The Literature Times: Author, welcome to The Literature Times. Congratulations on the publication of your book! What feedback do you get from your readers? Please share your thoughts on this book.
Manoj Joy: “Thank you so much for having me, Literature Times. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to share my thoughts on my book, Rehtaf: Father of the Fatherless. The feedback I have received from readers has been incredibly heartwarming and humbling.
Many readers have reached out to me to express how deeply the story resonated with them on an emotional level. Some have shared that the characters and their journeys touched their hearts and made them reflect on the importance of family, love, and resilience.
Rehtaf is a story that is very close to my heart, and I poured my soul into every page. It explores themes of loss, redemption, and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity. Through the character of Rehtaf, I wanted to convey a message of hope and the strength that can be found in the bonds of family, both biological and chosen.
I hope that this book continues to touch the lives of readers and inspire them to believe in the power of love, compassion and self discovery. Thank you to all those who have supported me on this journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share this story with the world.”
The Literature Times: What motivates you to become a writer?
Manoj Joy: My desire to inspire and educate and provoke thought in readers. I hope to make a positive impact on readers through my writing by sharing aluable insights, knowledge, or perspective.
Writing is deeply personal fulfilling and cathartic experience for me. Writing motivates me to explore my thoughts and feelings, make sense of the world around me, and create something meaningful and lasting.
Writing is a powerful tool for communication and connection. I often seek to connect with others on a personal level, build empathy, and foster understanding through their words.
The Literature Times: What are your favourite writing topics? Please tell us a little bit about your literary interests.
Manoj Joy: I love to write about ‘love and redemption’. Love is always a theme for many writers. I love to talk about mature love, not about infatuation love. How to turn your love into singularity Where the loving and the loved become one.
Redemption talks about the ideas of atonement, forgiveness, and transformation. The second part of my story really talks about how to redeem yourself from the snares of the neuropatterns of daily life.
The Literature Times: We were hoping you might tell us about some of the authors that have influenced you and who you read!
Manoj Joy: My entire perception of life changed after reading a particular book. Joseph Murphy’s book, The Power of Your Subconscious Mind, was the catalyst for this transformation. This book compelled me to delve deep within myself. So personally speaking, he was the one who influenced me the most.
The Literature Times: The title is unique and appealing; how did you come up with them? Please tell us the story behind it.
Manoj Joy: Yes, the title is unique. I have been looking for a thoughtful title. The title actually changed when I was having a casual conversation with one of my students in the classroom. “Father of the Fatherless.” To match the subtitle, I put FATHER in reverse REHTAF. The cover page was also designed. You can see the father’s shadow is missing. It indicates selflessness or egolessness. EGO means Earth Guide Only.
The Literature Times: What are your achievements so far? Tell us something about your writing career.
Manoj Joy: Drawing upon personal experiences, this literary work marks my inaugural release. I am a mathematics and physics instructor; the circumstances surrounding my transition into the field of writing are beyond my comprehension. I follow the universal consciousness wherever it directs me.
The Literature Times: What is your current goal in writing a career? How do you see your future in writing?
Manoj Joy: I don’t believe I can pursue writing as a career. I am happy with what I am doing now. If time permits, there is a future plan to write two more.
The Literature Times: Do you have any other novels in the works? Please keep us updated on your future endeavours.
Manoj Joy:No
The Literature Times: How do you view Indian writing in the twenty-first century? What changes do you see in today’s writing style? Do you feel it has been changed by the time?
Manoj Joy: I am not a qualified to speak about this topic in detail. This erra is AI erra. So it will have its influence.
The Literature Times: How simple/difficult was it for you to publish your book? What message do you want to send to aspiring authors?
I have published the same book with Balboa press, they were based in US, publishing with them was not very easy but Publishing my book with Astitva was easy and flexible.
My message to aspiring authors:
Writing is a challenging but rewarding process. It requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to revise and refine your work. Embrace the ups and downs that come with the creative process, for they are all part of the journey toward becoming a better writer.
Do not be afraid to write from your heart and soul. Your authenticity and passion will shine through your words and resonate with your readers. Remember that every great author started as an aspiring writer, facing doubts and uncertainties along the way.
Seek inspiration from the world around you, whether it be in nature, art, conversations, or personal experiences. Allow yourself to be vulnerable, to explore new ideas, and to push the boundaries of your imagination.
Surround yourself with a supportive community of fellow writers who can offer feedback, encouragement, and guidance. Remember that writing is not a solitary endeavor; connecting with others who share your passion can be immensely beneficial.
Above all, believe in yourself and your ability to tell stories that matter. Your words have the power to entertain, educate, and inspire. Keep writing, keep growing, and never give up on your dreams.