"Each book and author has a limited shelf life: Sudha Murty"
Sudha Murty. Credit: Srivatsa Shandilya Author Sudha Murty has authored many books, but she says she still goes through moments of doubt. “As an author, I have to remind myself not to get repetitive...
1
views

Author Sudha Murty has written numerous books and shared that she still experiences moments of uncertainty despite her success. She emphasizes the importance of avoiding repetition and monotony in her work, acknowledging that both books and authors have a finite lifespan. During a recent interview in the city, she discussed her love for storytelling, the responsibility of writing for children, and more. Sudha Murty stated that anyone can pursue writing with passion, regardless of formal education. Her writing journey began before the publication of her first book in Kannada, her mother tongue, shortly after the birth of her daughter. As an engineer without a literary background, she initially questioned the acceptance of her work but learned that writing is driven by passion, not qualifications. She now believes that as long as one is passionate, writing can be a continuous creative endeavor. Being naturally sociable has enriched Sudha's writing, particularly her interactions with children whom she enjoys speaking with. Through conversations with young people, she has gained insight into their challenges and pressures, such as meeting parental expectations over pursuing personal interests. Sudha aims to address these concerns in her writing, offering solace and understanding to her readers. She views writing not just as a means of putting words on paper, but as a way to express emotions and forge connections with others, emphasizing the therapeutic nature of the creative process.Writing is not just a passion, but also a form of self-expression for me and a way to connect with my innermost thoughts. I pride myself on being highly disciplined in my writing approach. This discipline extends beyond simply finishing what I start; it means understanding the importance of completing a project before moving forward. When it comes to crafting stories for children, I adopt a different perspective. Writing for adults allows for direct expression of personal experiences and observations without restraint. However, writing for children requires a different approach. Children's literature demands positivity and messages of hope, steering clear of negative themes. I strive to create stories that impart valuable lessons while maintaining an engaging tone. To succeed in writing for children, I immerse myself in a childlike mindset, taking a few days to mentally switch gears and view the world as a child does – full of wonder and enchantment. By embracing this childlike perspective, I can craft narratives that resonate with young audiences.