What India's Bestselling Author Ashwin Sanghi Tells Every Young Writer
Ashwin Sanghi, one of India's most successful authors, known for mythological thrillers like The Krishna Key and Chanakya's Chant, has shared some unconventional advice for aspiring writers. In a recent interaction, Sanghi emphasized three key points: keep your day job, stop rewriting, and forget everything school taught you about writing.
Keep Your Job
Sanghi strongly advises young writers not to quit their jobs. He points out that financial stability is crucial for creative freedom. Writing full-time can lead to pressure and compromise the quality of work. By having a steady income, writers can afford to take risks and write without the constant worry of paying bills.
Stop Rewriting
Contrary to popular belief, Sanghi suggests that endless rewriting can be counterproductive. He believes that the first draft captures the raw emotion and spontaneity. Over-editing can strip the work of its original voice. Instead, he recommends moving on to the next project after completing a draft, as each new book is an opportunity to improve.
Forget School Lessons
Sanghi argues that traditional education often stifles creativity. School teaches rules and structures that can limit a writer's imagination. He encourages young writers to break free from these constraints and develop their unique style. Reading widely and writing consistently are more valuable than adhering to rigid grammar rules or plot formulas.
Additional Insights
Sanghi also stressed the importance of reading. He believes that writers must be voracious readers to understand different narrative techniques and genres. Additionally, he highlighted the value of persistence. Rejection is part of the journey, and successful writers are those who keep submitting their work despite setbacks.
For those struggling with writer's block, Sanghi suggests writing something else. Even if it's unrelated, the act of writing keeps the creative muscles active. He also advises writers to seek honest feedback but not to let it derail their vision.
Conclusion
Ashwin Sanghi's advice is a refreshing take on the writing process. By balancing practicality with creativity, young writers can navigate the challenging world of publishing. His emphasis on financial independence, trusting one's instincts, and unlearning rigid rules offers a roadmap for aspiring authors to find their voice and succeed.
