Today we talk about Playground of Emotions, a book by Hana Holatová published with our publishing house Europe Books.
Europe Books had the pleasure of interviewing the author, Hana Holatová, to get to know her better, what prompted her to the writing of her book Playground of Emotions, as well as who are the poets she takes the inspiration from.
Below you can find our interview. Take a seat and enjoy your reading!!!
- What prompted you to the writing of your book of poetry?
People. People who, when they are lost, feel everything more intensely. Initially, my writing was a collection of scattered thoughts. Later, as I began working in the social sphere, I encountered countless stories: children with lost souls and adults who no longer wished to be found. These experiences deeply influenced me. While some poems reflect my own feelings, most of the emotions and perspectives in my work are drawn from the people I’ve had the privilege of meeting. I wanted readers to feel exactly what I intended to express. For the texts to carry the depth they deserve, they had to be shared. I don’t mind who reads my book because I know it’s not for everyone. But for those who do, I hope the story of these three characters leaves a lasting impression.
- What are the crucial themes of your work?
The key themes of my work explore struggles with inner darkness, and the dynamic relationships of three central souls. My poetry delves into the complexities of human feelings, relationships, and behaviors, often uncovering profound and sometimes unsettling truths about reality. The collection is divided into logical sections, each reflecting the progression of the verses and the unfolding narrative. While its layered nature may not be accessible to every reader, it’s meant to resonate deeply with those who connect with it.
- What is the message you wanted to send out to you readers?
I want readers to recognize the moments in the book where they truly empathize with the characters. My hope is to inspire an understanding that everyone feels differently and often struggles to understand others. Yet, this very struggle reminds us that we are still human. My goal is for every emotion to be deeply felt, even when it’s a negative one. I want humanity to endure within us, especially as it becomes increasingly difficult to find in today’s world.
- Who are the poets you take inspiration from?
It may surprise some, but I don’t read poetry at all. I’m a highly sensitive person; I absorb emotions easily and empathize effortlessly. I wanted my poetry to feel as authentic as possible, so I avoided following any specific style or drawing inspiration from others. Now that my book is published, I can finally begin exploring other poetry collections without fear of altering my own voice.
- Are you working on a new writing project you can tell us about?
Yes, I’m already working on another collection. It will likely be from the perspective of the third man in my current book, making it something of a continuation. Writing it feels quite natural, but I’m incorporating more raw and expressive language this time around.
Europe Books thanks the author, Hana Holatová, 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 Playground of Emotions. We wish her the best of luck for her future works.
To you, my readers, may this book remind you that we are human beings who experience emotions, both good and bad, and not to lose our humanity, especially because it helps us in today’s relationships, which are unfortunately increasingly complex.
So, my dear reader, all I have to say is to enjoy your reading!
Your editor!