Subhechcha Ganguly 
1. Your journey as an author has seen the publication of two edited books and a short story. Could you share some insights into the themes or messages you aim to convey through your literary works?
Ans: As a writer, I enjoy crafting stories that explore universal themes like love, identity, and the dynamics of college life. My short story “Cynosure” is a prime example of this, inviting readers to delve into the complexities of human connection and personal growth.
Transitioning from creative writing to academic exploration, my edited volumes offer further avenues for inquiry. “Ink and Imagination: Literary Expressions” presents diverse perspectives on the role literature plays in shaping our worldview, while “The Post-truth Era: Literature and Media” investigates the intricate relationship between truth, media, and contemporary communication.
Overall, my creative and academic pursuits are unified by a core belief in the transformative power of storytelling. Both through fiction and critical analysis, I strive to illuminate the profound impact stories have on our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
2. As someone deeply engaged with both literature and media, how do you perceive the intersection between the two in the contemporary landscape, particularly in the era of post-truth?
Ans: The media is also a part of literature and shaping literary theories. We’re living in a Post-truth Era. In today’s world, literature and media are closely intertwined, especially in the age of post-truth. Literature often reflects societal values, while media spreads these narratives far and wide. But in a time where truth is often blurred by misinformation, the roles of literature and media become more complex. Stories, whether in books or on screens, shape how we see the world, sometimes spreading falsehoods. Understanding this intersection is key to navigating today’s landscape and tackling the challenges of misinformation.
3. Your passion for films is evident. How do you think your knowledge of cinema influences your writing, and vice versa?
Ans: I’m a cinephile, a great movie enthusiast. My love for films profoundly shapes my writing. Just as some movies define life and resonate like poems, I strive to infuse my stories with the same emotional depth. Films, like literature, mirror human existence, capturing its essence through captivating narratives and vivid imagery. Drawing inspiration from the cinematic world, I weave elements of visual storytelling into my writing, creating immersive experiences for readers. Likewise, my experiences as a writer deepen my appreciation for the art of filmmaking, fostering a mutual exchange of creativity between literature and cinema.
4. Could you elaborate on how your experiences as an assistant professor have shaped your growth and perspective as a budding writer?
Ans: My role as an assistant professor of English at Ideal College for Advanced Studies, Kadakassery (Kerala District) has profoundly influenced my growth as a writer. Starting this job shortly after completing my post-graduation was a quick and rewarding step. Immersed in academia, I’ve been exposed to diverse perspectives and critical discourse, enriching my understanding of literature and storytelling. Engaging with students and colleagues has sparked new ideas and approaches, while the fulfillment I find in my job fuels my creative energy. Overall, my experiences as an assistant professor have been instrumental in shaping my growth and perspective as a budding writer.
5. With a diverse range of hobbies including writing, watching films, photography, travel, and reading, how do you find balance and inspiration among these pursuits?
Ans: Balancing my diverse hobbies, which include writing, watching films, photography, travel, and reading, comes down to finding joy and inspiration in each activity. Writing allows me to express myself creatively, while watching films provides visual storytelling inspiration. Photography captures moments of beauty during my travels, which in turn inspire my writing. Reading broadens my horizons and fuels my imagination, making me a better writer and appreciator of stories. Each pursuit complements the others, creating a harmonious cycle of inspiration and enjoyment in my life.
6. In the realm of literature, what genres or authors do you find most captivating, and how do they influence your own writing style and preferences?
Ans: In literature, I’m drawn to a wide range of genres and authors. I find Pablo Neruda’s poetry deeply moving, while the surreal worlds of Franz Kafka and Gabriel Garcia Marquez captivate me. Classic literature, with its timeless themes and authors, always holds a special place in my heart. From Dostoevsky’s existential ponderings to Jane Austen’s romantic tales, these works inspire and shape my own writing style. Literature, for me, is a reflection of life’s complexities and a window into the amalgamation of human emotions.
7. What are your future plans in terms of your writing and academic career?
Ans: In the future, I plan to pursue a PhD while continuing to teach as a lecturer. There are many unread books waiting for me to discover, and I’m eager to explore them. Additionally, I aim to publish more of my poetry and short stories, sharing my creativity with others. Overall, I’m excited for the opportunities that lie ahead in both my academic and writing endeavors.
