonder.
2. Should I reveal the inspiration behind that dating app subplot?
Panel discussions often veer into the “Where do you get your ideas?” territory. It’s tempting to confess that the dating app in my book was inspired by a real-life incident where I accidentally swiped right on someone I knew. But then again, some mysteries are best left unsolved… like the true identity of the blackmailer.
3. If my session flops, at least I’ll get free snacks backstage
Let’s be real. Every author secretly gauges the audience’s energy level during a panel. If the vibe’s not right, the thought of grabbing a cup of chai and munching on some samosas backstage becomes oddly comforting. After all, food is the universal antidote to a lacklustre Q&A session.
4. Did someone just yawn, or are they deep in thought?
Audience reactions can be tricky to interpret. Was that yawn a sign of boredom, or is someone processing the layers of suspense in Love Swipe Blackmail? I’ll choose to believe it’s the latter; the mental gymnastics required to unravel my book’s twists can be exhausting.
5. What if someone asks me about my next book?
Authors have a love-hate relationship with this question. On one hand, it’s flattering. On the other, it’s terrifying if your next book is still a jumble of half-written notes and vague ideas. My plan? Smile confidently and say, “It’s a work in progress,” which is author-speak for “I’ll figure it out soon.”
See for Yourself
If you’re curious about whether these musings are real or just figments of my imagination, or if you are simply a fan of Indian suspense novels join me at the Apeejay Kolkata Lit Fest on January 12. Maybe I’ll drop a hint about the nosy neighbour, or maybe I’ll just enjoy the samosas. Either way, it’ll be an event worth remembering!