In Conversation with Nikhila Roy

About Nikhila Roy

Nikhila is a high school teacher and content writer by profession. Though she has been writing for years, she thought now would be the perfect time to express herself and help those who probably feel the same but aren’t able to share their thoughts. Building a connect and relatibility, a reminder that you aren’t alone. She loves to cook and paint in her free time.

LiFT: Tell us about your book, the journey of writing it, and its content.

Nikhila Roy: It’s a slice of life. A lot of self-reflection and observation. There were days and nights that were happy, sad, exhausting and triumphant.
My sister has had a huge part to play in bringing out the best in me.
And in turn I have taught my students and learnt from them as well.
You’ll find poems that yearn for emotional safety, a place where you can shed your armour and simply be. It’s a testament to the enduring human spirit.

LiFT: Why did you choose this title?

Nikhila Roy: The central theme is love in its various forms. After watching the movie ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’, I sort of based the title off of it.
A journey of beginnings, the inbetween and endings. Seemed apt 🙂

LiFT: When did you realize that you wanted to be a writer, and what was your inspiration behind it?

Nikhila Roy: It’s something that I’ve always wanted to do, ever since I was 18 years old. With the years passing by, it was a now or never moment.
I was inspired by all the people I’ve met (those who’ve left and those who’ve stayed) and all the experiences I’ve lived through.

LiFT: Where do you see yourself ten years down the line in the world of literature?

Nikhila Roy: I see myself still teaching English, writing and known as someone whose words have inspired people to come into their own and know that they’re not alone.

LiFT: How important do you think marketing and the quality of a book are in promoting it and increasing its readership?

Nikhila Roy: I think it’s quite important. It depends on the goal/intention. Is it a gimmick or building a connection that is consistent?

LiFT: What message do you want to convey to people through your writing?

Nikhila Roy: All the ups and downs will lead you to exactly where you are meant to be. Don’t give up or give in. Trust the process and never stop questioning things.

LiFT: What do you do apart from writing?

Nikhila Roy: Teaching, cooking and painting amongst other things. In fact, my book cover is one of my pieces 🙂
And, I do spend a lot of time with my dog, Juno.

LiFT: What activities do you resort to when you face writer’s block?

Nikhila Roy: I listen to a lot of indie music, paint lyrics or reach for my Harry Potter collection, delving into all the details.

LiFT: Are you working on your next book? If so, could you tell us something about it?

Nikhila Roy: Yes, I am. It’ll be out soon. It’s another anthology of poetry. Another year of memories. Another year of growth, love and change.

LiFT: What are your suggestions for budding writers and poets to help them improve their writing skills?

Nikhila Roy: Don’t let the fear of falling and failing get the best of you!
Your thoughts and feelings are what make you, you. Organise your thoughts, understand the intention and articulate your words clearly. It doesn’t need to be fancy, just real.

Click here to order Nikhila Roy’s Book – Love, Life and Things in Between