Deepa Anappara, author of the acclaimed Djinn Patrol on the Purple Line, shared her journey as a writer in a recent interview. Her debut novel, translated into over 20 languages, reflects her journalistic roots and deep connection to India’s vibrant settings.

Anappara draws inspiration from the world around her—everyday life, conversations, and social inequities. As she explains, “In India, you don’t need to look far; stories are everywhere, from bustling markets to intimate family moments.” Her journalism career has greatly influenced her storytelling, teaching her to observe and listen deeply.

When discussing genre and narrative voice, Anappara emphasized the importance of centering the perspective of those most impacted by the story. For Djinn Patrol, she chose the voice of a child, Jay, to navigate the complexities of a community grappling with loss. Crafting Jai’s voice took years, reflecting her commitment to authenticity. “Writing a child narrator requires trust in the reader to grasp what the child might not fully understand,” she said, recommending works like Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha by Roddy Doyle for inspiration.

Anappara also shared her process for tackling the daunting task of a novel. Rather than planning every detail, she writes in small, focused increments, letting characters and plot evolve organically. “Break it down,” she advised, focusing on one scene or paragraph at a time.

For her, setting is integral to storytelling. In Djinn Patrol, the vivid portrayal of an urban slum emerges through Jay’s eyes, capturing his physical and emotional experiences within the space.

On publishing, Anappara highlighted persistence, noting Djinn Patrol was her fourth attempt at a book. She encouraged writers to consider contests for unfinished works to gain visibility.

Deepa Anappara’s journey underscores the value of patience, observation, and a genuine connection to one’s characters and environment—essential tools for every writer.