We had the pleasure of interviewing the talented Gul, author of Story Poems, Love Poems. We spoke about her writing journey and where the ideas came from!

 

 

When did it dawn upon you that you wanted to be a writer?

 

My first poems date from my high school years (1983-1986). Although I loved literature, becoming a poet or being a poet never occurred to me till a couple of years back. I had thought before I would stop writing in the future, but on and off it continued. With my first poetry book published in February of this year (2018), I decided I mustn’t stop writing ever.

 

 

What inspires you to write?

 

Everything inspires me to write. Love and life, you might say.

 

 

How often do you write?

 

I try to write something new every week.

 

 

Do you have a set schedule for writing, or are you one of those who write only when they feel inspired?

 

I rely heavily on inspiration, but I do try  to write regularly with a laid back attitude.

 

 

How hard was it to sit down and actually start writing something?

 

It was never hard for me to write poems. What I found more difficult was cultivating the lifestyle, the freedom and the time to write.

 

 

Do you aim to complete a set number of pages or words each day?

 

I have no deadlines in my work. I finish when I can.

 

 

What, according to you, is the hardest thing about writing?

 

You have to believe in your talent and keep on practising. It could be difficult.

 

 

What would you say is the easiest aspect of writing?

 

The easiest aspect of writing is you are your own boss. You can write anything you like, as it fits your fancy.

 

 

Are you happy with your book?

 

I am happier with ‘Story Poems, Love Poems’, which happens to be my second poetry book. I believe I managed to write better poems there compared to my first poetry book, ‘Very Short Stories’.

 

 

If you could review Olympia Publishers in a few words, what would they be?

 

 

Olympia Publishers has been working quickly and efficiently with me from the very beginning. My editor was, for instance, very helpful. I hope we continue our fruitful relationship with Olympia in the publicity stage, too.