In December 2011, I received an email from Prashant Karhade informing me about a new book and debut author. I read the email with much interest and wrote back to ask if the author would like to be interviewed. He agreed and without further delay, let me introduce you to Armaan Farid …
Aneeta: Armaan, thank you for agreeing to this interview.
Armaan: Thank you so very much for taking out the time to have me here. It’s an absolute pleasure.
Aneeta: Let’s start with something about you. Please tell me where you were born, where did you grow up, what do you do for a living and where do you live now?
Armaan: I was born and raised in the beautiful city of Hyderabad. Blessed to say that it was a typical childhood, with the perfect mixture of mischief and discipline. As for what I do for a living, well I recently graduated with a Bachelors degree in Commerce. I work part time in my family’s restaurant, but for the most part, I try my best to write good stories. I still reside in Hyderabad, and can think of no better place to call home.
Aneeta: From the note I received from Prashant Karhade, I understand that you’ve written a book. Before we go into the book, proper, tell me about writing. Have you always wanted to be a writer? Why?
Armaan: Truth be told, I’ve had quite a few dreams that I have chased, but the love of writing has been ever-present in my heart since my childhood. I suppose the reason why I love this field so much is because I have always had a deep rooted passion for the English language. I was mesmerized by the power of words, either to inspire, move or shock people. Couple that with my desire to make a mark in this world, and the thought of becoming an Author became my heart’s greatest desire.
Aneeta: Let’s talk about your book. What is it called and please describe it for me.
Armaan: The title of the book is “Stories From The Heart Of A Dreamer”. It’s an anthology of seven different stories. The book covers a variety of genres, ranging from Romance, Mystery, Crime/Thriller and journeys of a human life. Each story is independent of the other, with its own plot, and narrative style.
Aneeta: Naturally, your work will involve many elements of storytelling. Which element have you used most in your work?
Armaan: I think although the book contains different stories and the narration is done in a manner befitting the genre of the tale being told, I have a very set style of writing. A good plot is used as the strong foundation on which the story is told. Attention to detail is paid great importance, because I would like my readers to be able to clearly visualize the events occurring in the book within the eye of their minds. Dialogues are personal, and done in a manner that suits not only the nature of the characters involved, but also the nature of the relationship between the characters in question.
Aneeta: What advice would you give those who would like to venture into storytelling?
Armaan: It is impossible to give any specific advice to those who come into this field. It’s a very personal field, and you have to find your own path. The only advice that I can give to the brave who are willing to follow the road less travelled is, if you genuinely believe in yourself then follow your dreams. For only those bold enough to chase their dreams are the ones who catch them.
Aneeta: Armaan, this is all I have to ask. Is there anything you’d like to add?
Armaan: To everyone who has already picked up a copy of the book, I hope you enjoyed it, and I am extremely grateful for the support shown. For anyone who may now believe that I am worth taking a chance on, and are willing to read my work, again, Thank you for the support, and I sincerely hope that you enjoy the book.
Aneeta: Thank you, Armaan.
Armaan: Thank you so much for your time and patience.
This piece may NOT be freely reprinted. Please contact editor @ howtotellagreatstory.com for reprint rights.
Click here to return to the index of interviews on ‘Blow Your Own Trumpet!’