Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I was born on 17 October 1977 at Curepipe, Mauritius but I grew up and live at Rose-Hill, one of the business-centred towns of the island. I’m the youngest of a family of 4 children. My late parents were both Hindi teachers and they maintained much discipline at home. They laid much emphasis on an academic as well as spiritual education. They encouraged me to read books of all main languages taught in Mauritius since a very young age. They also gifted me books for my birthday and other special occasions. So in this way, books were my friends since childhood and I enjoyed reading. Then, I started writing poems at the age of 14.
I have always been a music lover –pop songs, spiritual ones or other types.
My initial inspiration for poetry writing came through the lyrics of the songs of my favourite singer Roch Voisine ( a French Canadian singer) who sings both in French and English. As a dreamer, shy teenager and Highly sensitive person (HSP) , I was mesmerized by his French songs Hélène, La Legende D’Oochigeas, Idole,
Bye-bye and his English songs I’ll always be there, Jamie’s girl and On the Outside. So, songs/music led to the penning down of my words in the form of poetry.
I have written two books up till now: When Solitude Speaks (2013)
and Depth of the River (2017)
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is entitled Depth of the River.
I was inspired by philosophy and spirituality to write this book.
My main source of inspiration is God. Then friends, family, events also inspired me to write it.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I write about what touches me. I like to set my own deadlines for finishing my works and I stick accordingly as far as possible. But at the same time write when truly inspired.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Willaim Blake, T.S Eliot, Emily Dickinson, Walt Whitman,, Maya Angelou, Vitor Hugo are the authors who have influenced me.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on my first French poetry book.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’m open to all marketing tools. I like Facebook the most.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I advise them to keep writing and never stop. Never be disappointed by rejection notes as they are part of the writing world. Persevere ad keep writing! If one editor rejects your works, another one will value it. Simply be realistic and keep going .
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
‘To Let go”
What are you reading now?
One of the main Sacred books of Hinduism : Yajur Veda
What’s next for you as a writer?
I will keep writing more poetry books and one day a short stories collection, then may be a novel someday.
What is your favorite book of all time?
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Author Websites and Profiles
Vatsala Radhakeesoon Amazon Profile
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