If Love Swipe Blackmail taught us anything, it’s this: life is full of unexpected twists, and the best way to handle suspense is with a mix of strategy and humour. And trust me, lit fest panels are no exception, for the art of suspense, so central to the best Indian suspense novels, extends even to lit fest panels. Whether you’re a first-time panellist or a seasoned author, here’s your go-to survival guide – with a thriller author’s twist!
1. Channel Your Inner Detective
If you are an Indian thriller author, you know that your preparation in crafting a plot twist also extends to your preparation for a lit fest, even though it might manifest differently. At a lit fest, this means scouting the audience for potential “plot twists” (aka awkward questions). You can spot them: the person furiously taking notes, the one with an intimidatingly thick copy of your book, or, worst of all, the reader who starts their question with, “In Chapter 17, why did you…?”
Pro tip: Smile, nod, and answer like you’ve rehearsed it a hundred times, even if you’re silently panicking inside.
2. Master the Plot Twist
Much like in thrillers, lit fest panels often come with unexpected interruptions; a phone ringing mid-discussion, an audience member going rogue, or a fellow panellist stealing your spotlight. This is where you channel your protagonist’s quick wit. Turn that ringing phone into a joke about Love Swipe Blackmail’s dating app subplot. If someone interrupts, quip, “Ah, another twist; just like in my book!” You might not control the interruptions, but you can control how entertainingly you handle them.
3. Stay Mysterious
What’s a thriller without a bit of intrigue? Use your time on the panel to drop tantalizing hints about your next project. Share just enough to intrigue your readers, but not enough to spoil the surprise.
For instance, “I’m working on another novel about digital intrigue, but let’s just say this one involves a lot more…dark web.” See? Mysterious, compelling, and guaranteed to keep readers coming back for more.
4. Trust Your Sidekicks
Remember Ravi’s loyal friends in Love Swipe Blackmail? Well, your publisher, fellow panellists, and even the event organizers are your team. If the session goes haywire, trust them to step in and save the day. Or at least blame them for any mishaps; after all, they’re already used to it.
I will Survive, like Gloria Gaynor’s song
Surviving a lit fest panel isn’t just about what you say; it’s about how you say it. Keep it light, stay adaptable, and don’t forget to enjoy yourself. And remember, if all else fails, there’s always one foolproof escape route: blaming the publisher. They’re professionals at handling literary drama anyway!
Catch me at the Apeejay Kolkata Lit Fest on January 12, where I’ll be putting this guide to the ultimate test. Let’s talk thrillers, twists, and maybe even share a laugh or two.