A Conversation On Dystopian Fiction, Identity, and Writing Challenges

In the 5th episode of A Writer’s Journey, novelist Prayaag Akbar shared insights into his writing process, inspirations, and experiences in the literary world. Akbar, best known for Leila, a dystopian novel that explores caste and class divides in a futuristic society, discussed how his lived experiences in Delhi and Mumbai shaped the world-building in his novel. The book’s adaptation into a Netflix series further amplified its reach and impact. His latest novel, Mother India, delves into the political implications of artificial intelligence and the ethical dilemmas surrounding its misuse.

Akbar emphasized that dystopian fiction often stems from personal angst and dissatisfaction with societal realities. He pointed out that influential dystopian works, such as Fahrenheit 451 and The Handmaid’s Tale, were rooted in historical events and political concerns. Similarly, Leila was not meant to be a purely speculative work but rather an intensified reflection of real-world segregation and discrimination.

Discussing his writing process, Akbar revealed that he often drafts and redrafts extensively, getting to know his characters deeply over time. He prefers to explore their flaws gradually, refining them through multiple iterations. His approach to perspective, particularly in Mother India, involved a careful balance between omniscient narration and close third-person storytelling, allowing him to present multiple viewpoints effectively.

On publishing, Akbar shared his experiences with both Indian and international markets, acknowledging the challenges literary fiction faces today. Despite the financial uncertainties of a writing career, he remains committed to storytelling, emphasizing the importance of perseverance. His advice to writers: “Find what truly bothers you about the world, and let that drive your fiction.”