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Conversations with the Books on my Shelf
MEET THE AUTHOR BEHIND 'PHOENIX IN ME' SONAL SRIVASTAVA
Sonal is a dedicated professional working in the IT industry and settled in Mumbai. Balancing work and life, she finds solace in writing, which has been her passion and creative escape. This book, born from her love for words, reflects her belief in resilience, hope, and transformation. An optimist at heart, she embraces challenges with a practical outlook, always seeking light in the darkest times. Through her poetry, she aspires to inspire and comfort those on their own journeys of self-discovery and healing.
Q1. When did you first realise you wanted to be a poet? Were you always interested in poetry?
I always wanted to write. Be it poetry, journal, stories, researches etc. During academics and job, I had been contributing to technical papers. Though I had been writing a very few poems as well. But an opportunity knocked and I seized it. And the result is this book.
Q2. 'Phoenix in Me' is a really powerful metaphor for transformative healing and strength. What inspired you to mention Phoenix in the title of your book?
We see almost everyone struggling in their lives. Everyone has gone through or has been going through a hard phase. Same is with me. And I realized not everyone has healed, not everyone gets an opportunity to ask for help. Some are still stuck with the circumstances. Mostly people think they are alone. So this book just says "I have seen you all this time. I know what you have gone through or going through. I am with you. I know how it feels at that particular point of time. Don't lose hope, you are close, let's heal together to new you!"
Q3. Your poems focus on the importance of emotional resilience. Was writing this book a cathartic process for you? Were there moments that were particularly difficult or healing to write?
This book is like, re-living and learning. It was like how far I have come through, a little pat on back that "it did work!" I made it. And last part was a realization that I am calm, I have the peace. I am healed.
Q4. Is there a particular poem in the book that you particularly enjoyed crafting? If yes, then why does it stand out for you?
Yes, "Clemency!" Is the one. It's about how anyone willing to breakthrough the loop of going back to pain and getting hurt. It's about finding a way out of all that and finally leaving it behind for all good sake.
Q5. What has the self-publishing experience been like for you? Can you walk your readers through your journey?
For me, self publishing is like just an idea that I wanted to add my name to library. As I am an avid reader too, I believe writing makes you stay in this world. Your words will be guiding someone forever and it's a good thing.
Q6. What advice would you give to aspiring poets or authors?
Start..! Carry a small notebook and a pen. Because thoughts strike at anytime and I do forget a few beautiful lines sometimes. All it takes is just a start. Everyone has to start from a zero. You gain confidence once you are already started.
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Q7. Are you currently working on more poems?
Yes, surprises will drop soon!
Q8. What message or feeling do you hope readers carry with them after reading your poems?
I want them to believe that if I can, they too can. It's just a phase. All it takes is a pat on your back and you yourself have to be the biggest fan of You. Once you learn it, all becomes sorted.
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