The Dove’s Lament has been much talked about; all for the right reasons. Today my blog and I feel special as we welcome the author, thinker, writer, UN Volunteer and lawyer behind the book.
She lets us into her world and shares about why the book saw the light of the day and what lies ahead. Please welcome Kirthi Jayakumar for an insightful interview.
1. What is your inspiration behind penning down The Dove’s Lament?
Just the fact that all truth must be told, for all truth is actionable. If the world doesn’t see these stories as realities and truths of people, they won’t look at these truths as anything besides a statistic. Aylan Kurdi became the face of refugees – until he shook up the world, no one bothered about the statistical realities of refugees that every media outlet was indeed speaking about. BUT, this is not to mean that I encourage objectification or want to indulge in it. It is just that the truth needs to be told to people in a way they can relate – and that’s what this book was all about.
2. “A book that shares the ravages of war yet sends a message of hope”; is this what you wanted to convey with this book and what more do you wish the readers to take away from the book?
Perfectly put, yes.
3. How did you decide on the cover of the book? Is the art work on it yours as I have seen beautiful designs on your website? Did you have any help designing it?
I did design the dove, but the rest of the stuff – the burnt effect and the silhouettes were all the magical work of Gowtham Naidu, my designer who is just an absolute genius. I love doodling, and this dove caught my publisher, Dipankar’s eye.
4. Give us three “Good to Know” facts about you. Be imaginative. Tell us about your first career, the inspiration for your writing, any fun details that would be enjoyed by the readers? Consider here your likes and dislikes, your interests and hobbies, your favorite ways to unwind — whatever comes to mind.
I read three books at a time, minimum.
I collect notebooks like crazy but I don’t write in them!
I was awarded by President Barack Obama in 2011-2012 for my work as a volunteer with a US-based NGO.
5. What can we expect from you in the near future? Is there another book in the immediate future?
I’m toying with a bunch of ideas, but I’m working on a non-fiction commentary on gender based violence. As we speak, my next book, Around the World in 50 Voices, is getting ready for release 🙂
6. What was one of the most surprising fact you learned in creating your book?
That I have it in me to persevere!
Thank you! Kirthi.
That is some sound advice for all of us. If only we all remember that there is a lot more in us than what we believe. Our goals and aims will be achieved, just got to stick to it.
Thank you so much for your thoughts and a little part of you with my readers. I wish you all the best for your life and work.
The Dove’s Lament
by
Kirthi Jayakumar
The Blurb
The Dove’s Lament is a journey that takes you around the world, bringing to life the human side of conflicts that tear people apart. From the genocide in Rwanda, to war-stricken Bosnia, from child marriages in India to prostitution and drug trafficking in Colombia, these stories traverse a microcosm of reality. Be it the manifestation of Bacha Baazi in Afghanistan, or the fight for paradise on Earth, Kashmir, the repertoire of stories lend a soul to what otherwise remain a muddle of news reports and statistics. Through these stories, Kirthi embroiders a tapestry of the unvanquished human spirit in varied shades, and shakes you up to the reality that surrounds you.
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Meet the Author
Kirthi Jayakumar is a Lawyer, specialised in Public International Law and Human Rights. She has diversified into Research and Writing in Public International Law, Arbitration and Human Rights, besides Freelance Journalism. Working as a UN Volunteer, specializing in Human Rights issues in Africa, India and Central Asia and the Middle East, Kirthi has worked extensively with grass root organizations that focus on women’s rights, and also run a journal, academy and consultancy that focuses on International Law, called A38. Kirthi is also the founder of the Red Elephant Foundation, an organisation that works for the empowerment of women.
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