Today we talk about Walking Words & Wonder, a book by Mehar Gulati published with our publishing house Europe Books.
Europe Books had the pleasure of interviewing the author, Mehar Gulati, to get to know her better, the moment that led her to the writing of her collection of poems Walking Words & Wonder, as well as how she describes her writing style.
Below you can find our interview. Take a seat and enjoy your reading!!!
- What prompted you to write a collection of poems?
I wrote my first poem when I was around 8 years old. As I grew up, I started to read a lot of novels, and writing came to me as a very natural form of self-expression. I could pen down honest words and wrap them up in pretty verses of how I was feeling, how I wanted to feel, and a simple outlook of the world. “Walking Words & Wonder” is a collection of poems that were written from when I was probably just 16 to now when I am 26. Each poem in this anthology represents a steppingstone reflecting moments of vulnerability, courage, and resilience in the journey of a hopeless romantic teenager becoming an independent woman finding love and peace within herself, as well as in the world around her. This book captures what it’s like to cherish the beauty of life and appreciate its complexities, whilst wearing your heart on your sleeve.
- What are the messages you wanted to send out to your readers?
The messages I want to convey to my readers revolve around the themes of self-love, resilience, kindness, and embracing the beauty of life. When we face challenges and uncertainties, I think it’s important to believe in oneself. I want to inspire readers to recognise their potential and powers, to have faith in themselves, and to keep going on even when the journey gets tough, because all of us have it in us to face the darkness, and to come out at the bright side. I’d also like to encourage my readers to savour the present moment and find solace in everyday experiences. Life is a series of interconnected, beautiful moments, and by living each day with gratitude, appreciation, and love, we can find joy in the smallest and simplest of things. And lastly, I believe that all of us are inherently good. So, to keep that spirit of kindness alive, allowing it to flourish in our words and actions, illuminating our interactions with the warmth and love each one of us carries.
- How would you describe your writing style?
Fairly simple. Romantic. Free-flow. Honest. I think my writing style is simple yet resonant. I strive to convey complex ideas with a clarity that allows readers from various backgrounds to engage effortlessly. My approach to writing aims for readers to find beauty in the elegance of simplicity whilst being on a journey of exploration and introspection. My words are also imbued by romanticism, with an air of enchantment. Like moonlight that twinkles upon an ocean, I seek to wake a sense of wonder through metaphors among my readers. Unconditional love, whispers of nature, and the echoes of human connection form the palette from which I draw to compose verses of the heart, for the world. Lastly, honesty is the North Star that guides my poetic compass. I bare the unfiltered truth of my soul upon the parchment, embracing vulnerability and raw authenticity, enabling the words to form a bridge of sincere connection with the readers. This equips me to write in “free flow”, which is a hallmark of my poetry collection. I value the organic development of ideas, allowing them to unfold naturally, as though the thoughts are flowing straight from my heart to the page.
- How was your publishing experience?
My publishing experience with Europe Books has been lovely! The sentiment I feel is that of heartfelt appreciation for the exceptional team that transformed my dream into a remarkable reality. I am grateful to Alicia Guinot, whose astute judgement led to the selection of my manuscript submission. Her belief in my work was an affirmation to the countless hours that were poured into crafting my creation “Walking Words & Wonder”. Her call to discuss my work was filled with enthusiasm and encouragement, marking the beginning of this wonderful journey. In the intricate process that followed, the guidance and unwavering support of my fabulous Editor, Maria Anna Grazia, proved to be invaluable. We went through numerous revisions of the text, polishing it closer to perfection every single time; Maria enabled me to enrich the narrative while preserving its essence. Our collaboration bears the imprint of her keen insights and kind mentorship. I would also like to extend my gratitude to Ginevra Grasso, my press officer, for her diligent efforts and commitment to ensure that my work is able to reach its intended audience.
- Are you planning to write more books?
Yes, fingers crossed. With my passion for writing paired with my studies and work experience in the field of Psychology, I feel like I have learned a lot of things in my own journey of life that could uplift readers around the world. The prospect of penning down poems and perspectives that resonate universally fills me with an overwhelming sense of purpose. To me, each composition acts as a portal – an opportunity to kindle dialogues, impact lives, and unveil windows into shared experiences, nurturing compassion and comprehension. My literary creations are characterized by their connection to musings of the heart. My desire is to contribute to the poetry tapestry with pieces that ignite warmth, provoke thought, spread smiles, and ultimately remind us of the simple and beautiful beings we all are. Within each of us, there is love and light, and that is what inspires me to write narratives that are radiant.
Europe Books thanks the author, Mehar Gulati, once again for taking the time and answering our questions. We are really pleased to have walked alongside her on the editorial path that led to the publication of her book Walking Words & Wonder. We wish her the best of luck for her future works.
To you, my readers, I hope this book will give you the desire and motivation to believe in yourself, recognizing your potential and carry it forward and improve it, fortify it despite the difficulties encountered along the way. Above all to always keep gratitude alive for what life offers us and to cultivate kindness towards ourselves and the people who surround us.
So, my dear reader, all I have to say is to enjoy your reading!
Your editor!