Suman Ghimire is the author of the recently-published novel Maunata, a narrative of love and friendship with foreign employment and Nepal’s lost potential as its backdrop. An entrepreneur and hotelier, Ghimire also has a poetry chapbook, Mero Baisako Calendar, to his name. In this conversation with the Post’s Samikshya Bhattarai, the author talks about his new novel and his reading habits. Exerpts:

Tell us something about you novel and the inspiration behind it?

Maunata is a reflection of the manifold issues that plague our society. It is based on issues of sexual violence and the impacts of migration for foreign employment. The book deals with issues pertaining to sexuality, which I have tried to present in simple and accessible language. I was moved to write it having read the excellent books that are now available in the market. The burgeoning Nepali literature scene is very inspiring!

How did you first come to love books?

I have been into literature from my school days—where I spent an inordinate amount of time in the library. I have also been a big fan of book exhibition and sales and I visit them religiously. I picked up my reading habit very young and it has only become stronger over time.

What was the last book you read and how did you like it?

The last book I read was the collection of short-stories Aina by Ramlal Joshi. Joshi has crafted a great collection of stories in simple but lucid language—all the stories included in the collection are from our daily lives. I loved how he presented his stories, particularly the one titled Shreeman Bahadur.

Who are your favourite authors?

Like many others, Laxmi Prasad Devkota would have to top my list of favourite authors. I love reading all his different genres. Shankhar Lamichhane, Bhupi Sherchan and Parijat are some of my other favourite classical authors. From the new crop, I enjoy reading Buddhisagar, Amar Neupane, Subin Bhattarai and Ashwini Koirala. I also read a lot of Robin Sharma and Jhumpa Lahiri.

 Which book do you want to read next and why?

The English title I want to read next Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. Among Nepali titles, the Madan Puraskar-nominated Amoi by Bhuwan Hari Sigdel is next on my list. I have had a lot of people recommend it as a must-read.

Any book that you would recommend as a must-read?

I am a big fan of Shankhar Lamichhane’s style of writing. I think his Abstract Chintan Pyaj should not be missed by book lovers.

How do you select books to read?

Normally, I read all titles that are available in the market. When I have to choose, I go with recommendations made by literary friends and book reviews. Sometimes I will buy books that are not recommended to understand why it has fallen from favour. This can be a tip for my current or future writings.

What is good writing for you? What would you say makes a good writer?

Good writing naturally attracts readers. I think that readers are looking for an authentic voice in the books that they read. I think when an author is able to find his or her true voice and stay true and honest to it throughout a piece, readers will automatically gravitate towards it. Oftentimes, particularly today, authors are writing so that their work gains mass appeal, but I feel that the approach is backwards. You don’t write to be popular; a book is popular because of its writing. And the authenticity of the voice has a lot to do with it.

Your advice for general readers?

Books are an invaluable gift to humanity. Read every chance you get! And when you have the choice, read Nepali books—the Nepali literary scene could use all our help and encouragement.