An Interview with Snehal Amembal
Snehal is a freelance writer and poet based in Surrey, UK. She writes about motherhood, memory, chronic illness, and the quiet drama of everyday life much like a Bollywood film, but with fewer costume changes and more laundry. Her work has appeared in anthologies, and literary zines. Snehal has authored four poetry books, including Magical Mundane, plus a memoir, PapaMa’s Portrait.
Snehal also writes children’s picture books, sitcom scripts, and short stories that are determined to be discovered. She serves on the Editorial Board for Parkinson’s UK, reviews books, worships cats, and believes humour helps her dance through life.
Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
I wanted the title to be clear and unambiguous. I am also a sucker for alliteration and so after lots of pondering and brainstorming, I was happy with PapaMa’s Portrait. It was in fact my husband’s suggestion.
How did it feel when you first saw your book cover? Or when you first held your book in your hands?
Seeing the cover was very special because it is what will first connect your reader with you. And when I held the book in my hands, it was surreal!
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
It’s the little things and moments that left the biggest impact on me and my world view. These moments that I shared with my family deepened our bond and these moments therefore needed to be honoured in some way. What better way than immortalising them through words.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
I have a master’s in psychology and HRM – I worked as a human resources manager for almost nine years before switching to writing full time.
What was the most rewarding/meaningful part of publishing your book?
The fact that I managed to write about and preserve such beautiful memories
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
English ones:
I’ll Be There for You
Father and Son
Sweet Child of Mine
Words
Hindi:
Ghar
Love you zindagi
Tujh mein rab dikhta hai
Kisi ki muskurahat
Ajeeb daastaan hai yeh
What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?
The importance of everyday moments and rituals.
What creative projects are you currently working on?
I’m working on a book of personal essays, a collection of short stories, and a poetry collection.
How was working with Atmosphere Press? What would you tell other writers who want to publish?
It has been a fantastic experience at every stage so if you are looking to get published, you are in very capable hands!
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