EPISODE  #3 

ft. Santanu Bhattacharya

Santanu Bhattacharya, author of the critically acclaimed One Small Voice, shared his writing journey in an insightful interview. With accolades like the Mo Siewcharran Prize and the London Writers Award, Bhattacharya has become a voice to watch in contemporary literature.

The journey of One Small Voice began in 2012, evolving over a decade. Initially conceptualized as five interconnected stories, the novel transformed into a singular narrative focused on Shankar, a character rooted in Bhattacharya’s own experiences. The author candidly discussed his struggles with early drafts, admitting that his initial attempts lacked the maturity and craft required for the story’s ambitious scope.

Bhattacharya emphasizes the importance of patience in writing. “Art isn’t a capitalistic machine,” he remarked, advocating for writers to take the time necessary to hone their craft. For him, persistence meant rewriting the novel multiple times, each draft refining the emotional depth and character arcs. By the seventh draft, the novel achieved the authenticity he sought.

On character development, Bhattacharya underlined the need for vulnerability and emotional honesty. He believes in immersing himself in his characters’ inner lives, exploring their emotional cores to bring them alive on the page. For aspiring writers, he advises balancing realism with the craft by starting with familiar subjects to focus more on storytelling techniques.

Bhattacharya also highlighted the importance of seeking feedback from diverse groups and being open to critique while staying true to one’s vision. His publishing journey reflects this balance, navigating rejections, competitions, and eventual success with One Small Voice.

In a standout analogy, Bhattacharya likened storytelling to parenthood—a creation driven by deep emotional need and nurtured through commitment. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and an unwavering belief in the stories one feels compelled to tell.