“Exploring the Mind and Myth: An Insightful Conversation with Author Riddhima”

Interview by Soma Mitra 

Riddhima, an introverted author, uses writing to express emotions and connect with her inner self. Her recent work explores Ravana’s character in an anthology, offering a nuanced view of his intelligence and flaws. She enjoys writing poetry, short stories, and novels, often blending prose and poetry with non-linear narratives. Drawn to psychological thrillers, she explores the complexities of the human mind and anti-heroes. To overcome writer’s block, she turns to music, cinema, and drawing. Her advice to aspiring writers is to stay consistent, write daily, and believe in themselves, even when progress seems slow.

Riddhima, your writing journey has been inspiring! What first sparked your interest in becoming an author?

Ans – I am an introvert by nature. It helps me to relax and express my emotion as not all emotions can be expressed through words and expressions. It helps me express my inner self. It has been a part of me.

 

Can you tell us about your most recent work? What themes or ideas do you explore in it?

Ans- last work i published was based on an anthology based on mythological story based on the RAVANA. As he is known as a negative character because of his actions but the anthology tried to explore Ravana’s character from different angles.No doubt his behaviour towards women were never respectful but not to forget that he was an intelligent scholar.

 

How do you approach the writing process? Do you have any rituals or habits that help you get into the zone?

Ans- I am dividing into 3 categories, in case writing POEM is easy as I can write any moment on any given topic. Secondly, in the case of short stories I even take less time with short stories. If I talk about NOVELS I take enough time to think about the topic. One of those was based on human identity. I like to work in the psychological and thriller genre. Also I Write content by mixing POETRY AND PROSE

The next thing is to plan the chapters, narratives. Often I try to keep it non linear to make it unique which can make the person think about the upcoming plot. 

 

Your stories often delve into psychological and thriller genre. What draws you to this genre or subject matter?

Ans-  I like Logic which means I like psychology, thriller and horror. As it makes us think about our mind. As the mind is the greatest element. In thriller I want to explore how the human brain can go from a very vast stage to a particular one. For examples villains are actually the anti- heroes

 

As an author, how do you handle writer’s block or creative slumps? Do you have any strategies for overcoming them?

Ans- The first option I follow is listening to music as not only it heals but also it inspires. Either I listen to music or I watch cinema or I draw. If one medium is not working properly than other medium helps to decipher the blocked medium, be it any creative medium. 

 

What feedback or response from readers has resonated with you the most regarding your recent works?

Ans- I received good reviews as the character’s both sides were discussed instead of focusing on any one side. I have received constructive criticism on my first novel which helped me to improve the content.

 

Looking ahead, do you have any exciting projects in the pipeline? Can you give us a sneak peek into what’s next for you as an author?

Ans – I am working on an anthology comprising 15 poems based on elements of nature. The inspiration is nature itself. I will come up with solo books and yes as poetry is my first love i will continue writing it.

 

Any advice you want to give to new Authors ?

Ans-Be consistent, write on a daily basis and be focused. Initially things may not work well but believe in yourself and don’t give up