In Conversation with The Charismatic Author Amit Shankar

Amit Shankar is no ordinary writer. He is one of the few male writers who write from the perspective of a woman and that too with a brilliance that the characters come alive on paper. He has done so with his book, Flight of Hilsa and Love is Vodka, the only exception is Chapter 11. Let’s find out more about the author.

Hi. Writers always have an aura of aloofness with themselves. They seem like mythical creatures. What would you say about yourself? Mythical Creature or just human?

Most of them are a prisoner of their own shadow. Aren’t they? Well, I’m a normal guy, though a little whimsical, eccentric with mood swings. Yeah I love my own space and being on my own but I also enjoy company of friends, jiving at a pub, a cup of coffee served with gossips and all other normal stuff.

Although there have been three books of yours in the market, how did it feel when your book came out for the first time?

It was landmark, Gurgaon. And I was not able to believe my eyes. I was too overwhelmed to react. The mere sight of my title, Flight of the Hilsa on the shelf was like a dream come true. I can still recall that experience.

How did your journey as a writer start and why did you choose to write?

I guess it started during my college days. Friends would request me to write love letters. And my strike rate was 100% Every single letter that I wrote got them the attention and date. Inspired by my own prowess, I joined advertising  as I was told that they pay to dream and write. I loved every bit there. As a copywriter and later as a creative director, I wrote for some hot brands; Canon, Microsoft, HP, Pedigree, Nestle, General Motors and the list goes on. After a decade or so, I had the urge to write what I felt not what the brand demanded. Also, I wanted to tell stories with heart and soul which could impact lives, make someone smile, cry, say sorry, give a hug. Maybe this urge made me shift to writing fiction.

Your titles are always catchy and leave a sense of intrigue in the reader. How do you choose a title for your book?

Wish I knew the answer. But then I guess it is a result of advertising where we were taught to have compelling headlines. As matter of fact, all three titles happened without much struggle. I hope it continues.

Form a woman who is painter to a man who has corporate dreams and then suddenly to a life of a teenager, you have written on very different topics. Why?

I am a seeker, a dreamer, an observer. With all this I am also a restless guy who wants to explore more and more as he gets bored very easily. No wonder, unlike most writers, who stick to a genre of story telling or believe in sequels and time tested formula, I want to try the unusual, the offbeat, the new.

Apart from writing, what are you passionate about?

Music is my nirvana, so is coffee, green tea and war movies. Love vintage rock, jazz and blues. Have an enviable collection of CDs and DVDs. I am also a very talented guitarist. Too bad I could not be a musician.

From advertising to books? Is there a chance that we might see you directing a movie or writing a movie one day?

I am not the one to plan. I take life and things as they come. But if destiny wants me to direct a movie or write for one, I would be take it graciously.

Last but not the least, any message for your readers and our readers.

Life is to short, live and rule like a rock star…no repentance, no hard feelings.