Writer of 12 novels, 150 stories and numerous other literary works, Dr Dhurba Chandra Gautam has been immersed in the Nepali literary sphere for more than five decades. Recipient of the prestigious Madan Puraskar, for his book Aakilit, he is widely known for his genre-bending experimental approaches. In this conversation with Post’s Samikshya Bhattarai, Gautam talks about his love for reading and writing as well as the literary metamorphosis in Nepal over the last 50 years. Excerpts:

What is your first memory of reading and writing? When did you start? 

I was born to a family that read religiously. My father and elder brothers always had Hindi books and newspapers at their disposal. When you grow up in a family where reading is a way of life, it comes to you naturally too. I only started writing when I was grieving after my mother’s demise.  I channeled my emotions through poetry and it helped me cope with the grief. In the years that followed, I also embraced prose. 

What are your biggest inspirations for writing? 

There is no single source of inspiration that I can pinpoint. For me, writing is mostly spontaneous and often about self-reflection. Hence, sometimes everything around me inspires me, other times nothing does. I always sit down to write as soon as I come across new and exciting insights. 

Your works of fiction are experimental and unique, very different from what your contemporaries wrote, what prompted you to diverge from the trend? 

One characteristic that I have always had is the desire to stand out. I have always wanted to be more than just another sheep in the herd. Hence, contrary to what other writers of my generation did; I focused more on character development rather than plot development. Human mind and the internal conflict it goes through has always amused me and that is exactly what I specialise in. Because other writers focused on the external aspects, my work automatically got tagged as unique and experimental.

How has Nepali literature transformed—when it comes to readers and writers—in the last five decades?

I have noticed quite some changes in the last few decades. Today, the general public is more aware about the importance of reading, so, there are obviously more number of readers than there were ever before. There was a time when 1000 was a benchmark for best-selling books; today it is very normal for writers and publishers to sell more than 1000 copies. The new-generation of writers are also very talented and come with a set of skills we never had. There are more readers, more writers, more genres, more themes and more works being published and sold. Literature has morphed into a fruitful industry and it is growing bigger still. 

What, for you, makes a good writer?

Good writers are observant, thoughtful and creative. They are capable of portraying the elements of society in a creative and artistic fashion. I believe a good literary work possesses tinge of truth even if it’s a work of fiction. 

What advice do you have for readers?

Beyond smart phones and other electrical devices, engage in literature as a means of entertainment if not a means of knowledge. Read everything at your disposal. It not only helps you expand your horizons but also polishes your language.